Category: Uncategorised

Improving Your Fertility and Lifestyle Changes That Could Help

By Katie Heath, 28th May 2026

When you decide that you’d like to have a baby, there can be many overwhelming feelings. Whether you have been trying for some time or are still at the ‘thinking about it’ stage, positive lifestyle changes or tweaks can really help support your fertility health. There are lots of factors to consider, from age and genetics to any underlying medical conditions, so to maximise your chances of conceiving, positive lifestyle choices can play a significant role. It should be noted though, that lifestyle changes alone will not guarantee conception, they just help create the most supportive environment for fertility and overall reproductive wellbeing.

Understanding Your Fertility and Lifestyle

Fertility is largely linked to your overall health. For women it can be determined by hormone balance, ovulation, egg quality, and reproductive system health. For men, it involves sperm production, quality, and motility. And your lifestyle can affect all of these areas.

Medical assessments and/or treatments may sometimes be needed, but lots of people benefit from checking their health before or along with clinical investigations (like the ones offered at Surrey Park Women’s Clinic). Small but effective changes can help improve hormonal balance and support reproduction.

Maintain a Healthy Body Weight

One of the most well known lifestyle factors which can affect fertility is your body weight. Being too underweight or overweight can interfere with hormone levels and regular ovulation in women. For men it can affect testosterone levels and sperm quality.

Eating a balanced, nutrient rich diet and taking regular exercise will help you achieve a healthy BMI (body mass index). There is no need for extreme dieting or intense exercise routines, but rather healthy habits that support hormonal balance.

Whole foods like fruit and vegetables, lean protein, whole grains, and healthy fats can help regulate blood sugars which can support reproductive hormones. These healthy foods can also help keep energy levels steady throughout the day which will help reduce stress on the endocrine system.

Nutrition and Fertility Friendly Foods

A fertility friendly diet is all about balance and nourishment. Certain nutrients are important for reproductive health.

Folic Acid – good for early pregnancy development and egg health

Iron – this helps healthy ovulation and prevents deficiency related fatigue

Omega-3 fatty acids – good for hormone production and reducing inflammation

Vitamin D – good for reproductive hormone regulation

Including foods like leafy green, berries, oily fish, nuts and seeds, and legumes can help provide essential nutrients naturally. It’s equally important to stay hydrated.

Reducing Alcohol and Caffeine

Alcohol can impact fertility in a negative way for both men and women. Even staying within recommended limits can affect hormone levels and menstrual regularity. Reducing alcohol intake (or avoiding it completely) when trying to conceive can help improve chances.

High levels of caffeine are not good for us at the best of times, but they may also be linked to reduced fertility and can affect sleep quality, which in turn affects hormone balance. Monitor your caffeine intake – one or two cups of coffee per day is a moderate level and is often recommended.

Stop Smoking

Smoking is well known for potentially reducing your fertility. It has been linked to reduced egg quality, earlier ovarian ageing, and lower sperm quality in men. It can also increase the risk of miscarriage and other complications in pregnancy.

Reducing exposure to smoking and other toxins (pesticides, heavy metals etc) can support fertility.

Manage Your Stress

Stress won’t directly cause infertility, but chronic stress can interfere with hormonal balance which can then affect ovulation. It can also have an effect on sleep quality, overall wellbeing as well as libido.

Dealing with fertility can be an emotional time, and it’s important to know the impact it can have on you psychologically. There are techniques you can use to stay emotionally well; mindfulness, yoga and pilates, breathing exercises, and counselling can help keep your stress levels down. Feeling supported and well informed can make a huge difference during this time.

Regular Exercise

Regular Exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight, but it can also help support hormonal balance, and improve your circulation. But balance is essential. Excessive high intensity exercise might interfere with ovulation in some women, especially if they have low body fat or high stress levels.

Moderate exercise is best, such as walking, swimming, cycling, and yoga when you’re trying to conceive. Consistency over intensity!

Sleep and Rest

Being well rested always makes us feel better, and the quality of our sleep is important not just for wellbeing but for hormone regulation too. If you’re sleeping poorly, then the production of key reproductive hormones can be disrupted, including the ones that regulate ovulation and sperm production.

7-9 hours of quality sleep per night can help your overall hormonal health, so creating a calm sleep environment is beneficial. This may mean limiting screen time before bed, and limiting caffeine during the day.

Underlying Medical Factors

While positive lifestyle changes will all help with fertility, you should still recognise that medical investigation could be needed. Certain conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis, thyroid disorders, or low ovarian reserve can all affect fertility and may need specialist assessment. Remember that fertility is complex; there’s rarely a single cause when conception takes longer than expected

At Surrey Park Women’s Clinic, we offer fertility assessments designed to provide clarity and guide you through the next steps. These may include ultrasound scans, hormone blood tests, and semen analysis where appropriate. Our consultant led approach makes sure that every patient receives care tailored to their individual needs and circumstances.

