Knowledge Centre

As a consultant dermatologist with extensive experience in managing acne and other skin conditions, I understand how menstrual cycles can significantly impact your skin. Fluctuating hormones during your period can cause various skin issues, from increased oiliness and acne breakouts to heightened sensitivity and dryness. Here are some expert tips to help you navigate period skincare and maintain a clear, healthy complexion. Understand the Hormonal Cycle The first step in managing period-related skin issues is understanding how your menstrual cycle affects your skin. Hormones like oestrogen and progesterone fluctuate throughout the month, influencing oil production, skin hydration, and inflammation levels. Typically, the luteal phase (the two weeks leading up to your period) sees an increase in progesterone, which can cause sebaceous glands to produce more oil. This can lead to clogged pores and acne breakouts. Conversely, during your period, oestrogen levels drop, potentially making your skin more sensitive and prone to dryness.  Tailor Your Skincare Routine Adapting your skincare routine to your hormonal cycle can make a significant difference. Here’s a week-by-week guide: Week 1: MenstruationDuring your period, your skin might be more sensitive. Focus on gentle, hydrating products that won’t irritate your skin. Use a mild cleanser and a soothing, non-comedogenic moisturiser. Avoid harsh exfoliants and treatments that could exacerbate sensitivity. Week 2: Follicular PhaseAs oestrogen levels begin to rise, your skin’s hydration improves, and oil production decreases. This is a good time to use products that support hydration and repair. Consider incorporating a hyaluronic acid serum and a light exfoliant to help keep your skin smooth and radiant. Week 3: OvulationYour skin is often at its best during ovulation, thanks to a peak in oestrogen. Continue with your hydrating routine and consider adding antioxidants, such as vitamin C, to protect your skin from environmental stressors and boost radiance. Week 4: Luteal PhaseAs progesterone increases, oil production ramps up. To prevent breakouts, incorporate salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide into your routine to keep pores clear. Be mindful of your diet and try to reduce your intake of sugary foods, as these can exacerbate acne. Seek Help Early It’s crucial to seek professional help early, especially if your breakouts are becoming more extensive, affecting your mental health, confidence, or self-esteem, causing scarring or marking to the skin, or if you experience changes in circumstances like coming off the combined oral contraceptive pill, pregnancy acne, perimenopause, or undergoing treatments like egg freezing or IVF. Early intervention can prevent long-term skin damage such as scarring and help maintain your confidence. If your acne is spreading to new areas such as your chest, back, and shoulders, or if the severity of your breakouts is increasing, it’s time to seek help. Consult an Expert When dealing with hormonal acne, it’s important to consult a dermatologist who understands the hormonal impacts on the skin and takes a full lifestyle approach. At Self London, we pride ourselves on providing expert-led care that addresses all aspects of skin health. We have a comprehensive range of treatments available to manage breakouts, from skincare advice and prescription treatments to advanced procedures like laser, chemical peels, and other targeted therapies. Consistency is Key Consistency is key to managing period-related skin issues. Stick to a regular skincare routine and avoid the temptation to over-treat your skin when a breakout occurs. Overusing acne treatments can lead to irritation and worsen your skin’s condition. Instead, use targeted treatments sparingly and give them time to work. Manage Stress Stress can exacerbate skin issues, especially during your period. Practice stress-reducing techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises to keep stress levels in check. Adequate sleep is also crucial for maintaining healthy skin, so aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Consider working with a clinical psychologist who has a specialist interest in skin and body image if you find you are spending many hours of the day worrying about break-outs. Dietary Considerations What you eat can have an impact on your skin’s health. During your period, aim to eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Foods high in antioxidants, such as berries, leafy greens, and nuts, can help combat inflammation and support skin health. Additionally, staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water is essential for keeping your skin plump and radiant. Professional Treatments If you find that your period significantly impacts your skin and at-home treatments aren’t enough, consider professional treatments. At Self London, we understand the hormonal impacts on the skin and take a full lifestyle approach, offering a comprehensive range of treatments including laser for acne (which is completely drug-free), peels, and prescription creams and tablets tailored to individual needs. Listen to Your Skin Finally, it’s important to listen to your skin and adjust your routine as needed. Everyone’s skin is unique, and what works for one person might not work for another. Pay attention to how your skin reacts to different products and treatments, and don’t hesitate to make changes if something isn’t working. Get Expert Advice Being proactive and getting the right advice is better than trial and error from the internet, social media sites, and brands which are ultimately there to sell. A dermatologist who understands the hormonal impacts on the skin can offer a personalised treatment plan that includes skincare advice, professional treatments, and lifestyle recommendations. At Self London, we take pride in providing expert-led, patient-centric care to help you achieve and maintain healthy, radiant skin. Recognise Important Changes and Life Events Certain life events and changes in circumstances can have a significant impact on your skin. For example, if you are thinking of coming off the combined oral contraceptive pill, you may be worried about an acne flare-up. Similarly, acne in pregnancy, life changes such as perimenopause, or undergoing treatments like egg freezing or IVF can all affect your skin. It’s important to seek expert advice in these situations to manage your skin effectively and prevent long-term damage. Full Scale of Tools Available At Self London, we offer […]

