Knowledge Centre

We’re all sold the ideal of flawless skin and perfect hair, but sometimes the cause of persistent breakouts or unexplained thinning is more than skin deep. Your complexion and scalp are often the first, most visible external indicators of your internal hormone balance. When hormones that regulate your sebaceous glands and hair follicles shift out of their optimal range, the results – from cystic acne to a widening hair parting – can be frustratingly visible. Quick Facts: 💡 Find out what your hormones are telling you Don’t guess what’s causing your skin and hair changes. Take our Advanced At-Home Hormone and Fertility Test to uncover the root causes and get a personalised care plan. What are Hormonal Skin and Hair Changes? These symptoms are related to the pilosebaceous unit – the complex structure comprising the hair follicle and the sebaceous (oil) gland. The Hormonal Culprits Behind Your Skin and Hair Your sebaceous glands and hair follicles have receptors for several key hormones. Imbalances in these messengers directly influence how much oil is produced and how the hair growth cycle progresses. 1. Androgens: The Oil and Hair Drivers Androgens, such as testosterone and DHEAS, are the most significant modulators of your skin and hair health. A key marker for assessing true androgen activity is sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG). SHBG is a protein that binds to and deactivates sex hormones. If your SHBG levels are low, more testosterone is left “free” and biologically active in your system, intensifying its impact on your skin and hair, even if your total testosterone level is within range. 2. Thyroid Hormones: The Metabolic Regulators The thyroid gland acts as the body’s metabolic regulator, and its hormones (thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and free thyroxine) are essential for the natural cycle of the hair follicle (Schmidt et al., 1991). Hair and skin changes can be some of the first signs of underlying thyroid dysfunction and require testing to confirm if the condition is metabolic or hormonal in origin. 3. Oestradiol, LH, FSH, and Prolactin: The Modulators These hormones work together to modulate androgen activity and support tissue health: When to Get Tested If you are treating your skin and hair symptoms with topical creams or cosmetics and seeing minimal, temporary, or no improvement, it’s a strong indication that the issue is systemic and hormonal.  Consider testing your hormones if your symptoms include: What Your Personalised Results Can Tell You Hertility’s panel of personalised hormones provides the essential diagnostic data needed to find the root cause. This panel is tailored to your symptoms and what you are looking to achieve from your test. 💡 Find out what your hormones are telling you Don’t guess what’s causing your skin and hair changes. Take our Advanced At-Home Hormone and Fertility Test to uncover the root causes and get a personalised care plan. References

Uterine fibroids are benign, non-cancerous growths that develop in and around the uterus. They are incredibly common, with approximately two in three women developing a fibroid at some point in their lifetime. While many fibroids cause no issues, they are a major cause of debilitating heavy periods and pelvic pain. Understanding what drives their growth – primarily the female sex hormones – is the key to diagnosis and effective symptom management. This article outlines everything you need to know about Fibroid. We’ll also explain how our Advanced At-Home Hormone and Fertility Test can uncover the root causes of your symptoms and step towards a quicker diagnosis.  Quick Facts: What are Fibroids and Where Do They Grow? Fibroids can vary dramatically in size, from as small as a pea to as large as a melon, and you may have one or multiple growths. Their classification depends on their location within the uterine wall: Most people who develop fibroids are completely asymptomatic. However, about one in three will experience noticeable symptoms that impact their quality of life. The Main Symptoms of Fibroids The most common symptoms are related to the fibroid interfering with the uterus’s function or simply taking up space: 💡 Think you have one or more of these symptoms? Don’t ignore them!  