Women's Health

What is bleeding in mid-late pregnancy? Mid-late pregnancy is any time from 20 weeks to full term. Bleeding can happen for many reasons. Some women have light bleeding, or spotting, through their whole pregnancy. During mid-late pregnancy, bleeding is usually caused by issues with the placenta or cervix, or due...

What is hypertension in pregnancy and pre-eclampsia? Hypertension in pregnancy and pre-eclampsia are health concerns that can affect pregnant women at any stage. Hypertension is high blood pressure. This is when your blood pressure reading is more than 140mmHg/90mmHg. Pre-eclampsia is a form of high blood pressure which happens during...

What is abnormal vaginal discharge? Vaginal discharge is a fluid that comes out of your vagina. It is normally clear or white. Some changes to it are normal. For instance, it is normal to have more discharge around ovulation. Changes to normal discharge can be caused by infections, medication, or...

What is an absent period (amenorrhoea)? Periods happen as part of the natural menstrual cycle. They usually happen every month. It is normal to miss periods at different times in your life. An absent period (Amenorrhoea) is when you don't get your period at all. The two types of amenorrhea...

What is improving breast milk supply? Sometimes, women have a low breastmilk supply after birth. There are many reasons why a woman's breast milk supply may be low. It may be low if the woman has a health condition, like: Polycystic ovarian syndrome Hypothyroidism Diabetes Pre-diabetes Previous infertility You should...

What is thyroid disease in pregnancy? Your thyroid gland is located in your neck, near the base of your throat. It makes hormones that keep your body working at the right ‘energy level’. These hormones help control things like your heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature and weight. Sometimes during...

What is gestational diabetes? Diabetes develops if the body can’t make enough insulin. Insulin helps the body to absorb sugar from the blood. Some women get a type of diabetes when they are pregnant. This is called gestational diabetes. Gestational diabetes usually goes away after your baby is born. But,...

What is medicine during pregnancy and breastfeeding? Most medicines are safe to take at the recommended dose while breast feeding. Tell your doctor if you plan to start, change or stop taking a medicine during this time. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice if you are unsure.

What is acute pelvic pain? Acute pelvic pain is soreness that’s felt in your lower stomach area. The pain may feel short, sharp, dull or fiery. It can be ongoing, or occasional. You might also notice bloating, nausea and other symptoms.  Acute pelvic pain can be mild or serious and...

What is nipple pain (sore, tender or damaged nipples)? Nipple pain is common in the early days of breastfeeding. It generally improves after the first few weeks, but if it persists, you should see your GP to check for any other causes. Other possible causes for nipple pain include infection,...