The femme Journal
Living with PCOS
To mark World PCOS Day, we had the opportunity to sit down with Katherine and delve into her personal journey with PCOS. She shared her experiences from the initial diagnosis through the ongoing challenges of managing the condition. Katherine also offered valuable insights into the changes she believes are necessary to enhance support and care for women with PCOS, highlighting how the healthcare system could better address their needs. This day is crucial for raising awareness, sharing knowledge, and providing support to those affected by PCOS. Here at Femme Health, we are proud to share Katherine's story and extend our gratitude to her for her time and openness. When were you first diagnosed with PCOS, and how did you initially feel about the diagnosis? I was officially diagnosed with PCOS a couple of years ago, around age 27, but I was first tested for it when I was 16. At that time, I was told I didn't have PCOS, so I was surprised when the diagnosis came later. Initially, I wasn’t concerned because my GP didn't provide much information or guidance about the condition, so I just carried on with my life as usual. It wasn't until I started doing my own research that I began to understand the implications of my diagnosis and how PCOS has affected my life – past, present, and future. What symptoms have been the most challenging for you to manage, and how do they impact your daily life? Weight management and mental health have been the most challenging symptoms for me to manage. I've struggled with weight fluctuations my entire life, and, as is common with PCOS, my other symptoms tend to worsen as my weight increases. This often leads to a vicious cycle where worsening symptoms contribute to further weight gain, making it a difficult pattern to break.My mental health has also been a significant challenge, to the point where it was totally disabling for many years. While my mental health issues aren’t solely due to PCOS, I’ve noticed that hormonal changes often trigger sudden bouts of deep depression and anxiety, particularly around my period. This makes it even more challenging to manage day-to-day. Are there any lifestyle changes or treatments that have been particularly helpful in managing your PCOS symptoms? Absolutely. For me, the key has been weight management and building a lifestyle that accommodates my needs rather than adds stress or tension. Recently, I’ve been using a GLP-1 medication (often referred to as weight loss injections) for weight management. This has been particularly effective in managing my PCOS symptoms, especially insulin resistance, and has helped me break the cycle of weight gain and worsening symptoms.Stress management has also been crucial. I’ve made several changes in my life, such as prioritising positive and supportive relationships, changing jobs to have a more flexible schedule, engaging in talk therapy, and being more compassionate toward myself when my health feels like a burden. These adjustments have significantly helped me manage my symptoms and improve my overall well-being. How has PCOS affected your mental and emotional well-being over time? PCOS has definitely impacted my mental and emotional well-being, though it's hard to quantify exactly how, since it's often difficult to determine when hormones are playing a role in a difficult period of mental health. Generally, it's overwhelming to know that PCOS is something I'll always have to manage.The lack of understanding and support from medical professionals can also be frustrating and disheartening. There's a stigma around hormonal effects on mental health, and I often feel like mental health struggles are not taken as seriously if they're perceived to be hormone-related, as if that somehow makes them less significant. This can be really challenging to deal with, but that's a whole other conversation. What do you wish more people understood about living with PCOS? I wish more people understood that PCOS is so much more than just a fertility issue. While I completely acknowledge how devastating fertility challenges can be, PCOS affects many other aspects of health and well-being. It’s important to recognise the wide range of symptoms and risks that come with a PCOS diagnosis, including metabolic issues, mental health struggles, and long-term risks like diabetes and heart disease. Understanding the broader impact of PCOS would help foster greater empathy and support for those living with it. Have you found a support system, whether online or in person, that has helped you navigate living with PCOS? Building a support system has been work in progress for me. I’m trying to get more involved with PCOS-related charities and work to connect with like-minded people, which has already led me to meet some great individuals - femme health included! Online, I tend to gravitate towards forum-style content for support and advice. I find Reddit to be a good starting point, although the experience can be hit or miss. Aside from these communities, I have to give credit to my fantastic partner, who is incredibly understanding and supportive and always helps me navigate through difficult times. What advice would you give to someone who has just been diagnosed with PCOS? Take your time. Do your research, but don’t feel like you have to completely change your life overnight. Give yourself the space to come to terms with what PCOS means for you personally, and