Heavy periods can lead to anaemia and severe fatigue. If you are regularly soaking through a period product every 1–2 hours, it’s time to investigate the cause. Take our Advanced At-Home Hormone and Fertility Test to investigate your symptoms and the underlying hormonal factors. Hormonal Causes and Risk Factors The exact trigger for fibroid development is unknown, but they are highly sensitive to reproductive hormones, making it clear that they are a hormonally driven condition. Oestrogen and Progesterone Dependence Fibroids are known to grow in response to both oestrogen and progesterone throughout the reproductive years. The crucial link here is that the growth of fibroids is directly related to the hormonal environment of your body. Risk Factors and Ethnicity Certain risk factors increase the likelihood of developing fibroids: Diagnosis and Management If you are suffering from heavy or painful periods, or any of the above symptoms, it is essential to seek medical advice. Diagnosis A definitive diagnosis relies on two steps: Hormone Testing’s Role Testing a full panel of personalised hormones provides essential diagnostic data needed to find the root cause, tailored to your symptoms and concerns. Treatment Options Treatment depends entirely on the size, location, and severity of your symptoms, as well as your family-forming goals (NHS, 2022). If you are struggling with your symptoms, you deserve a personalised care plan that explores all available options. 💡 Find out what your hormones are telling you Don’t suffer through heavy or painful periods. Take our Advanced At-Home Hormone and Fertility Test to investigate the underlying hormonal factors and screen for complications like anaemia. References

Endometriosis is a chronic reproductive health condition that affects an estimated 1 in 10 women in the UK. It’s characterised by painful, heavy periods and a host of other debilitating symptoms that severely impact quality of life. Despite its high prevalence, many people live with endometriosis and diagnosis times are on average over 8 years. This delay is frequently due to a lack of awareness and the dismissal of women’s pain. Understanding the true nature of this condition is the first crucial step towards getting the expert care you deserve. This article outlines everything you need to know about Endometriosis. We’ll also explain how our Advanced At-Home Hormone and Fertility Test can uncover the root causes of your symptoms and step towards a quicker diagnosis.  What is Endometriosis? Endometriosis occurs when cells similar to those lining the uterus (endometrium) grow in other parts of the body, outside of the uterus (Endometriosis UK, 2024). These endometrial-like lesions are most commonly found in the ovaries and fallopian tubes, but can also grow on the vagina, cervix, bowel, bladder, and other pelvic organs. Rarely, they may appear in other parts of the body. Just like the lining of the uterus, these ectopic cells build up and eventually shed in response to your hormones. But unlike a period, this blood and tissue has nowhere to go. This internal bleeding leads to inflammation, crippling pain, and a build-up of scar tissue and adhesions (tissue that can bind organs together). Endometriosis can affect women of any age. The Main Symptoms of Endometriosis Endometriosis is a systemic, whole-body disease. Not everyone will experience all symptoms, and the severity of pain doesn’t necessarily correlate with the stage of the disease. Pain and Menstruation Intense period and pelvic pain are often reported to be the most debilitating symptoms. This pain is frequently described as ‘a razor blade pain’. Heavy Bleeding Another common symptom is heavy periods (menorrhagia). Heavy periods are clinically defined as: Monthly heavy bleeding can lead to anaemia (iron deficiency), which results in secondary symptoms such as chronic fatigue, hair thinning, and constantly feeling cold. Bowel, Bladder, and Other Symptoms Endometrial lesions can cause symptoms that mimic other common conditions: 💡 Suspect endometriosis is the cause of your pain? Take our Advanced At-Home Hormone and Fertility Test to investigate the link between your cycle and inflammatory conditions like endometriosis. Endometriosis and Hormones: The Oestrogen Link Endometriosis is fundamentally an oestrogen-dependent condition. This is the main hormonal driver for the initiation, growth, and maintenance of the lesions. Getting to a Diagnosis Diagnosing endometriosis is challenging, as the symptoms overlap with many other conditions (NHS, 2024). A definitive diagnosis typically requires surgery (laparoscopic keyhole surgery). However, hormonal and blood marker testing can be a vital first step on the road to a specialist referral and diagnosis. Testing a full panel of personalised hormones provides essential diagnostic data needed to find the root cause, tailored to your symptoms and concerns. If you are experiencing any of the debilitating symptoms listed,you don’t have to suffer in silence. It’s important to seek expert medical advice to clarify the cause. 💡 Take the first step toward getting answers Our team of specialists, including Private Gynaecologists, can offer you a tailored care plan to manage your endometriosis symptoms and explore treatment options. Take our Advanced At-Home Hormone and Fertility Test today. References

