The Journal
International Day of Women and Girls in Science
Recognising the critical importance of women in the STEM sector, particularly in leadership roles, femme health emphasises the need for diversity and inclusion to drive innovation and address pressing healthcare challenges. By amplifying women's voices in senior STEM positions, fresh perspectives and insights are brought to the table, fostering creative problem-solving and influencing research agendas to prioritise issues like sustainability and socioeconomic pressures. As a female-led company with one of the only female managing directors in the IVD industry, we are really passionate about the importance of women in business, but particularly in the STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) sector. Including more women in senior STEM roles is critical for innovation. Bringing women to the table will lead to fresh ideas and perspectives, as well as encouraging creative thinking and problem-solving. Women’s perspectives will also shape the direction of research and strategic direction, as women tend to focus on different issues such as sustainability and socioeconomic pressures. Finally, including women in senior STEM roles may also help to close the gender health gap. The UK currently has the worst gender health gap in the G20 meaning that women receive poorer healthcare than men. This is mainly due to a lack of research into women’s health; for example, there is 5 times more money spent on erectile dysfunction (which affects 19% of men), than on premenstrual syndrome (which affects 90% of women). At femme health we are committed to working with brands who share our values and our hopes for the standard of reproductive care in the UK. Hear more from some of these brands on the importance of focusing on women’s health as well as promoting and nurturing women in STEM roles. Find out more about Proov Dr. Amy Beckley is the founder and CEO of Proov, and the inventor of the first and only FDA-cleared at-home PdG test to confirm successful ovulation. Amy has an MBA and a PhD in Pharmacology, and has studied hormone signalling for over 20 years. When Amy was trying to get pregnant, she suffered nearly seven miscarriages – and no test or doctor could explain why. She ultimately turned to IVF to have her son. It was only after she uncovered the source of her troubles – a problem with ovulation – that she successfully conceived, this time without the help of IVF. She then set out to create an accurate, effective diagnostic to empower women to test at home. Amy invented the PdG test in her basement, commercialised the original Proov technology through crowdfunding in 2016 and launched it officially in 2017. Now, Amy and Proov offer an array of at-home diagnostic tests and support to help women get pregnant faster. Proov's flagship product remains the PdG test, which is a way to understand if you have insufficient progesterone in your system. Amy calls it “successful ovulation” as opposed to just ovulation. What that means, is “ovulation” means producing an egg; successful ovulation means you produce an egg and have a healthy uterine environment because it saw enough of this hormone for long enough. Proov has a patented method that measures the implantation window. By measuring a hormone called PdG in urine 7 to 10 days after peak fertility, women find out if they have enough of this hormone for long enough to have the maximum chance of conception. For the UK customers whose PdG results are suboptimal, Proov has entered into a clinical partnership with Plan Your Baby. UK Proovers whose ovulation report shows low levels of PdG may choose to make an appointment online (for a fee) with a certified Plan Your Baby Fertility doctor who, after assessment of results may prescribe Progesterone supplementation. Just with a click, no need for in person visits, referrals or waiting lists. Shop for Proov Predict here We love Ovum OVUM felt the fertility industry takes advantage of women at what is arguably one of the most vulnerable times in their lives. Many of us would just about buy or try anything if we felt it improved our chances of conceiving. Jenny started OVUM when she began trying to conceive themselves and wanted clarity on what exactly they could be doing to improve their chances, from a medical and scientific perspective. No BS, no falling for the misleading advertising, no herbs and voodoo baby dances - they just wanted to know what they could be doing to genuinely help their chances whilst still keeping sane. The benefits for those taking these prenatal, conception and fertility supplements aren’t what they could or should be. Cheaper and less absorbable forms of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants are used and often in lower, inefficient dosages where profit takes priority over efficacy. Once they’d done their homework it was clear that today’s prenatal, conception and fertility supplements fall short of what should be available as the new standard to all. For this very reason they will soon become a B Corp (certification pending), making OVUM a company that pledges to use business as a force for good. Certified B Corps are businesses that meet the highest possible standards of verified social and environmental performance, transparency and legal accountability to balance profit and purpose. OVUM is vegan, not tested on animals and BPA and all plastics-free packaging. You can find out more here. At OVUM they’re about letting the research guide their Scientists and Fertility Doctors who in turn determine the formulation of our fertility supplement. So, with OVUM you can rest assured