take the time to understand how it affects your life on an individual level. Everyone's experience with PCOS is different, so focus on finding what works best for you. What would you like to see change in the UK and NHS when it comes to PCOS? I would like to see better education for GPs about PCOS because it's a common experience for patients to receive little to no support from doctors. It’s concerning that many people, whether they have a diagnosis or not, are unaware of the full impact and potential risks associated with PCOS. Improved education and awareness among healthcare professionals could lead to more comprehensive care and support for those affected, ensuring that patients are better informed and more effectively managed. Thank you Katherine for sharing your personal journey and experience of living with PCOS this will be helpful for so many people. Stefanie Meachin - femme founder
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The Importance of Sleep for Women's Health
September is National Sleep Month, so let's investigate the importance of sleep for our health. In the hustle and bustle of modern life, sleep often takes a backseat to other priorities.1 in 5 people in the UK aren't getting enough sleep, and women and other minorities are more likely to be affected. Yet, sleep is a cornerstone of health, particularly for women, who juggle multiple roles and responsibilities. Understanding the importance of sleep and how to prioritise it can lead to significant improvements in overall wellbeing, productivity, and quality of life. Why Sleep Matters for Women's Health Hormonal Balance Women experience various hormonal changes throughout their lives, including menstrual cycles, pregnancy, postpartum, and menopause. Quality sleep plays a critical role in regulating these hormones. Lack of sleep can disrupt the delicate hormonal balance, leading to issues such as irregular menstrual cycles, increased premenstrual symptoms, and complications during pregnancy and menopause. Mental Health Adequate sleep is essential for mental health. Women are more likely to experience anxiety and depression, conditions that can be exacerbated by sleep deprivation. Restful sleep helps regulate mood, improve cognitive function, and enhance emotional resilience. It is during sleep that the brain processes emotions and memories, which is crucial for maintaining mental health. Physical Health Sleep is vital for physical health. It allows the body to repair and regenerate. Chronic sleep deprivation is linked to a higher risk of various health issues, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and obesity. For women, who are at a higher risk of developing autoimmune diseases, sleep is particularly important in maintaining a robust immune system. Reproductive Health Quality sleep can positively impact reproductive health. It supports healthy fertility and pregnancy. During pregnancy, adequate sleep is crucial for the health of both the mother and the developing baby. Sleep disorders, such as sleep apnoea, are associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, including pre-eclampsia and gestational diabetes. Aging and Longevity Sleep affects how women age. Poor sleep quality accelerates the aging process, contributing to the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and decreased skin elasticity. Moreover, consistent, quality sleep can enhance longevity, ensuring that women not only live longer but also enjoy a higher quality of life in their later years. Top 5 Tips for Prioritising Good Sleep Establish a Consistent Sleep Schedule Maintaining a regular sleep-wake cycle helps regulate your body's internal clock. Aim to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This consistency can improve the quality of your sleep. Create a Sleep-Conducive Environment Transform your bedroom into a sanctuary for sleep. Ensure that it is dark, quiet, and cool. Invest in a comfortable mattress and pillows. Remove electronic devices that can emit blue light and disrupt your sleep. Practice Relaxation Techniques Incorporate relaxation techniques into your bedtime routine to unwind and prepare your body for sleep. Activities such as reading, taking a warm bath, meditating, or practicing deep-breathing exercises can help you relax and fall asleep more easily. Be Mindful of Your Diet and Exercise What you eat and drink, as well as your level of physical activity, can significantly impact your sleep. Avoid caffeine and large meals close to bedtime. Engage in regular physical activity, but try to finish exercising at least a few hours before bed to avoid being too energized to sleep. Limit Screen Time Before Bed Exposure to screens before bedtime can interfere with your ability to fall asleep. The blue light emitted by phones, tablets, and computers can suppress melatonin production, a hormone that regulates sleep. Aim to turn off electronic devices at least an hour before bedtime and engage in calming activities instead. Conclusion Sleep is not a luxury; it is a necessity, particularly for women's health. Prioritising sleep can lead to profound benefits, from hormonal balance and mental health to physical wellbeing and longevity. By following these tips and making sleep a priority, women can improve their overall health and enjoy a more vibrant, balanced life. So tonight, turn off your screens, unwind with a good book, and embrace the restorative power of sleep. References: https://mentalhealth-uk.org/help-and-information/sleep/