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal and metabolic conditions, estimated to affect 1 in 10 women in the UK. Despite how common it is, the journey to a diagnosis can be challenging; research shows it can take, on average, two years and multiple doctor visits to get a confirmed diagnosis. PCOS is characterised by an imbalance of sex hormones, which can cause a host of symptoms – from irregular cycles and challenging skin issues to difficulty managing weight and long-term health risks. It’s a systemic condition, but with the right diagnosis and personalised management plan, its impact on your health and wellbeing can be controlled. This article outlines everything you need to know about PCOS. We’ll also explain how our Advanced At-Home Hormone and Fertility Test can uncover the root causes of your symptoms and step towards a quicker diagnosis.  What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)? PCOS is a complex condition characterised by three main features, of which you need to be experiencing at least two to receive a diagnosis (known as the Rotterdam criteria) (Teede et al., 2018): It’s important to remember that ‘polycystic ovaries’ do not mean true cysts; they are actually immature follicles that haven’t developed correctly due to hormonal imbalances. 💡 Think you may have PCOS?  Take our Advanced At-Home Hormone and Fertility Test to screen for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and uncover the specific hormonal imbalances driving your symptoms. Common Symptoms PCOS manifests differently in everyone, but the most common symptoms are driven by elevated levels of androgen hormones (like testosterone) and metabolic dysfunction. Cycle-Related Symptoms (Irregular Ovulation) PCOS often prevents the ovaries from regularly releasing an egg (a process called anovulation). This hormonal disruption leads to: Skin and Hair-Related Symptoms (Hyperandrogenism) These visible symptoms are direct consequences of high androgen activity in the skin and hair follicles: Metabolic and Weight Symptoms PCOS affects your metabolism, which can lead to weight issues: Mental Health and Fertility Living with the physical symptoms and systemic nature of PCOS can take a toll: Hormonal Causes and Diagnosis The symptoms of PCOS are primarily driven by two key hormonal issues: high androgens and insulin resistance. High Androgens: The Core Driver People with PCOS often have higher-than-normal levels of androgens, such as testosterone. This hormonal elevation, known as hyperandrogenism, is the direct cause of the skin, hair, and cycle issues. High androgen levels disrupt the delicate balance of hormones like LH and FSH, preventing follicles from maturing properly and causing a build-up of immature follicles in the ovaries – the ‘polycystic’ appearance seen on scans. Insulin Resistance: The Metabolic Link Many people with PCOS experience insulin resistance, meaning their body doesn’t respond properly to the hormone insulin. To compensate, the body produces excess insulin. These high levels then have a crucial negative effect on the ovaries: This interconnected hormonal loop is what drives the severity of PCOS symptoms. PCOS and Ethnicity PCOS affects people of all ethnic backgrounds, but research shows that those from ethnic minority communities, especially those who are Black or South Asian, are at a higher risk.  Interestingly, the symptoms can differ depending on your ethnicity (VanHise et al., 2023): women of South Asian and Middle Eastern descent are often more likely to experience excessive body and facial hair, while women of East Asian descent are more likely to experience irregular periods. Managing PCOS with Hertility There is no cure for PCOS, so management is focused on controlling symptoms and mitigating long-term health risks such as Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and endometrial cancer. The first step is always diagnosis and a personalised plan, often involving a multidisciplinary team. When to Get Tested If you suspect you have PCOS based on a history of irregular periods, signs of hyperandrogenism (acne, hirsutism), and difficulty managing weight, testing is vital. Early diagnosis allows for a proactive approach to long-term health. Testing a full panel of personalised hormones provides essential diagnostic data needed to find the root cause, tailored to your symptoms and concerns. Managing Your Condition Effective management is often achieved through a combination of lifestyle changes and targeted medical support (NHS, 2022): If you are struggling with a recent diagnosis or symptoms, you don’t need to suffer in silence. 💡 Take control of your hormones today Take our Advanced At-Home Hormone and Fertility Test to screen for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and uncover the specific hormonal imbalances driving your symptoms. References

