The femme Journal
The role of insulin resistance in PCOS and fertility
This blog explores the intricate link between Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and insulin resistance, a key factor impacting both symptoms and fertility. PCOS involves irregular menstrual cycles and ovarian cysts, with insulin resistance exacerbating hormonal imbalances. Diagnosis includes blood tests, ultrasounds, and treatment options range from medications like Metformin to lifestyle changes and supplements. Insulin resistance disrupts ovulation and increases male hormones, negatively affecting fertility. Managing insulin resistance through tailored interventions can enhance fertility outcomes for individuals with PCOS. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalised treatment plans. Thanks, Zita West, for this insightful piece! Written by Zita West Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex hormonal disorder that affects many women of reproductive age. One of the key factors linked to both the symptoms of PCOS and its impact on fertility is insulin resistance. In this blog, we will delve into the role of insulin resistance in PCOS and how it affects fertility. What is PCOS? PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects the ovaries and can lead to irregular menstrual cycles, among other symptoms. Polycystic ovaries often contain a number of small, fluid-filled sacs which surround the eggs. Understanding Insulin Resistance Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. When the body's cells become less responsive to insulin, the condition is termed as insulin resistance. This can lead to elevated levels of insulin, as well as elevated levels of glucose in the bloodstream. The Connection Between Insulin Resistance and PCOS Insulin resistance plays a pivotal role in the development and symptoms of PCOS. Elevated insulin levels can lead to hormonal imbalances that exacerbate the symptoms of PCOS, including irregular menstrual cycles and difficulties in conceiving. Diagnosing PCOS and Insulin Resistance Diagnosing PCOS often involves a variety of tests including blood tests, ultrasounds, and sometimes even laparoscopic surgery. Insulin resistance can be diagnosed through a fasting insulin level test or an oral glucose tolerance test. Treatment Options Medications Insulin-sensitising medications like Metformin are often prescribed for treating insulin resistance in women with PCOS. Lifestyle Changes Simple lifestyle changes like a balanced diet and regular exercise can help manage insulin resistance, thus improving the symptoms of PCOS and fertility. Supplements Some supplements like Inositol and NAC can also be effective in managing insulin resistance and thereby improving the symptoms of PCOS. Impact on Fertility Insulin resistance can adversely affect fertility by disrupting ovulation and increasing levels of male hormones in the body. Addressing insulin resistance through lifestyle changes and medications can often improve fertility outcomes. Insulin resistance is closely linked with PCOS and its impact on fertility. By understanding this relationship, you can seek appropriate treatment options to manage their symptoms and improve their chances of conception. Always consult your healthcare provider for a personalised treatment plan. For extra support check out our PCOS collection
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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. 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. Check out our PCOS collection for some extra support.
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Four Ways You Can Maximise Your Good Mood By Hacking Your Happiness Hormones
Daye says unlocking your happy hormones is the key to enhancing mental health and positive emotions, as revealed in the latest blog. Serotonin, dopamine, oxytocin, and endorphins play a pivotal role in feelings of contentment, relaxation, euphoria, and love. The blog encourages self-reflection on how often these happiness-inducing hormones are activated, offering insights into emotional needs and overall mental well-being. A big thank you to Daye for shedding light on the science of happiness and offering actionable steps to elevate our mood and mental health. Written by Stacey Carter Activating you happy hormones triggers positive emotions that boost your mental health - the trick is knowing how to unlock them. The feelings that we often associate with happiness, such as contentment, relaxation, euphoria, and love and affection, originate from four specific happy hormones that circulate around our body – serotonin, dopamine, oxytocin and endorphins. We can learn a lot about our emotional needs and our mental wellbeing by thinking about how many times we’re activating these specific hormones over the course of a week, or even day to day. You may come to realise that you’re getting ample oxytocin from cuddling your partner, but if you’re not factoring in a daily sunshine walk or eating a diet rich in serotonin-friendly amino acids, you’re likely to be low on those mood-balancing happy hormones. The good news is that boosting your body’s output of these happy hormones is a lot simpler than you might think. For example, you can experience endorphins by doing physical exercise and oxytocin from giving someone you love a big hug. To find out exactly how these hormones work in the body and what we can do to get our daily dose of them, we consulted the experts. What are happy hormones? The key players here are serotonin, endorphins, oxytocin, and dopamine. Each hormone is a neurotransmitter, meaning they relay key messages throughout the body. According to a study from the Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews, these happy hormones are responsible for a whole host of different functions, influencing how we respond in social situations, to determining what motivates and drives us to participate in different behaviours. “All these hormones are released in the brain,” explains Dr Nicky Keay, a Hormone Health Expert and a Sports and Dance Endocrinologist. “For example, endorphins are a short-term, short-range neurotransmitter often released during exercise. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter and the basis for some antidepressant medications. Oxytocin is better known as the ‘love hormone’, which is most commonly known as the one that bonds baby to mother. Finally, we have dopamine, the reward hormone that is released by doing or achieving something.” At certain points in your menstrual cycle, your happy hormones will see-saw because serotonin levels are linked to oestrogen and progesterone – which often fluctuate just before your period, which is why many people experience mood swings around this time of the month. The link between birth control and mood swings is partly due to the influence some oral contraceptives have on hormones. In one study from the Journal of Comprehensive Psychiatry oestrogens in oral contraceptives were proven to reduce the level of serotonin available in the body. Boosting your happy hormones is not a substitution for professional help if you’re feeling chronically anxious or depressed or you’re suffering from PMDD, but becoming clued up on how to unlock them can help you keep tabs on your emotional and mental wellbeing. So which are the four happy hormones that can boost your mood? 1. Serotonin Serotonin is one of the primary happy hormones associated with good mood. From helping to regulate anxiety to promoting quality sleep, serotonin has a major role to play in the body. “Serotonin or 5HT(5-hydroxytryptamine) is the original ‘happy hormone’,” says Dr Fiona MacRae, a specialist in integrative women's health and bioidentical hormone balancing for the Marion Gluck Clinic. “It mediates positive emotional responses and low levels of serotonin are associated with negative emotions, such as depression, but also anxiety, insomnia, and binge eating.” Getting your daily serotonin hit isn’t hard. Daily exposure to sunlight has been proven to increase serotonin as have nature walks and even nostalgia. “There is an interaction in the brain between mood and memory that when combined with the part of the brain that is associated with attention, can trigger the production of serotonin,” says Mairéad Molloy, a Member of the British Psychology Association and a relationship consultant from the Private Therapy Clinic. “This can happen when thinking about a vivid, happy memory, or perhaps looking through photos of a fun family holiday or wedding day.” You can also facilitate the production of serotonin in your body by focusing on your diet, as Dr MacRae explains: “We can boost our levels of serotonin by increasing tryptophan in our diet as this facilitates the production of this hormone. Tryptophan-rich foods include lean white meats such as chicken and turkey, as well as dairy products such as cheese.” 2. Endorphins If you’ve ever experienced a runner’s high, then you’ll know that endorphins can be a surefire way to boost your mood. In fact, research from the Frontiers in Psychiatry showed that regular exercise (namely aerobic or moderate-intensity exercise) releases and binds endorphins to the brain. “Endorphins are real feel-good hormones,” says Dr MacRae. “They have many benefits, including reduced symptoms of depression; the easing of stress and anxiety; increased confidence and self-esteem; and the regulation of appetite and beneficial weight loss. They can also alleviate pain and stress, as they boost the production of another hormone associated with mood, dopamine. ” Your body is most likely to release endorphins following physical exercise, but this happy hormone can also spike when listening to a piece of music you particularly enjoy or during laughter. “One of the simplest ways to boost natural endorphin levels is through exercise, typically running, but also swimming, power walking and dance,” says Dr MacRae. “There are also certain foods that will boost your production of these chemicals. Dark chocolate contains a group of n-acetylethanoloamine chemicals that have been shown to increase endorphin production and this may be why some women crave chocolate just before their period.” 3. Oxytocin Oxytocin, sometimes known as the love hormone, is what helps us make and maintain bonds with others. Research from the Journal of Cell Metabolism shows that this happy hormone has a positive impact on social behaviours, such as relaxation and trust, meaning that it can help with feelings of anxiety. Oxytocin also impacts the emotional bonds experienced in pregnancy, childbirth and nursing. “Oxytocin can also help promote trust, empathy, and bonding in relationships,” says Molloy. “Levels generally increase with physical affection, so you can get a boost of oxytocin by doing pleasurable things such as spending time cuddling with your partner, your kids or your pet(s), rather than spending time on social media.” 4. Dopamine Responsible for a large part of your goal-related behaviour, dopamine creates reward-seeking loops in your mind that result in a boost of satisfaction. “Along with adrenaline and noradrenaline, dopamine is part of the catecholamine family of neurotransmitters,” says Dr MacRae. “Dopamine secretion increases in response to pleasurable experiences, like praise, falling in love, food, sex, and shopping.” Dopamine may cause a surge of positive feelings, but it’s good to be conscious about what’s triggering this particular hormone. Positive ways to increase dopamine production include incorporating a regular meditation practice into your day, to participating in your favourite hobby. “You can improve dopamine synthesis by including high magnesium and tyrosine-rich foods into your diet,” says Dr MacRae. “This includes chicken, almonds, apples, avocados, beets, green leafy vegetables, sesame and pumpkin seeds, turmeric, tomatoes, and bananas. Chocolate is also known to boost dopamine.” There’s no quick fix when it comes to happiness, and if you are struggling with a consistently low mood, it’s important you reach out to a medical professional for help. Factors such as lifestyle, emotional resilience, mindset and physical health can all influence our mental state, but by understanding what triggers those feel-good feelings, we can make room in our day-to-day for some of the positive behaviours listed above. For example, by adding a meditation practice to your morning routine, going on a run at lunchtime, and then scheduling a catch-up with your friend after work, you’ve already ticked off three of the four happiness hormones. So, if you feel a little down in the dumps, or suffer from low mood near or around your period, it could be worth using the guide above to consider what happiness hormone has been lacking from your life lately, and what you can do to prioritise it.