Every person’s fertility journey is different, and our teams work hard to try and provide positive outcomes for every patient. If you are concerned about your fertility or would like to understand more about your reproductive health, a consultation is an important step – you’ll get some clarity and peace of mind!

What is a Gynaecological Examination?

By ODOllie, 23rd September 2025

The thought of having a gynaecological examination can be a little scary for some women. Some simply don’t know what to expect, as it’s a very personal type of medical assessment. It’s completely natural to feel uncertain about what’s involved, but these examinations play a vital role in women’s health, so it’s important to dispel any myths and worries. Early detection of any issues is always best, but any existing problems can be monitored, providing reassurance about reproductive and gynaecological wellbeing.

We’ll take you through what a gynaecological examination is, what it entails, why it’s so important, and how women can prepare themselves for their appointments.

Understanding Gynaecological Examinations

Knowing what a gynaecological examination is, in laymen’s terms, usually helps women become less anxious about any preconceived ideas they may have had. It’s a medical assessment that focuses on the female reproductive system, including the vulva, vagina, cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. The assessment might also include breast health, menstrual cycles and history, and certain aspects of urinary or sexual health.

These examinations are overseen by specialists in women’s health such as gynaecologists, or trained nurses. Their purpose is to make sure that the patient’s reproductive system is healthy, or to investigate any symptoms (which may include pain, bleeding, or changes in cycles), and to offer advice or guidance on contraception, fertility, and menopause.

Why Might You Need a Gynaecological Examination?

You may have been advised, or you may choose to have a gynaecological examination, and there could be several different reasons for this. They can include

Routine screening – Your regular check-up may be due. This could be for a smear test or general health check.

Symptoms – You could be suffering from pelvic pain, irregular periods, unusual or heavy bleeding, unusual discharge, or changes to your breasts or vulva.

Fertility investigations – If you’re trying to conceive, an examination can be an important first step.

Contraception advice – This will assess your suitability for certain methods.

Perimenopause and menopause management – This looks at your symptoms like hot flushes, sweats, vaginal dryness or changes to your cycle.

Monitoring of ongoing conditions – If you suffer from fibroids, endometriosis, or polycystic ovary syndrome.

In many cases, an examination can be about reassurance; a confirmation that everything is healthy and as it should be, even if there are no concerning symptoms.

What Happens During the Examination?

Gynaecological examinations can be different depending on the reason for your visit, but most follow a similar structure or routine.

Medical History and Discussion – The appointment will usually begin with a conversation about your general health, menstrual history, family medical history, lifestyle, and any concerns you may have. This is also a good time to raise any questions or mention symptoms you may have.

General Health Checks – Basic checks and observations may be taken, including blood pressure, weight, BMI, and sometimes blood tests might be ordered, especially if the appointment relates to contraception, fertility, or menopause.

External Examination – The clinician may carry out an external examination of the abdomen and the vulva area to check for lumps, tenderness, or abnormalities.

Internal Examination – An internal, or pelvic examination is often the part that women feel most anxious about, but it is usually straightforward, quick, and painless, if a little uncomfortable. A speculum is gently inserted into the vagina so that the clinician can see the cervix. This may be combined with a cervical smear test, swabs, or samples for extra investigation.

Further Tests or Imaging – You may be offered an ultrasound scan of the pelvis. This will provide detailed images of the uterus, ovaries and surrounding structures. If there are any symptoms or concerns, this gives a bit of additional insight.

How Can You Prepare for a Gynaecological Examination?

There really isn’t any special preparation necessary, but there are a few things you can do to make your experience more comfortable.

Clothing – Wearing loose and comfortable clothing can make it easier to change and feel at ease.

Timing – Try not to book your appointment for when you have your period (unless you have a concern that relates to heavy or irregular bleeding).

Hygiene – Just wash as usual before your appointment – no special products are needed, neither is douching.

Questions – If you have specific questions you’d like to ask, write them down so you don’t forget them during the appointment. Also, write down any symptoms you think are noteworthy.

Support – If you are nervous and feel like you need extra support, you can choose to have a chaperone with you during the examination.

Common Myths and Misconceptions

You’re not alone if you feel anxious or worried about a gynaecological examination, especially if it’s your first, but we have addressed some of the most common concerns.

“It will be painful.” – At most, there may be some mild discomfort, particularly during a smear test, but it should not be painful. If you do feel any pain, you should tell the clinician immediately.

