Breast Cancer Breast cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the breast grow in an uncontrolled way. These cells may eventually form a lump and spread to other parts of the body. There are different types of breast cancer; some that grow slowly and others that are more aggressive. About one in nine Australian women will develop breast cancer before they reach the age of 85. Expand Breast cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the breast grow in an uncontrolled way. These cells may eventually form a lump and spread to other parts of the body. There are different types of breast cancer; some that grow slowly and others that are more aggressive. About one in nine Australian women will develop breast cancer before they reach the age of 85. While there is no known cure for breast cancer, the death rate from breast cancer has significantly decreased over the years and the survival rates have improved. It is thought that this is a result of breast screening which means earlier detection, and more effective treatment now available. Breast cancer risk What can you do? Australian women have a lifetime risk of one in eight of developing breast cancer. There are a number of risk factors for breast cancer and the most important one is your age. We know that 75% of all breast cancers occur after age 50 and that regular screening mammograms is the most effective way of reducing breast cancer related deaths in this age group. If you are over 50 and have NOT had a mammogram in the last two years, contact Breastscreen now on 13 20 50. Many women are also concerned about their risk relating to their family history and often believe that if anyone in their family has had breast cancer then they have an increased risk of also developing this disease. This may not be the case. Family risk depends on a number of factors: how close the relative is to you (eg your mother having breast cancer is much more significant than your grandmother, aunt or cousin) how many relatives have been affected the age of your relative when they were diagnosed (eg a diagnosis in their 30s is much more significant than if they were in their 60s) if any of these relatives were men If you have a family history of breast cancer, you can calculate your risk using Cancer Australia’s Risk Calculator and talk to your doctor. Although we cannot change how old we are or our family history, there a number of important things we can do to reduce our breast cancer risk. There are some factors that may have a protective effect against breast cancer but these are not always under your control. These include having children at a younger age and breastfeeding. However, women who have these protective factors may still develop breast cancer. Similarly having one or more risk factors doesn’t mean you will develop breast cancer. To find out more about breast health go to Breast Screen Queensland and Cancer Australia.
Vagina and Vulval Health The vagina is a closed muscular canal that extends from the the outside of the female genital area (vulvar) to the neck of the uterus (cervix). Various factors such as sex and your general health can affect the health of your vagina and vulvar. The vulva is the name given to the external female genital organs. Expand The vagina is a closed muscular canal that extends from the the outside of the female genital area (vulvar) to the neck of the uterus (cervix). Various factors such as sex and your general health can affect the health of your vagina and vulvar. The vulva is the name given to the external female genital organs. Vaginal problems At the top of the vulva is the mons pubis. Below the mons pubis there are two folds of skin called the labia majora (outer lips) and labia minora (inner lips). The labia minora changes during puberty and often become more prominent. This is completely normal, like all of the other changes that take place during puberty. The appearance of the vulva continues to change throughout your life because of hormonal changes and age. The appearance of the vulva also varies between females. Many women put up with vulvar discomfort, either because they are embarrassed and are not sure where to seek help. Many issues can be treated, others may need a long term plan to provide symptom relief. All symptoms or changes noticed in this part of the body should be checked by a medical professional to exclude uncommon but serious causes. Vulvar problems The skin in the vulval area is very sensitive and some women experience discomfort such as: itchiness burning sensation pain swelling lumps ulcers vaginal discharge These symptoms can be caused by a range of conditions such as: allergy and hypersensitivity (soap, laundry detergent, toilet paper, sanitary pads, underwear) skin conditions (dermatitis, psoriasis) infections (thrush, genital herpes, genital warts) vulvodynia (pain in the vulva) pre-cancerous and cancerous conditions vulval varices (varicose veins) If you do have any of these symptoms it is important to have a check-up so the problem can be diagnosed and treated. For more information, please see the following fact sheets: Vulval and vaginal health from True Vulval conditions from Women's Health Queensland Wide