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How to deal with period pain at work
This blog sheds light on the often-overlooked challenges individuals face when dealing with severe period symptoms at the workplace. It vividly describes the physical and emotional toll of excruciating period cramps, heavy bleeding, and the pressure to maintain productivity despite significant discomfort. A special thank you to Daye for addressing this crucial aspect of women's health in the workplace. Your commitment to bringing awareness to these challenges is highly commendable. Picture the scene: you’re sitting at your desk and your period cramps are excruciating. It feels like somebody’s using their fingernails to slowly, methodically scrape away chunks of your uterus. All you can do is curl up in silent protest and wait for the pain to gradually subside. Except you can’t, because you’re at work. Your boss doesn’t know the level of your discomfort: how exhausted your period makes you; or the waves of nausea; or that your joints are aching; or that you have to keep running to the loo because of dodgy loose stools. You’ve just got to sit there, and do your job exactly how you would if you weren’t on your period. Excruciating period cramps, heavy bleeding and pressure to show up to work mean we’re losing nearly nine days of productivity per year. A 2019 study conducted by the BMJ found that period cramps see 13.8% of women and AFAB individuals taking time off work during their periods; and that 80.7% go through ‘presenteeism’ (turning up to work but struggling to be productive) for an average of 23.2 days per year. This presenteeism results in an average of 8.9 days’ worth of productivity lost per year. Let that sink in for a moment: excruciating period cramps, heavy bleeding and pressure to show up to work mean we’re losing nearly nine days of productivity per year. “Our research has shown that over a quarter of women [and AFAB individuals] surveyed had recently taken time off work because of their period,” says Rachel Murray, Head of Employee Health & Wellbeing at BUPA UK. “However, over a third wouldn’t feel comfortable disclosing the period as the reason for their absence, and would instead use another excuse, like having a stomach bug.” As for why? Well, Jacqueline Gualtieri summed up one reason pretty succinctly in her Vitals article: “Women [and AFAB individuals] who take time off due to period pain fear being viewed as fragile by their coworkers and less valuable than a man by their employers.” And so, they carry on – and it’s hard. I’ve been there. It’s bad enough when the period cramps interfere with daily activities; but having to merrily type out emails, smile at colleagues and be eloquent on the phone – all while it feels like your uterus is being attacked in the same way a steak is attacked with a knife and fork – feels impossible. And that’s just the desk jobs. I worked in a bookshop once, and having to run back and forth between the shelves and the till (not to mention having to be energetic and friendly) was like a form of torture. I have no idea how teachers do it. Or dancers; or waiting staff; or cabin crew. Or anyone, for that matter. Managing period cramps at work can be a difficult, painful, uncomfortable thing to do – not least because the UK hasn’t yet caught up with Spain, who passed Europe’s first paid menstrual leave law earlier this year. So we’ve gathered together a few hints and tips for anyone who, like me, struggles to plaster a smile on their face, engage their brain and produce some form of work (good one) while struggling with period symptoms. What are some common period symptoms? Well, first, of course, there’s the dreaded cramping in the pelvic area. “[Period] cramps come from asymmetric contraction[s] of the uterus, a muscular organ,” says certified nurse midwife Kristin Mallon, Co-Founder and CEO at FemGevity. “These can happen during, before or after your period. These cramps are caused by hormonal changes that signal to the brain to shed the lining of the endometrium. The period affects the whole body. “There can be any number of symptoms that [people with periods] feel, ranging across any system: like headaches, vision changes, sometimes even changes in athletic performance, bowel changes, urinary changes, libido changes,” Mallon says. Not to mention: Joint stiffness Back ache (especially lower back pain) Dizziness Mood changes. “PMDD is a known concept; but mild versions of this can also be experienced, from insomnia, anger, rage, depression and anxiety,” Mallon concludes. How might period symptoms affect someone’s ability to work? “Struggling with period pain can make daily tasks feel a lot more difficult than usual,” says Murray. “Dealing with cramps can make you feel a lot less productive, and, in some cases, it might affect your ability to work at all. A recent YouGov survey showed almost a quarter of [people] who currently menstruate report that their period pain affects their ability to work every time, or most times they get their period.” And it’s not just the pain. “Being on your period can affect you mentally, too, making you feel more irritated, anxious or angry than usual,” Murray continues. “This may also affect your ability to focus.” Of course, period symptoms – and how they’re experienced and managed at work – are not a ‘one size fits all’. “Every woman who menstruates experiences it differently – some may experience little to no pain when they’re on their period, and others may be in so much pain that [it] means they can focus on little else,” Murray explains. “Some may find that sitting down helps them to manage period cramps, whereas others may struggle with a desk job while they’re on their period; preferring to keep gently moving to alleviate symptoms.” How might someone manage period pain at work? Firstly, it’s important to see a doctor if you’re getting severe cramps. “If you’re in persistent or severe pain because of your period and haven’t seen a health professional about it – please do,” says Murray. “Your pain