As a consultant dermatologist, I’ve seen many women come through my clinic doors frustrated by stubborn acne that doesn’t seem to respond to any treatment. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Acne can be a visible and sometimes painful marker of an underlying condition called polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Understanding the connection between acne and PCOS is crucial, not just for the health of your skin but for your overall well being Why Should You Consider PCOS if You Have Acne? Acne is often thought of as a teenage problem, something that magically disappears with age. But for many people, particularly those with PCOS, acne can persist into adulthood and become a significant concern. PCOS is a hormonal condition that affects up to 10% of women and people assigned female at birth and is often characterised by elevated levels of androgens like testosterone– hormones that can lead to increased oil production in the skin, causing clogged pores and, subsequently, acne. But it’s not just any acne we’re talking about. Women with PCOS often experience more persistent and inflammatory acne that tends to appear along the lower third of the face, jawline, and upper neck. This is because of the hormonal imbalance that’s driving excess oil production. So, if you find yourself struggling with acne in these areas and have tried countless treatments without success, it might be time to think beyond the skincare aisle and look a little deeper. What Are the Signs That PCOS Could Be Affecting Your Skin? When we talk about PCOS and acne, it’s essential to consider the bigger picture. PCOS is not just about your skin; it can impact various aspects of your health. So, when should you start thinking about getting screened for PCOS? Here are a few signs that might suggest PCOS could be contributing to your acne: If you’re noticing any of these symptoms alongside your acne, it’s worth discussing them with your doctor. Why Early Diagnosis and Treatment is Key If you’ve been diagnosed with PCOS, it can feel like a lot to take in. But remember, getting an early diagnosis is a positive step. Why? Because it allows you to take control of your health and manage the condition effectively. PCOS doesn’t just affect your skin; it’s a systemic condition that can have long-term health implications, including an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, mental health issues and other metabolic issues. It can also impact fertility and increase the risk of complications during pregnancy. By diagnosing PCOS early, you can work with your healthcare provider to develop a management plan tailored to your needs. This might include lifestyle changes, like a balanced diet and regular exercise, which are crucial in managing weight and improving insulin sensitivity – both key factors in PCOS. Medications may also be prescribed to help regulate your menstrual cycle, manage acne, or reduce excess hair growth. Treating Acne in PCOS: What Works? When it comes to managing acne in the context of PCOS, it’s not just about what you put on your skin – it’s also about addressing the hormonal imbalance driving it. Here are some treatment options that might be recommended: Lifestyle Changes: Small Steps, Big Impact Don’t underestimate the power of lifestyle changes when managing PCOS and its symptoms. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular physical activity can significantly impact hormone levels and insulin sensitivity, improving both your skin and overall health. Focus on whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, and try to reduce your intake of sugar and processed foods. Staying hydrated and getting plenty of sleep can also make a difference. In addition to lifestyle changes, a consistent and gentle skincare routine can help manage acne. Opt for non-comedogenic (non-pore-clogging) products and avoid harsh scrubs or overly drying treatments that can irritate the skin further. Take Charge of Your Health Remember, PCOS is a manageable condition. With the right care and support, you can control its impact on your life. Getting screened is the first step towards understanding your body better and finding a treatment plan that works for you.PCOS and acne don’t have to define you. With early screening and proper management, you can take control of your skin and health and feel more confident in your body. The journey might seem daunting, but with the right information and a proactive approach, you can find a way forward that brings clarity and comfort to both your skin and your overall well being Inspiring skin confidence with Hertility and Self London Hertility and Self London are collaborating to give you absolute clarity into what’s going on inside your body and inspire skin confidence. We’re working with patients to uncover how hormones impact not only our reproductive health but also our skin’s natural glow.Discover the partnership

PCOS is one of the most common reproductive health conditions. Some of the most common symptoms people struggle with are physical symptoms such as issues with weight; skin and hair related issues such as acne or excessive hair growth and irregular periods. These are mainly driven through disrupted hormones. Androgens are a group of hormones, including testosterone,  that are made in the ovaries and are often found at much higher levels in women with PCOS, called “hyperandrogenism”. Insulin is also found to be at much higher levels, due to insulin resistance. Normally, Insulin helps manage blood sugar levels, helping cells absorb glucose. Insulin resistance is when the body no longer responds to normal levels of insulin. This can result in excess amounts of insulin being produced, misregulated blood sugar levels and metabolism issues like weight gain and type 2 diabetes. Women are also 3 times more likely to experience mental health related symptoms like anxiety, depression or body image issues. Unfortunately there is currently no cure for PCOS, however, there are  treatment options  aimed to manage symptoms.  Think you might have PCOS? Check your hormones Benefits of regular exercise Regular exercise can be an extremely effective way to help manage PCOS symptoms. Some experts suggest exercise as a first port of call for PCOS management but can also work alongside medications like metformin for increased effects, particularly for improving cycle related issues (1). Exercise can have positive effects on physical, hormonal and mental health related issues including: How much exercise is recommended? For a healthy lifestyle, preventing weight gain and maintaining health: Adults should do a minimum of 150 minutes a week of moderate-intensity physical activity or 75 minutes per week of vigorous activity or a combination of both and include muscle-strengthening activities Young women should do 60 minutes or more of moderate to vigorous activity per day including those that strengthen muscle at least three times a week Activity can be done in 10-minute bursts or around 1000 steps, aiming to do at least 30 minutes on most days. For those who have a goal to lose weight, prevent weight regain or achieve greater health benefits more exercise is needed: A minimum of 250 minutes a week of moderate-intensity activity or 150 minutes a week of vigorous activity or a combination of both Muscle-strengthening activity on 2 non-consecutive days of the week. Overall, aim for around 30 minutes per day. Of this, 90 minutes per week should be more active or aerobic activities (running, biking, fast pace walking etc.) at a moderate to high intensity to optimise clinical outcomes (see table below for suggested activities). Remember physical activity includes walking, activity at work, household chores, sports and planned exercise. Choose an exercise you like and if possible exercise with friends or others to increase your motivation. Mixing up exercise will also help with motivation. Benefits for your body What are the benefits of exercise on PCOS? PCOS can affect the body’s metabolism making it harder to lose weight and also affect where fat is stored. Visceral fat (fat in the abdomen and around your organs) tends to be increased in those with PCOS. Alongside this, there is an increased risk of long-term health issues including obesity, cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure. Regular physical activity can help improve body composition and is extremely beneficial for reducing these risks.  