What is Cervical Screening? The cervix is often referred to as the ‘neck of the womb’ which sits at the inside end of the vagina. Cervix or Cervical cancer is a cancer of the cells of the cervix and is preventable. Cervical screening can detect changes in the cells of the cervix BEFORE they become cancerous. Expand Cervical screening What is Cervix (Cervical) Cancer? The cervix is often referred to as the ‘neck of the womb’ which sits at the inside end of the vagina. Cervix or Cervical cancer is a cancer of the cells of the cervix and is preventable. Cervical screening can detect changes in the cells of the cervix BEFORE they become cancerous. The new Cervical Screening Test will prevent even more cancers A cervical screening test (Pap test) is a simple test that checks for early changes to the cells of the cervix. These changes may lead to cervical cancer but having cervical screening significantly reduces this risk. Regular cervical screening saves many lives each year from cervical cancer. About eighty percent of people who develop cervical cancer have not had regular cervical screening tests or have never had one. The National Cervical Screening program (NCSP) is changing. Due to a better understanding of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) and its natural history, HPV school vaccination programs and availability of new technology, the program has been updated to further reduce the risk of cervical cancer in Australia. The current system of having two yearly cervical screening is being replaced by HPV testing with cytology (if required) every five years. Using knowledge about the HPV types that cause cell changes, and new technology, we can now look for the virus with better accuracy than we could look for abnormal cells. After 1 December 2017, anyone with a cervix and aged between 25 and 74 years who have been sexually active will be invited to attend cervical screening every five (5) years. This includes people who have had the HPV vaccine because the vaccine does not protect against all types of HPV. See HPV and HPV vaccinations for more information. New changes Before the changes *if no abnormalities found Cervical Screening test HPV testingIf HPV test positive, then liquid-based cytology is also performed Pap test (cytology) Sample collection Using a speculum, cells are collected from the cervix Using a speculum, cells are collected from the cervix Sample preparation Liquid-based cytology Pap smear slide or liquid-based cytology Screening Interval Five years* Two years* Age range for participation 25-74 18-69 What will cervical screening involve? During the procedure, which only takes a few minutes, the doctor or nurse gently inserts an instrument called a speculum into the vagina, so that the cervix can be seen. A tiny brush is then inserted into the vagina to collect cells from the cervix. These cells are added to a solution called liquid-based cytology (LBC) which is sent to the laboratory for HPV testing. The results are usually available within a couple of weeks. If HPV virus is detected, then the laboratory will report whether the cervical cells are normal or not. This quick procedure might feel a bit uncomfortable, but it shouldn’t hurt. If it does hurt at any stage throughout the procedure tell the doctor/nurse immediately. Occasionally, the laboratory will report that the sample was unsatisfactory and another cervical screen has to be taken. Usually, this is because not enough cells were collected. This doesn’t mean your cervical screening is abnormal, but more likely that the laboratory has received an insufficient amount of cells. I’m under 25 years of age, why don’t I get offered screening anymore? Evidence shows that: There are low rates of cervical cancer in this age group Before the introduction of the new cervical screening (HPV testing), cervical screening was not very effective in this age group at preventing cancer HPV vaccination programs have reduced the incidence of HPV in vaccinated and unvaccinated populations Most young persons will clear the HPV virus all by themselves Younger generations are at risk of overtreatment in the current cervical screening program More cervical cancers are predicted to be prevented using the new cervical screening program However, it is important that you visit your local health care professional if you have symptoms such as unexpected vaginal bleeding or unusual discharge. If you have any questions which aren’t answered here, email [email protected] or talk to your local health care professional. To book a cervical screening test at one of our clinics, please go to https://www.true.org.au/clinic. Abnormal cervical screening results: Abnormal results will be reported in two stages; the first will about be the HPV virus being detected. The second result will whether or not there is an abnormality found in the cervical cells on the cervical screening test. If the results of your cervical screen are abnormal this does not mean you have cancer. Often abnormal results are caused by an inflammation or infection that will clear up naturally. Sometimes you may need to have cervical screening more often. The Pap test and the new HPV test can only screen for possible problems, not diagnose them. If your cervix appears abnormal during the pelvic examination or you have an abnormal test, your doctor may organise for you to have a colposcopy. A colposcopy is a simple procedure that is performed in a doctor’s office. The doctor uses a device called a Colposcope, which is large microscope that is positioned approximately 30cm from your vagina. A bright light on the end of the Colposcope allows the doctor to see the cervix more clearly. The procedure is painless and takes about 10 to 15 minutes. If the doctor sees abnormal cells they will take a biopsy. A biopsy involves taking a sample of the abnormal cell tissue from the cervix. It is not usually painful but may be uncomfortable. The sample is sent to the laboratory for testing. When the results come back, your doctor will recommend either treatment, another colposcopy in the future, more frequent cervical screening or no further action may be necessary. Some types of abnormal cells may require specialist treatment. Make sure you talk to your doctor, nurse or health worker about what is best for you. For information about cervical cancer prevention and information in other languages, go to Cancer Screening Australia For information about cervical cancer prevention in the LGBTIQ+ communities, go to LGBTIQ - PapScreen Victoria. For information about cervical cancer prevention for Indigenous communities, go to Information about cervical screening for Aboriginal women. For more general information, visit the Cancer Council.