could be related to other conditions, [like] endometriosis, so it’s important to seek help and get you on the right course of treatment.” Assuming there’s no underlying cause, there are a few pain-minimising routes available to you when it comes to the workplace. “Aside from treating an associated cause like endometriosis, adenomyosis, fibroids [or] ovarian cysts, there are several remedies to try for painful periods,” says Mallon. “Medication recommendations usually include NSAIDs or contraceptives such as pills, patches or rings. Exercise and heat are also known to be effective in managing dysmenorrhea.” As for how to implement these remedies for reducing pain into your working day: for Murray, preparation is key. “Learn what medications, natural relief and practices work for you to help minimise disruption to your working day, where you can,” she advises. “It’s always a good idea to be prepared around the time you expect your period. If you have access to a workplace locker, try keeping a spare hot water bottle or a heat patch to offer you relief if you need it. Make sure you keep over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen in your bag for pain relief.” And when it comes to other ways to manage your period symptoms in the workplace, Murray has some further suggestions: “It may be useful to try out gentle exercise or yoga in your breaktime, or before or after work to help ease pain,” she says. “Giving yourself a stomach massage may help, too.” “Some find that upping your water intake and reducing the amount of caffeine you drink can help manage your symptoms better,” she continues. “Having a warm bath before or after work may help to alleviate cramps, too,” she adds. Check out period pain collection here for some extra support “If you’re able to work from home, doing so around the time of your period may help you access methods to help with pain relief quicker, and help you rest after work for longer,” Murray concludes. How could I broach the topic of period symptoms with their employer? “Speaking to your employer about period pain may feel intimidating, especially if it’s making work feel impossible,” says Murray. “[But] having a conversation with your employer can help them to better support you during this time so that you can feel more at ease when you’re working [while] on your period. “If you have a regular one to one catch up with your employer, this may be the ideal time to talk about how you’re struggling,” Murray continues. “You could start off the conversation by saying something along the lines of: ‘You may have noticed that I have been finding work more difficult sometimes, this is because I’ve been struggling to manage period pain. I wanted to let you know, as I find that the following helps to manage my [period] symptoms…’.” It’s difficult to do – but you have every right to be honest with your employer about how you’re feeling. No one should have to pretend to be ok when they’re really, really not. This is why Daye launched Period Pain Clinic: designed to help patients understand the root cause of their period pain, and to build personalised pain and symptom management plans. Stay tuned… And, as always, it’s vital to see a doctor if you have any health concerns at all – period-related or otherwise.
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Tens machines for period pain
Daye's informative blog, crafted by Izzie for Daye, introduces an intriguing solution to menstrual cramps – the TENS machine. Addressing the ever-expanding landscape of period pain management, the article explores TENS machines as a potential ally in alleviating cramps., The blog offers readers a comprehensive overview of TENS machines as a potential solution for period pain relief.Thanks, Izzie, for this insightful piece! Written by Izzie Price Whether it’s contraception, orgasms, a heating pad or CBD, it seems there are (happily) ever-increasing potential ways to minimise the excruciating period cramps that reduce so many of us into grimacing wrecks every month – not to mention new and novel ways of closing the gender pain gap. And now, we’re going to introduce yet another possible way for you to ease your menstrual cramps each month. Have you ever heard of a TENS machine? While there’s no guarantee they could minimise or stop period pain – and there are myriad considerations when it comes to their usage, they could support you on your journey of kicking your menstrual cramps to the curb. At Daye, we believe in the delivery of personalised healthcare and one of our values in “Health on Your Terms”. We think every body should have access to a varied range of health and period pain management solutions that fit their unique needs and preferences. Personal reports and clinical evidence both show that TENS machines may have a positive impact on your cramps, so let’s dive deeper and learn more about this novel pain management method. What is a TENS machine? Dr. Michael Green – Chief Medical Officer/OB-GYN at Winona – describes TENS machines as the following: “A pain relief strategy applying low-voltage electrical currents to the skin via small electrodes”. Flo, a period tracking app, confirms that a TENS unit contains leads that connect to electrodes, or sticky pads, which must be attached directly to your skin. Once powered on, the TENS machine delivers mild electrical impulses to the affected region, causing a tingling sensation’. Now that we understand how a TENS machine works in practice, let’s learn more about how it could reduce period pain: Virginia-Arlene Go, MD: Board Certified Obstetrician and Gynecologist, Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Fellow, goes into more detail. “TENS stands for transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation,” she says. “[A TENS machine] is a small device that delivers low-voltage electric currents near nerves or trigger points to treat [various forms of pain]”. “The pain can be acute or chronic and typically is neuropathic or musculoskeletal in nature,” Go continues. “TENS ultimately works by