In general aerobic exercise (or cardio), like running, swimming or cycling, is great for reducing blood pressure and improving heart health. Increasing your daily energy expenditure (the amount of energy you burn in a day) can help with losing weight by creating a calorie deficit (burning more calories than you consume). Women with PCOS who had greater vigorous activity levels were found to have less visceral fat (2). A 6 month study introducing an exercise regime of 30 mins aerobic exercise 3 times a week saw a reduction in waist circumference (as a measure of visceral fat), and improvements in menstrual cycle patterns (3).  What type of exercise is best? There is a lack of evidence supporting any one type and intensity of exercise being better than another for metabolic, hormonal, reproductive or psychological outcomes. The International guidelines and majority of studies have focused on aerobic exercise routines, however, resistance training (exercise designed to improve muscle strength or endurance) such as weight lifting, has big benefits too. Resistance training has a positive effect on body composition by increasing muscle mass, which can contribute to increasing your energy expenditure. In studies focusing on resistance training for women with PCOS, a reduction in visceral fat and an increase in lean muscle mass was seen (4). It is also important to know that exercise without weight loss or only moderate weight loss can still lead to a reduction in visceral fat and improve insulin sensitivity. Think of being active as often as you can through the day, for example take stairs instead of lifts, park further away from shops etc. Can exercise improve chances of conceiving? Improvements in reproduction have been seen in women with minimal weight loss – so the scales are not the be all and end all! The NHS states as little as 5% reduction bodyweight can help improve symptoms (5). Other important lifestyle factors to consider, particularly for managing weight, are issues with appetite regulation – if this is something you are struggling with you can speak to one of our Fertility Nutrition Consultation. Benefits for your hormones  Insulin resistance is common among those with PCOS and can contribute to many of the symptoms like dark skin patches, fatigue and weight issues. This goes hand in hand with visceral fat and general inflammation throughout the body.  This is believed to be associated with greater levels of visceral fat and amount of visceral fat Women who had greater levels of physical activity, had better chances of normal insulin responses (6)  and reduced chances of inflammation (7).  Excess insulin can increase the production of androgens in the ovaries, contributing to hyperandrogenism. […]

We created Hertility to give women a way to proactively track their fertility, but the last thing we want to do is panic people who aren’t in a position to have babies just yet or scaremonger people into starting a family when they’re not ready. Cue: fertility preservation, as explained by our trusted partner clinic, The Evewell.  Quick Facts: Fertility preservation is not just for single women; it’s relevant to anyone who is not yet ready to start a family regardless of their relationship status. You can freeze eggs, or embryos (fertilised eggs) with either a partner or donor sperm. Fertility preservation is also a form of ‘Strategic family planning’, a way to work towards building the family you want before you get pregnant with your first child. Fertility preservation: the difference between freezing eggs vs. embryos Let’s talk about something very topical right now: fertility preservation. You’ve probably heard about it in the context of egg freezing, almost always in relation to single women, but in reality, it’s something that may be relevant to many more of us than we think.   Emma Whitney, Director of Embryology and Genetics at The Evewell in London (and @emmatheembryologist on Instagram), is passionate about helping people understand the available steps they can take today, so they can have options to build and complete their family in the future. In this article, she will take you through some of the science as well as the groups of people who are or should be thinking about fertility preservation. To speak to a member of our nursing team about The Evewell Clinic and how to access services contact referrals@hertilityhealth.com.  Our team will be able to book in your appointment and provide insights into pricing and next steps. The Evewell Clinic, West London  Firstly, what is fertility preservation? Fertility preservation is when we collect eggs and then we can either freeze them at this point (the well-documented egg freezing option) or create embryos by fertilising them with either partner or donor sperm and freeze those instead. We work with patients to help them make the best choice for them. Talking about freezing eggs or embryos is something I speak to patients about every single day and we can help patients decide which option is best for them depending on their family goals. What is so frustrating is that many people have not considered fertility preservation because they didn’t understand it related to them or could have supported them in creating their future family. So could fertility preservation be relevant to you?  