Tag: hormones

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

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.

Thinking about egg freezing? Learn how it works, success rates, costs, and when to start preserving your fertility. Thinking about freezing your eggs? Whether you’re planning for the future or not ready to start a family just yet, egg freezing  is a powerful fertility preservation option. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to freeze your eggs, how to freeze your eggs, and what factors to consider, including age, success rates, and costs. What Is Egg Freezing and Why Do People Do It? Egg freezing, also known as oocyte cryopreservation, is a fertility preservation technique that allows you to save your eggs for future use. It’s becoming an increasingly popular option for those who want to keep their options open when it comes to having children later in life – but does it guarantee you’ll have a baby? Let’s explore the facts. People choose egg freezing for a variety of reasons, including: Planning to have children later in life Undergoing medical treatment that could affect fertility (e.g. chemotherapy) Personal or career goals Not having found the right partner yet We explore this further in Who should consider fertility preservation?  How does the Egg Freezing Process Work?  Step 1: Hormone Stimulation You’ll take fertility medications to stimulate your ovaries to produce multiple mature eggs in one cycle. During this time, you’ll attend regular scans and blood tests to monitor your response. Step 2: Egg Collection (Egg Retrieval) After ~10-14 days of stimulation, your eggs are collected in a short medical procedure under sedation. Once your eggs are ready, they’ll be collected via a minor surgical procedure under sedation. Most people recover within a day or two. Step 3: Freezing and Storage (Cryopreservation) Your eggs are frozen using a fast-freezing technique called vitrification, then stored safely in liquid nitrogen for potential use in the future. Can Freezing Your Eggs Guarantee a Baby? The short answer is no – freezing your eggs does not guarantee you’ll have a baby. It can increase your chances, especially if you freeze your eggs at a younger age, but several factors affect whether you’ll conceive and carry a baby successfully later in life. One major factor is your age at the time of freezing. Younger eggs tend to be healthier and more likely to result in a successful pregnancy. Freezing eggs in your twenties or early thirties typically leads to better outcomes than doing so in your late thirties or forties. Another key factor is the number of eggs you freeze. Not all eggs will survive the freezing and thawing process. Even if they do, not every egg will fertilise or become a healthy embryo. Your overall reproductive health at the time you want to use the eggs also matters. This includes the health of your uterus, your hormone levels, and any underlying fertility issues that may have developed over time. Success also depends on the quality of sperm used and the effectiveness of IVF when you’re ready to conceive. A partner’s or donor’s sperm must be healthy enough to fertilise the eggs, and the embryo must implant successfully in the uterus. When Is the Best Age to Freeze Eggs? If you’re asking, “When should I freeze my eggs?” the general recommendation from fertility experts is between you late 20s to mid 30s. During this window, egg quality and ovarian reserve are still relatively high, giving you the best chance of success later. But this isn’t a one-size-fits-all decision. Everyone’s fertility journey is different. Some people may choose to free their eggs earlier or later depending on their health, family history, a medical condition that could affect fertility, or plans to undergo treatments like chemotherapy. Others may freeze their eggs later due to career, relationship, or financial considerations.. While it’s still possible to freeze your eggs after 35, it’s important to know that success rates may decline as egg quality and reserve begin to drop with age. If you’re wondering when to start the process, the best first step is to book a fertility assessment. This typically includes hormone testing and an ultrasound to check your ovarian reserve. With this information, you can get a clearer picture of your fertility status and make an empowered decision about whether and when to freeze your eggs. You may also want to understand how ageing can affect fertility rates in women. How Many Eggs Should I Freeze to Have a Baby? There’s no magic number, but we can estimate based on age and clinical data. Based on research from studies like Goldman et al. (2017) and Doyle et al. (2016), we can estimate the number of mature eggs typically needed to have about a 70% chance of achieving one full-term pregnancy. These numbers are estimates based on aiming for one baby, so if you’re hoping to grow a bigger family, freezing more