Premenstrual symptoms are incredibly common, but the line between feeling a bit irritable and experiencing debilitating mental health distress is critical. Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and its severe counterpart, Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), both occur during the luteal phase of your cycle. They are not psychological flaws; they are the result of a profound biological sensitivity to your cycling hormones. This article outlines the difference between PMS and PMDD. We’ll also explain how our Advanced At-Home Hormone and Fertility Test can uncover the root causes of your symptoms. If you need urgent help for your mental health, you can contact the Samaritans 24/7 helpline (116 123), or access Mind’s crisis resources. Quick facts: What is PMS and PMDD? Both PMS and PMDD are cyclical conditions linked entirely to the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, the time between ovulation and your period. Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) PMS is a cluster of physical and mental symptoms experienced in the week or two leading up to your period (NHS, 2024). It is super common, with up to 90% of women and people who menstruate experiencing it at some point. Common PMS symptoms include: Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) PMDD is a severe, chronic form of premenstrual distress that has a significant impact on daily function, relationships, and work (NHS, 2024). Symptoms tend to be far more exaggerated, with emotional symptoms dominating the presentation, and they generally resolve entirely once the period begins. PMDD symptoms often include: The Hormonal Cause: A Sensitivity Disorder The exact cause of PMDD is not a hormonal deficiency or excess in the traditional sense, but a genetic and biological vulnerability to the normal hormonal changes that occur after ovulation. This makes it a disorder of sensitivity. Other Contributing Hormones While the oestrogen/progesterone axis is key, other hormones can modulate severity or flag underlying conditions: Possible Contributing Factors: Genetic variations (particularly on the oestrogen receptor alpha gene), trauma, stress, and smoking are also linked to increased sensitivity or worsening PMDD symptoms. Getting to the Root Cause If you suspect you are suffering from severe PMS or PMDD, the first step is always to speak to a professional. However, gaining hormonal clarity can be vital for diagnosis and treatment planning. 💡 Is your cycle secretly impacting your mood? Take our Advanced At-Home Hormone and Fertility Test to investigate the underlying hormonal patterns contributing to your mood shifts, including free oestradiol and androgen activity. Treatment Pathways The primary goal of treating PMDD is to dampen the body’s adverse reaction to the cyclical hormonal changes. What Your Personalised Results Can Tell You Testing a full panel of personalised hormones provides essential diagnostic data needed to find the root cause, tailored to your symptoms and concerns. 💡 Find clarity on your mental health If your emotional symptoms are severe and regularly affecting your wellbeing, don’t suffer in silence. Take our Advanced At-Home Hormone and Fertility Test to gain clarity and take control of your health. References  Thys-Jacobs, S, McMahon, D, Bilezikian, JP. (2008). Differences in Free Estradiol and Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin in Women with and without Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism. 93(1):96–102, https://doi.org/10.1210/jc.2007-1726

Experiencing severe period pain that stops you in your tracks, or cycles that are unpredictable from month to month, is a clear sign that your body needs attention. Irregular periods and intense pain are not simply something you have to endure. They are powerful signals of a deeper issue, often stemming from hormonal imbalances or underlying reproductive health conditions. Understanding what constitutes a ‘normal’ cycle is the first step toward recognising when your body is sending up a red flag. The second is knowing that targeted testing can find the specific cause, getting you off the cycle of pain and uncertainty. This article outlines all of this. We’ll also explain how our Advanced At-Home Hormone and Fertility Test can uncover the root causes of your symptoms. The Menstrual Cycle: A Vital Sign Your menstrual cycle is far more than just your period; it is a vital sign of your overall health, carefully regulated by cycling hormones—namely oestradiol, progesterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinising hormone (LH). The cycle begins on the first day of your bleed and ends the day before your next bleed. It is broken down into two coordinated cycles: the ovarian cycle (managing egg release) and the uterine cycle (managing the womb lining). Defining Normal vs. Irregular Cycles Understanding the precise timing of your cycle is essential for identifying potential issues. An irregular cycle is one of the clearest signals of a hormonal imbalance, as the lack of regular ovulation breaks the hormonal rhythm needed for a predictable period. What Causes Painful and Heavy Periods? Severe pain (dysmenorrhea) and heavy periods (menorrhagia) are symptoms with deep hormonal and structural roots. Hormonal Mechanisms of Pain and Bleeding It’s often the imbalance between oestrogen and a lack of proper progesterone that causes cycle issues. If you fail to ovulate, the ovaries don’t produce enough progesterone. Oestrogen continues to build up the uterine lining (endometrium) without opposition. This leads to an excessively thick lining that is difficult to shed, resulting in heavy periods. Period pain itself is caused by the release of chemicals called prostaglandins, which trigger the uterine muscles to contract. Conditions that increase inflammation or tissue build-up in the pelvic region cause the body to release a higher volume of prostaglandins, leading to the kind of crippling pain described as ‘a razor blade pain’.  