I’m in a committed relationship but we’re not ready to start a family yet… I see it all the time, for people in their 30s, the pressure to settle down and start a family can intensify, particularly if they’re in long-term relationships. But for some people now is just not the right time. It may be career commitments, financial concerns or simply still having things on the “list” they want to do or achieve before they become parents. What’s interesting is that people in committed relationships may just feel fertility preservation isn’t relevant to them because it’s all about egg freezing for single women. By explaining that it’s not just eggs that can be frozen, but embryos too, it’s a bit of a lightbulb moment as they realise this is quite literally, a way to press pause and start a family when they’re ready. And for those of you thinking: I’m not sure I want to freeze embryos with the person I’m with right now, you can freeze both eggs and embryos, giving yourself even more options for who you want to start a family with. We’ve been trying to conceive but it’s harder than we thought… When people are trying to have a baby, the focus understandably is getting pregnant as quickly as possible, and little thought is given to what will happen when you want to have baby two and beyond. As more people are starting their family later in life, it can be harder than they thought. Some find it takes more time or they need medical support. What’s frustrating is that we often see patients in The Evewell who are now two to three years older than they were when they had their first baby and now it’s considerably harder to achieve a second pregnancy. If I know people want more than one child, I always talk to them about ‘strategic family planning’; making sure we aren’t just focused on baby number one, but how we can help them plan for the family they dreamed of. This is when embryo freezing – before the first pregnancy – can be a really useful option. We call it ‘strategic family planning’ because it’s a strategic approach that really can make the difference between needing more invasive, exhaustive and expensive treatments later down the line, when you’re – inevitably – a couple of years older, with older eggs (and with a toddler running around!) I’m single and I may want a family in the future…. Single people in their 20s and  30s are understandably confused and feeling overwhelmed. On the one hand, they understand the harsh fact that females are born with all the eggs they’re ever going to have, and, as much as science and technology have improved almost all areas of our lives, we haven’t been able to stop a female from losing her eggs, or those eggs ageing. But they’re also being bombarded by press articles telling them that egg freezing is not the solution. Just this month, Tory MP mother of three Miriam Cates told women they should not consider egg freezing and that if they wanted to be parents, to have babies “sooner rather than later”. It’s this kind of attitude that is really distressing. I see this all the time in the clinic because women who haven’t met their life partner and who don’t want to parent alone, feel like they’re left with no choice and they may […]

No longer seen as a ‘nice-to-have’, but an essential part of employee wellbeing, reproductive health and fertility benefits are increasingly becoming a top priority for employers. Here’s why they should be included in your budget. Quick facts: The rise of reproductive health benefits  With the dynamics of the workplace having rapidly shifted since the pandemic, more and more employees are prioritising their wellbeing and looking to their employers to provide well-rounded benefits packages.  Fertility and reproductive health support is emerging as a key employee need within this matrix. Demand for inclusive fertility benefits is growing year on year—with up to 71% of employers looking to adopt fertility benefits within the foreseeable future.  Additionally, the estimated global productivity loss due to employees experiencing menopausal symptoms is a staggering $150 billion a year. With around 20% of the workforce, according to Let’s Talk Menopause, being pre to post-menopausal, it’s clear to see that menopause benefits are also emerging as a vital lifeline for employers and employees alike.  However these initiatives aren’t just a tick box for improving D&I metrics—they can drive a significant impact on your organisations’ bottom line, with some providers seeing an ROI of x6 and upwards.  Here are the top four reasons why your organisation’s wellbeing budget should include a comprehensive fertility and reproductive health benefits package. Improved retention and reduced turnover costs Recent research from Fertility Network UK showed companies that are not supporting their employees through fertility treatments and journeys, including LGBTQIA+ individuals, has a significant negative impact on employee retention.  1 in 5 employees going through fertility treatment left their jobs due to insufficient support within the last 5 years alone. With the average cost to replace an employee in the UK being around £30K, it’s no secret that the right reproductive health and fertility support can have a positive impact on your bottom line through employee retention alone. Appealing to wider talent pools Despite previous sentiment that fertility benefits are just a concern for millennial employees, or just for women, reproductive health issues affect employees of all ages and identities across the talent pool.  1 in 3 Gen Z employees think fertility benefits should be a part of their package and are actively looking for employers that offer attractive, well-rounded benefits.  At the other end of the spectrum, perimenopausal and menopausal women are seeking employers with rigorous menopause support policies—with 42% considering quitting their jobs due to symptoms.  With job ads citing fertility benefits up by 700% since March 2022, fertility benefits are fast becoming an important factor in diverse talent acquisition at all organisational levels. This rings especially true for companies looking to attract women into senior leadership positions and improve gender diversity at the top. Fostering a culture of care  Fertility benefits signal to your workforce that you, as an organisation, are committed to supporting your employees beyond the scope of the office. This can demonstrate to your employees that you care about them as individuals, whatever life stage they are at.  Creating an environment where employees feel supported through any struggles, or simply aware that they have options should they need them, helps to foster a culture of care that translates into improved productivity and overall employee satisfaction. Upstream and downstream cost savings Whilst fertility benefit packages might seem like less of a priority compared to mental or physical health initiatives during times of tighter budgets, the upstream and downstream savings can have significant longer-term ROI.  Reproductive health is intimately linked to mental and physical wellbeing. Offering a well-rounded support package that focuses on education in addition to reproductive health testing and treatment can initiate preventative care, reducing longer-term costs like employee absence. Getting started with reproductive health benefits Reproductive health benefits are far more than simply covering the cost of IVF treatments or extra time off for menopause support. Impactful initiatives should be multifactorial, focusing on community-building and education right through to treatment support.  Regardless of life stage or identity, all employees should feel supported across the physical and mental wellbeing spectrum. The Hertility productivity loss calculator can help you decipher your estimated annual losses from employee reproductive health. In turn, you can accurately estimate your workforce’s needs for fertility and reproductive health benefits—the first step towards building a robust business case. Contact benefits@hertilityhealth.com to find out how reproductive health support can positively impact your people and business.