eggs may be necessary to maximise your chances. Note: These numbers aim for one full-term pregnancy. This estimation may vary depending on other factors. If the goal is more than one child, more eggs should be frozen. What Are the Egg Freezing Success Rates? If you’re thinking about freezing your eggs, one of the most important things to understand is your chance of having a baby later on. While there’s no guaranteed number of eggs that will result in a full-term pregnancy, we can give a reliable estimate based on several factors especially your age at the time of freezing. Success with frozen eggs depends on four key steps: egg survival after thawing, fertilisation, embryo development, and successful implantation. Let’s break it down. Age at the Time of Freezing Matters Most Age is the single biggest factor influencing the quality and quantity of eggs. Younger eggs tend to be healthier and have a much higher chance of leading to a successful pregnancy. How Well Do Eggs Survive Freezing and Thawing? Thanks to modern vitrification techniques, between 90–95% of mature eggs survive the thawing process. That’s a big leap from older […]

When you’re planning to conceive, there’s a lot on your mind—from diet and lifestyle to managing stress and preparing your body for the changes ahead. But one area that often gets overlooked in this journey is your skin health. As a dermatologist, I frequently meet women who are trying to conceive, whether naturally or through assisted reproductive technologies like IVF, and they’re often unsure about which skincare products are safe to use or how to handle the skin changes that come with fluctuating hormone levels. Let’s explore how to optimise your skin health when trying to conceive, what to watch out for in your skincare routine, and why consulting a dermatologist might be a wise move during this time. Understanding Hormonal Changes and Skin Impact Hormones have a significant impact on skin health, and this becomes even more pronounced when you’re trying to conceive. The body undergoes various hormonal shifts even before pregnancy begins, which can lead to skin concerns such as acne, dryness, sensitivity, and pigmentation changes. When you stop hormonal contraception in preparation for pregnancy, your skin may react to the sudden shift in hormones. Research shows that oestrogen and progesterone levels, which help regulate the menstrual cycle and are key in pregnancy, can influence the skin’s oil production, hydration levels, and overall texture. Additionally, if you’re undergoing IVF or preparing for embryo transfer, the high doses of hormones involved can cause further changes. These hormones can stimulate oil glands, leading to an increase in acne, or exacerbate conditions like melasma (dark patches on the skin) due to increased melanin production. Common Skin Concerns When Trying to Conceive As you navigate the journey to conception, whether naturally or through IVF, you might notice changes in your skin. Here are some common skin concerns during this time: Oily skin, acne, and breakouts: Hormonal fluctuations often lead to increased sebum (oil) production, which can clog pores and cause acne. This can be particularly pronounced after stopping birth control or during fertility treatments when hormone levels are artificially manipulated. Increased sensitivity and redness: Hormonal changes can make the skin more sensitive and prone to redness, dryness, or irritation. This is especially true if you have a history of sensitive skin or conditions like rosacea or eczema. Pigmentation changes: An increase in melanocyte-stimulating hormones can cause dark patches or melasma in pregnancy. This can also be seen in women undergoing IVF due to the high levels of hormones used in the process. Dryness and dehydration: Hormonal shifts can also affect the skin’s ability to retain moisture, leading to dryness or flakiness. Keeping the skin well-hydrated and maintaining a strong skin barrier is essential during this time. Navigating Skincare Confusion: What’s Safe When Trying to Conceive? When you’re trying to conceive, whether naturally or through IVF, you might find yourself wondering which skincare products are safe to use. The skincare landscape can be confusing, with countless products on the market and mixed messages about what is safe during conception and pregnancy. Here’s a guide to help you navigate this tricky terrain: Avoid certain ingredients: Some skincare ingredients are best avoided during conception and pregnancy due to potential risks to the developing baby. Retinoids (often found in anti-ageing products), high concentrations of salicylic acid, and other exfoliating acids can fall into this category.  