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Boost Your Wellbeing: 5 Simple Steps to a Happier Life
Maintaining good mental health is crucial for overall well-being, and the NHS provides a comprehensive guide to enhancing your mental health through five key steps: Connect with Others: Engaging with friends, family, and colleagues helps build a support network. Whether it's sharing meals, joining clubs, or simply catching up over a call, these connections provide emotional support and a sense of belonging. Be Physically Active: Physical activity is not just about improving fitness; it also boosts mood and reduces anxiety. Activities like walking, cycling, or even gardening can be effective. The key is to find something you enjoy that fits into your daily routine. Learn New Skills: Acquiring new skills can boost your self-confidence and provide a sense of achievement. Whether it's learning to cook, taking up a new hobby, or pursuing an online course, the process of learning can be as rewarding as the skills themselves. Give to Others: Acts of kindness and giving can create positive feelings and help build a sense of community. This could be through volunteering, helping a neighbour, or simply giving a compliment. These actions not only benefit others but also enhance your own mental wellbeing. Be Mindful: Mindfulness involves paying full attention to the present moment, including your thoughts, feelings, and the world around you. Practices like meditation, yoga, or even mindful walking can help you develop this awareness, reducing stress and improving your emotional health. For those seeking more support, consider exploring online resources, local community centres or networks, or speaking with a mental health professional. The NHS website offers further guidance and links to supportive services, providing a good starting point for anyone looking to improve their mental wellbeing. Tips and tricks: When starting anything new, start small. Our blog on habit stacking gives the lowdown on how to create consistency with new habits, check it out here. Enlist a friend or family member: going it alone is hard! Finding someone to keep you on track can help, and make it more fun in the process. Celebrate the small wins! Create some really small goals to focus on. You wouldn’t expect to run a 10k straight away, so neither should you expect to change your lifestyle overnight. Journaling is a great tool for mindfulness but can be a tricky skill to master, so a guided journal can help you to get started. If you've got time, volunteering is a great way to make friends and build community, and it makes you feel good. Council websites will often have a volunteering portal which you can sign up to. Check out Stoke-on-Trent Council's version here. For more detailed advice and support options, visit the NHS's mental wellbeing guide.
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A letter to my infertility
As I sit down to write, my mind drifts back to the challenging times I've faced recently. It is said that our most profound growth often stems from our deepest struggles, and I have come to understand this truth in a deeply personal way. Experiencing trauma has been like walking through a dense forest with no clear path. The darkness and uncertainty have at times felt overwhelming. Yet, within this turmoil, I have discovered a surprising resilience and a renewed sense of purpose. The journey through pain has not been easy, but it has been transformative. Fertility, in its broadest sense, speaks to the capacity to generate, nurture, and bring forth new life. In the context of our lives, it also refers to our ability to cultivate new beginnings from the ashes of our past. The experiences we endure, no matter how harrowing, can plant seeds of strength, empathy, and wisdom within us. During this traumatic period, I have felt a profound array of emotions – fear, anger, sadness, and sometimes even hopelessness. Yet, alongside these, there have been moments of unexpected joy, connection, and clarity. These contrasting emotions have shaped who I am today, allowing me to see the world with a more compassionate and understanding heart. In the fertile ground of my heart and mind, I have learned to plant new dreams and aspirations. The trials have taught me patience and the importance of self-care. I have come to appreciate the small victories and the gentle steps forward, recognising that each day brings with it a chance to heal and grow. The trauma I experienced will always be a part of my story, but it does not define me. Instead, it has enriched my life in ways I never thought possible. It has taught me that even in our darkest moments, there is potential for light. Through the cracks of our brokenness, new life can emerge. As I continue to navigate this journey, I am filled with hope and determination. I am learning to embrace the process of healing, understanding that it is not linear but rather a winding path with its own rhythm. The scars I carry are not marks of weakness but symbols of survival and resilience. Anonymous
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A guide to your Fertility Consultation with your GP - By OVUM