International Women’s Day (IWD) is an important annual event for celebrating all of your employees who identify as women. In this article, we give a quick recap of the day’s history and how to embrace its sentiment every day of the year. Quick facts: What is International Women’s Day? International Women’s Day (IWD) is celebrated annually on the 8th of March. A day of global signification, IWD celebrates and champions the social, economic and political achievements of women everywhere. Each IWD has a theme that reflects current struggles or aspirations for women around the world. The 2024 theme will be #inspireinclusion. History and significance  IWD was first recognised in 1977 by the United Nations. It has its origins in early Twentieth-century labour movements, which facilitated some of the first organised strikes for female workers.  Today, it has evolved into a growing international women’s rights movement that underscores the work that is yet to be done for global gender equity.  Why IWD matters for your organisation IWD is an incredibly important event for any organisation’s internal events calendar. It provides a meaningful opportunity to demonstrate your organisation’s commitment to fostering gender equity within the workplace, year-round.  By celebrating the achievements of female colleagues and leadership, organisations can foster an environment of support, inclusion and respect for women within their workplaces. This is far from trivial and has been proven to improve female talent retention and contribute to meaningful diversity and inclusion initiatives.  Representation matters at all levels of an organisation. Workplaces that actively seek to champion their female employees can inspire future generations of female leaders who can help build a more inclusive and diverse workforce.  Year-round female health initiatives  Any IWD events should be supported with year-round initiatives that support your female employees. Reproductive health benefits are fast becoming a cornerstone of any progressive employee wellbeing support. We believe that knowledge is power and hosting education sessions for your team centred around awareness days helps to educate everyone across the business, whilst bringing recognition to important issues. This can in turn foster your organisation’s culture whilst making your employees feel seen and supported. Here are some key awareness days to build into your internal events calendar.  From family-forming to menopause in the workplace, we deliver specialist CPD-accredited education sessions for the entire workforce that can help to empower your people.  Don’t just take our word for it . “Dr Helen and the Hertility team did a phenomenal job in educating our workforce on all things menopause related. It was done in such an approachable and engaging way.” – Flora Kong, the Co Chair of The One Gender Equality Network at Dentsu commented on the impact of our education delivered to Dentsu employees.  Get in touch with our team to learn how we can support you with your journey to becoming a Reproductively Responsible™ employer.

For HR and Benefits Leaders, a primary challenge isn’t just diversity recruitment, but the expensive, disruptive loss of top senior female talent who are critical to company performance. In this article, we’ll explain why women are so integral to senior leadership roles for the effective operation of organisations, both internally and externally.  More critically, we’ll lay out effective approaches companies must adopt to address the invisible barriers, particularly related to reproductive health, that jeopardise senior female retention and development, thereby protecting your investment in leadership. Quick retention facts: Companies with at least 30% female directors achieved cumulative returns 18.9% higher than those without MSCI, 2024. Positives span overall revenue performance, employee satisfaction, engagement and reduced risk taking. Closing the global gender gap in employment and entrepreneurship could increase global GDP by an estimated $160 trillion World Bank, 2024. Effective gender parity strategies need to include a multi-factor approach, often with emphasis on retention as well as upward mobility for women. Over 1 million women per year leave their jobs due to menopause-related struggles and workplace inaccessibility. (Gender Health Gap Report, 2024) Whilst menopause-related productivity losses and workforce departures cost the UK economy £10 billion annually. Current workplace gender imbalance The benefits of gender equity within the workplace, particularly for top-down initiatives, are well known, well documented and certainly well reported. But even in the face of such benefits, gender imbalance, especially across senior leadership and boards, overwhelmingly persists.  Globally, women currently hold just 32% of senior leadership positions in mid-market companies Grant Thornton, 2024/2025.  In the highest tiers of corporate leadership (C-suite), this representation drops further, with women occupying only 29% of roles McKinsey & Company / LeanIn.Org, 2024. At the current rate of progress, global gender parity in senior management won’t be reached until 2053 Grant Thornton, 2024. Any progressive employer should not only be striving for gender balance within the workplace but actively ensuring they have an effective gender parity strategy in place to plug current organisational gaps. Not only should strategies focus on upward mobility for women but also on retention for female leaders. Effective strategies often require nuanced approaches that span employee benefits, competency-based hiring and pay and the need for a cultural shift in often deep-rooted, systemic biases. The impact of women in leadership Here are some of the top line and most well documented positive impacts that gender equity and increased numbers of women within senior leadership teams can offer organisations. Improved organisational performance  Countless studies have shown a clear and definite correlation between women in senior leadership and improved company performance. This not only applies to improved financial performance but extends granularly into individual employee performance. Studies have also shown that an increased number of women on board teams can de-risk company performance, reducing the incidence of lawsuits, corporate crimes and tarnished organisational reputations. Increased innovation In addition to performance, organisations with a higher percentage of women in senior leadership have been found to both invest more in innovation and be more innovative overall. This has been attributed to increased diversity, viewpoints and creative approaches to decision making apparent within gender-equitable senior leadership teams. Enhanced employee engagement  Studies have also found that an increased number of women in senior leadership improves overall employee engagement and retention—regardless of gender or identity. Employees from companies with higher proportions of women are more likely to report overall levels of job satisfaction and positive organisational culture. Women are more likely to embody empathy and prioritise communication within their leadership style, often driving a more positive and meaningful workplace culture. Strategies for retention Effective retention strategies are multi-faceted, but for senior female talent, they must address the unique physical and systemic barriers that disproportionately lead to exits during these critical career stages. The Menopause This is one of the single most costly and overlooked drivers of senior female attrition.  