you’re benefiting from the latest findings and know you’re giving yourself the best possible chance of becoming pregnant. Shop for OVUM here Take charge with Biosure At BioSure they are passionate about their role in changing the perception of self-care and self-diagnostic testing. They do this by empowering you with world-leading products, so that you have increased choice, enabling you to take responsibility for your own testing and wellbeing, on your own terms, with confidence. Everything they do is designed and refined with your unique needs in mind so you can make your own informed choices with power and knowledge. BioSure Global develop, manufacture, source and distribute rapid tests with the highest levels of accuracy, many rivalling those of standard laboratory tests. Their rapid diagnostic and detection tests are invaluable tools where immediate results are the primary consideration. The tests that they manufacture and supply are used worldwide for the management of human infectious disease. BioSure Global specialise in providing solutions utilising rapid Point of Care Tests (POCT) and has unique expertise in self-testing. They passionately believe that this technology through integration into healthcare settings and for use as self-tests can revolutionise testing protocols, reduce late diagnoses, provide cost effective testing solutions for the general population and engage hard to reach key populations. Ultimately budgets can be spread further through far lower delivery costs and immediate diagnosis. BioSure Global has been recognised for its work in numerous awards: Winner in the national Barclays’ Entrepreneur Awards 2020, recognising entrepreneurs who are transforming their industries, the economy, and society. Our CEO Brigette Bard won a @Cofinitive #21ToWatch award, recognising innovation and entrepreneurship across the globe. BioSure made Start Up Of The Day on the Innovation Origins independent news platform in Europe for contributing to the world of innovation. Brigette Bard made the Maserati 100 Index 2019 – celebrating entrepreneurial excellence in the UK. 2018 Winners of Pitch@Palace 10.0 Shop for BioSURE AMH test here
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Decoding AMH: How Understanding Your Egg Reserve Can Help You TTC
Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) levels are crucial for individuals navigating the emotional challenges of trying to conceive (TTC). AMH, produced by ovarian follicles, serves as a key marker for ovarian reserve, indicating the quantity of eggs in a woman's ovaries. Lower AMH levels may suggest a lower egg count, influencing the conception timeframe. Check this blog out to venture more into AMH. Written by Tracey Sainsbury Understanding Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) levels can be a pivotal step in managing the emotional rollercoaster of trying to conceive (TTC). This hormone, produced by ovarian follicles, serves as an essential marker for ovarian reserve, indicating the quantity of eggs remaining in a woman's ovaries. While TTC can bring joy and excitement, the uncertainty and stress surrounding fertility can often lead to anxiety. However, understanding and monitoring AMH levels can provide valuable insights and potentially alleviate some of that anxiety. Firstly, awareness of AMH levels offers a glimpse into a woman's ovarian reserve, giving an estimate of fertility potential. Lower AMH levels may indicate a lower egg count, potentially influencing the time frame and approach one might consider for conception. This understanding empowers individuals to make informed decisions and seek appropriate fertility assistance if needed, reducing the uncertainty surrounding conception. Secondly, tracking AMH levels can aid in planning. While not a definitive predictor of fertility or conception success, monitoring changes in AMH levels over time can help individuals and healthcare providers develop a more comprehensive fertility plan. This can include discussions about optimal timing for attempting conception, considering lifestyle changes, or exploring assisted reproductive technologies, all contributing to a more proactive approach to TTC. Additionally, understanding AMH levels can be reassuring. High levels of anxiety often stem from the unknown, especially in matters as sensitive as fertility. Having a clearer picture of ovarian reserve through AMH testing can alleviate some of the fear of the unknown, providing a tangible aspect of fertility to focus on and potentially reducing anxiety associated with conception. However, it's crucial to note that while AMH levels offer valuable insights, they are just one piece of the fertility puzzle. Various factors beyond egg quantity can influence fertility, including egg quality, hormonal balance, and overall health. Therefore, while AMH levels provide useful information, they should not be viewed as the sole determinant of fertility or a woman's ability to conceive. In conclusion, understanding AMH levels can significantly contribute to reducing TTC anxiety by providing valuable insights into ovarian reserve, aiding in planning, and offering a sense of reassurance. It's essential to approach fertility by considering all the various factors and seeking professional guidance when needed. By embracing this knowledge, individuals navigating the journey of conception can feel more empowered and informed, potentially easing the emotional strain often associated with trying to conceive.Eager to understand your own AMH levels? Head to our shop and try BioSURE's Ovarian Reserve Home Test (AMH), with results within 48 hours! Shop Now.