Menstrual problems While periods can be irregular at times, if you do have a change from your normal cycle that lasts for more than six months, it is a good idea to see a doctor to check that everything is okay. Expand While periods can be irregular at times, if you do have a change from your normal cycle that lasts for more than six months, it is a good idea to see a doctor to check that everything is OK. Common period problems include: Painful periods Painful periods or dysmenorrhoea is common in many women. Some women experience more severe pain that others. Period pain is usually experienced in the lower abdomen, back and tops of your legs, especially in the first few days of the period. Painkillers or anti-inflammatory painkillers such as ibuprofen, usually ease the pain if it is troublesome. In most women the cause of period pain is not known. Sometimes it can be caused by endometriosis which is a condition of the female’s reproductive organs where the tissue that lines the uterus grows outside of it. You should see a doctor if the pain becomes gradually worse each period or begins a day or more before the onset of bleeding. Heavy periods It is difficult to accurately measure blood loss during a period. Generally periods are considered heavy if there is a need to use double sanitary protection, bedclothes are soaked, passing clots, or if lifestyle is restricted because of heavy bleeding. There are a number of causes of heavy periods. However, in many women, there is no abnormality of the uterus or hormones and the cause is unclear. There is treatment available to reduce heavy periods so see your doctor if your periods suddenly become heavier. Bleeding between periods If you have bleeding between your regular periods, you should see a doctor. This includes bleeding during or after sexual intercourse or after menopause. One common cause of bleeding between periods is breakthrough bleeding, which is lighter bleeds that occur in the first few months after starting the contraceptive pill. This usually settles over a few months. Periods stopping This is called amenorrhoea and pregnancy is the most common reason for periods to stop. Whiile it is not uncommon to miss the occasional period, it is unusual to miss several periods if you are not pregnant. Other causes are stress, losing weight, exercising too much and hormonal problems. It is best to see a doctor if your periods stop for at least six months without explanation. If your periods have not started by the age of 16 it is also a good idea to see a doctor. Irregular periods It is quite normal to have irregular periods for a few years after puberty and before menopause. During these times the periods may be longer or shorter and also heavier or lighter. Lifestyle issues such as weight loss or gain, excessive exercise or stress can also cause irregular periods. When to see a doctor You should seek medical advice if you experience a change in your regular bleeding patterns. This may include: heavier bleeding bleeding in between the periods bleeding during or after sex increased abdominal pain migraines While vaginal bleeding between periods is not unusual, it should be checked by your doctor if it happens more than once or twice. Bleeding between periods can be caused by changes in hormonal levels, hormonal contraception or contraceptive devices, infection or injury. Women may experience heavy or irregular periods around menopause (perimenopause) and it is a good idea to see your doctor to check that everything is OK and discuss possible treatment. For further information, please see: Menstrual Cycle Problems by Monash University. Consumer Factsheet by The Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care.
HPV and HPV vaccinations Human papilloma virus (HPV) is a common virus that affects both men and women. It is highly contagious and is passed from person to person through sexual contact. Over 80% of people have had or will have some type of HPV at some time in their lives. Expand Human papilloma virus (HPV) is a common virus that affects both men and women. It is highly contagious and is passed from person to person through sexual contact. Over 80% of people have had or will have some type of HPV at some time in their lives. In most people HPV is harmless, but in some cases the virus can stay in the body for years and cause some cancers. HPV is the most common cause of cervical cancer in women. In men, HPV can be related to anal cancer, and some cancers of the penis, head and neck. The HPV vaccine causes the formation of antibodies to produce immunity and therefore protects the body from HPV. The HPV vaccine currently available in Australia is called Gardasil. Gardasil prevents infection with HPV types 16, 18, 6 and 11. HPV 16 and 18 are responsible for most cervical cancers and HPV 6 and 11 are responsible for ninety percent of genital warts. Having the vaccine will protect those who have never been exposed to these types of HPV and is most effective when given before a person becomes sexually active. The vaccine does not protect against all the types of HPV that cause cancer so it is still important for women to have regular Pap smears even if they have been vaccinated. The vaccine is most effective if given to girls and boys before they become sexually activity and, therefore possibly exposed to HPV. Under the National Immunisation Program, Gardasil is available free through a school-based program for boys and girls aged 12 to 13 years. It is also available as a catch-up for 14 to 15 year old boys. For all others, the vaccine costs about $460. This does not include the cost of the visit to the GP who must prescribe the vaccine. For more information, see the Australian government's HPV School Vaccination Program site and the Cancer Council's HPV vaccine fact sheet.