blocking transmission of messages to pain receptors, or nociceptors. TENS can selectively deliver signals to non pain receptors, which subsequently reduces pain by decreasing nociceptor activity.” The other theory is that nerve stimulation raises the level of endorphins, which are the body’s natural pain killing chemical. The endorphins then block the perception of pain. TENS machines are thought to be effective when it comes to pain resulting from the following causes: Period pain Labour pain Joint pain Back pain Endometriosis Arthritis Fibromyalgia How does a TENS machine relieve period pain? “The uterus is a muscle and hyper contractility is often the source of menstrual pain, thus TENS may be used for that musculoskeletal pain,” says Go. “In addition to the previously described mechanism of TENS, blood flow to the uterus and prostaglandin release may also be altered by TENS which can lead to decreased pain.” But Green warns that the jury is largely still out, when it comes to TENS machines as a method for soothing cramps. “While TENS machines have been used for pain relief in many different conditions, the effectiveness for period pain – or dysmenorrhea – is somewhat unclear,” he says. “Some evidence suggests that TENS machines may relieve menstrual pain, though the results of studies have gone both ways. Some have found that TENS effectively reduces pain during menstrual periods, while others have not found a significant difference in pain relief between TENS and a placebo. It might vary from person to person or reduce pain perception for other reasons.” TENS machines “have a good safety profile when used on appropriate patients. What are the advantages of using a TENS machine for period pain relief? Overall, there are considerable advantages to using TENS machines. “TENS is a non-hormonal, non-invasive, non-medication, local treatment which can be used in conjunction with other treatments,” Go summarises. “Additionally, there should be no overdose or addiction/dependence risk and TENS is highly adjustable in regards to intensity [and] frequency.” A TENS machine is small and discreet, too. In a review of the Livia, Slate pointed out that, ‘It clips to the edge of your pants, with wires that are exactly the right length to attach to your stomach.’ Who can argue with that? What are the disadvantages of using a TENS machine for period pain relief? As Green said earlier, there’s just not enough data right now to know for sure whether TENS machines can be effective in minimising period pain. “TENS may not be effective in every patient or in every case of period pain,” Go explains. “There is a lack of quality randomised control trials supporting its superiority alone compared to other traditional therapies or combination therapy. “Also, not every patient is eligible to use TENS,” Go continues. “It is not recommended for menstrual pain if a patient has an implanted electronic device [like the aforementioned pacemaker] or cancer near the intended site of application.” Go adds that it’s also not recommended for those suffering from heart disease, bleeding disorders or blood clots (it might increase the risk of bleeding in those with bleeding disorders, and may increase blood circulation which, in turn, increases the risk of dislodging a blood clot). Avoid using TENS machines on any part of your body with broken skin or a rash! Is a TENS machine safe to use? “TENS machines are generally considered safe to use and do not have any known side effects as long as used properly,” says Green. Go confirms this, detailing that TENS machines “have a good safety profile when used on appropriate patients”; but she emphasises that they “overall cannot be used in pregnancy [or patients with] epilepsy or pacemakers [plus some other conditions, as detailed above]. When it comes to side effects, Go outlines: “The reported complications are mainly related to burns, irritation and/or allergic reactions at [the] site of electronic placement”. Green agrees, emphasising that you should “avoid using TENS machines on any part of your body with broken skin or [a] rash!”. Pretty much any source – including Lloyds Pharmacy – will tell you not to use the TENS machines on the following areas: ‘The front or sides of your neck; ‘Your mouth, temples or eyes’; ‘Your chest or upper back at the same time’; ‘Numb areas’; ‘Varicose veins, irritated or broken skin’. Green also wants you to know that TENS machines can cause discomfort, and that they must be used regularly to be effective. Plus: “Most importantly, [they] may not reduce pain or other symptoms of discomfort, even if used correctly.” Go, too, ends with a parting warning. “Although there is no risk of overdose or addiction, habituation is possible and may lead to decreased efficacy over time and even worsening of pain in some cases,” she points out. “Patients are recommended to take breaks from TENS use and change electrode placement over time.” If you think TENS could be an option for you, then – by all means – speak to a healthcare professional about it. The NHS says: ‘A physiotherapist or pain specialist may be able to loan you a TENS machine for a short period if they think it could help,’ and adds that, ‘You can choose to buy your own TENS machine without getting medical advice, but it’s generally better to have a proper assessment first, so you can find out whether a TENS machine is appropriate for you and be taught how to use it properly.’ If you’re interested in a TENS machine as a form of period pain relief, we’d recommend speaking to a healthcare professional first. Be sure to disclose any existing health issues or concerns (particularly those listed above); and, most of all, know that there isn’t any guarantee of it soothing cramps. We wish you the best of luck with it, though; goodness knows, we need more period pain relief in the world. Check out TensCare Ova + Period Pain. Convenient, easy to use pain relief designed for periods.
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What do Oestrogen levels do after ovulation if pregnant?
