A Guide to Babies Bliss’ Fertility Wellness Programmes

Posted on February 6, 2024 | by angelia | Leave a Comment

Infertility in women may stem from many different causes, yet one aspect remains constant – it can be extremely disheartening and disappointing, especially for those who are trying to conceive. Fortunately, a variety of treatment options are made available today to help women increase their chances of pregnancy. At Babies Bliss, we believe in a holistic approach and our fertility wellness programmes are tailored as such. Let us take a deep dive into each of our services from what it is and how it assists with fertility to broaden your knowledge on the subject and help you make a more informed decision.

Learn more: How Age Impacts Fertility: Understanding the Biological Clock

Fertility Massage

A specialised therapeutic technique designed to support reproduction and boost the chances of conception, fertility massages or womb massages involves gentle targeted manipulation of the abdomen, lower back and pelvic region. This enhances blood flow, stimulates the reproductive organs and releases tension in the muscles and surrounding tissues. By promoting circulation to the uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes, fertility massages can help to regulate hormone levels and encourage proper functioning of the reproductive system.

Unlike the traditional Sengkak massage technique, associated with pushing and lifting movements, our massage therapists are trained to use the wellness technique instead, merging Western methodology with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) philosophies. Focusing on the key acupressure points in the body, particularly the areas surrounding the reproductive organs, this abdominal massage technique allows the body to relax, reducing cortisol levels while simultaneously improving blood circulation and flow, two critical elements when it comes to enhancing fertility. The result is a series of massage sessions that puts women’s bodies in their optimal state for conceiving. It is recommended to combine womb massage therapy with alternative approaches to further increase one’s chances of conceiving, which brings us to our next wellness programme – thermal wellness therapy.

Thermal Wellness Therapy

In terms of fertility and reproductive health, heat exposure has been shown to play a significant role in improving uterus and cervical mucus health. Here, thermal wellness therapy comes in useful as it involves the controlled application of heat to the body. Whether applied through hot baths, heating pads, warm compresses or specialised thermal treatments, it increases circulation to the uterus and ovaries, empowering better egg quality and supporting embryo implantation. Additionally, the relaxation induced by thermal therapy reduces stress levels which can adversely affect the body’s natural hormone balance.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

Beyond aiding women through their conception journey, hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), can be beneficial for men too! Factors such as inflammation, tissue damage and poor blood circulation may impact fertility in both partners and HBOT addresses these. Individuals are exposed to 100% oxygen within a pressurised chamber. The elevated oxygenation promotes the growth of new blood vessels, repairing damaged tissues and improving circulation to areas that may have previously been deprived of oxygen. High levels of oxygen also stimulate the release of growth factors and stem cells, which play key roles in tissue repair and regeneration. Moreover, the chamber’s pressurised environment enables oxygen to dissolve into the plasma at a higher concentration than normal, further increasing oxygen delivery to tissues. At Babies Bliss, we enrich the therapy by infusing specially blended essential oils for a more soothing and relaxing experience.

Fertility massage, thermal wellness therapy and HBOT are all natural fertility enhancement options that offer a non-invasive way to heighten the likelihood of pregnancy. When used in combination under the guidance of professionals, our fertility wellness programmes provide hope for successful conceptions.

Babies Bliss is a fertility wellness centre in Singapore with the goal of helping women better understand their reproductive health and the choices available to them. We pride ourselves on delivering nothing less than quality service and solutions. Contact us today for more information!

What You Should Know about Anovulation: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Posted on February 6, 2024 | by angelia | Leave a Comment

During ovulation, a mature egg is released from one of the ovaries, significantly increasing the chances of pregnancy. But did you know that some women may experience the absence of ovulation? This condition is known as anovulation and can impact fertility and reproductive health, potentially leading to complications. The diagnosis of female infertility associated with anovulation typically involves a medical history review, physical examination and various tests. In this article, we cover everything you need to know about anovulation, from the causes, symptoms and treatment, to providing deeper insight into this topic.

What Causes Anovulation?

In general, anovulation stems from an imbalance in one or more hormones crucial for ovulation. Disruptions in the delicate interplay of these hormones can interfere with the development and release of a mature egg from the ovary. Below are some key examples of hormonal imbalances that may result in anovulation.

High levels of androgens

Androgens are a group of hormones primarily responsible for male traits and reproductive activity, although they are also present in females in smaller amounts. High androgen levels can interfere with the normal development and release of eggs from the ovaries, leading to irregular or absent ovulation.

Pituitary gland dysfunction

Pituitary gland dysfunction refers to abnormalities in the function of the pituitary gland, a small gland located at the base of the brain that produces and regulates various hormones essential for the body’s growth, metabolism, and reproductive function. This can disrupt the secretion of certain hormones, which are crucial for stimulating ovarian follicle development and triggering ovulation.

