Women's Health

What is subfertility? Subfertility is when a person finds it hard to fall pregnant.   Eight in ten couples who are trying to have a baby will get pregnant within 12 months. One in ten will get pregnant within two years. One in ten will take longer or will not...

What is thrush (vulvovaginal candidiasis)? Vulvovaginal candidiasis is a fungal infection in the vagina. It is caused by a growth of candida which is a yeast like fungus. It is more commonly known as thrush.   Thrush is not a sexually transmitted infection. However, male sexual partners of women can...

What is pelvic organ prolapse? Pelvic organ prolapse is when one or more pelvic organs bulge into the vagina. This happens when there is weakness or damage of the pelvic ligaments, muscles, nerves, and tissues. These are responsible for supporting the pelvic organs (uterus, vagina, bladder, rectum, and bowel).  ...

What is a vaginal pessary? A vaginal pessary is a removable device that is put into the vagina. It is used to support the prolapsed walls of your vagina and/or uterus. They are usually made of vinyl, plastic or silicone.   Your GP may suggest using a pessary if you...

What is a short-acting contraceptive? Short-acting contraceptives prevent pregnancies but are either single use or only last for a short time. The two main types of short-acting contraceptives are hormonal or barrier method. Hormonal contraceptives contain synthetic hormones that prevent pregnancy. These hormones are called oestrogens and progestogens. They copy...

What is pre-pregnancy planning? If you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes and can become pregnant, it is important to plan. Planning helps women manage their diabetes and prepare for pregnancy. It is important even if you do not want to become pregnant. If you want to have a...

What is chronic pelvic pain? Chronic pelvic pain is lower abdominal and/or pelvic pain that has lasted for at least 6 months. It might be constant or come and go. The pain does not only occur with menstruation or sex and is not due to a pregnancy.   Chronic pelvic...

What is Nausea, Vomiting, and Hyperemesis in Pregnancy? Around 72% of women have symptoms such as nausea with or without vomiting during pregnancy. Its more common to start in the first trimester and varies from mild to moderate. Moderate symptoms impact quality of life and daily life, greatly.   Typically...

What will my healthcare team do to help my cope with my pregnancy loss? Your healthcare team can answer many of the medical questions you may have regarding the pregnancy loss. They are also able to provide some support and referrals to counselling to help you cope with the loss....

What is miscarriage? A miscarriage is a pregnancy loss that occurs within the fi­rst 20 weeks. This is usually confirmed with either blood tests or an ultrasound. Around one in fi­ve pregnancies miscarry and usually during the fi­rst 12 weeks. They are often unexpected. Having a miscarriage is not your...