Finally, heavy, prolonged bleeding can deplete your body’s iron stores, leading to Iron Deficiency Anaemia. This is a common consequence of unmanaged heavy periods and causes secondary symptoms like fatigue, low energy, and hair thinning. Key Conditions Linked to Painful & Irregular Cycles Many complex reproductive health conditions manifest as pain and irregularity. Finding the root cause requires checking for these conditions, all of which Hertility is able to support the diagnosis of through our comprehensive testing and clinical pathways: 💡 Think your symptoms may be signs of an underlying condition?  Take our Advanced At-Home Hormone and Fertility Test to investigate the cause of your painful or irregular cycles and get a personalised care plan. When to Get Tested If you are experiencing pain that requires strong painkillers, or if your cycle falls outside the normal 21-35 day range, you should seek medical advice. Do not normalise crippling pain. You should consider testing your personalised hormones if: What Your Personalised Results Can Tell You Testing a full panel of personalised hormones provides essential diagnostic data needed to find the root cause, tailored to your symptoms and concerns. 💡 Find out what your hormones are telling you Take our Advanced At-Home Hormone and Fertility Test to investigate the cause of your painful and irregular cycles and get a personalised care plan. References  Hoffman SR, Farland LV, Doll KM, et al. The epidemiology of gynaecologic health: contemporary opportunities and challenges. J Epidemiol Community Health.  2021;75:398-401. https://doi.org/10.1136/jech-2019-213149

Fluctuations in mood, unexpected bursts of anxiety, or persistent feelings of low mood are incredibly common. Many women and people with cycles dismiss these feelings, believing they are ‘just emotional’ or simply a consequence of a busy life. Yet, these psychological shifts are often indicators that your internal hormone balance is disrupted. Mood and mental health are intrinsically linked to the endocrine system. The very hormones that regulate your menstrual cycle and reproductive health – like oestradiol and testosterone – are also neuroactive steroids. This means they directly communicate with your brain, influencing key neurotransmitters like serotonin and GABA, which govern happiness, stability, and calm. This article outlines the complex interplay between your hormones and your brain. We’ll also explain how our Advanced At-Home Hormone and Fertility Test can uncover the root causes of your symptoms. What Causes Mood and Mental Health Changes? Whilst depression and anxiety can stem from genetics, life events, or chemical imbalances unrelated to hormones, there are distinct patterns of mood disruption that point directly toward hormonal drivers. Recognising Hormonal Triggers Hormonally driven mood changes often present with specific characteristics: How Hormones Affect Mood and Mental Health Hormones don’t just affect your reproductive organs; they are powerful modulators of your entire central nervous system (CNS). Imbalances or abrupt fluctuations in these critical messengers are a common cause of psychological distress. 1. The cycling hormones (oestradiol, LH, and FSH:  Oestradiol (the primary oestrogen), regulated by the brain’s signals LH and FSH, is a potent regulator of mood and anxiety. 💡 Is your cycle affecting your head? If your anxiety or mood shifts violently or predictably, it could be your hormones. Take our Advanced At-Home Hormone and Fertility Test to investigate the link between your sex hormones, LH, and FSH. 2. Androgens (Testosterone, DHEAS, and SHBG) Androgens are powerful neuroactive hormones that significantly influence energy, motivation, and psychological well-being. 3. Thyroid Hormones: TSH and Free Thyroxine (FT4) The thyroid axis is central to CNS function, as thyroid hormones regulate cell metabolism throughout the body, including the brain. Measuring TSH (from the pituitary) and Free Thyroxine (FT4) (the active thyroid hormone) provides a clear picture. When to Get Tested If your feelings of hormonal low mood or hormonal anxiety are persistent, cyclical, or do not respond fully to standard treatments, exploring your hormone health is a vital step. Mood disorders often represent a neuro-biological effect of an underlying hormone imbalance. You should consider comprehensive testing if you experience: What Your Results Can Tell You Testing a full panel of personalised hormones – which can include Testosterone, SHBG, DHEAS, TSH, Free T4, Oestradiol, LH, FSH, AMH, and Prolactin – provides the essential diagnostic data needed to find the root cause: 💡 Take control of your hormones today Uncover the biological drivers of your anxiety and low mood. Take our Advanced At-Home Hormone and Fertility Test for clarity and a personalised care plan. References  Zhu, H., Sun, Y., Guo, S., Zhou, Q., Jiang, Y., Shen, Y., Zhou, Z., Du, Z., & Zhou, H. (2023). Causal relationship between sex hormone-binding globulin and major depression: A Mendelian randomization study. Acta psychiatrica Scandinavica, 148(5), 426–436. https://doi.org/10.1111/acps.13614