High levels of prolactin

Prolactin is a hormone primarily responsible for lactation and milk production in breastfeeding women. Elevated levels of prolactin, also known as hyperprolactinemia, can affect normal menstrual cycles and ovulation.

Low levels of thyroid hormones

Thyroid hormones are essential for regulating metabolism, growth and development throughout the body. A decreased production can impair the release of reproductive hormones necessary for ovulation and fertility support.

Low levels of gonadotropin-releasing hormone

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is a hormone produced by the hypothalamus, a region of the brain. It regulates the release of two important reproductive hormones from the pituitary gland that stimulate ovulation. Dysfunction or irregular secretion of GnRH can disrupt the normal menstrual cycle and contribute to anovulation.

Learn more: Top 5 Tips To Balance Your Hormones Naturally Before Pregnancy

What Are the Symptoms of Anovulation?

Anovulation symptoms are usually associated with the menstrual cycle because this condition influences the hormonal processes that control menstruation. Common symptoms include late or irregular periods, spotting mid-cycle or a period that lasts longer than usual. Additionally, since the hormones are affected, acne, hirsutism (excessive hair growth), or weight fluctuations may also manifest in conjunction with menstrual irregularities.

How Is Anovulation Treated?

While anovulation can be stressful and worrisome, there are fortunately several treatment options to help address this condition. Hormonal medications may be prescribed to induce ovulation or regulate menstrual cycles. It is always recommended to consult your healthcare professional before taking any form of medication.

Patients can also manage anovulation with lifestyle changes. Minimising stress through techniques such as meditation, yoga, or mindfulness regulates the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, which is crucial for ovulation. Maintaining a healthy weight with a balanced diet and regular exercise improves hormonal balance and enhances ovulatory function as well. If you are one to engage in intense or excessive exercise, try reducing the frequency and intensity of workouts to prevent disruptions in menstrual cycles and promote regular ovulation.

For those who are experiencing infertility related to anovulation, in vitro fertilisation (IVF) can help to increase female fertility. During this process, a woman’s ovaries are stimulated with hormonal medications to produce multiple eggs, which are retrieved through a minor surgical procedure. These eggs are then fertilised with sperm and the embryos are left to culture for a few days. Once developed, one or more embryos are transferred into the woman’s uterus, with any remaining typically frozen for future use.

Infertility is a discouraging and frustrating obstacle to overcome, especially for women who are trying to conceive. However, the right treatment plan in combination with guidance from a professional can make all the difference in changing this course for a more successful endeavour.

Still wondering how a woman can boost her fertility? At Babies Bliss, we’re all about fertility wellness. Not only do our services help clients relax, but they support egg quality too for their oocytes and retrieval process.

Navigating Egg Freezing: Preparing Your Body for the Journey

Posted on February 5, 2024 | by angelia | Leave a Comment

Just because you are biologically ready to have children does not mean that your lifestyle or headspace is aligned. You could still be in the midst of pursuing your career goals or finding the right partner, among other reasons. If that sounds like you, then egg freezing may be the ideal option to preserve your fertility and delay parenthood until you feel ready to start a family.

However, this procedure can be expensive and time-consuming. As such, adequately preparing your body for egg freezing is essential to boost your fertility and optimise your chances of success. Let us explore how you can prepare physically and mentally for the egg freezing process.

Tip #1: Weight control, exercise, and lifestyle change

Clinical studies have demonstrated that a healthy body mass index (BMI) is essential to female fertility, with underweight and overweight patients facing increased risk of infertility when attempting to conceive naturally or through IVF. Hence, beyond seeking fertility support, exercise and weight management is crucial to ensure optimal egg quality for freezing.

However, please note that while moderate exercises can be beneficial, vigorous or high-intensity exercises may be detrimental to fertility, especially for women with healthy BMI. So, moderation is vital. It is a good idea to maintain a reasonable level of physical activity for a few months before starting your egg freezing cycle.

Additionally, keeping your health at its peak can be helpful when trying to conceive. That is no different when preparing for egg freezing. You may need to make several lifestyle adjustments to preserve your fertility, including getting sufficient rest during this period. Also, avoid risky habits, such as smoking and drinking alcohol, to ensure the retrieved eggs are as healthy as possible.

Tip #2: Maintain a healthy diet

Beyond getting regular exercise, natural fertility treatments, like maintaining a healthy diet, are essential to preserving egg quality before starting an egg freezing cycle. Keep your diet varied and rich in vitamins, minerals, and fibre through lean proteins such as fish and poultry, fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains like farro and quinoa, and legumes, including beans, chickpeas, and lentils.