Written by Dr. Phoebe Howells. Dr. Phoebe has been a doctor since 2012 with a decade of experience in Obstetrics and Gynaecology focusing on fertility. She's undertaken a clinical fellowship in Reproductive Medicine at a top London fertility clinic alongside authoring articles, sharing insights at global conferences, contributing to fertility trials for women with adenomyosis and working as the Co-Chief Medical Officer for OVUM. Embarking on a fertility journey can be a profound and sometimes complex experience. Whether you are just contemplating your future fertility options, in a same-sex relationship, looking to egg freeze or already eagerly trying to conceive, your GP is often your first point of contact and an invaluable resource in navigating this path. This blog aims to prepare you for your fertility consultation with your GP, offering insights into when you should first approach them, what to expect, and key questions to ask. Let's be honest: It can be a very stressful time. So, hopefully, after reading this, you will feel empowered to take that first step in booking the consultation and understand the next steps while making informed decisions. If it is taking longer to conceive than you thought, it doesn’t necessarily mean that something is wrong, but a doctor can assess and see if there is anything immediate that can be treated. They will also advise when you should be referred to an IVF clinic where further tests may be carried out. How long is too long? How long should it take? Remember, 8/10 couples under the age of 40 will conceive in one year, so 80% of women will get pregnant if they wait a whole year. 9/10 couples under the age of 40 will conceive in 2 years. The problem is that when you are trying to conceive, a year feels like a very long time, and every period that you have is another knock to your morale, 2 years can feel like an eternity. Remember, the National Institute of Clinical Excellence, otherwise known as ‘NICE’ recommends that you should see a doctor if - you are under 35 years old and have been trying to conceive for 12 months - you are over 36 years old and have been trying to conceive for 6 months It varies with age because as you get older, you are more likely to have issues, so it is better to investigate sooner. If you are concerned that you are not getting pregnant, speak to your GP. It's better to speak to them earlier rather than later, and they can always advise you when to contact them again in the future. Of course, if you or your partner have a known problem that may be impacting your fertility, such as a problem with your fallopian tubes or your partner has a known low sperm count, then you don’t have to wait before seeing your GP. What to expect from the consultation It is usually advised that you and your partner both attend the appointment. You may be asked many different questions, so getting first-hand information from the relevant person is helpful. What questions you may be asked, and what information to have ready. Information regarding your menstrual cycles, most importantly your last menstrual period and a vague knowledge of a pattern of your menstrual cycles. This will save you from getting flustered during the appointment and frantically scrolling through your diary, trying to find key events when you started bleeding. If you asked me right now, I wouldn’t remember when mine started; I wouldn't have a clue. History of all previous pregnancies, including terminations and miscarriages and how they were managed. Sometimes, you may want to share this information with your GP later when alone, and it can be kept confidential, but it is important to know if you have had any procedures or complications. Any medical conditions, past or present Any surgery that you have had and any operation notes that you may have been given, if relevant to Gynaecology. If you have had any fertility tests so far, try and bring the results with you if you think the GP may not have access to them already. If in doubt, bring them. History of previous and current contraception Any previous sexually transmitted infections, again you may not want to share this whilst your partner is present, and this can be kept confidential. It is helpful to know if you may be offered particular tests, such as fallopian tube patency tests if this is the case. When your last smear was. If in a heterosexual relationship, how often you have intercourse and if either of you experiences any difficulty, such as erectile dysfunction or painful intercourse which can stop you from having it regularly? For the men, any history of groin operations or undescended testicles or any history of testicular trauma. Reading through these questions, you may feel dread that you have to delve so deep into your personal life, embarrassed that you have to talk about your sex life, and may be worried that you will have to give information that you don’t want your partner to know about. Be reassured that everything will be confidential, there will be no judgement, and they will only ask questions important to understanding your fertility health. Believe me, after a couple of consultations, you will be happy to discuss anything. The Examination Both partners (or solo parent if that’s you) will need their height and weight checked to calculate a body mass index (BMI), as reaching and maintaining a healthy weight is not only key to helping your fertility, but there are also strict cut-offs for female BMI, with the NHS only funding IVF if you have a BMI between 19-30. Not knowing this at the beginning of your journey could string you along with false hope of