QI have been on the contraceptive Pill for a year.
Myself and my fiancé have decided that we want to try for a family. How long should I be off the Pill before trying to conceive?
AIf you are trying to conceive, your GP can give you information and advice to ensure the best possible health for you and your baby but, most importantly, take good care of yourself before you become pregnant, by ensuring that you eat healthily and exercise.
The kind of contraception that you have been using does not usually affect your ability to conceive or affect how long it takes to happen.
Make sure you are up to date with vaccinations, such as rubella (the virus that causes German measles) and varicella (chickenpox, shingles).
You should take folic acid supplements. Your local pharmacist will advise on the correct dose you need to take to significantly reduce the risks of spina bifida.
On average, for every 100 couples who have sex two or three times a week: 30 will conceive within a month, 60 within six months and 85 within a year.
iT IS a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by bacterium. In the UK, the new diagnoses have been increasing each year since the 90s. It is now the most commonly diagnosed STI. Around 50% of men and 70-80% of women with chlamydia show no symptoms.
Symptoms
Women may have cystitis (pain passing urine), a change in vaginal discharge, lower abdominal pain, pain and/or bleeding during sex, bleeding after sex, or bleeding between periods, or heavier periods. Men may notice a white, cloudy or watery discharge from the penis, pain when urinating, or pain in the testicles.
Diagnosis
To be certain, you must be tested.
WHAT IS...
CHLAMYDIA?
QI am bothered with excessive flatulence. I have a build-up of gas every two to three hours which keeps me awake at night. Can you help?
AThe three main causes of excessive flatulence are swallowing more air than usual, eating food that is difficult to digest, and having an underlying health condition that affects your digestive system. The problem can usually be controlled by making changes to your diet and lifestyle. It is still important for you to eat a healthy, balanced diet that includes at least five portions of fruit and vegetables a day so you should choose foods that contain carbohydrates that are easy to digest such as potatoes, rice, lettuce, bananas, grapes, citrus fruits and yoghurt.
Eat six small meals a day rather than three large ones. Chew your food slowly. Taking plenty of exercise can help to improve the functioning of your digestive system and bowel.
There is some limited evidence to suggest that drinking peppermint tea can help. Quit smoking. Chewing gum should also be avoided. Use pro-biotic drinks.