Meanwhile, avoid ingredients high in cholesterol and saturated fats, like processed meat products. You can also consider various supplements available on the market to enhance your fertility prior to egg freezing. Please consult a fertility specialist beforehand to determine their suitability before purchasing and consuming them.

Tip #3: Avoid stress and be positive

Aside from the physical aspects of preparing your body for egg freezing, you must also be mentally ready for the procedure. Avoid placing stress on yourself, as it can affect your hormones and suppress the activity of the reproductive system. Instead, try to remain calm and be mindful whenever possible.

For instance, try self-care routines, like meditating or yoga. Alternatively, you can consider our fertility massage services, which target the pivotal acupressure points in your body, particularly the areas surrounding the reproductive organs, to induce your body to enter a relaxed state, thus reducing stress levels.

While egg freezing can be an emotionally and physically draining experience, it can also be incredibly empowering, as it allows you to be in control of your fertility. So, as your egg freezing preparation continues apace, be positive and ensure that you are well-supported throughout the process. If you wish to know more about preparing yourself for egg freezing, do not hesitate to reach out to our experts at Babies Bliss for help.

6 Tips To Help You Prepare Your Body For Pregnancy

Posted on February 2, 2024 | by angelia | Leave a Comment

Fertility and health are intrinsically linked. So, before you subject your body to the rigours of pregnancy, you must ensure you are in the best possible health, especially if you are committed to a natural delivery. Being in optimal health can increase the likelihood of a safe, healthy birth for you and your child. Let us help you get started by sharing how you can prepare your body for pregnancy.

Tip #1: Seek out preconception care

A Person Seek Out for Preconception Care

Before attempting to conceive with your partner, it is essential to ensure your body is in good health and you feel physically, emotionally, and mentally ready for pregnancy. That is why we often recommend that those looking to start or grow their family seek fertility consultation beforehand.

Consulting a specialist and undergoing a checkup can help you highlight aspects of your health you can improve upon to increase your chances of conceiving a healthy baby. Even if you have previous pregnancies, it is still wise to review your health and evaluate any new risks that need to be addressed. Ideally, you should schedule preconception counselling with a provider 3 months before you start trying to conceive.

Generally, you can expect the specialist to ask various questions regarding your personal and family health histories and conduct a comprehensive assessment of your health status during the consultation. If necessary, they will also review any chronic health conditions you may have and discuss how to manage them.

Learn More: How Age Impacts Fertility: Understanding The Biological Clock

Tip #2: Take your folic acid

While folic acid does not help boost your chances of conceiving, it is still advisable for you to take it when you are trying to get pregnant and during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. Doing so can improve your pre-pregnancy health and prevent severe complications like spina bifida and other neural tube birth defects. You can start with 400 micrograms of folic acid daily, beginning at least 30 days prior to conception.

Tip #3: Maintain a healthy diet

Maintaining a balanced diet before and during pregnancy is not only beneficial to your overall health. It is also essential for nourishing your baby. Introduce diversity to your palate, including whole grains, fruits, leafy greens, low-fat dairy, lean protein, and healthy fat (like avocados, nuts, and seeds), to prepare your body for pregnancy and provide your child with good nutrition. However, you need not give up comfort food and treats completely. It is all about moderation.

Tip #4: Get regular exercise and monitor your weight

You need not lead a constantly active lifestyle. With that said, maintaining a healthy body weight can boost your chance of conceiving and help you carry and deliver your baby more easily. Conversely, being underweight or overweight may lead to childbirth complications. So, actively manage your weight by exercising at least 30 minutes daily, even if it is a brisk walk. You can also consider flexibility and core strengthening exercises, as well as well-rounded preconception and prenatal fitness programmes.

Tip #5: Avoid harmful substances

Risky behaviours like smoking and drinking alcohol can affect pregnancy. For instance, moderate (3 to 6 drinks per week) and heavy drinking (more than 6 drinks per week) during the luteal phase and heavy drinking during the ovulatory window can affect your chances of conception.

Meanwhile, smoking can reduce your fertility, harm your reproductive system, and may negatively affect hormone production. So, if you are preparing your body for pregnancy, we recommend working to quit now. Remember, you do not have to go at it alone! Your close friends and family can help you navigate this shift together.

Tip #6: Don’t stress out

Do you know what else can affect your health beyond your diet and exercise regimen? The answer is stress. In fact, it can cause various hormonal imbalances in the body. That is not exactly the best condition for conceiving. So, ensure you get sufficient quality sleep and try your best to reduce stress in your life.

Additionally, you can consider stress-relief therapies, like fertility massages, to reduce your stress level. Massaging the ovaries and the liver can strengthen the hormonal feedback loop, which helps maintain a balanced number of hormones produced within the body. Fertility massages also have the added benefit of realigning your uterus, stimulating better circulation to it and the cervix within the abdominal and pelvic bowl area, thereby improving egg health.