“It will be embarrassing.” – These examinations are a routine part of your healthcare professional’s day. They’re highly trained and will put your comfort and wellbeing first.

“I’m too young/old to need this.” – Gynaecological healthcare is important at all stages of life, from adolescence through to post-menopause so the likelihood that you’re too young or old is negligible.

“I should only make an appointment if I have symptoms.” – Routine check ups and preventative care are just as important as finding and diagnosing new and existing issues.

How Important are Regular Gynaecological Health Checks?

We should give the same importance to gynae healthcare that we do to dental or optical. As with your teeth and eyes, regular gynaecological check-ups are important in maintaining health. Cervical changes, ovarian cysts, or endometrial issues can develop, sometimes without obvious symptoms, so early detection allows for more effective treatment, giving you reassurance and peace of mind.

At Surrey Park Women’s Clinic, we put your health first. We take the time to listen to your medical concerns and devise a treatment plan specific to you. All treatments are Consultant-led, and we aim to provide women with all the support and personalised medical attention required to ensure they are helped to feel better.

We are passionate about providing personalised healthcare for the treatment of all Gynaecological conditions, including Fertility, Menopause, Menopause Management and Pregnancy Care.

Our clinic is open 6 days a week and offers patients Consultations throughout the day, including evenings and weekends. We also offer same-day Ultrasound scanning for both Gynaecology and Pregnancy in addition to Blood test services. Book an appointment here.

Physiotherapy during pregnancy

By Marketing.SPC, 20th January 2024

The physical toll of pregnancy is significant. During pregnancy there will be changes in hormones,
weight and biomechanics in the body, all of which are expected and normal. These changes can
increase the chance of musculoskeletal pain, such as back pain or pelvic girdle pain, and pelvic floor
issues, such as leaking urine. There are many possible post-natal considerations and in this blog we focus on what you can do during pregnancy, to improve your comfort and recovery.

Pelvic girdle, back and hip pain
During pregnancy, around 20% of women experience discomfort in their pelvis and hips, this is
known as ‘pelvic girdle pain’. Around 50% of women experience back pain. For most women, the
pain comes and goes. Sometimes the pain can be debilitating.
Pelvic musculoskeletal physiotherapy can help with specific biomechanical assessment, and with a
range of treatment options, including:
 hands on treatment, such as joint mobilisation, myofascial release or massage
 prescribed exercises for mobility and strengthening
 advice on positioning and activity modification
 advice on additional aids, such as maternity belts

Pelvic floor issues
Many women, maybe up to 40%, notice a decrease in pelvic floor function during pregnancy – for
example, leaking a bit of urine when laughing or coughing. This can be due to increase pressure on
your bladder and pelvic floor, changes in hormones, or pre-existing muscle weakness/tension.
Pelvic physiotherapy can assess your pelvic floor and give you specific advice and exercises to
improve your function short term, and to help prevent issues longer term such as postnatal
incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse.
Internal assessments are safe during pregnancy, as long as you haven’t been told otherwise by your
consultant or midwife. If you would like help with your pelvic floor, but would prefer not to have an
internal assessment, physio can still be really helpful.

Exercise during pregnancy
All the evidence available supports exercise during pregnancy. Exercise can:
 reduce the risk of high blood pressure
 reduce the risk of gestational diabetes
 help you to maintain a healthy weight and return to your pre-pregnancy weight more easily
 reduce your baby’s risk of developing childhood obesity, diabetes & heart disease later in life

 have mental health benefits – improves mood, reduces anxiety and stress and improves
sleep pattern
 reduce risk of postnatal depression
 increase strength and stamina
 prepare you for labour and delivery
 reduce aches and pains during pregnancy, such as pelvic or back pain
The National Guidelines suggest 150 minutes of exercise a week during pregnancy. If you have been
exercising regularly pre-pregnancy, you may well be able to continue. If you were inactive prior to
pregnancy, start gradually. Physiotherapy can help with advice for general fitness and exercise, as
well as specific core, strengthening and mobility exercises.

Let’s Educate And Break The Breastfeeding Stigma

By Emma Wiltshire, 1st August 2022

Sadly, the world does not make life easy for breastfeeding parents. There are still a lot of people out there who have negative opinions of the process and condemn anyone trying to feed their children this way in public.

The breastfeeding stigma is a fairly archaic one that is fed by misinformation and misunderstanding surrounding the benefits and process. But by sharing more about the topic and helping more people become aware of why people do or do not feed this way, we hope to make the world a much more accepting place for parents!

Benefits of Breastfeeding

It is recommended around the world as one of the best sources of nutrition for babies. A perfectly normal and natural function that supports young children should not be one that is surrounded by so many negative connotations.