Emphasise hydration and skin barrier support: Ingredients that support hydration and the skin barrier are your best friends. Look for products containing hyaluronic acid to retain moisture, ceramides to strengthen the skin’s barrier, and niacinamide to soothe irritation and reduce sensitivity. Choose Safe Sun Protection: Protecting your skin from UV damage is always important, but it becomes even more crucial when trying to conceive, especially if you’re prone to pigmentation changes. Opt for high factor broad-spectrum sunscreen with blue light protection to reduce the risk of pigmentation. Consider mild active ingredients: Consider azelaic acid, which is both effective in managing acne and pigmentation and safe for use when trying to conceive. It is an anti-inflammatory rather than an exfoliating acid and can also help with redness. Preventative Acne Treatments: The Role of Laser For women prone to acne, especially those who experience breakouts after stopping hormonal contraception or undergoing fertility treatments, taking preventative measures can be highly beneficial. One innovative treatment to consider is a drug-free, non-invasive laser therapy that targets sebaceous glands to reduce oil production and prevent acne. It offers a preventative approach without the need for systemic medications, which may be restricted when trying to conceive or during pregnancy. By reducing oil production, the laser  can help maintain clearer skin during a time when treatment options are more limited due to safety concerns. It’s a great option to discuss with your consultant dermatologist, particularly if you’re seeking ways to manage acne without relying on potentially harmful medications. Adapting Skincare During IVF and Embryo Transfer If you’re undergoing IVF or preparing for an embryo transfer, your skin is likely to undergo additional changes due to the high levels of hormones administered during treatment. These hormones can exacerbate acne, increase pigmentation issues like melasma, and make your skin more sensitive or reactive. In such cases, a tailored skincare routine that addresses these specific concerns is essential. Working with a dermatologist can help you develop a plan that suits your skin’s needs while being mindful of the changes brought on by fertility treatments. They can recommend safe, effective products and treatments, such as laser treatment, to help manage skin concerns during this time. Supporting Skin Health Through Lifestyle Optimising skin health isn’t just about topical skincare—it’s also about making healthy lifestyle choices that support your body from within. Here are a few tips to help support your skin health while trying to conceive: Nutrition: Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants supports both your overall health and your skin. Focus on foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon and flaxseeds, which help maintain the skin barrier, and plenty of fruits and vegetables for antioxidants. Manage stress: Stress can trigger skin issues, particularly during the emotionally taxing […]

Menopause is a significant phase in a woman’s life, marked by a decline in oestrogen levels that leads to various changes in the skin. These hormonal shifts can cause several skin concerns, ranging from dryness and thinning to increased sensitivity and a heightened risk of developing both medical and cosmetic skin issues. Understanding these changes and learning how to manage them effectively is crucial for maintaining healthy, youthful skin during this transitional period. How Menopause Affects Your Skin During menopause, the body undergoes several hormonal changes, particularly a reduction in oestrogen and progesterone levels, which have profound effects on the skin: Loss of collagen and elasticity: Oestrogen is vital for maintaining collagen, the protein that provides structural support and elasticity to the skin. With menopause, collagen production decreases significantly—by up to 30% within the first five years—and continues to decline at a rate of about 2.1% per year thereafter. This reduction leads to thinner skin, loss of firmness, and decreased elasticity, resulting in sagging, fine lines, and deeper wrinkles.  Increased dryness and skin thinning: Oestrogen plays a key role in regulating the skin’s moisture levels by promoting sebum production. As oestrogen levels decline, the skin becomes drier and the moisture barrier weakens, leading to increased transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and a rough texture. Thinning skin is more fragile and prone to bruising and injury, and reduced thickness also makes blood vessels more visible, contributing to increased redness. Pigmentation changes: Hormonal fluctuations during menopause can lead to pigmentation issues such as age spots, melasma, and uneven skin tone. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation further exacerbates these changes, as the skin’s ability to repair sun damage diminishes with age. This results in more pronounced pigmentation and sunspots, especially on areas frequently exposed to the sun, like the face, hands, and chest. Altered skin texture: The reduction in collagen and elastin also affects the skin’s texture, leading to enlarged pores and a rougher surface. Decreased skin cell turnover can contribute to a dull complexion, making regular exfoliation and rejuvenation practices essential to maintain a smooth, glowing appearance. Increased sensitivity and pruritus (itchiness): Menopausal skin is often more sensitive due to a compromised barrier and decreased hydration. This increased sensitivity can lead to greater reactivity to skincare products and environmental factors. Pruritus, or itching, is also a common complaint among postmenopausal women, often associated with dry skin conditions like xerosis. Higher risk of medical and cosmetic skin issues: As skin ages and hormone levels change, there is an increased risk of developing both medical and cosmetic skin concerns. Women with outdoor hobbies, frequent sun exposure, or a history of sun damage are particularly vulnerable to skin cancers, including melanoma. Regular mole checks and skin screenings are crucial for early detection. Some laser treatments, such as Halo, not only improve the skin’s aesthetic appearance by reducing pigmentation and fine lines but can also help reduce the risk of skin cancer by targeting and treating precancerous lesions. The Role of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) can be effective in alleviating some of the skin changes associated with menopause by replenishing oestrogen levels. HRT has been shown to increase collagen production, enhance skin thickness, and improve elasticity, potentially restoring some of the skin’s youthful qualities. However, it is not without risks. While oestrogen in HRT can improve skin hydration and reduce signs of ageing, some women may experience side effects like acne, especially if their HRT regimen includes progesterone. Progesterone can increase sebum production, leading to clogged pores and breakouts. For women experiencing acne due to HRT, laser treatment designed to target sebaceous glands, may offer a solution. It works by reducing oil production, thereby minimising acne flare-ups without the need for long-term medications, providing a non-invasive option for managing hormone-induced acne. Effective Strategies for Managing Menopausal Skin To manage these changes effectively, a comprehensive approach involving skincare, medical treatments, and lifestyle adjustments is essential: Topical retinoids: Retinoids are highly effective in promoting collagen production and enhancing skin cell turnover. They help reduce the appearance of fine lines, improve skin texture, and increase elasticity. However, due to their potential to cause irritation, especially on thinning menopausal skin, retinoids should be used cautiously and under the supervision of a dermatologist. Hydrating moisturisers: Moisturisers that contain hyaluronic acid and ceramides are crucial for maintaining hydration and supporting the skin’s moisture barrier. Hyaluronic acid acts as a powerful humectant, attracting moisture to the skin, while ceramides help strengthen the barrier and prevent further dryness and irritation. Antioxidant serums: Antioxidants like vitamins C and E play a crucial role in protecting the skin from environmental damage and reducing pigmentation. These serums neutralise free radicals, molecules that accelerate skin ageing, and help improve overall skin tone and texture. Energy-Based Treatments: Lasers and ultrasound technologies are highly effective for stimulating collagen and elastin production, tightening, and lifting sagging skin. Treatments such as BroadBand Light (BBL) therapy, fractional laser resurfacing, and Sofwave can rejuvenate the skin and provide a firmer, more youthful appearance. Additionally, lasers like Halo can aesthetically enhance the skin while targeting and treating precancerous lesions, potentially reducing the risk of developing skin cancer. Injectable treatments – Polynucleotides and Profhilo: Polynucleotides and Profhilo are innovative injectables that promote skin regeneration and hydration. These treatments help improve skin elasticity and overall quality by providing deep hydration and stimulating collagen production, making them particularly effective for addressing thinning skin and volume loss. Microneedling with radiofrequency: This advanced treatment combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy to enhance collagen production and improve skin texture and firmness. It is particularly beneficial for menopausal skin, helping to reduce fine lines, improve skin tone, and provide a smoother appearance. Sun protection and lifestyle modifications: Protecting the skin from UV damage is critical during menopause. Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding sun exposure during peak hours can help prevent further pigmentation and damage. Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet rich in antioxidants, staying hydrated, and managing stress can significantly impact […]