The femme Journal
Are we over January pressure? Why being gentle on ourselves is the better way
January often feels like the month of relentless pressure. The “new year, new me” mantra rings loud, pushing us to set lofty resolutions, overhaul our routines, and embrace an idealised version of ourselves. But are we finally moving past this January pressure? Should we focus on being gentler with ourselves instead?
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Feeling low in January? Discover the power of Vitamin D
January can be a challenging month for many. The festive cheer has faded, the days are short and dark, and the cold weather often keeps us indoors. It's no wonder that feelings of fatigue, low mood, and lack of motivation—sometimes referred to as the "January blues"—are so common.
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Why new year's resolutions don't work (and what to do instead)
As the clock strikes midnight on December 31st, millions of people across the world promise themselves a fresh start. “This year, I’ll lose weight.” “This year, I’ll save more money.” “This year, I’ll finally stick to my goals.” Sound familiar? Yet, by mid-January, many find themselves slipping back into old habits. So why don’t New Year’s resolutions work? Let’s explore the psychology behind it and discover effective alternatives to create lasting change.
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Why Laughter is the Best Medicine, Especially for Women
Laughter is universal. It’s free, it’s powerful, and it can be the best medicine, especially for women navigating the stresses of modern life. From physical health benefits to emotional resilience, laughter offers a natural boost that has been proven to support overall wellness. So, why exactly is laughter such a powerful medicine, and why might it be even more essential for women?The Science Behind LaughterWhen we laugh, our bodies release endorphins, the "feel-good" hormones that promote relaxation and well-being. Endorphins not only make us feel happier but also reduce the perception of pain, making laughter a natural way to alleviate discomfort.Here’s what happens when you laugh:1. Endorphin Release: These hormones lift your mood and create a natural “high.”2. Reduced Cortisol Levels: Laughing can decrease cortisol, the stress hormone, helping us manage anxiety.3. Increased Blood Flow: Laughter boosts circulation, which is beneficial for cardiovascular health.4. Muscle Relaxation: After a good laugh, our muscles remain relaxed, helping relieve physical tension for up to 45 minutes.Why Laughter Matters More for WomenWomen often juggle multiple roles—whether it’s being caregivers, professionals, partners, or friends—and face unique societal pressures. Studies show women experience higher levels of anxiety and depression compared to men, making stress management an essential part of daily life.Laughter can be especially helpful in combating the pressures that women encounter by:- Promoting Resilience: Women often carry mental loads in relationships and family life. Laughter can serve as an emotional reset, offering a break from constant multitasking.- Enhancing Social Connection: Women are natural nurturers and find comfort in social bonds. Shared laughter can deepen connections with friends, family, and colleagues, reinforcing emotional support networks.- Boosting Self-Compassion: The ability to laugh at oneself can enhance self-acceptance. This is especially significant for women, who often face unrealistic standards. A dose of humour can serve as a reminder that it's okay to be imperfect.Physical Health Benefits of Laughter for WomenBeyond emotional well-being, laughter offers specific physical health benefits that are particularly relevant for women:1. Hormone Regulation: Laughter reduces cortisol levels, which can help balance hormonal fluctuations. For women experiencing menopause or menstrual discomfort, laughter can be an ally in alleviating mood swings and stress.2. Heart Health: Women have unique heart health needs, and laughter improves circulation, reduces blood pressure, and promotes relaxation—all of which support cardiovascular health.3. Pain Relief: Many women experience pain from conditions such as fibromyalgia, arthritis, or menstrual cramps. Endorphins released through laughter act as a natural pain reliever.Why Laughter Therapy Is Gaining Popularity“Laughter therapy” is a growing trend in health and wellness. This practice is designed to help people laugh intentionally, often through exercises, games, or group activities. Laughing releases more than just feel-good hormones; it also creates a sense of community and shared experience, which is a valuable asset for women.Tips for Bringing More Laughter into Your Life1. Connect with Funny Friends: Surround yourself with people who make you laugh.2. Watch or Read Comedy: Carve out time to watch a funny show, stand-up special, or read a humorous book.3. Practice Self-Compassion: Laugh at your mistakes and learn to see the humour in everyday situations.4. Try Laughter Yoga: Laughter yoga combines deep breathing and voluntary laughter, which often leads to genuine laughter and relaxation.5. Join a Laughter Club: Many cities have laughter clubs that meet regularly to laugh together, creating a safe space for releasing stress.Final ThoughtsLaughter is a tool that women can use to foster both emotional and physical well-being. Embracing humour not only improves your mood but can also offer a path to greater resilience, connection, and health. So, let yourself laugh—it might just be the best medicine you need today.