funded treatment, only for your dreams to be quashed when reaching the fertility clinic itself. During the consultation, your GP may or may not want to examine you. For females, the GP may want to do a speculum examination and swabs to check for infections. They may also want to feel your tummy to see if they can feel any masses, such as fibroids, which can make your uterus enlarged. For men, an abnormal semen analysis may prompt a testicular exam to see the size of the testes. They may want to look for any signs of infection or lumps or swellings that could indicate a potential cause for infertility, such as a varicocele. What investigation might be done? The GP may advise to carry on trying to conceive and to come back if not pregnant within a certain time frame. However, they may also advise you to have some initial tests. Chlamydia Screening This is a urine or swab test, and if it comes back positive, a course of antibiotics will be prescribed. A history of sexually transmitted infections can sometimes cause blockages in your fallopian tubes, and there are different tests to check for this. These tests are called tubal patency tests. Blood Tests They may take a progesterone level, which is taken 7 days before your expected period. So, in a 28-day cycle, it will be taken on day 21. Of course we don’t all have 28-day cycles, and this will be taken into account by your GP. Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), Luteinizing hormone (LH) and oestradiol blood tests may be taken on days 2-4 of your cycle. These can give you some indication of your ovarian reserve. Your GP may also order blood tests to check your thyroid levels. Anti-mullerian hormone test (AMH) is another test which gives a clearer indication of your ovarian reserve. However, it is not routinely requested by GPs. If this is not done during the initial investigations, it will absolutely be tested for when you reach the fertility clinic. A low ovarian reserve would suggest referral to the fertility specialist sooner rather than later. Your ovarian reserve declines with age, which is particularly important in those over 35. Ultrasound Scan A transvaginal or transabdominal scan will give a great insight into any structural abnormalities that may be contributing to infertility. For instance, some women have differently shaped wombs that can impact fertility; they may have ovarian cysts or fibroids. All of this information is key to knowing the next steps. Semen Analysis This is a crucial test to investigate male infertility. The male partner will need to provide a fresh sample of semen directly into a sterile pot. The pot must be taken to the lab within one hour for an accurate result. The different parameters that will be checked include, -the total concentration of sperm -the number of motile sperm (how many are moving) -Progressive motility (how many are moving in one direction, not just going around in circles) - morphology (how many sperm look structurally normal with one head and one tail connected in a straight line) If the first result is abnormal, it is usually wise to repeat in 3 months when the body has made a whole new bunch of sperm. These investigations' results can take one to three weeks to come back. Questions to Ask During Your Consultations Which tests are needed for you, and when will you expect to get the results? What funding does your area provide? It is a postcode lottery, and NHS funding can be very varied and complicated. It is worth checking online which Integrated Care Board (ICB)I your address falls within and accessing their fertility treatment policy. This will let you know upfront what is and is now available in your postcode. They will recommend you take preconception and, once pregnant, prenatal supplements. Preconception supplements are particularly important for egg health and normal fetal development. They may also suggest preconception supplements for male fertility. Next Steps after your consultation After collating all of the results, the GP will advise whether you need a referral to a Gynaecologist, Urologist, Fertility Specialist or other relevant specialist. The timing of your referral to a fertility specialist will depend on all your results and the time you have already taken to conceive. It is important to know how long the NHS needs you to have been trying to conceive before NHS funding will be granted for IVF treatment. This is why checking your ICB’s fertility treatment policy is so useful. If you are self-funding treatment, you can present directly to private Fertility clinics without a referral from the GP. However, if you use your private health insurance, you will often need a GP referral letter, so a consultation with one will still be necessary. Remember, a GP has approximately 7 minutes to see you. There is a lot that needs to be done, so it may not happen immediately, and they may just see an obvious cause for infertility and refer you directly to a fertility specialist without completing every other investigation. Good luck with your journey
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The Digital Detox Movement: Reclaiming Your Life from Social Media
The digital detox movement advocates for taking intentional breaks from digital devices, particularly from social media platforms. This movement is not about shunning technology entirely but about finding a balance and fostering healthier relationships with our digital lives.
