Women's Health

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,...

What is mastitis and breast abscess? Mastitis is swelling in the breast. Most times, it is caused by an infection. It usually happens in breastfeeding women but can happen in all women and men. If you have mastitis, you may have redness and feel pain in your breast. You may...

What is breast engorgement? Breast engorgement is swelling of the breast. It may happen when you start breastfeeding and can also happen when your baby misses a feed. Your breasts can feel firm, swollen and painful, making it hard for your baby to attach to the breast. To relieve symptoms,...

What is hyperemesis gravidarum? Around 72% of pregnant women experience nausea with or without vomiting during pregnancy. Usually it starts between 4-10 weeks and settles by 20 weeks. For most women, this is manageble with simple measures, and over the counter medications. This is called hyperemesis gravidarum and can lead...

What is vulvodynia? Vulvodynia is long lasting pain of the vulva without an obvious cause. It can include burning, stinging, irritation, or rawness of the genital skin (itch is not a feature). It seems to be triggered by infection, inflammation or injury after childbirth or an operation. Some women also...

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...