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Coping with Christmas and Uncomfortable Questions About Your Fertility
The holiday season is a time of joy, togetherness, and celebration, but for many navigating fertility challenges, it can bring up difficult emotions and awkward conversations. Family gatherings often come with well-meaning but intrusive questions, and festive cheer can sometimes amplify feelings of isolation or pressure. Here’s how to protect your peace, handle tricky questions, and prioritise your emotional well-being during Christmas. Why Christmas Can Be Especially Hard For those facing fertility struggles, the holidays can feel like a spotlight is shining on what’s missing. The festive season often revolves around family and children, from school nativity plays to stories of "first Christmases." It’s natural to feel overwhelmed when conversations drift to topics like parenthood, pregnancy announcements, or plans for the future. Top Tips for Coping During Christmas Set Boundaries in Advance It’s perfectly okay to decide which gatherings you’ll attend and how long you’ll stay. Think about what environments will support your mental health and make plans accordingly. Communicate Clearly: Let family members know ahead of time if certain topics are off-limits. A polite but firm "I’d rather not discuss that, thank you," can go a long way. Have an Exit Plan: If conversations take a turn, excuse yourself for a quick walk, or designate a safe space where you can take a breather. Rehearse responses to tricky questions It’s not uncommon for well-meaning relatives to ask, “When are you having kids?” or “Isn’t it time for a little one?” Direct Responses: “That’s a personal topic, and I’d prefer to keep it private.” Humorous Deflections: “We’re focusing on surviving Christmas dinner first!” Change the Subject: Quickly shift focus by asking about their plans or sharing a light-hearted anecdote. Lean on your support network You don’t have to navigate the season alone. Whether it’s your partner, close friends, or an online community, share your feelings with people who understand. Buddy System: Attend gatherings with someone who knows your situation and can step in if conversations become too intrusive. Therapeutic Outlets: Journaling or speaking with a therapist can help process complex emotions. Practice self-care During a season full of giving, don’t forget to give yourself some grace and love. Schedule “You Time”: Take breaks for activities that bring you joy—whether it’s a walk in nature, a bubble bath, or a good book. Mindfulness Techniques: Practice deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to stay grounded. Writing a journal can really help. Limit Social Media: Curate your feeds to avoid potentially triggering posts, such as pregnancy announcements or family holiday photos. Celebrate your way There’s no rulebook for how to do Christmas. Create traditions that bring you happiness, even if they don’t involve children. Travel: Escape the usual routine by going on a holiday. Host Friends: Plan a festive gathering with others who may feel out of place during family-centric celebrations. Give Back: Volunteering or donating to causes you care about can be deeply fulfilling. A Final Word Remember, your feelings are valid, and your journey is your own. Coping with fertility challenges during Christmas may not be easy, but with the right tools and boundaries, you can create a season that feels a little more manageable. Take things one day at a time, focus on what brings you peace, and don’t hesitate to prioritise yourself.