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The Impact of Fertility Issues on Mental Health
Introduction:Bringing a child into the world is often portrayed as a natural and joyous experience. However, for many individuals and couples, the journey to parenthood can be fraught with challenges. Fertility issues, which affect millions of people worldwide, not only pose physical hurdles but also deeply impact mental health. In this blog, we delve into the profound emotional toll of fertility struggles and the critical need for better support during treatment.The Emotional Rollercoaster of Fertility Challenges:The diagnosis of infertility can shatter dreams and expectations, leading to profound feelings of grief, loss, and inadequacy. Couples may experience a range of emotions, including sadness, anger, guilt, and frustration. Each failed attempt at conception can feel like a devastating blow, intensifying feelings of hopelessness and despair.Moreover, fertility treatments such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), intrauterine insemination (IUI), or surrogacy often entail a gruelling regimen of medications, injections, and invasive procedures. The physical toll of these treatments, coupled with the emotional strain of navigating uncertainty and disappointment, can take a significant toll on mental well-being.The Stigma Surrounding Fertility Issues:Despite the prevalence of fertility challenges, there remains a pervasive stigma surrounding infertility. Society often equates fertility with personal worth and fulfilment, leading individuals and couples to suffer in silence rather than openly discussing their struggles. This silence can exacerbate feelings of isolation and shame, further compounding the mental health burden.Moreover, fertility issues are frequently misunderstood or minimised by those who have not experienced them first-hand. Well-meaning but insensitive remarks from friends, family members, or even healthcare providers can deepen feelings of alienation and inadequacy, amplifying the psychological impact of infertility.The Lack of Support During Treatment:While medical interventions offer hope for conception, the journey through fertility treatment can be emotionally taxing, yet the support available often falls short. Many individuals report feeling isolated and unsupported during this challenging time, exacerbating feelings of anxiety and depression.One significant barrier to adequate support is the financial burden associated with fertility treatments. In many countries, these treatments are not fully covered by insurance, placing them out of reach for individuals and couples with limited financial resources. The prohibitive cost of fertility care further exacerbates disparities in access to support services, leaving marginalised communities particularly vulnerable to the mental health consequences of infertility.Additionally, the emotional aspect of fertility treatment is often overlooked or underserved within the healthcare system. While medical professionals focus on physical interventions, the psychological impact of infertility may receive inadequate attention. Counselling and support services specifically tailored to the unique needs of individuals and couples undergoing fertility treatment are essential but often lacking.The Importance of Comprehensive Support:Addressing the mental health needs of individuals and couples facing fertility challenges requires a multifaceted approach. Firstly, there is a need to break the silence surrounding infertility and challenge the stigma that often accompanies it. By fostering open and compassionate dialogue, we can create a supportive environment where individuals feel comfortable seeking help and sharing their experiences.Furthermore, healthcare providers must recognise the integral role that mental health plays in the fertility journey and integrate psychological support services into fertility clinics and treatment protocols. Counselling, support groups, and resources for coping with stress and grief can provide much-needed emotional support to those undergoing fertility treatment.Policy changes are also needed to improve access to fertility care and support services. Greater insurance coverage for fertility treatments would alleviate the financial burden faced by many individuals and couples, ensuring that cost does not serve as a barrier to accessing care.Conclusion:Fertility issues can have a profound impact on mental health, yet the support available to individuals and couples undergoing treatment often falls short. By fostering open dialogue, challenging stigma, and improving access to comprehensive support services, we can better address the emotional needs of those facing fertility challenges. Together, we can provide a supportive environment where individuals feel empowered to navigate the journey to parenthood with resilience and hope.