Strengthens The Bond

One of the main benefits is the bonding experience it offers between mother and child. This time spent close together helps to create an unbreakable bond that can offer lifelong benefits. A lot of mums decide to breastfeed to experience this incredible time between themselves and the child they are raising.

The physiological effects felt by the parent during nursing can lower stress and create a sense of calm that can also aid in better sleep. Skin-to-skin contact is one heavily recommended by healthcare professionals all over the world – breastfeeding is just one of the great ways to experience this and grow your bond from day one.

Improved Immune System

It also helps with the baby’s development of their own immune system as well as providing them with vital nutrients and antibodies that they may not get from other sources. It has been shown to reduce the risk of:

SIDS
Obesity
Type II diabetes
Inflammatory bowel disease
Asthma
Childhood leukaemia
Ear and respiratory infections

Amongst other incredible health benefits, these are risks that can be extremely problematic for young children and so any possibility of mitigating these risks should not be scoffed at!

Aids Pregnancy Recovery

The breastfeeding stigma also fails to recognise the benefits the mother receives. The hormone oxytocin is produced during feeding, causing the uterus to contract and return to its usual size more quickly. This can help to reduce the amount of bleeding after pregnancy and even lower the risk of developing breast or ovarian cancer.

What If I Can’t Breastfeed?

There are many reasons why a parent may not be able to breastfeed their child. Perhaps they are taking medication that is not compatible or maybe they have a medical condition that doesn’t allow it.

Some mothers simply cannot produce enough milk for their baby or choose not to breastfeed for personal reasons. It can be a stressful and painful time for many so no matter what the reason may be, no parent should ever feel ashamed or embarrassed about how they feed their child.

Below are some more very common reasons why mums choose to stick to the bottle:

Returning to work or school
Lack of support
Personal fears
Health concerns

We need to break the breastfeeding stigma and help to educate those who do not understand the process or the benefits. Only then can we create a more accepting world for parents and their children.

If you or someone you know is struggling to breastfeed, it is important to first visit your doctor, midwife or lactation specialist. They can give you support after leaving the hospital and ensure you have all of the resources and understanding you need to make it as enjoyable of an experience as possible.

However, if you cannot or choose not to, it’s just as important that you are aware of the best alternatives available to you such as formula or exclusive pumping. For more information, you can visit the NHS website.

Struggles Associated With Breastfeeding

It’s not always an easy process, nor will it work the same way for every parent or child. It’s important that if you are struggling – you talk to your healthcare provider as soon as possible so that they can help you tackle or overcome any issues.

Tongue-Tie

When the strip of tissue attaching the tongue to the mouth is shorter than usual, it can create problems when breastfeeding. Cases can range from mild to severe but if you notice issues with latching as well as any of the signs below, it could indicate a tongue-tie.

The tongue does not lift or move side to side
Refusing to feed
Difficulty with any form of feeding
Slow weight gain

Colic

Colic is most common in babies from a few weeks old up until they are around 4-6 months. It affects around 1 in 5 babies and could occur whether they are breastfed or bottle fed. Whilst there is sadly no cure, it’s important to look out for the signs and try some soothing methods such as burping, proper latching and sitting up your baby to console them.

Mastitis

If you notice the tissue around your breast becomes inflamed and painful, or there is a lump around the sore area – you may be suffering from mastitis. It’s something not a lot of women talk about because it can be embarrassing and painful.

It’s an important topic to be aware of as it can leave parents feeling run down with flu-like symptoms that need to be treated. Feeding from one side more than the other or improper latching can be some of the most common causes, however, it may also come from:

Not feeding enough
Milk duct or gland damage

Catching it early is crucial as it becomes much easier to treat. Antibiotics can be used for any infection, but you should try to continue breastfeeding in spite of the pain.

For more information on managing mastitis and other challenges – visit this NHS page.

Is It Illegal To Breastfeed In Public?

Despite the breastfeeding stigma and the fact that some people may feel uncomfortable about the matter, it is completely legal to breastfeed in public areas in the UK as well as in most European countries.

The Equality Act states that it is discrimination to treat a woman poorly if she is breastfeeding. You are absolutely within your rights to challenge anyone who asks you to leave, but the more it is done and the more people understand the process, the more normal it will become.

Many parents choose to use a muslin or oversized shirt to cover up as they breastfeed in public, but there is no right or wrong way of doing so. Just ensure you feel comfortable.

Benefits For Developing Countries

As well as the antibodies passed from mum to baby, breast milk contains all of the vital nutrients newborns need. It can be a major way of aiding digestion and ensuring newborns are as protected as possible from common illnesses.

In areas with poor water sanitation and high rates of disease, it is often much safer than giving a young child contaminated water. It can also help to reduce the risk of malnutrition and dehydration, both of which are common problems in developing countries.