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Winter Feel-Good Activities for Women: Embrace the Season with Joy
Winter Feel-Good Activities for Women: Embrace the Season with Joy Winter offers a unique opportunity to slow down, cosy up, and focus on self-care. While the colder months can sometimes feel dreary, they also provide a chance to indulge in feel-good activities that uplift your mood and nourish your well-being. Whether you’re looking to de-stress, connect with friends, or simply enjoy your own company, here’s a list of winter activities designed to help women make the most of the season. Cosy Up with Hygge-Inspired Moments The Danish concept of hygge is all about creating a sense of warmth and contentment. Find out more about Hygge in our blog here. Create a Cosy Space: Light candles, grab a soft blanket, and settle into your favourite chair with a good book or journal. Sip Something Warm: Indulge in herbal teas, spiced lattes, or hot chocolate topped with marshmallows for an instant mood boost. Move Your Body with Gentle Winter Workouts Staying active in winter can help combat seasonal sluggishness and keep your energy levels up. Yoga and Stretching: Practice yoga at home to relieve tension and boost your mental clarity. Online classes or apps make it easy to get started. Winter Walks: Bundle up and take a walk outdoors to soak up natural light and fight off winter blues. Getting just 5 minutes of natural light each day can make a difference. Pamper Yourself with Winter Self-Care The colder months are perfect for slowing down and focusing on your well-being. DIY Spa Day: Treat yourself to a face mask, a warm bath with essential oils, and a moisturising body scrub. Skincare Upgrade: Winter calls for richer moisturizers and hydrating treatments to protect your skin from the cold. Luna’s The Everything Oil has the perfect blend of ingredients for the winter months, you can find it here. Cook and Bake for Comfort Nothing says "winter feel-good" like a cosy day in the kitchen. Try New Recipes: Experiment with hearty soups, casseroles, or festive baked goods like spiced cookies or cinnamon rolls. Batch Cook: Prepare nourishing meals like stews and curries to enjoy throughout the week. The freezer is your best friend, batch cook and put away for lazier days. Connect with Loved Ones Winter is a great time to nurture your relationships. Host a Girls’ Night In: Organise a cosy evening with movies, hot drinks, and your closest friends. Craft Together: Take up a group craft project, such as knitting, candle-making, or holiday decoration workshops. Try making paper chains from book pages for a scandi-inspired feel. Explore Creative Hobbies Winter offers a quiet time to dive into creative pursuits. Learn Something New: Try out painting, journaling, or photography to express yourself and unwind. Craft Seasonal Decor: Create winter wreaths, handmade ornaments, or cosy knit scarves. Enjoy Indoor Activities When it’s too chilly to venture outdoors, there are plenty of ways to stay entertained indoors. Movie Marathons: Revisit your favourite films or explore a new series. If you haven’t watched Nobody Wants This on Netflix, where have you been? Puzzles and Games: Settle into a fun jigsaw puzzle or board game with family or friends. Practice Mindfulness and Gratitude Winter can be a reflective season, perfect for focusing on inner calm and positivity. Gratitude Journaling: Write down three things you’re grateful for each day to cultivate a positive mindset. It’s a great excuse to buy a cute new notepad anyway! Meditation: Dedicate a few minutes daily to meditation or breathing exercises to manage stress and increase focus. Explore Winter Fashion Stay warm and stylish with winter-friendly wardrobe upgrades. Layer Up: Invest in cosy knitwear, wool coats, and stylish boots. Accessorise: Experiment with scarves, hats, and gloves to add personality to your outfits. Plan Ahead for Spring Goals Winter is an excellent time for dreaming and planning. Set Goals: Reflect on personal or professional aspirations and create a vision board for the new year. Organise Your Space: Declutter and reorganise your home to create a fresh start for the coming season. Final Thoughts Winter doesn’t have to be a time for hibernation—it’s a season rich with opportunities for joy and self-care. From cosying up with a good book to exploring creative hobbies, there are countless ways to embrace the colder months while focusing on your well-being.
