Women’s Health

Sometimes even well-meaning strangers can ask, “When are you having a baby?”  For some people, it’s more than just uncomfortable – it’s heartbreaking. Infertility is not something we often discuss in polite conversation, but it needs to be. One in six families is affected by infertility, and the issue should be discussed so we can all better understand the factors surrounding a private struggle that many people face.

Infertility is common.

Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive a child after more than 12 months of unprotected sex. One in six families are affected by either male or female infertility, or a combination of both. The World Health Organisation has predicted infertility to be the third most serious health condition in the 21^st century, after cancer and cardiovascular disease.

Infertility affects both genders.

Males make up just under half of reported cases of infertility. One in 25 men is thought to have a low sperm count, and females over the age of 35 have a one in three chance of having issues with their infertility.

IVF is not always the solution.

There are many, many reasons that a family might struggle with infertility. Some causes are able to be addresses by looking at lifestyle, such as;

• Frequency and timing of sex. There is a small window every month where conception is possible, and some couples can seek education as to the best way to monitor their chances of conceiving.
• It’s not well known that many STIs, especially including chlamydia and gonorrhoea, can cause infertility issues. Once an STI has been diagnosed, the doctor can discuss where to go from there.
• After the age of about 33, conception becomes more difficult. Consultation with a doctor can give you some options.
• Some genetic factors negatively influence fertility.
• Lifestyle choices. Alcohol, smoking and caffeine are all known to impact fertility. For some people, giving up these substances helps them fight infertility.
• Weight and exercise. Being overweight and not exercising makes it much harder for the body to conceive. A healthy body can increase chances of conception.
• Having all the vitamins and minerals the body needs is vital to healthy conception, especially if someone has a deficiency.

Approach the fertility discussion with sensitivity.

While it’s absolutely vital that fertility is spoken about, remember that issues around sex and conception are often private matters. Some people feel like they’ve “failed” if they can’t conceive naturally within a “normal” timeframe. It’s almost always better to focus on listening and supporting, rather than giving advice.

If you are struggling with fertility, or find yourself wondering if what your family is experiencing is “normal” – talk to someone. Almost every person who finally seeks advice about their fertility wishes they had started sooner. Your trusted GP is a great place to start, and they can refer you on if necessary.

Click here to book a GP to discuss infertility –>

Pregnancy causes major changes to your body – some you might be prepared for, and others that are completely unexpected. Here are six of the most common (and strange) symptoms to look out for when pregnant.

1 Shortness of breath

Your organs actually move around to accommodate a growing baby. That means pressure on your diaphragm, which is the band of muscle under your lungs that controls your breathing. If you can’t quite catch your breath, take it as a sign to slow down and put your feet up!

2 Bizarre dreams

High levels of hormones, intense emotion, and lack of solid sleep means that many expectant mums have vivid, memorable dreams. It’s hardly surprising – you’ve got a lot on your mind! Talk about your dreams with a trusted person if they’re bothering you, but remember that dreams are your brain’s way of processing this exciting new stage.

3 Need to urinate

Your bladder gets hit with a two-punch combo, with increased blood volume putting extra burden on the kidneys as well as downward pressure from a growing baby drastically reducing the storage space. Get ready to map out the public bathrooms whenever you leave the house.

4 Increased sense of smell

While perhaps not the most impressive of super powers, your sense of smell is likely to become noticeably improved! This sensory experience will allow you to smell a fast food restaurant before you see it, but might also be a leading contributor to the nausea and vomiting associated with morning sickness. You could try using a fresh-smelling scent such as citrus or mint, and then wait it out – most women are back to normal in the second trimester.

5 Clumsiness

Many women feel clumsy during pregnancy, and it’s not just the sudden change in size and shape. A pregnant body produces hormones that loosen ligaments and joints, which combines with the added bulk in front to confuse your sense of balance and coordination. Protect yourself with sensible shoes and extra mindfulness when moving around.

6 Cravings

Many expectant mothers crave foods (or food combinations) that they won’t touch once the baby comes. Some women even crave non-food substances, such as clay or charcoal – a condition called pica, which should be discussed with your GP. As long as your diet is healthy and well-balanced, it won’t hurt to indulge in the odd pickle-and-ice-cream sandwich, and it becomes a fun story to tell!

If you are concerned about any of your symptoms, remember to discuss them with your GP – you can click here to make an appointment »