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PCOS and Egg Quality: What you need to know
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) extends beyond menstrual irregularities, impacting the quality of women's eggs. This blog delves into how PCOS disrupts egg development, leading to lower-quality eggs with potential genetic abnormalities. Medications like Clomid, lifestyle adjustments, and supplements such as CoQ10 may be employed to enhance egg quality. Advanced fertility treatments like IVF and ICSI are also options. Consulting with a fertility specialist for personalised diagnostic tests and treatment plans is crucial for those navigating PCOS and striving for successful pregnancies. Thanks, Zita West, for this insightful piece! Written by Zita West Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is not just a condition that affects menstrual cycles or causes ovarian cysts; it can also have a significant impact on the quality of a woman's eggs. Let's explore how PCOS affects egg quality and what steps can be taken to improve it. What is PCOS? Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a hormonal imbalance that affects women of reproductive age. One of its most prominent symptoms is irregular ovulation, which in turn affects fertility. How Does PCOS Affect Egg Quality? PCOS can disrupt the normal development of eggs in the ovaries. The hormonal imbalances that characterise PCOS can lead to eggs that are less mature or have genetic abnormalities, thus affecting their quality and the chances of successful fertilisation. The Science Behind Egg Quality Every egg has the potential to be fertilised and develop into an embryo. However, the hormonal imbalances in PCOS can create an unfavourable environment for egg development, leading to lower-quality eggs that may have trouble achieving fertilisation or sustaining a pregnancy. Treatment Options to Improve Egg Quality Medications Drugs like Clomid or Letrozole may be prescribed to stimulate ovulation and improve egg quality in women with PCOS. Lifestyle Changes A balanced diet and regular exercise can help regulate hormones, thereby potentially improving egg quality. Supplements Supplements like CoQ10, Omega-3 fatty acids, and Myo-Inositol have shown promise in enhancing egg quality in some studies .Additionally, OvaPlus Advanced Hormonal Support is specifically designed to help balance hormones and support reproductive health, making it a valuable supplement for those managing PCOS-related fertility concerns. IVF and ICSI In vitro fertilisation (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) are advanced fertility treatments that can be considered for women with PCOS who are struggling with poor egg quality. Consult a Specialist Always consult a fertility specialist for a personalised treatment plan. Diagnostic tests like antral follicle count or ovarian reserve tests can provide valuable information on your egg quality. Understanding how PCOS affects egg quality is crucial for anyone struggling with this condition and trying to conceive. Medications, lifestyle changes, and even advanced fertility treatments can offer hope for improving egg quality and achieving a successful pregnancy. Incorporating OvaPlus Advanced Hormonal Support and other targeted supplements into your routine may support better reproductive health and hormonal balance. Check out our PCOS collection for some extra support.
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5 Healthy Benefits of Ashwagandha
The blog highlights five key health benefits of Ashwagandha, an increasingly popular adaptogenic herb. It emphasizes the herb's ability to support adrenal glands, reducing stress and anxiety, and normalizing cortisol levels. Ashwagandha's positive impact on energy, stamina, and endurance, particularly in athletic performance, is discussed. The herb's role in stabilizing blood sugar levels, combating neurodegenerative diseases, and its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties are also emphasized. Overall, Ashwagandha emerges as a versatile and beneficial supplement for various health concerns. Ashwagandha, also known as 'Withania Somnifera' is becoming increasingly popular in the west and is most well known for its ability to reduce stress and promote a calmer and happier sense of being. A growing body of evidence is being collated around this powerful herb with an impressive variety of health benefits. Here are 5 key health benefits of this powerful adaptogenic, Ashwagandha: 1. Supports adrenal glands to reduce stress and anxiety Ashwagandha has been shown to support the adrenals via normalising cortisol levels. This reduces the negative effects of high (or low levels) of this hormone. This is highly significant as ongoing stress can be detrimental to our health. Adrenal function is closely linked to thyroid function, therefore as Ashwagandha supports the adrenal glands, it has an indirect effect on improving thyroid function as well. Initial studies demonstrate ashwagandha’s ability to positively benefit thyroid function by stimulating thyroid hormone activity. 2. Increases energy, stamina and endurance Ashwagandha has been shown to significantly impact athletic performance by improving heart and lung capacity while increasing energy levels. Not only is this useful for the purposes of exercise, it is also helpful for people who struggle with their energy levels or those with fatigue-related conditions. 3. Stabilises blood sugar Ashwagandha has been shown to stabilise blood sugar levels, reducing blood sugar when it's too high or increasing it if too low. This is an example of the herb’s adaptogenic effect. Considering the evidence of the impact on blood sugar levels in diseases such as depression and dementia, this herb can have a profound impact on health. 4. Combats neurodegenerative diseases The active ingredients in Ashwagandha, called withanamides, have shown protective effects against B-amyloid-induced plaques in Alzheimer’s Disease. This is thought to be due to the natural antioxidants found in ashwagandha that scavenge free radicals to prevent cell damage. Studies also show promising results of ashwagandha’s protective effects against Parkinson’s Disease. 5. Immune boosting and anti-inflammatory Ashwagandha has also demonstrated excellent immune-boosting effects on our immune system. It has been shown to encourage anti-inflammatory and disease-fighting immune cells that help to ward off illness. As Ashwagandha has potent anti-inflammatory properties it is very useful in painful conditions such as arthritis. As the herb is rich in iron it also contributes to red blood cell count. Check out our new favourite, Mycologic, a award-winning blend of mushrooms and Ashwagandha for a dose of calm in your day. We love it because you can add a drop to your morning coffee; no more tablets!
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In The Press
Simplify Your Fertility Tracking with Tempdrop
Take the guesswork out of cycle tracking with Tempdrop, the smart wearable thermometer that fits seamlessly into your routine. Designed to learn your unique patterns, it provides accurate, reliable insights without the hassle of early wake-ups or daily charts.