Experiencing persistent fatigue or low energy that just won’t shift, no matter how much you sleep or how many coffees you have? You’re not alone. Many women and people with cycles dismiss chronic tiredness as a normal part of a busy life, yet it can be a sign that something is going on. When fatigue becomes persistent, heavy, and impacts your daily life, it’s time to look beyond just needing more rest. Whilst lifestyle factors – like a poor night’s sleep, stress, or a less-than-ideal diet – can certainly cause temporary dips, when these symptoms become chronic, it’s often a signal from your body that your delicate hormonal balance might be disrupted. This article will explore the common, and often overlooked, hormonal drivers behind feeling tired all the time and outline how taking our Advanced At-Home Hormone and Fertility Test can uncover the root causes of your symptoms. What Causes Fatigue and Low Energy? The causes of fatigue are diverse, ranging from simple lifestyle factors to underlying medical conditions. However, many of the most persistent and hard-to-diagnose cases in women often circle back to hormone health. Common Lifestyle and Medical Causes Before diving into the hormonal links, it’s important to rule out the most common causes of low energy: The Hormonal Connection: A Deeper Dive For many, general medical checks come back clear, yet the profound tiredness persists. This is where hormones often step in as the missing piece of the puzzle. Hormones act as chemical messengers throughout the body, regulating metabolism, sleep cycles, stress response, and reproductive health – all of which are intrinsically linked to your energy levels. How Hormones Affect Fatigue and Low Energy Several key hormones play critical roles in regulating your energy, and imbalances in any of them can lead to that heavy, constant feeling of being drained. 1. Cycling Hormones (Oestrogen, Progesterone, LH & FSH) The menstrual cycle is an intricately regulated process driven by the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis. The fluctuation of key hormones – oestrogen (specifically estradiol), progesterone, luteinising hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) – has a significant influence on central nervous system function, affecting energy metabolism, sleep architecture, and neuropsychiatric stability (Li et al., 2020).  2. Androgens (Testosterone, DHEAS & SHBG) Androgens are essential for vitality in women and people with menstrual cycles. Testosterone and its precursor, DHEAS, are powerful hormones linked to motivation, muscle mass, bone density, and energy metabolism. 💡 Find out what your hormones are telling you Take our Advanced At-Home Hormone and Fertility Test to uncover the root causes of your symptoms, including persistent fatigue and low energy. 3. Cortisol (The Stress Hormone) Cortisol is released by the adrenal glands and is part of the body’s natural “fight or flight” stress response. While essential in short bursts, chronic stress leads to chronically elevated cortisol, which eventually impacts energy regulation (Kumari et al., 2009). 4. Insulin Insulin regulates blood sugar, which is your body’s primary fuel source. When insulin is dysregulated (known as insulin resistance), your cells struggle to absorb glucose, leaving your body and brain starved of the energy they need. This common issue is a significant driver of hormonal fatigue and often a core feature of conditions like PCOS. When to Get Tested If your fatigue is persistent, severe, and doesn’t improve with rest or lifestyle adjustments, or if you also experience other symptoms such as irregular periods, unexplained weight changes, brain fog, or mood swings, it is a clear sign to investigate your hormone health. Many hormonal issues, especially early-stage thyroid conditions or sex hormone imbalances, can be missed in routine testing. Getting a comprehensive panel gives you a full picture, moving beyond general blood work to assess the specific hormonal markers that could be causing your low energy. Consider testing if you: 💡 Find out what your hormones are telling you Take our Advanced At-Home Hormone and Fertility Test to uncover the root causes of your symptoms, including persistent fatigue and low energy. What Your Results Can Tell You Taking a dedicated hormone and fertility test offers valuable, actionable insights that traditional testing often overlooks. By analysing key hormones, including thyroid hormones, cortisol, and sex hormones (oestrogen, progesterone, testosterone), your results can: Finding out why you are feeling so tired is empowering. It transforms the symptom from a vague complaint into a clear, treatable medical pathway. References