As well as this, in countries where food is in short supply – breast milk is a free alternative that ensures newborns are getting the fuel their body needs to grow. This cheaper option makes a great choice for developing areas that cannot afford to repeatedly buy baby food high in nutrients or formula that can be extremely expensive.

The formula can also be difficult to come by in any areas that are not easy to import to or are not developed with plenty of shops and cities. As a result, breastfeeding may be the only option for some parents. It’s important to remember that even if it is not possible or chosen to breastfeed in developed countries, this does not make it any less essential for those who live elsewhere.

This is part of the reason why we need to educate those who do not understand. Only then can we create a more accepting world for parents and their children.

Tackle Breastfeeding Stigma With Us

From the 1st of August to the 6th of August this year is World breastfeeding awareness week. We work with parents through fertility journeys and pregnancy recovery – seeing all the struggles and challenges they face along the way.

This should not be a barrier people have to deal with simply to ensure their child gets the nutrition and energy they need every day.

We believe that this natural process should be a comfortable and happy experience for all – without the breastfeeding stigma. This is why we will be discussing your thoughts and feelings as well as professional advice on our social media throughout the week. We hope you’ll join us in asking questions and sharing information. Let’s educate and empower parents everywhere to feel confident about their choices!

Health In The Community: Black Leaders Awareness Day

By Emma Wiltshire, 11th July 2022

This year, July 18th marks Black Leaders Awareness Day. The event is set aside to celebrate the accomplishments and experience the wisdom of past, current and next-generation figureheads in the black community.

These pioneers have worked tirelessly to improve diversity and inclusivity across the globe in multiple industries. We want to ensure they remain at the forefront of society amongst leaders from other communities.

Many have significantly impacted the medical industry and enlightened others on the disparities still faced today.

We want to use this day to build understanding and voice these issues in order to build upon the results achieved by many of these individuals. Our medical community is one uniquely placed to open the eyes of others to circumstances and worries different to their own.

Black Leaders In Medicine

Throughout history, racism within the medical industry has often been based on the ignorant myth that black people’s bodies work differently and are overall inferior to those of the white race.

As a result, many people in the community have had less, incorrect or lower-quality access to treatment and advice. Especially in areas where we see disparities such as infectious diseases.

Not only that, but those working in the industry have also faced serious discrimination – finding it harder to progress, have their voices heard and break stereotypes.

So, let’s celebrate Black Leaders Awareness Day by looking at some pioneers in the field, starting very close to home.

Dr Kizzmekia Corbett

Did you know that in the UK, black people are at least twice as likely to die from Covid-19 as others? The community has been and continues to be disproportionately affected by the pandemic.

There is not enough research to determine a definite cause or factor for this statistic, but it is one that clearly highlights the issues still faced today.

A wide variety has been examined, however, from social and economic equalities to biological factors. It is thought that living in more densely populated areas, the increased likelihood of being a key worker and existing health conditions are some of the main factors associated with this ethnic minority and contracting Covid-19.

It is scary to think that even with access to the NHS and free care in this country, there is a community more susceptible to dying from certain viruses and diseases.

Dr Kizzmekia Corbett is a viral immunologist and lead scientist on the team that developed the Moderna Covid-19 vaccine.

Not only has her involvement led to the immunisation of millions, but she continues to speak publically alongside other black leaders to build trust in vaccines and other medicine amongst her community.

Despite being hit disproportionately hard, a lot of the black community remains mistrustful of medicine and medical institutions given the history of racist policies and practices.

Dr Corbett now focuses her time on public speaking as well as mentoring young women of colour in STEM.

Dr Camara Phyllis Jones

Dr Jones is a physician, epidemiologist and ex-president of the Public Health Association who has dedicated decades to realising, measuring and fighting against the impacts of racism on the health of those living in the US.

Her aim is to widen the debate about social determinants of poor health across minority communities. There are many elements surrounding this topic that are difficult for many to understand or discuss and so by creating a platform that educates – there is hope that her work may lead to a National Campaign Against Racism.

Henrietta Lacks

Black Leaders Awareness Day is not only celebrating those who have actively participated in work for the community but those whose legacies and impact lives on.

The year 2020 marked 100 years since Lack’s birth. Having died at the age of 31, she had previously been diagnosed with aggressive Cervical Cancer at one of the only hospitals in the area that would treat people of colour.

Whilst at the hospital, a doctor removed some of Henrietta’s cells without consent or knowledge from Lacks or her family. This was unfortunately legal at the time and in doing so, he noticed that these cells were essentially ‘immortal’ – replicating rapidly with an extraordinary ability to survive.

