Tuesday 14 August 2012

The Feel Good Factor

Here in the UK we have been experiencing that rare, four yearly condition - Olympic Fever!  It has been fantastic to watch all of those passionate, hard-working young people striving to achieve their dreams.  Even the 10 O'Clock News has been a pleasure to watch as it was filled with images of joy and success.

I was going to write an inspiring blog about it all but someone else got there first.  Trevor Silvester of The Quest Institute has written a piece that says everything that I wanted to say so please take a moment and read this http://www.questinstitute.co.uk/1555/a-legacy-of-spirit/

I hope you are inspired!

Wednesday 1 August 2012

Vicky and the Taboo Subject Part 2

So, in a plot twist in the Archers, it turns out that Vicky's missed period is not the first sign of menopause.  She's pregnant.  This is a surprise to both Vicky and her husband Mike and will no doubt give the script writers plenty to play with.

Many women experience irregular periods in the stage leading up to the menopause (that is the time when periods stop completely).  During this stage it is possible to get pregnant even if you are taking Hormone Therapy.  As a general guideline, women should wait for two clear years after their last period before stopping contraception.

If you are over 45 and taking the Pill for contraception, it may mask the early signs of the menopause and you may not be aware that your natural hormone levels are depleting.  If you are in a new relationship, it is best to use a barrier method such as condoms because of the risk of sexually transmitted diseases.  There are also a range of intrauterine devices (IUDs) or coils that you can consider.  There is a coil which releases progesterone directly into the womb and this can help if you are experiencing heavy bleeds.