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How to manage pain and prioritise comfort during winter
How to manage pain and prioritise comfort during winter Winter can bring unique challenges for women dealing with reproductive health concerns. Conditions such as menstrual cramps, endometriosis, and pelvic pain can feel more intense in cold weather, as colder temperatures may affect circulation and exacerbate muscle tension. Prioritising warmth, comfort, and targeted self-care during the winter months can help ease pain and improve overall well-being. How Winter Affects Women's Reproductive Health Cold weather can worsen discomfort in the reproductive system for several reasons: Muscle Tightness: Low temperatures can lead to pelvic muscles becoming tense, intensifying cramps and pain. Poor Circulation: Cold weather can restrict blood flow, potentially worsening menstrual pain or endometriosis symptoms. Seasonal Stress: The shorter days and holiday season can increase stress levels, potentially disrupting hormonal balance and exacerbating reproductive health issues. Pain Relief Tips for Reproductive Health During Winter Stay Warm with Heat Therapy Use a heating pad or hot water bottle on your lower abdomen to relieve menstrual cramps and relax pelvic muscles. Warm baths infused with Epsom salts can soothe muscles and reduce pelvic discomfort. Epsom salts also contain magnesium for an extra boost over the winter months. Support Circulation with Gentle Movement Low-impact exercises like yoga, Pilates, or walking can improve blood flow to the pelvic area. Even 5-10 minutes extra movement a day can help, don’t overwhelm yourself. Pelvic stretches, such as child’s pose or hip circles, can ease muscle tension and improve flexibility. Opt for Anti-Inflammatory Foods Incorporate warm, nutrient-dense foods like soups, stews, and herbal teas. Making a big batch of soup and popping some in the freezer is great for the days you haven’t got time to cook. Anti-inflammatory ingredients such as turmeric, ginger, and omega-3 fatty acids can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. Make your own by adding hot water to a cup with fresh ginger and a squeeze of honey and lemon. Manage Stress Levels Stress can intensify menstrual and reproductive health symptoms. Incorporate mindfulness practices such as meditation, journaling, or breathing exercises to stay grounded. Box breathing is a great place to start. Breathe in for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, breathe out for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds. Repeat. Consider aromatherapy with calming scents like lavender or chamomile to promote relaxation. Menopoised’s Cool and Calm Aromatherapy Cream combines calming lavender with the moisturising properties of cocoa and shea butters, try it here. Layer Up to Protect Your Core Keeping your core warm can alleviate abdominal discomfort. Wear thermal layers or wrap a scarf around your waist when you’re outdoors. Hydrate and Moisturise Dry winter air can leave you dehydrated, which can exacerbate cramps and overall discomfort. Drink plenty of water and herbal teas to stay hydrated. Support your skin health with natural moisturisers to prevent winter dryness from adding to your discomfort. Special Considerations for Endometriosis and PCOS Endometriosis Heat therapy is particularly effective for easing the chronic pain associated with endometriosis. Consider portable heat wraps for on-the-go relief. Avoid inflammatory foods, such as processed snacks or sugary treats, which can worsen endometriosis symptoms during the festive season. PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) Regular movement and balanced meals during winter can help maintain hormonal stability. Use herbal teas such as peppermint or cinnamon to support hormonal health and improve circulation. Hot Tea Mama’s Over The Moon tea helps with difficult PMS symptoms, you can find it here. When to Seek Medical Advice While these tips can help manage mild to moderate discomfort, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional if: Pain is severe or disrupts daily life. Symptoms worsen significantly during winter. New symptoms, such as heavy bleeding or unusual discomfort, arise. Conclusion Women’s reproductive health deserves extra attention during the winter months. By prioritising warmth, staying active, and incorporating mindful self-care practices, you can ease pain and discomfort effectively. Small lifestyle changes can make a big difference, ensuring that you enjoy the winter season feeling empowered and in control of your health.