Since then, her cells have been involved in key discoveries within the cancer, immunology and infectious disease fields. One of their most recent applications being within the Covid-19 vaccine research as well as historic polio and HPV vaccines.

However amazing her contribution has been to the entire medical industry, her story also highlights the racial inequalities within the system.

Due to the lack of institutions willing to welcome ethnic minorities, access to proper healthcare was slight or non-existent for much of history. As well as this, none of the profits made from her contributions was ever given back to the Lacks family, nor were they approached for further consent or compensation.

However, decades later, the family entered into a data use agreement, providing them with more control over the regulation of further discoveries using Henrietta’s cells. Because of this, her legacy lives on and continues to pave the way in multiple medical fields – also proving that dedication and education are the way forwards to achieving justice.

Struggles Of Women Of Colour

Shockingly, there are a huge number of disparities in Black women’s healthcare, including even the ability to access proper levels of treatment and support. But it does not stop there.

Maternal mortality and injury rates are higher for Black women.
Black women experience higher infertility rates – paired with racism and less access to fertility care when they need it.
Health disparities in the Black community typically receive very little funding, leaving it almost impossible to access the correct care.
Underrepresentation of Black women within clinical trials means that this necessary research and education is even further out of reach for the community.
As well as clinical trials, the lack of biomedical data from Black women means that further health disparities can go unrecognised for long periods – causing these individuals to suffer even more stigmatisation and discrimination.

Much like we mentioned earlier, some of these factors could be down to causes such as pre-existing health conditions. However, to this day Black women are still mistreated within the healthcare industry because of racism and false beliefs.

Many professionals still even operate under the false belief that black women have a higher pain tolerance. This can result in omitted access to pain relief or the assumption that treatment for injury and certain illnesses is unnecessary because they can live with it.

Racism has been shown to have a direct impact on health outcomes – both mental and physical. It can lead to conditions such as anxiety, high blood pressure and even premature births. So even the case of discrimination in day-to-day lives could be impacting their well-being and the outcome of larger medical occurrences like pregnancy or disparities such as HIV.

There is also a lack of black doctors and nurses in the NHS. In fact, the gov.uk website shows that as of 2020 77.9% of all NHS staff were white. This can lead to feelings of mistrust and anxiety amongst black women when attending appointments, doubled with the fear of discrimination and racism.

It’s vital that we continue to support black-led initiatives such as Black Leaders Awareness Day, in order to help address these issues. Education is key in promoting change. Black women deserve to feel confident, safe and supported throughout any health journey they may experience throughout their lives.

With access to services like our own here at Surrey Park Women’s Clinic, people of every race, religion and background can be guaranteed the advice, support and treatment they need to maintain their health and wellbeing.

It also allows for more research to be undertaken, improving the entire industry’s understanding of health disparities within the Black community.

We are also proud to have an incredibly professional team made up of people of many ethnicities who have originated from and studied all over the world in a range of specialities.

Because of this, we pride ourselves on having created an inclusive, welcoming environment for everybody who needs our services. We believe this should be the case all over the world and that more should be educated on the issues still faced by people of colour today.

From screenings to testing and wellbeing services, medical care should not be a luxury. Nor should it be provided differently to people of varying community backgrounds.

Support Black Leaders Awareness Day With Us

July 18th is an important date to remember in order to keep fighting for black rights and progress, and also a time to celebrate pioneers in the community – both past and present.

We hope you’ll join us in celebrating this day by sharing this blog or stories of your own with us on social media. Using the hashtag #BlackLeadersAwarenessDay will ensure your support is recognised by like-minded others and that you can help spread the word to as many people as possible.

Don’t forget, if you feel let down in any way by your healthcare provider, it is important not to stop seeking help but to ensure you speak up for your body. There are teams out there like our own that will ensure you get the best possible care in a way that ensures you feel safe and seen.

Give us a call.

Why You Should Be Celebrating International Women’s Day 2022

By Emma Wiltshire, 8th March 2022

International Women’s Day 2022

Tuesday 8th March is set this year for International Women’s Day 2022. It is a worldwide event that celebrates the achievements of women. Since the early 1900s, we have been recognising the political, economic and social accolades of women all over and using this as a time to strive for gender equality.

As specialists in fertility and women’s health, we feel very strongly about empowerment and fulfilment. That’s why we will be celebrating the accomplishments of our own clients and staff as well as women from all other walks of life. We would love for you to join us in doing the same.

On Wednesday 9th March, we will be hosting a special event focusing on Women’s Health. If you’d like to come along, join us at the Hub on the Park cafe in Guildford.