Proov shared this thoughtful blog on the intricate coordination of reproductive hormones during the menstrual cycle. The article navigates the complexities of interpreting lab results, emphasising the dynamic nature of hormonal changes throughout the cycle. Proov skillfully introduces the main pregnancy hormones—oestrogen and progesterone—providing a clear analogy of hormones as chemical messengers. Proov's ability to convey complex hormonal processes in an understandable manner makes this blog a valuable resource for those seeking clarity on reproductive health. Thank you Proov! Written by: Dr. Amy Beckley, PhD, Founder and Inventor of the Proov test — the first and only FDA-cleared test to confirm successful ovulation at home. Every menstrual cycle is an intricate coordination of multiple hormones and processes. Each reproductive hormone will go through numerous changes as follicles grow, ovulation occurs, and possible fertilisation happens. It can make it challenging to know if your lab results are pointing toward a strong, healthy cycle, or a hormonal imbalance. A high lab result at one part of the cycle may be completely appropriate, while that same result two weeks later points to an underlying cause of imbalance. This variability is especially true for two of the major reproductive hormones in a menstrual cycle: oestrogen and progesterone. What are the main pregnancy hormones? Before we dive into what each of these hormones do, we should take a minute to understand hormones themselves. Hormones are chemical messengers in the body. Imagine you need to share an urgent message with a friend. What’s the quickest way to get in contact? A text message! Hormones do something similar. They allow different parts and systems of the body to communicate seamlessly. Reproductive or fertility hormones, like oestrogen and progesterone, send messages about the reproductive system of the body, and therefore are sometimes referred to as “pregnancy hormones.” (But you don’t have to be pregnant to experience them!) While all human bodies create these hormones, different sexes will produce them in different amounts and have different results. What is Oestrogen? Oestrogen is often called a growth hormone, because it is produced in response to the growth of ovarian follicles and one of its main functions is to grow or thicken the lining of the uterus. Both of these things are important for possible pregnancy, and oestrogen is essential for that process. Without oestrogen, a follicle could not grow sufficiently enough to ovulate an egg and the lining would not develop enough for a fertilised egg to implant. As the ovary grows to prepare an egg for ovulation, more oestrogen is produced. An initial rise in oestrogen indicates the opening of your fertile window – a great sign that ovulation is coming and it’s an ideal time to “try”! How Your Oestrogen Levels Change Throughout Your Cycle Because of these dramatic changes in every menstrual cycle, it’s important to know where you are in your cycle when you have your hormone levels tested. During the early follicular phase of your cycle, your oestrogen will be low since ovarian follicles have not yet had time to begin producing it. At this point, levels are often lower, around 20-150 pg/mL. As the follicles grow larger and you get closer to ovulation, your oestrogen levels will be at a much higher level, between 30-350 pg/mL. After ovulation, when you’ve entered into the luteal phase of the cycle and progesterone becomes dominant, oestrogen levels should be at their highest. What Should Your Oestrogen Levels be for Implantation? Even though progesterone takes over as the dominant reproductive hormone after ovulation, oestrogen continues to play a pivotal role. Low oestrogen can (roughly under 30 pg/mL) prevent successful implantation and cause early miscarriage. While lab testing is the most effective way to pinpoint hormone levels, you can also be on the lookout for low oestrogen symptoms. These symptoms can include infrequent menstrual periods, hot flashes, night sweats, trouble sleeping, dryness and thinning of the vagina, low sexual desire, mood swings, and dry skin. Just as low oestrogen may prevent implantation, studies show that high oestrogen levels (above 450 pg/mL) may also inhibit implantation. For those using artificial reproductive technologies, you’ll notice that “normal” lab results are much higher than unmedicated menstrual cycles. It is normal for estrogen levels to be as high as 4,000 pg/mL during stimulation, if you are encouraging the growth of multiple follicles. While this is very unlikely in natural cycles, it is considered appropriate during stimulation. Still, levels can become too high. As soon as they reach around 3,000 pg/mL, they are generally considered more at risk for issues, including OHSS (ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome). Oestrogen Levels after Implantation After implantation, oestrogen will begin to rise and will continue to do so rather dramatically throughout pregnancy. Both oestrogen and progesterone are not only critical to ovulation and implantation, but to carrying a successful pregnancy. Drastically increasing oestrogen levels can sometimes be the cause of that not-really-morning-only morning sickness! But, if you don’t conceive, your oestrogen and progesterone levels will drop right before your period. You can think of this as a “clean slate” before the next cycle begins. What happens to Oestrogen levels if you conceive? So what should these lab values be during pregnancy? Average oestrogen levels in the first trimester peak between 3,000-4,000 pg/mL, but rise to around 10,000 pg/mL during the second trimester. Third trimester levels can skyrocket to above 15,000 pg/mL. Oestrogen (remember, often referred to as the “growth hormone!”) is responsible for development of many of the baby’s organ systems, like blood vessels and nutrition receptors, in the first trimester. As the second trimester begins, oestrogen has a larger effect on the development of milk ducts in the breast glands of the mother. Throughout the entire pregnancy, oestrogen is responsible for much of the development in both baby and mother, and these high oestrogen values show it! Reproductive hormones like oestrogen play a critical role in regular menstrual cycles, the process of ovulation, the likelihood of implantation, and in the successful development of a baby! Hormones During Pregnancy Although the reference ranges included in this blog can be helpful for assessing general health, remember that each human body is unique and the journey to pregnancy will be different for everyone. Work closely with a doctor whom you trust to test for oestrogen levels at appropriate times in your menstrual cycle and spot concerns with your results (whether they are too high or too low for major events like implantation.) Keep in mind that natural cycles will have understandably lower lab values than artificially induced cycles, and should be monitored closely by your doctor. Unsure if you’re ovulating at all? You may want to start with some simple at-home hormone tests that can give you a good idea if you are successfully ovulating and, if so, when. Check out our Complete Testing System, which measures E1G and PdG (urine markers of oestrogen and progesterone, respectively) – among other hormones – to provide a “complete” view of your cycle and ovulation.