Hertility today announces the launch of GYN-AI™, a patent-pending, clinical-grade diagnostic tool set to redefine how fertility and gynaecological conditions are detected and diagnosed. A moment of justice for women’s health For decades, women have faced unacceptable delays in receiving diagnoses for gynaecological and fertility-related conditions, waiting years, sometimes decades, for answers that should take days.  Hertility’s GYN-AI™ changes that. Hertility was founded to deliver personalised, and expert healthcare across every stage of a woman’s hormonal lifespan using a preventative and data-first approach. Now, that mission reaches a breakthrough moment with the launch of GYN-AI™, a first-of-its-kind, patent-pending diagnostic tool that redefines how fertility and gynaecological conditions are detected and diagnosed. Developed by Hertility’s team of leading scientists, clinicians, and data engineers, GYN-AI™ combines years of research, clinical expertise, and advanced machine learning. Trained on Hertility’s uniquely comprehensive dataset,  including over one million Hertility Health Assessments and hundreds of thousands of blood results, the model achieves 98–99% diagnostic precision across 18 fertility-related and gynaecological conditions. When tested against clinicians, GYN-AI™ performs as well as or outperforms them in diagnostic accuracy, reducing diagnosis times for some conditions from nine years to just seven days. Closing the data gap and the gender health gap Until now, healthcare data has been dangerously incomplete. Women were largely excluded from clinical trials until the 1990s, meaning much of modern medicine, and the data used to train most AI systems, reflects a male default. This makes even the most advanced AI models, including tools like ChatGPT, unreliable and potentially unsafe for women’s health. GYN-AI™, by contrast, is built on Hertility’s own curated dataset: one of the largest and most clinically validated in women’s health, spanning over a million assessments and hundreds of thousands of blood test results linked to confirmed clinical outcomes. Built for women and from women’s data, it delivers a level of diagnostic precision and safety that is truly world-changing. End-to-end care, powered by data and compassion GYN-AI™ integrates seamlessly with Hertility’s full-service clinical pathway, offering end-to-end care from screening, diagnostic blood testing, and ultrasound scanning to telemedicine, prescriptions, IVF, and egg freezing. This means women can move from assessment to diagnosis to treatment without delay, closing the loop on women’s healthcare like never before. Dr Helen O’Neill, Founder and CEO of Hertility, said: “I see this as a movement; and perhaps a moment of justice for women’s health. For too long, women have been dismissed, misdiagnosed, and left waiting years for answers about their own bodies. With GYN-AI™, we are changing that forever. Every algorithm has been trained on the lived experiences, symptoms, and data of over a million women: women who deserved faster care, earlier intervention, and to be believed. This tool will help clinicians deliver answers in days, not years, giving women back their time, their control, and in some cases, their chance to create life. This marks the beginning of a new era, one where women’s health is finally powered by data, intelligence, and compassion.” Mr Srdjan Saso, Consultant Gynaecologist at Hertility, added: “As a clinician, I have seen the damage that diagnostic delays cause physically, emotionally, and financially. GYN-AI™ is truly revolutionary in medicine- it allows us to detect potential issues earlier and with greater precision than ever before, guiding women to the right care pathway faster. This technology does not replace doctors; it empowers them. It gives us a clinical tool built on real-world data that helps us treat women sooner, more accurately, and more holistically.” The beginning of a new clinical paradigm GYN-AI™ represents a seismic shift from reactive to proactive care, bridging science, compassion, and intelligence to transform how women are diagnosed and treated. Hertility’s mission is clear: to close the gender health gap by delivering faster, data-driven, and personalised diagnostic care that gives women the answers they deserve. We are not just advancing technology. We are transforming lives and creating them. To begin your own journey toward better understanding your hormones and reproductive health, start your Hertility Health Assessment today at www.hertilityhealth.com.