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Navigating Fertility Treatment Funding in the UK: Criteria and Barriers
Find out why accessing fertility treatment isn't as straightforward or fair as we would like it to be here at femme health, in our latest blog.
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Why Your Health Before Pregnancy Matters
When we talk about getting ready for a baby, we often think about decorating the nursery or picking out cute onesies. But there's something really important that often gets overlooked: your health before pregnancy. Believe it or not, your wellbeing before you even think about getting pregnant plays a huge role in how things go down the road. So, let's dive into why prepping your body before pregnancy is a big deal. Why Your Health Before Pregnancy Matters: Boosting Baby-Making Power: Think of it like this: the healthier you are, the better chance you have of making a baby. Simple habits like eating right, moving your body, and keeping stress in check can make a big difference in your fertility. So, if you're thinking about expanding your family, taking care of yourself is step one. Dodging Pregnancy Complications: Nobody wants a bumpy ride during pregnancy. By getting your health in check beforehand, you can lower the chances of things like having your baby too early or dealing with health problems along the way. It's like laying a smooth road for your baby's journey into the world. Setting Up Baby for Success: Your body is like the cosy home where your baby grows for nine months. By giving it the right nutrients and care before pregnancy, you're creating the perfect environment for your little one to thrive. It's like giving them a head start before they even arrive. Check out our fertility supplements here. Prioritise good sexual health: Taking care of your sexual health should be a priority: Untreated STIs can pose serious risks during pregnancy, such as transmission to the foetus, premature birth, or other complications. Taking Care of Mum: Pregnancy can be tough on your body, so it helps to start out strong. By tackling any health issues before you get pregnant, you're giving yourself a better shot at feeling good throughout the journey. After all, a healthy mum means a happier pregnancy. Dads, You're in This Too!: It's not just mums who need to think about pre-pregnancy health. Dads-to-be play a big role too. Eating well, staying active, and avoiding bad stuff like smoking can all help make super sperm and set the stage for a healthy baby. Specific supplements designed for sperm health can be found here. A Lifetime of Health: Taking care of yourself before pregnancy isn't just about those nine months. It's about setting up good habits that can stick around for life. When you start out healthy, it's easier to keep the ball rolling and give your family the gift of wellness for years to come. Simple Changes to Consider Before Conception: 1. Stop smoking: the NHS has free stop smoking services available here. 2. Reduce alcohol intake: Try having at least 4 nights without alcohol a week. There are lots of lovely non-alcoholic drinks available - try using your favourite glass and adding fruit to make it feel special. 3. Manage your stress levels: taking 5 minutes out of your busy day to practice relaxation can make a big difference. Getting outdoors first thing in the morning is also really good for stress levels: take your morning tea or coffee outdoors! 4. Move more: Too much too quickly is not recommended if you're not used to regular exercise so try adding some short walks into your day. Habit stacking is great for sticking to your goals (read more here), so why not take a short walk after you have put the bins out? 5. Check on your sexual health: STI detection and treatment has never been easier or more discreet. A wide range of at-home testing services are available now, check out our sexual health tests here. Conclusion: Getting ready for a baby isn't just about picking out baby names and decorating the nursery. It's also about prepping your body for the incredible journey ahead. By taking care of your health before pregnancy, you're giving yourself and your future baby the best possible start. So, whether you're thinking about starting a family soon or somewhere down the road, remember: your health matters, even before you see those two pink lines.
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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.