Hosted by our very own Katie Biddiss, Clinic Director, we’ll also be joined by:

Dr Alex Standring: Menopause Specialist
Emma Menzies: Coach and Fertility at work coach
Annabel Cussen: Physiotherapist, Specialist in women’s health

You can register for tickets on Eventbrite. We’d love to see you and it will be a great way to celebrate.

Women’s Health

Our mission and one that is shared amongst others during International Women’s Day 2022 is to assist women towards a position of power. This will give them the opportunity to make informed decisions about their health.

Reproductive health conditions affect women’s health and emotional wellbeing on a daily basis and can range in severity in terms of the impact their condition has on their everyday life.

We want them to disregard the stigma around gynaecological treatments, fertility and other areas such as menopause where patients may feel particularly anxious or embarrassed. Only by doing so can women get a clear and personal understanding of their needs.

The aim of this will be to encourage them to make the decisions that benefit their body and wellbeing – without being influenced by external factors. Our friendly team will always champion your individual health pathway and lead you towards a fully supported and educated outcome.

All of this is a constant factor within our clinic but will shine particularly brightly in partnership with the #BreakTheBias theme of International Women’s Day 2022.

As well as creating a safe environment for patients and offering the best standards of care and information – we want people to start talking about their worries, concerns and asking questions about all areas of women’s health.

Once this becomes a daily occurrence in our lives, the bias around these topics will begin to dissipate. While keeping them behind closed doors is necessary for many personal cases – the broader topics themselves should be spoken about.

#BreakTheBias

A focal point for this year’s celebrations is the push towards gender equality. This means campaigning for a world free from discrimination and stereotypes.

Whether deliberate or not, bias has always made it difficult for women to be heard and move forward in their lives. Despite celebrating this day for many decades, the aim to achieve equality has still not been fully realised.

Amongst the gender pay gaps, fewer business opportunities and lack of belief when women begin speaking out – there are many other areas in life where women are set back due to bias.

Many people have been through the struggle of approaching professionals with questions about their mental and physical health and it is overlooked. All over, women have missed out on important testing or examinations for serious conditions simply because they are accused of overreacting or worrying about nothing.

As our clinic specialises in the complex areas of women’s health, we understand the signs and symptoms of these issues. We also run a consultant-led initiative that ensures women see the same consultant for the duration of their communication with us.

This allows us to provide expert services with complete and specialist information provided by those who understand the topics the best. It is our aim to eradicate this bias and tackle the issues of late diagnosis and misunderstanding symptoms.

Not only will the push for gender equality help to achieve this, but simply by listening to our patients and the women in our lives – we can increase understanding of these issues and educate more people.

How Can You Get Involved – International Women’s Day 2022

Everyone can celebrate and show their support for this cause. It’s important that as many people as possible get involved in the day and are becoming more aware of the problems women still face in today’s society.

Spreading Awareness

This year, the campaign is calling for people to post images on social media and around the internet of themselves in a #BreakTheBias pose. People will be crossing their arms in front of their chest to represent that enough is enough.

It’s time to stop, take a stand and approach the issue of equality head-on. So one thing you can do is be a part of this movement – post to all your social media platforms and use the trending hashtags on Tuesday 8th March.

International Women’s Day 2022

Join Our Event

As we mentioned at the start of this blog, the team at Surrey Park Women’s Clinic are hosting an event in Guildford to celebrate this day.

As women, we often put everyone else’s health and wellbeing before our own. It is second nature to many and can lead to us neglecting our own bodies. We’re hosting this relaxing afternoon to offer a chance to network and ask questions. We can then realise the importance of putting ourselves first and taking the time to understand our own needs.

The event will take place at Hub on the Park Cafe in Guildford and is hosted by our very own Clinic Director, Katie Biddiss. There will be talks from some amazing specialists who will be shedding light on certain areas of women’s health.

Dr Alex Standring will be sharing her expertise in hormones, menopause and other gynaecological concerns. Her personal experiences have led her to strongly advocate for informed medical advice and personalised treatment for women.

Emma Menzies will also be speaking. As a professional coach for women experiencing fertility challenges – her aim is to empower those to manage their careers and find fulfilment on the road to motherhood. Fertility is an incredibly important topic that has been classed as taboo in the past, so speakers like Emma are shining a light on the issues surrounding it.

Furthermore, Annabel Cussen is a physiotherapist specialising in women’s health. Pre and postnatal symptoms as well as pelvic floor rehabilitation are just a couple of reasons women may need physiotherapy treatment during their lives. These pains can often be seen as part and parcel of a journey through motherhood – but this does not mean they should go unnoticed or untreated.

You can register for our event, free of charge through this link. Spaces are limited though, so get in quick to enjoy the expert panel and networking for International Women’s Day 2022.

Celebrate And Empower

The message and mission of this day is something we should be exploring throughout the year. But this one day around the world gives us an opportunity to gather as allies and celebrate all the amazing achievements of women around the world.