September is PCOS Awareness Month, and if you’re trying to conceive with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), you may have already discovered how much misinformation exists online.  PCOS affects around 1 in 10 women in the UK, yet many don’t receive a diagnosis until they start facing fertility challenges. If you’ve been told (or read online) that “PCOS means you can’t get pregnant,” let’s stop right there. PCOS can feel like a roadblock, but the truth is many people with PCOS go on to have healthy pregnancies, sometimes naturally, sometimes with a little help. But understanding how PCOS impacts fertility is the first step to taking back control.  In this guide, we’ll break down what PCOS actually means for your fertility, natural ways to improve your chances of conception, the most effective medical treatments, and when to seek extra support. We’ll also cover the emotional side of trying to conceive with PCOS, because it’s about much more than just biology. TL;DR (Trying to Conceive with PCOS – Quick Summary) PCOS affects around 1 in 10 women in the UK, and while it can make ovulation irregular, pregnancy is still possible. Many people with PCOS conceive naturally, though it may take longer due to unpredictable cycles. Lifestyle changes like balanced nutrition, exercise, supplements, and stress management can improve the regularity of your cycles, PCOS symptoms and fertility outcomes. Medical treatments from ovulation induction (Clomid/Letrozole/Gonadotrophin injections) to in-vitro fertilization (IVF) may be needed to address PCOS-related fertility issues. Getting support early, through fertility testing, nutrition and lifestyle management and tailored care, can make a big difference. You are not alone, PCOS is one of the leading causes of fertility issues, but with the right support, pregnancy is absolutely possible. What is PCOS and How Does It Affect Fertility? Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, better known as PCOS  is one of those conditions that most of us have heard of, but few of us really understand. It’s often framed as a fertility roadblock, but the reality is more nuanced. Around 1 in 10 women in the UK are thought to live with PCOS, though many don’t even know they have it until they start thinking about pregnancy. That’s often when the questions start: Why are my periods so irregular? Why does ovulation feel impossible to track? Is getting pregnant even an option for me? In PCOS, a delicate hormonal relay between the brain and the ovaries gets disrupted. Instead of one egg maturing and being released each month, multiple small follicles often develop but don’t quite make it to the finish line. In some cases, the ovaries can end up looking ‘polycystic’ on an ultrasound, but they are not cysts, they are lots of tiny immature follicles. At the same time, higher levels of androgens (so-called “male hormones”) and insulin resistance can throw the whole system off balance. The result? Ovulation might become unpredictable or stop altogether. That said, difficult does not mean impossible, ovulation can still occur in PCOS, sometimes unpredictably, and with the right intervention, it can be regulated. What Are My Chances of Getting Pregnant with PCOS? If you’ve Googled “Can you get pregnant naturally with PCOS?“, ” How to get pregnant with PCOS quickly” ? You’ve probably come across some pretty gloomy takes, headlines about infertility, scary statistics, forums filled with worst-case scenarios. It’s no wonder that so many people with PCOS assume pregnancy is out of reach.The truth? Yes, you absolutely can get pregnant naturally with PCOS. It just might not follow the textbook cycle you read about in biology class. Why Getting Pregnant Naturally Can Be Harder with PCOS Natural conception relies on timing, you need to ovulate, sperm needs to be there at the right moment, and fertilisation has to line up. With PCOS, ovulation is often the unpredictable piece of the puzzle. Some people with PCOS ovulate only a few times a year. Others might ovulate irregularly, one cycle at 35 days, the next at 60. That makes it harder to know when you’re ovulating, and harder to plan sex around your fertile window. But harder doesn’t mean impossible. Studies suggest that while it may take longer, many people with PCOS conceive without medical treatment. For some, it happens once they start making small lifestyle shifts (like balancing blood sugar, exercising regularly, or addressing stress). For others, they might need medical support. So rather than thinking of PCOS as shutting the door on pregnancy, it’s more accurate to see it as a condition that may require a different key.  Hertili-tip: If you’ve been trying for 12 months (under 35) or 6 months (over 35) or you have irregular cycles, book a Hertility Advanced at-home hormone and fertility test to get ahead. Step-by-Step: How to Boost Your Chances of Conceiving with PCOS Trying to conceive with PCOS can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into clear steps makes the journey more manageable. Think of this as a roadmap, not a rigid schedule, but a sequence of strategies that build on each other. Pay attention to the preconception phase, the preconception phase is defined as the three months before you conceive. Why? Well, a few lifestyle changes before actively trying can make all the difference to your chances, according to the NHS. They recommend eating a healthy, balanced diet, drinking less alcohol, and exercising regularly to help prepare your body for getting pregnant.  Step 1: Get Clear on What’s Happening in Your Body The first step is clarity. Not every woman with irregular cycles has PCOS, and not everyone with PCOS experiences it in the same way. Getting a confirmed diagnosis through hormone blood tests and an ultrasound scan is important, because it helps rule out other conditions that can mimic PCOS.  Once you have that clarity, the next part is understanding how your cycles work. Most cycle tracking apps assume a neat 28 – 30 day cycle, where ovulation happens like clockwork around day 14. With PCOS, ovulation may happen on day 20, day 40, or not at […]