Most women reach their career peak and hold senior roles in their late 40s and early 50s, the exact age when perimenopause and menopause symptoms manifest. Leaving the Workforce: 1 million women per year leave their jobs due to menopause-related struggles and workplace inaccessibility. (Gender Health Gap 2024)  17% (1 in 6) have seriously considered leaving CIPD, 2024. 53% of women have taken time off due to menopause symptoms (Gender Health Gap 2024) Address gender pay gaps Despite women in SLT contributing to improved company performance, the pay gap persists.  Ensuring transparency across pay structures is essential for acquiring top talent and retaining the best female employees. Fair compensation reflective of competency, irrespective of gender, combined with regular reviews and a clear commitment to closing any outstanding pay gaps is critical. Offer fertility and reproductive health benefits Companies must recognise that women’s hormones impact them for nearly their entire lifespan, from period health and fertility through to menopause, and the workplace must cater for these life changes.  Introducing things like:  At-Home Hormone and Fertility Testing, for early stage diagnosis and proactive hormone health support Clinical Services like menopause consultations, HRT prescription, counselling, nutritionists, and more  Education sessions for colleagues to raise awareness of the impact of menopause and other life stages Workplace adjustments, like flexible work from home options etc Specific workplace policies that cover all life stage health – menstruation through menopause Educate employees on second-generation gender bias Harvard Business Review recently reported that an integral part of upward organisational mobilisation for women is the removal of second-generation bias. This is often deeply rooted in organisational practices, creating ‘invisible’ barriers for women. Bias can lead not only to a reduced number of women in SLT but also implicitly hostile working environments for them when they get there. Making employees aware of bias can radically alter attitudes and foster possibilities for meaningful change. The future of your senior teams  The need for women within leadership is, evidently, more crucial than ever. The World Bank and the World Economic Forum (WEF) estimate that closing the global gender gap in employment and entrepreneurship could increase global GDP by an estimated […]

This comprehensive guide will serve as your go-to resource for female fertility tests, providing detailed information about different types of fertility testing, and everything you need to know to take control of your reproductive health, wherever you are in your fertility journey. Quick facts: Fertility testing in the UK If you’re planning a family, now or in the future, checking your fertility can offer you insights and peace of mind.  In this article, we’ll cover where you can get female fertility tests done and when you would be eligible, including fertility tests on the NHS, fertility tests at home, and fertility tests online. We’ll also explain how fertility tests are carried out, whether they’re painful, and information about blood tests. We’ll delve into the hormones and individual tests so you know exactly how the tests work, what exactly they’re testing for, and what your fertility test results mean for you. You can get answers to your fertility testing questions including: Understanding fertility in women Let’s start with the foundations of female fertility and the biological processes that govern your reproductive system. Your fertility is influenced by various factors, both physiological and environmental. Understanding what goes on inside, and how your fertility works, helps you gain a deeper understanding of fertility testing. The menstrual cycle The foundation of fertility lies in your menstrual cycle—a recurring roughly 28-day cycle that’s regulated by your hormones. A normal menstrual cycle can last between 25-31 days. The cycle consists of phases, including menstruation (when you get your period), the follicular phase, ovulation and the luteal phase. Within different phases of your menstrual cycle, different things are happening in your body, all orchestrated by your hormones. Each phase has its superpowers, but for fertility, the most important phase is ovulation. Ovulation Ovulation is when a mature egg is released from the ovary making it available for fertilisation (the first step of conception and pregnancy). Ovulation typically happens around the middle of the menstrual cycle (around day 14 of a 28-day cycle, but it might be later or earlier depending on your cycle length) and is an important moment in the fertility timeline. The egg travels down the fallopian tube where it awaits potential fertilisation by sperm. If you’re not ovulating, this could impact your fertility potential. Issues with ovulation accounts for 40% of female infertility. Fertilisation and implantation Fertilisation occurs when sperm successfully penetrates the egg. If it does fertilise it, the fertilised egg is called a zygote. The zygote travels down the fallopian tube towards the uterus where its goal is to successfully attach itself to the uterine wall lining (implantation). From there, it grows and develops into a baby. Hormone regulation Hormones play a crucial role in the menstrual cycle and fertility. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinising hormone (LH) released from the pituitary gland in your brain, along with oestrogen and progesterone from the ovaries, regulate the various phases of the cycle. Each hormone has a specific role to play. A big part of female fertility testing is testing your hormones to offer insights into your fertility. Ovarian reserve Your ovarian reserve refers to the quantity of eggs you have remaining. It gradually declines with age, particularly after the age of 35. Assessing ovarian reserve provides insights into a woman’s fertility. Age, and therefore, declining ovarian reserve, is the most common reason for infertility. Cervical mucus and reproductive environment The consistency of cervical mucus changes throughout the menstrual cycle. Just before ovulation, and during ovulation, your cervical mucus becomes slippery and water like to help the sperm travel through the fallopian tube to meet the egg, for the egg to become fertilised. If fertilisation is successful, the next stage towards healthy pregnancy is implantation (when the fertilised egg successfully attaches to the uterus wall lining). For implantation to be successful, the uterine lining has to be thick enough. If implantation doesn’t occur, the uterine (womb) wall lining sheds resulting in a period (and no pregnancy). External factors Lifestyle factors such as nutrition, sleep and overall health can impact fertility. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential for optimising reproductive function. Why and when to check your fertility There are various reasons why and optimal times you’d want to check your fertility from age-related concerns to family planning and if you’ve been trying to conceive without success. Family planning If you want to get pregnant or are planning a future pregnancy, checking your fertility from the get-go could be beneficial. Getting a fertility test at the start of your journey can help to start your journey from a place of knowledge and understanding. Some individuals and couples wait until the 3-month, 6-month, or 12-month mark trying to conceive without success before pursuing a fertility test. To get a fertility test on the NHS, you have to have been trying for a year without success. You can, however, check your fertility from the comfort of your own home at any point in your fertility journey. The earlier you know, the better, since fertility declines with age. Age-related concerns Concerns about age-related fertility decline might prompt you to check your fertility to assess your ovarian reserve and fertility potential, especially if you’re considering delaying conception until later in life. This might be the case if you’re in your 30s but don’t want a baby yet. Women are born with all the eggs they’ll ever have (the ovarian reserve), and as you age, you gradually lose eggs every menstrual cycle. Your naturally declining ovarian reserve is the leading cause of infertility. In your 20s and early 30s, you are considered at your most fertile age. After the age of 35, fertility can decrease significantly. This prompts many to take a fertility test whether it’s out of curiosity or wanting to plan for the future. Age is one of the most important factors when it comes to your fertility. If you plan on delaying having a baby until later in life, having a fertility test to check your ovarian […]

This January as part of Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, we explore how to improve your cervical health to prevent cervical cancer, enhance your fertility and improve your overall reproductive health. Quick facts: Understanding cervical health Cervical health refers to the health and functioning of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. To check your cervical health, you need to attend regular cervical screenings, (known as the smear test), and ensure you have your HPV vaccination. Your cervical fluid changes throughout your menstrual cycle and understanding these changes can give you insight into your fertility. Knowing what your cervical fluid looks and feels like throughout your menstrual cycle can help you identify your optimal fertile window (when you’re most likely to get pregnant). Usually, it becomes more slippery, slimy like egg white around ovulation, to help the sperm swim up towards the cervix. Cervical cancer Every year, more than 3,200 people are affected by cervical cancer in the UK. Two women lose their lives to cervical cancer every week and nine more receive a life-changing diagnosis. Despite this, 1 in 3 people don’t attend their smear test. Yet, if it’s caught early, cervical cancer can be treated. Some countries, like Sweden, predict that they will have eliminated cervical cancer by 2030, while the UK aims to eliminate it by 2040. Ensuring that you have your HPV vaccination and also attending your Cervical Screening when you’re invited is the best way to protect against cervical cancer. With the NHS, you should be invited to a smear test every 3 years between the age of 25-49, and every 5 years after that until to turn 64. The frequency may increase depending on if you have any abnormal results. These cervical screenings check the health of your cervix. It’s not a test for cancer, but it’s a test to help prevent cancer. They are crucial in spotting any changes in the cervical cell which could be signs of an infection or cervical cancer.  Cervical cancer often remains undetected because not everyone will always experience symptoms so ensuring your cervical screening is up to date is an important preventative measure.Symptoms like a change in your vaginal discharge, bleeding between periods, or during or after sex, unexplained pain in your lower back or pelvis, or pain and discomfort during sex can all indicate cervical infection or cervical cancer. Cervical cancer awareness month Cervical Cancer Awareness Month aims to encourage more people to attend their cervical screening appointment and take their HPV vaccinations, (in case they haven’t already got it) to prevent cervical cancer as well as raise awareness about common signs and symptoms. You know your body better than anyone. Becoming attuned to it will empower you and help you spot anything out of the ordinary.If you notice anything that doesn’t feel normal (symptoms like bleeding between periods, or unusual vaginal discharge, for example) when it comes to your reproductive health, especially if you’re trying to conceive or plan to have a baby in the future, speaking to a healthcare professional and getting the necessary tests early in the process is key. The connection between cervical health and fertility First, let’s talk about the cervix and how it’s related to your fertility.  Your cervix is a narrow, cylinder-shaped passage, this is where all the uterine lining will pass through during your period. It is the mouth of the uterus and connects it to your vagina. When in labour, the cervix is also the part that dilates, so the baby can be delivered, but it’s more than just a passageway. The cervix plays a key role in conception. When you ovulate, your cervical fluid (sometimes called cervical mucus) becomes watery to help transport the sperm from the vagina towards the cervix and to the egg to become fertilised (the first step of conception). Your cervical health can affect your fertility in various ways. Infections, cervical cancer and structural abnormalities can lead to your cervix not functioning properly. Without the cervical fluid that helps to transport the sperm, and the protective barrier your cervical fluid creates during pregnancy, a poorly functioning cervix could have led to complications. After ovulation, your cervical fluid becomes sticky and thick, acting like a barrier to the sperm. If this happens around the time of ovulation, it could inhibit sperm from reaching the egg, preventing fertilisation and conception. If you do become pregnant, poor cervical health can cause miscarriage or preterm labour. Infections of the cervix, such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can negatively impact fertility. Infections cause inflammation and scarring of the cervix, which can affect its normal function and increase the risk of infertility. Common cervical health issues affecting fertility Cervical infections can affect fertility Infections of the cervix, such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can negatively impact fertility. Infections cause inflammation and scarring of the cervix, which can affect its normal function and increase the risk of infertility. Cervical polyps can affect fertility Cervical polyps are growths that can develop on the cervix. Polyps are usually (benign) harmless and do not often cause any symptoms, but they can sometimes cause fertility issues, or increase the risk of miscarriage.  Once found, the treatment is usually to remove them. The process of removal depends on the size, type, location, visibility and number of polyps. Cervical dysplasia can affect fertility Cervical dysplasia is a cervical condition in which abnormal cells grow on the surface of your cervix. Cervical dysplasia (also known as cervical intraepithelial neoplasia or CIN) is not cancer but if left untreated, it can develop into cervical cancer and affect fertility. Early detection and treatment is key. Cervical dysplasia is often termed “precancerous”, which can sound scary, but if you get timely treatment, most people who get it do not get cancer. If you have abnormal cells from your screening test, you may be invited to have a colposcopy test to look closer at your cervix. The treatment you need for abnormal cervical cell changes […]