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What Happens After Ovulation? 6 Signs Ovulation Is Over
Dr. Amy Beckley introduces the significance of identifying the conclusion of ovulation for fertility tracking. The blog outlines methods to determine the end of ovulation, emphasising accurate timing for conception. Signs of ovulation completion, such as progesterone rise (detectable through Proov tests), BBT shifts, changes in cervical mucus, decreased libido, breast sensitivity, and negative ovulation predictor kits, are discussed. The blog concludes with insights into implantation and the uniqueness of each fertility journey. Thanks, Amy, for this insightful piece! Written by: Dr. Amy Beckley Dr. Amy Beckley, PhD, Founder and Inventor of the Proov test the first and only FDA-cleared test to confirm successful ovulation at home. Ovulation, or the one time in your menstrual cycle that your ovaries release an egg, is the main event if you’re trying to conceive or tracking your menstrual health! Especially if you’re trying to time intercourse to conceive, it’s important to know when ovulation is so you can, well, “try.” There are plenty of ways to tell when ovulation is coming–cervical mucus, tracking your LH surge or oestrogen rise, or even just estimating using an ovulation calculator or period tracker app. But how do you know when ovulation is over, and the two week wait before you can take a pregnancy test begins? Fortunately, there are a number of signs, just like there are to predict ovulation. We’ll go over some of our favourites below, so keep on reading! How Can You Tell Ovulation is Over? First, to tell that ovulation is over, it’s helpful to know when ovulation might have begun! Ovulation occurs roughly in the middle of your menstrual cycle, at the end of the follicular phase when oestrogen is highest. High oestrogen will trigger a surge of luteinizing hormone, that signals to the ovaries that it’s time to release an egg. Ovulation will begin 12-36 hours following the LH surge, and the egg will live 12-24 hours after that. If fertilization by a sperm is going to occur, it will be during that time. For that reason, it’s useful to know when ovulation is over (and how many days after ovulation you can get pregnant). Since sperm only live 3-5 days in the female reproductive tract, timing intercourse correctly can be an important part of achieving pregnancy. If you stop trying too early, you might miss ovulation entirely. Or if you start trying too late, you may risk the egg dying before sperm have a chance to make it to the fallopian tube. After the egg is released, the leftover follicle will become the corpus luteum, a special organ that makes progesterone. As this progesterone begins to rise, there are many changes and symptoms that help you determine that the fertile window is closed. Signs Ovulation is Over 1. Progesterone Rise or Positive PdG Test Progesterone rising is the most direct symptom of ovulation, and it triggers all the other changes! You can detect progesterone rise via its urine marker, PdG, which will help you determine that ovulation is over. The easiest way to do this is with Proov Confirm PdG tests or Proov Complete Multihormone tests. Especially with Proov Complete, you’ll get to detect your PdG rise as it happens after an LH surge. This will also help you get a jump start on tracking the implantation window, which is 7-10 days after ovulation. During the implantation window, you’ll want to test for elevated, sustained PdG to make sure you ovulated successfully. (More on that here). 2. Basal Body Temperature (BBT) Shift Another popular way to confirm ovulation is using Basal Body Temperature. Progesterone rising causes your core body temperature to rise, so by taking your temperature first thing every morning or using a wearable like Tempdrop, you can determine when you ovulated. Look for three temperatures that are higher than the previous six! 3. Cervical Mucus Changes Oestrogen rising during the fertile window will cause your cervical mucus to become stretchy, clear, and slippery. On the flip side, when oestrogen begins to decline and progesterone rises after ovulation, your cervical mucus will dry up again. When you notice this dry up, it’s a clue that you’ve probably just ovulated or you’re currently ovulating. A few days after, you can conclude that ovulation probably happened. 4. Libido Decreases If you’ve been tracking ovulation, you may have noticed that your libido increases around that time. This is due to high oestrogen and testosterone, and hopefully helps make “trying” a little easier! After ovulation, it’s typical for libido to decrease again during the luteal phase. 5. Breast Sensitivity or Tenderness While breast sensitivity or even pain can occur at many times in the cycle, many people find that it happens starting at ovulation. If you notice breast changes or tenderness and track it, you may find that it’s around ovulation, and this will give you a general signal that you may be ovulating. This is one of the less reliable signs of ovulation, so you’ll want to pair it with a more reliable method of tracking ovulation. 6. Negative Ovulation Predictor Kits or Positive Pregnancy Test Ovulation Predictor Kits/LH tests will help you find your peak fertility, but they can also be used to help close the fertile window. Since ovulation happens 12-36 hours after the LH surge, if you count two days after your positive LH test, ovulation is likely over or will be soon. If you keep testing, you’ll likely have 1-2 days of positive LH tests and then they’ll become negative. While LH patterns vary and this doesn’t work for everyone, having negative LH tests after a positive is a good signal that ovulation is over. Finally, the clearest sign that you ovulated successfully is pregnancy! If you’re missing your period or it’s been 12-16 days on average since you ovulated, it may be time to test for pregnancy. With Proov Check, you can also test for pregnancy up to five days before your missed period. How Implantation Varies Among Individuals If you’ve confirmed ovulation, your next important cycle milestone is the implantation window! This happens 7-10 days after ovulation, when a newly fertilized egg has the opportunity to implant in the uterine lining. For successful implantation, you need sustained and elevated progesterone (which you can test with PdG). Implantation may come with symptoms, but it’s different for everyone. Some people may experience implantation bleeding, breast tenderness, even early pregnancy symptoms. Some won’t have any symptoms at all, and that’s ok too! The most important thing is to remember that everyone’s fertility journey is different.
