Wellbeing
Women's health
Women outlive men in almost every society. We’ll help you look after your amazing body.
To celebrate female awesomeness, we’d like to help you look after yourself.
We’ve curated our best expert insights to share information on a range of female-related health topics. From periods to sexual health, family planning, ‘embarrassing’ problems and menopause.
Whatever your concern, we’ll try to address it. Something not here? Ask any health-related question you like to our expert team via this web page.
Our top articles on women's health
Women’s health
Menopause management – your questions answered
Registered nurse, Nikki Porges answers your questions about the menopause and peri menopause, common symptoms and what options are available to help those who are suffering continue to live life to the fullest.
Read moreWomen’s health
Alternatives to premique
In November 2016 Pfizer discontinued Premique 0.625mg/5mg and started only producing Premique low dose. The closest alternative HRT is Premarin 0.625mg and medroxyprogesterone 5mg. It will mean taking two tablets daily.
Read morePregnancy
Employment rights and IVF
During the IVF process you are not entitled to any extra time off or specific changes to your job role however, within your job contract you should be able to take time off to attend some of the medical appointments...
Read moreSkin
Lump above caesarean section scar
There are a number of possibilities as to what could be the cause of the lump that you have found...
Read moreMental health
Mirena coil removed
It can take up to 17 days following its removal for the entire active ingredient to be cleared from the system and any associated side effects to disappear.
Read moreCancer
Private smear test
Cervical smears (now referred to as cervical screening tests) are offered to women in order to detect changes to the cervical cells that could potentially lead on to cancer.
Read moreWellbeing
Memory and menopause
The types of symptoms you describ are all too common with an oestrogen level that is becoming lower.
Read moreWomen’s health
Female sterilisation
Female sterilisation is an effective way of preventing further pregnancies.
Read moreWomen’s health
Which is more effective at stopping periods - the implant or the Mirena coil?
There are distinct advantages and disadvantages to using a contraceptive implant vs the Mirena coil. AXA Health expert, Maria Yiangou explains
Read moreWomen’s health
Hormone medication and weight gain
As you are probably aware a prolactinoma is a benign tumour of the pituitary gland that produces too much of a natural hormone, prolactin, resulting in low levels of oestrogen in women and low levels of testosterone in men.
Read moreWomen’s health
Varicose veins and swollen legs
Varicose veins generally appear on the legs and may cause aching, heavy or throbbing sensations.
Read moreWomen’s health
I was diagnosed with a 6cm ovarian cyst
Ovarian cysts are known to change size and having blood running through them is not uncommon...
Read moreWellbeing
I am considering taking HRT for the menopause
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) provides oestrogen to replace the lack of natural oestrogen produced by the body during the menopause and alleviate the associated symptoms. AXA Health pharmacist, Maria Yiangou explains the implications of taking HRT.
Read moreWomen’s health
Can you have a transvaginal ultrasound scan during your period?
Women can have transvaginal scans at any time in their life – whether you're pregnant, going through the menopause or menstruating.
Read moreDiet and nutrition
Since the menopause I have put weight on, how can I lose it?
It is common to gain weight during the menopausal years and this usually sits in different places compared with your pre-menopausal years. Our experts explain why and offer some tips to help manage symptoms.
Read moreWomen’s health
Can I just stop taking HRT?
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) contains small doses of oestrogen (and progesterone in those with a uterus) to alleviate menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes.
Read moreWomen’s health
Uncomfortable Pressure & Pain in Ovary
There are several underlying medical conditions that could be causing the pain and pressure sensation you’ve been experiencing in your ovary. The most common of these are detailed below.
Read moreMusculoskeletal
Adcal-D3 tablets – what can I eat before/after taking them?
Thank you for your enquiry into Adcal-D3 and food types.
Read morePregnancy
How to get the birth you want
Women have more choice than ever before when it comes to giving birth, and outcomes have never been so good, says Emma Cronin, registered nurse and midwife in our Health at Hand team.
Read moreChildren
From pregnancy to puberty and beyond - how do hormones affect mood?
Hormones have a massive effect on our bodies, controlling our development throughout our lives, as well as influencing moods.
Read more