In this article, we explore how and why ageing affects fertility, offering insights into hormonal shifts, alterations in egg quality and quantity, and your reproductive health overall. Quick facts: Does age impact fertility? Age is one of the biggest factors affecting female fertility. Although ageing is inevitable, how it affects your fertility is complex, and varies between individuals. As women and those assigned female-at-birth (AFAB) age, their reproductive health undergoes various changes that impact conception, pregnancy, and childbirth. But how and why does fertility decrease with age, and what can we do about it? Some of the most common questions we get at Hertility are, ‘What is the best age to have a baby?’, ‘What age does a woman stop being fertile?’ and ‘What are the chances of getting pregnant over 35 naturally?’ We’ll cover everything you need to know about fertility in your 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond, so you’re equipped to make informed family planning decisions as you navigate ageing and fertility. Understanding female fertility and age To understand how ageing affects female fertility we need to understand the basics of female fertility.  Three factors—the quality and quantity of your eggs, your hormones, and your reproductive environment (uterus and fallopian tubes)—are what is needed to be in tip-top shape for a healthy pregnancy to occur.  If one or more are out of sync, conception and pregnancy become more difficult. Let’s take a look at each. Ovarian reserve Women and AFAB people’s fertility is closely tied to the menstrual cycle. The average menstrual cycle lasts about 28 days, but it can vary. The menstrual cycle involves the release of an egg (ovulation) and the build-up of the uterine wall lining in preparation for a potential pregnancy. We are born with all the eggs we’ll ever have. Our eggs are stored in our ovaries and this pool of immature eggs is known as your ovarian reserve.  Each month, a couple of eggs from this pool start to mature, but only one egg is eventually released during ovulation. But here’s the thing: as you age, the quantity and quality of your eggs decline—they age too! Cycle hormones Hormones, particularly oestrogen and progesterone, play a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle. Hormonal balance is therefore essential for the proper functioning of your reproductive system, but hormonal imbalances affect lots of people trying to conceive for reasons in and out of their control. You can support your hormones with lifestyle adjustments like eating a well-balanced diet, regular exercise, managing sleep and stress, and limiting alcohol and smoking. Reproductive environment Your uterus provides a safe space for a fertilised egg to implant and develop into a foetus. The fallopian tubes transport the egg from the ovary to the uterus where fertilisation can occur (the first step of pregnancy).  For a natural pregnancy to occur, your reproductive environment (like your uterus and fallopian tubes) must be in good condition too. How age affects fertility in women Our bodies are incredible, but unfortunately, as we age, there’s a time limit on our fertility. Wondering how fertility decreases with age? For most, in your 20s and 30s, your reproductive health is in full swing and your eggs are super healthy. As you age, your eggs do too, which means there’s less available, and the ones there aren’t necessarily the best quality. Your ovarian reserve can be estimated with an Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) test, but it won’t tell you the quality of your eggs, only the number you have left. Good-quality eggs are associated with better rates of fertilisation, improved embryo quality, and a higher chance of successful implantation (when the fertilised egg attaches to the womb lining to develop into a foetus, then a baby). Infertility issues, frequent miscarriages and in rare cases, genetic disorders like Down syndrome, can be down to poor egg quality. As we age, our hormones change too. Your fertility hormone heroes, oestrogen and progesterone, can fluctuate and gradually decline over time, with the most significant dip at menopause. Reproductive health conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) which can make your periods and ovulation unpredictable, thereby making getting pregnant difficult, is also the result of a hormone imbalance, especially androgens like testosterone. Plus, as you age, you might experience health issues. Medical diagnoses, chronic health conditions, and autoimmune disorders can crop up as you get older. These can all prevent your hormones and the reproductive environment from working as they should. At what age does fertility decline? Female fertility typically peaks during the 20s and early 30s. During this time, the likelihood of conception is higher and the risk of miscarriage is relatively low. One study by the Norwegian Institute of Public Health found that miscarriage was lowest among women aged 25-29 at 10%. This rose rapidly after age 30, reaching 53% for women aged 45 and over. Female fertility starts to decline in the late 20s and more significantly after the age of 35. The quantity and quality of eggs diminish more rapidly, making it more challenging to conceive. As we age, especially from our mid-30s, the decline in the ovarian reserve both in terms of quality and quantity happens very rapidly and the odds for conception and pregnancy become harder. Menopause marks the end of your reproductive years, usually occurring between ages 45-55. During menopause—an inevitable part of ageing—your ovaries stop working, your hormones gradually decline, your menstrual cycle ends and you can no longer get pregnant naturally. Females stop being fertile at menopause (not having a period for 12 months), however, fertility declines gradually with age, and after age 35, it becomes much more difficult to conceive and have a healthy pregnancy. However, it is important to note that this decline is unique to each person. Fertility milestones by age group You are most fertile in your 20s. Fertility gradually declines in the 30s, particularly after age 35. The chances of getting pregnant each month during your 30s are about 20%.  That means that for every 100 […]