Whether you are preparing your body for the first, second, or subsequent pregnancy, it is essential to realise that the process is a multi-faceted journey that involves optimising your health and well-being. With adequate preparation and care, you will soon be ready to embrace the journey to motherhood with confidence!

If you are encountering fertility-related problems, do not hesitate to reach out to Babies Bliss. Our specialists are here to help you understand your circumstances better. We can assess your situation to determine if our fertility massages are the right option for you and recommend the best course of action to help you increase your chances of conception. Contact us to book an appointment today.

How Age Impacts Fertility: Understanding The Biological Clock

Posted on January 11, 2024 | by angelia | Leave a Comment

Every married couple would have discussed family planning at some stage of their relationship. However, fertility is not a timeless gift, and age and reproductive potential are intrinsically linked. While both men and women experience changes in fertility as they age, women, in particular, face a biological clock and are more prone to experiencing infertility warning signs. Let us explore the impact of age on fertility, covering vital aspects for both men and women.

Female Fertility and Age

Fertility services in Singapore tend to target women, as they generally have a shorter biological clock. That is because female fertility is closely linked to the menstrual cycle and the process of ovulation, which changes as women age. Learn how women’s fertility declines with age.

1. Decline in ovarian function

Women’s ovarian function declines as they age, resulting in the quality and quantity of their eggs decreasing over time. Moreover, the remaining eggs are more susceptible to genetic abnormalities, further reducing the chances of successful conception and increasing the risk of miscarriage.

2. Menstrual cycle irregularities

Age can also bring about changes in the regularity of a woman’s menstrual cycle, making it challenging for couples to predict ovulation accurately. Additionally, these irregularities can indicate hormonal imbalances, which can affect the growth of the egg within the ovary, its release into the fallopian tube, and the thickening of the uterine lining for implantation.

3. Decrease in ovarian reserve

When women’s ovarian reserve decreases, it often takes longer to conceive. That, in turn, affects the chances of pregnancy, which reduces significantly after the age of 35. By age 40, the decline becomes more pronounced.

4. Increased risk of pregnancy complications

Advanced maternal age is often associated with increased risks of pregnancy complications. Issues such as gestational diabetes, hypertension, preeclampsia, and preterm birth are more prevalent as a woman ages. The risk of chromosomal abnormalities, like Down syndrome, also increases with maternal age.

Male Fertility and Ageing

While women experience a more defined biological clock, men are not exempt from the impact of ageing on fertility. Although, the decline tends to be less pronounced and more gradual. Nevertheless, it is common for men to seek infertility consultation too.

In fact, it takes longer for spouses of men older than 40 to conceive, as men’s sperm quality usually declines around age 40 to 45. Additionally, the potential of miscarriage is higher when the husband is older than 45 years. Advanced paternal age has also been associated with a higher risk of genetic disorders and specific health conditions in children.

Improving Chances of Pregnancy

Despite the challenges posed by age-related fertility decline, couples can take proactive steps to enhance their chances of conception. Here are the options to consider.

1. Timely family planning

Fertility experts often recommend that couples make informed decisions about the timing of family planning and consult a healthcare professional to assess their reproductive health if they have trouble conceiving. Couples can also consider seeking fertility support to receive valuable insights and guidance on how to start a family.

Learn More: Natural Ways To Improve Your Fertility

2. Fertility preservation

Couples who wish to focus on their careers and postpone starting a family can consider fertility preservation options when they are in their reproductive prime of 20 to 30 years old. Egg freezing or embryo cryopreservation, in particular, allows women to preserve their eggs or embryos for future use, mitigating the impact of age on fertility.

3. Assisted reproductive technologies (ART)

Image of a ultrasound result and a pregnancy test

Older couples having difficulties conceiving need not lose hope. Advancements in assisted reproductive technologies offer solutions to age-related fertility challenges. In vitro fertilisation (IVF), in particular, is a viable fertility treatment option. Alternatively, couples whose reproductive potential is compromised can consider the use of donor eggs or sperm.

Age plays an essential role in fertility, affecting men and women in various ways. Acknowledging these biological changes and understanding the associated challenges is crucial for those navigating the path of family planning. By addressing fertility concerns and seeking professional guidance, couples can enhance their chances of a successful and healthy pregnancy.

If you are having trouble conceiving, fret not! At Babies Bliss, our team of skilled fertility specialists is well-versed in helping women deal with their infertility issues. Through the art and science of our fertility services, our goal is to empower women with the knowledge to enhance their chances of conception. Visit our website today to learn more about our fertility practices for women.