A video series for mothers.

Key Takeaways

• Fertility does decline after 35 — female fertility declines with age, and Dr Shilla explains that the decline becomes more relevant after the age of 35.
• Age is not the only factor — age matters, but it should not be considered in isolation. A woman's overall health and individual medical circumstances are important when discussing fertility and pregnancy.
• 35 is not a sudden cut-off — turning 35 does not mean that pregnancy suddenly becomes impossible. Fertility changes with age rather than switching at a single birthday.
• Health and individual circumstances matter — Dr Shilla highlights that women today may have different health, nutrition and life circumstances compared with women several decades ago. Pregnancy considerations should therefore be discussed in the context of the individual woman.
• If you are over 35 and trying to conceive, don't wait too long to seek advice — Dr Shilla's advice is that if you are over 35, have been trying to conceive for around six months and have not become pregnant, consider speaking with a gynaecologist — even if you have no known medical problems.

Relevant FAQs

Key Takeaways

• There are long-acting reversible contraceptive options — LARC refers to contraceptive methods that can remain in place for several years while still being reversible.
• IUDs are placed inside the uterus — an intrauterine device (IUD/IUCD) is placed inside the uterus to provide contraception.
• Contraceptive implants are placed under the skin — a contraceptive implant is another long-acting option. Rather than being placed in the uterus, it is inserted under the skin and can remain in the body for several years.
• "Reversible" is an important distinction — unlike permanent contraception, LARC methods can be removed if a woman's circumstances or future family plans change.
• Your plans may change — not wanting another pregnancy now does not necessarily mean you will feel the same way several years later. Your choice of contraception can take your current needs and future plans into consideration.

Relevant FAQs

Key Takeaways

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding can affect menstruation — periods commonly stop during pregnancy, and breastfeeding can delay the return of menstruation after delivery.
• Consecutive pregnancies can create a longer stretch without periods — when pregnancies and extended periods of breastfeeding happen in succession, the total period of time without menstruation can become surprisingly long.
• No periods does not automatically mean "cysts" — a prolonged absence of periods should not automatically be assumed to mean there is a cyst or a particular gynaecological condition. The individual circumstances and possible causes need to be considered.
• Context matters — pregnancy history, breastfeeding and what has been happening during those years are important when understanding why someone's periods have not returned.
• If you are concerned, discuss it with your doctor — there can be different reasons for absent periods. If you are not pregnant or breastfeeding and your periods have stopped unexpectedly, or you are concerned about your menstrual cycle, seek medical advice for an individual assessment.

Relevant FAQs

Key Takeaways

• Pap smears are a form of cervical cancer screening — A Pap smear is used to check for changes in the cervix as part of cervical cancer screening.
• Dr Shilla discusses Pap smears with her postnatal patients — For Dr Shilla, women's healthcare does not simply end after childbirth. She routinely discusses cervical screening with her postnatal patients as part of their ongoing women's health care.
• Being sexually active matters when discussing cervical screening — Dr Shilla highlights sexual activity as an important consideration when discussing when cervical screening should begin.
• Don't wait until later in life to think about cervical screening — Cervical screening is an important preventive health measure. Speak with your doctor about when screening is appropriate for you rather than assuming it is something that only needs to be considered when you are older.

Relevant FAQs

Key Takeaways

• Feeling anxious during your first pregnancy is completely normal. Every pregnancy is different, and it's natural to have questions and concerns, especially when everything is new.
• Not every symptom is a cause for alarm. Many common pregnancy symptoms are expected, but it's important to know when something doesn't feel right and seek medical advice.
• Avoid comparing your pregnancy with others. Every mother and every baby are different. Comparing experiences on social media or with friends may create unnecessary worry.
• Ask questions whenever you're unsure. No concern is too small. Your obstetrician is there to guide and reassure you throughout your pregnancy.
• Trust your instincts. If something feels unusual or you're worried about your baby's wellbeing, don't hesitate to contact your doctor or seek medical attention.

Relevant FAQs

Key Takeaways

• Breastfeeding has benefits for babies — Breast milk provides nutrition for babies and breastfeeding can offer important health benefits.
• Breastfeeding may support a baby's immunity — Dr Shilla discusses the potential immune benefits of breastfeeding and shares her own observation of breastfeeding her child.
• Every mother's breastfeeding journey is different — Although breastfeeding can be beneficial, not every mother is able to breastfeed successfully or comfortably.
• Mothers should not feel pressured to breastfeed — Breastfeeding should not come at the expense of a mother's wellbeing. Mothers who are unable to breastfeed should not be made to feel guilty or inadequate.
• A mother's wellbeing matters too — Dr Shilla raises an important question: if breastfeeding is severely affecting a mother emotionally or mentally, we also need to consider the impact on the mother.
• Ultimately, ensuring baby is fed is important — The conversation should not simply be about whether a mother breastfeeds. The wellbeing of both mother and baby matters.

Relevant FAQs

Key Takeaways

• A C-section is major abdominal surgery — A C-section is not simply an "easier" alternative to vaginal birth. It is a major surgical procedure and requires appropriate recovery and care afterwards.
• Recovery can be more challenging — Mothers are recovering from surgery while simultaneously caring for and adjusting to life with a newborn. The physical recovery from a C-section can therefore bring its own set of challenges.
• An emergency C-section is not a failure — Some mothers may feel disappointed or believe that they have "failed" because they were unable to have the vaginal birth they had hoped for. A change in the mode of delivery does not mean that a mother has failed.
• The way you deliver does not determine your strength as a mother — Whether a baby is delivered vaginally or through C-section, childbirth requires tremendous strength.

Relevant FAQs