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Secondary Infertility: Navigating the Journey of Conceiving Again by Apricity Fertility
Secondary Infertility: Navigating the Journey of Conceiving Again You've felt the joy of welcoming a child into your life—the first smile, the tiny fingers gripping yours, the milestones that fill your heart with pride. As your family grows, so does your dream of giving your child a sibling. But what happens when that dream is met with unexpected silence? When months turn into years of hoping, only to face the profound disappointment of a negative pregnancy test again and again? This is the hidden struggle of secondary infertility, a journey shrouded in confusion, isolation and heartache. While some couples conceive effortlessly, others face unexpected hurdles. Secondary infertility—the inability to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term after previously giving birth—is more common than people realise, affecting around 5% of the population, according to the NHS. Secondary infertility occurs when a couple has had one or more children previously, but now struggles to conceive without the use of fertility treatments. It's easy to assume that if you've had a child before, conceiving again should be straightforward. However, numerous factors can make subsequent pregnancies more challenging. Age, health conditions, and lifestyle changes can all impact your fertility. Common Causes of Secondary Infertility The causes of secondary infertility mirror those of primary infertility and can affect any stage of the conception process: Maternal age Fertility naturally declines after age 35. As women and those assigned female at birth age, both the quantity and quality of their eggs diminish. Male factor infertility Impaired sperm production or low sperm count can significantly affect the chances of conception. Ovulation disorders Conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) can disrupt regular ovulation. Uterine or tubal issues Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes, often due to conditions like endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease, can prevent fertilisation. Lifestyle factors Excessive weight gain or loss, smoking, alcohol use, and stress can all impact fertility. For more detailed information on causes and treatments, read Apricity Fertility's page on secondary infertility. Why Is Secondary Infertility Primarily Privately Funded? Access to fertility treatments in the UK is often limited, especially for those experiencing secondary infertility. NICE guidelines recommend that women under 40 be offered three cycles of IVF on the NHS. However, local Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) frequently impose additional criteria, such as not already having a child, effectively excluding many couples with secondary infertility from publicly funded treatment. This policy means that many couples must turn to private clinics, shouldering costs that can range from £5,000 to £10,000 per cycle. The financial strain can be immense, disproportionately affecting lower-income families and widening socio-economic disparities in access to fertility care. Private fertility services like Apricity Fertility offer innovative solutions to make treatments more accessible. By utilising technology and personalised care plans, they aim to reduce costs and improve success rates. Psychological and Mental Health: The Emotional Toll of Secondary Infertility The journey through secondary infertility is often fraught with complex emotions. Couples may often feel: Isolation, as friends and family often assume that having one child should be enough, leading to a lack of understanding and support. Guilt and shame, as parents may feel guilty for wanting another child or believe they are somehow at fault for their fertility struggles. Jealousy and sadness, as seeing others expand their families can trigger complex feelings in those struggling. A strain on their relationships, as stress can lead to tension between partners, affecting communication and intimacy. These emotional challenges are common and valid. Seeking support from mental health professionals specialising in fertility struggles can provide coping mechanisms and emotional relief. Support groups offer a safe space to share experiences and feelings with others who understand the journey. Seeking Support and Treatment Options Acknowledging the struggle is the first step toward finding a solution. Medical advancements offer various treatment options: Medication: drugs like Clomifene and Letrozole can stimulate ovulation. Surgery: procedures to repair blocked fallopian tubes or remove uterine fibroids. Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART): options like IVF and IUI can assist in conception. Lifestyle changes: improving diet, reducing stress, and eliminating harmful habits can enhance your natural fertility levels. For those unable to access NHS-funded treatments, private clinics often provide alternative, and sometimes the only, pathways. Our partners at Apricity Fertility offer personalised treatment plans that focus on digital support to reduce the number of in-person journeys to a clinic from 10 to two, as well as offer transparent pricing and emotional support services to guide you through your unique fertility journey. What Not to Say to Someone Experiencing Secondary Infertility When someone is facing secondary infertility, well-intentioned comments can inadvertently cause pain. Here are some phrases to avoid: "At least you have one child." This minimises their current struggle and invalidates their feelings. "You should be grateful for what you have." Gratitude doesn't negate the desire to grow one's family. "Maybe it's not meant to be." Such fatalistic statements can be dismissive and hurtful. "Just relax and it will happen." Infertility is a medical condition, not a state of mind. Instead, you can offer support by saying: "I'm here for you if you want to talk." "I can't imagine how tough this is for you." "Is there anything I can do to help?" Final Thoughts Secondary infertility is a complex and often misunderstood experience. It's essential to recognise that your feelings are valid and that support is available. Open communication with your partner, seeking professional help, and connecting with support networks can make this journey more manageable. Remember, many have walked this path and found solace and success. With the right support and resources, you too can navigate the challenges of secondary infertility. See how Apricity Fertility can support you - book a free call at www.apricityfertility.com Remember, many have walked this path and found solace and success. With the right support and resources, you too can navigate the challenges of secondary infertility. See how Apricity Fertility can support you - book a free call at www.apricityfertility.com
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Tempdrop Fertility Monitor: Why It’s the Best Choice for Tracking Your Cycle
In this blog, we’ll explore what makes Tempdrop unique, how it compares to other fertility monitors, and why it’s quickly becoming a top choice for women seeking accurate, reliable, and hassle-free cycle tracking.
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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.