The message is always louder in a crowd – so a dedicated day helps to draw bigger teams together to promote this one goal in unison. The benefit of this is a collective understanding and education of the bias, discrimination and struggles women go through every day.

Now is the time to speak out and #BreakTheBias – pushing for gender equality. So why not post to social media, join us in Guildford or manage your own campaign to show support and celebrate.

Surrey Park Women’s Clinic

Whether you require fertility assistance to conceive, treatment for gynaecological conditions, help and advice for managing menopause or pregnancy scans, the clinical team will ensure your time with us is tailored to your individual requirements.

Our services are consultant-led and our specialists are available for daytime, evening and weekend appointments, in which they consciously take the time to fully understand and listen to your needs.

It’s time to ask questions and be confident that you will be heard.

Pregnancy Scan – Full Bladder or Not?

By Emma Wiltshire, 23rd February 2022

ultrasound

Many patients coming for pregnancy scans wonder about preparation. From 6- 8 weeks gestation we would normally recommend having a transvaginal (internal) scan to see the baby clearly.

For this type of examination, the patient is asked to empty their bladder. For scans 9+ weeks we can often do the scan abdominally (across the tummy) and a full bladder can help in getting a good view of your baby. Don’t worry though: if you’re not sure of your dates, or don’t feel you would be happy with an internal scan, just come to your appointment with a full (ish) bladder and we can discuss it all with you on the day.

HCG Pregnancy Blood Test: Do I need one?

By ODOllie, 9th February 2022

Positive Pregnancy Test

What is an HCG Blood Test?

By H Boys (Registered Nurse)

Firstly, if you have just found out you are pregnant CONGRATULATIONS!!!

An HCG blood test can identify the presence and level of the pregnancy hormone Human Chorionic Gonadotrophin in a woman’s own blood sample. This is the same hormone that is picked up in the urine, with home pregnancy testing kits. At Surrey Park Women’s Clinic, we offer the HCG blood test as a ‘same day’ result if required (£61.25 + nurse fee). Alternatively, we can offer a turnaround time of 24-48 hours (£49 + nurse fee).

Whilst the presence of the HCG hormone can identify a ‘positive’ test, it cannot confirm the stage of pregnancy or whether the pregnancy is progressing. The report will give a number (milli-international units per ml) alongside the lab parameters expected at a certain stage of pregnancy. It is important to note that these parameters can vary greatly from person to person.

“We offer an HCG blood test as a ‘same day’ result”

Some women may have been asked by their GP or specialist (a fertility specialist for example) to do an HCG blood test, so that they can monitor their levels closely.

HCG blood tests are not recommended as a replacement for home urine tests, which are just as effective at identifying a pregnancy, if taken at the appropriate time. The blood test is usually recommended if clinically indicated; for example, if a woman is under the care of a Fertility/Gynaecology specialist, if they are experiencing unusual cramping/spotting or if they have reason to be concerned that their pregnancy is not progressing. In this scenario, it is always best to take guidance from their GP or specialist before booking these tests. The doctor may suggest doing two or more tests, between 48 hour periods to see if the levels are doubling.

“HCG blood tests are not recommended as a replacement for home urine tests.”

Whilst an HCG blood test result can offer reassurance to a woman/couple in the early stages of pregnancy, it cannot be used as a diagnostic tool. Unusual symptoms can be a normal part of early pregnancy, but in some cases further monitoring (including scanning) and medical support is required to rule out conditions including a biochemical pregnancy, miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy. In emergencies, it is recommended to seek medical advice via A&E or your local Early Pregnancy Unit.

If you do need to book an appointment, you can do so online by clicking here. Alternatively, if you would like to speak to a member of the team for more information, please do not hesitate to contact us on 01483 454 016 / [email protected]

Over the counter HRT

By ODOllie, 7th February 2022

Following last weeks announcement about over the counter HRT for women +50, here Consultant Gynaecologist Mr Jay Chatterjee talks about what you need to know.

Making HRT more accessible is definitely a step in the right direction, but it is important that women do not self diagnose. Seeking expert advice and guidance is fundamental to ensure that you are receiving the right treatment and dosage.

If you are concerned, worried or just need some advice around where to start, please do get in touch. Our team of experts and specialist doctors are here for you.

For more information about how we can help you or a loved one, please follow the link here.

#BecauseYouMatter

Latest news article about The Surrey Park Women’s Clinic

By ODOllie, 2nd February 2022

Check out the latest news article about our Clinic Director, Katie and Surrey Park Women’s Clinic:

Trailblazing Business Women Navigates Covid Whilst Exponentially improving Customer experience

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