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Chances of Getting Pregnant on Ovulation Day
Dr. Amy Beckley, Founder of Proov test, underscores the importance of precise timing for conception, particularly on ovulation day. The blog stresses the brief window for fertilisation post-ovulation and advocates for early attempts leading up to ovulation day. It provides statistics on day-specific pregnancy probabilities based on intercourse timing. The blog advises on identifying ovulation through hormonal shifts, ovulation tests, and alternative tracking methods. It highlights the significance of confirming ovulation with PdG tests like Proov Confirm or Proov Complete, enhancing pregnancy chances during the implantation window. Thanks, Proov, for this insightful piece! Written by: Dr. Amy Beckley If you’re trying to conceive, you may know by now how important timing is. After all, timing intercourse around ovulation is critical to conception. As you move through the different phases of your cycle, your chances of getting pregnant change as well. Understanding the chances of getting pregnant throughout your cycle — especially your chances of conceiving on ovulation day — may be the key to your success! What are the chances of getting pregnant on ovulation day? It’s no secret that in order to get pregnant, egg and sperm need to meet. An egg is only released during ovulation, about midway through your cycle. Once an egg has been released, they can only survive for 12-24 hours. That means sperm has a really short amount of time in which it can fertilize the egg. Additionally, his sperm needs some time to swim all the way through your reproductive system to reach the egg. Because of both of these factors, the chances of getting pregnant on ovulation day are about 20%. You may be surprised by how low that number is — we sure were! The good news is that ovulation day is not the only day each cycle when it’s possible to get pregnant. What are the chances of getting pregnant before or after ovulation? You may wonder, can you get pregnant before ovulation? Not quite, but, while eggs can only live for no more than a day after ovulation, sperm can actually have a much longer life span. Healthy sperm may survive in your reproductive tract for up to 5 days. In fact, having intercourse during the few days leading up to ovulation can help ensure the sperm is ready and waiting for the egg once ovulation occurs. You should start “trying” ideally up to 3 days before ovulation actually occurs. Here are the day-specific pregnancy probabilities based on the day of intercourse: 3 days before ovulation: 27% 2 days before ovulation: 33% 1 day before ovulation: 41% Day of ovulation: 20% 1 day post ovulation: 8% You’ll see that the probability of pregnancy significantly drops on the day of and day after ovulation. Waiting too late in your cycle may hurt your chances of conception. This is why understanding your cycle and knowing when you’re ovulating is so important! How do I know when I'm ovulating? Ovulation typically occurs about midway through your cycle. If you have a regular cycle — meaning the number of days between each period is consistent — you may be able to guess when ovulation will occur or simply time intercourse just before the middle of your cycle. However, not everyone has a regular cycle and ovulation can vary by a day or two even in those with regular cycles. This is where tracking your cycle becomes important. Changes in our fertility hormone levels prepare the body for and trigger ovulation each cycle. Understanding and monitoring these hormone shifts is the most tried and true way to know when you’re ovulating. At-home ovulation tests most often measure luteinizing hormone (LH) levels. A dramatic increase in LH (also called a “surge”) is what triggers the ovary to release the egg. Ovulation should occur about 12-36 hours after an LH surge. That means a positive ovulation test (which indicates an LH surge) identifies your 2 most fertile days each cycle. But, as we know, there are a few more days each cycle when you can be fertile. Another hormone, oestrogen, rises even before LH as your body gears up for ovulation. Ovulation tests that measure oestrogen (or its urine marker, E1G) and LH, like Proov Complete, provide even more fertile days each cycle. That way you have the maximum amount of time to try! (PSST! Complete can provide up to 6 fertile days; that's 4 more than the average ovulation test.) While directly measuring your hormone levels with tools like ovulation tests are the best way to track your cycle and know when you’re ovulating, there are a few other ways to predict ovulation. Here are just a few: Calendar-based apps or period trackers: Calendar-based apps or period trackers approximate your ovulation day by using data you fed them during previous cycles. They may get it right if your period is like clockwork, but often don’t work well for people who have irregular periods. Cervical mucus monitoring: Monitoring changes in cervical mucus is one of the oldest ovulation tracking methods, completely free and easy to do. As oestrogen rises and you approach the LH surge, your vaginal discharge turns into an egg-white, stretchy mucus that is sperm friendly. Note that semen leftovers may be mistaken for fertile cervical mucus and dehydration can impact cervical mucus production. Mittelschmerz: Mittelschmerz is a lower pelvic (usually one-sided) pain, associated with ovulation. Some women can swear they know when they release an egg, and they probably do. The problem is that lower pelvic pain may occur for several reasons and this makes it a rather unreliable marker for the prediction of ovulation. A positive ovulation test means I ovulated, right? Not quite! Remember that ovulation tests measure LH which surges right before ovulation should occur. While an LH surge is a fairly reliable indicator that ovulation is approaching, it doesn’t actually tell you if you have ovulated. In fact, many women, especially those with PCOS, postpartum, or in perimenopause may experience either several LH peaks or high LH levels throughout their cycle. The only way to know if ovulation actually occurred is to confirm it, with a PdG test like Proov Confirm or a test that measures PdG like Proov complete. PdG is only released after ovulation occurs and is necessary for preparing the body for implantation and pregnancy. If you want to increase your chances of pregnancy during ovulation even more, you’ll want to test your PdG levels during the implantation window. A recent clinical study showed that elevated PdG levels during the implantation window can increase pregnancy rates by up to 75%!* While the chances of getting pregnant on ovulation day are lower than on other days, using the right tools and timing intercourse just before ovulation day can help increase your chances of pregnancy.
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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.