Sexual Health Check A sexual health check is a check-up by a doctor, nurse or other health worker. People do not need to be experiencing symptoms to have a check-up as there are a number of STIs which often cause no symptoms but can have significant effects on your health. Expand Sexual health check A sexual health check is a check-up by a doctor, nurse or other health worker. People do not need to be experiencing symptoms to have a check-up as there are a number of STIs which often cause no symptoms but can have significant effects on your health (e.g. chlamydia). A sexual health check is advisable if you: think you have an STI have had unprotected sex with casual partners are starting a new sexual relationship have different partners have been sexually assaulted want to discuss safe sex or contraception
Having safer sex Safer sex means caring for your own health and your partner’s health. Safer sex also means doing things that reduce the risk of sexually transmissible infections (STI) or pregnancy. Expand Safer sex means caring for your own health and your partner’s health. Safer sex also means doing things that reduce the risk of sexually transmissible infections (STI) or pregnancy. It also includes looking after your emotional health and making sure you feel comfortable with whom you have sex, and never feeling pressure to have sex. How can you can stay safe? Make sure that you are comfortable with the time, place and person for you. Don’t be afraid to talk to your partner about sex. Using condoms is the only method of contraception that protects against both STIs and pregnancy. Before having sex, talk with your partner and come to an agreement about using condoms. Remember, you have the right to say NO if your partner does not agree to use condoms. If you are having unprotected sex, talk to your partner about the risks involved. Some STIs can be cured but some can’t (e.g. herpes), and you may not have any symptoms so won’t know if you have an STI. Never have sex (even with a condom) if your partner has a visible sore, ulcer or lump on their genitals, anal area or mouth. Suggest they see a doctor. STIs can be passed from one person to another by oral sex so you do need to use a condom if your mouth is in contact with your partner's penis. If your mouth is in contact with your partner’s anus or vulva, you need to use a dental dam (a thin latex square held over the vaginal or anal area during oral sex). STIs can also be transmitted if you use sex toys. Use condoms and change the condom for each person using the toys. Wash the toys carefully after use and wash your hands after removing the condom. Never re-use condoms or dental dams and always check the expiry date. For more information go to ReachOut.com.
Loss of Libido People's sexual desires can ebb and flow over time, fluctuating for many different physical and mental reasons. The fluctuations sometimes coincide with major life changes such as pregnancy, menopause or illness. Expand People's sexual desires can ebb and flow over time, fluctuating for many different physical and mental reasons. The fluctuations sometimes coincide with major life changes such as pregnancy, menopause or illness. Sometimes libido can come and go with the loss of a partner or the ending or beginning of a relationship. Some medications can be responsible for changes in libido, causing low sex drive in both men and women. There are billions of pages on the web but few that can be trusted with your reproductive and sexual health. To address this, True and Kristy Vallely, a.k.a. ‘the Imperfect Mum,’ are collaborating to produce a series of videos to provide accurate, honest information on the subjects that women in Australia really want to talk about. The videos are being published through our website and on Facebook. We will be adding a Q&A below if we receive additional questions from our clients and the Imperfect Mum community.
Having Sex There are many different opinions about when is the right time to have sex. In many countries, it is against the law to have sex before the age of 16 years old. Only you can make the decision about what is the right time for you. Expand There are many different opinions about when is the right time to have sex. In many countries, it is against the law to have sex before the age of 16 years old. Only you can make the decision about what is the right time for you. Being in a relationship doesn’t mean you have to have sex. Whatever you do, whether it’s kissing, touching, oral sex or sexual intercourse, it should always be something that you both want to do. There are some things you need to think about before you have sex: Am I ready for sex? Am I doing this for the right reasons? What about protecting myself and my partner from sexually transmitted infections or pregnancy? Am I going to feel OK about myself and my partner afterwards? If you don’t feel safe or comfortable about having sex, then it’s probably not the right time for you. No one has the right to pressure you into having sex and even if you have had sex before, it doesn’t mean you have to have it again. The law says that sex must always be consensual. This means: Consent must be freely given. If you don’t want to have sex and someone pressures or threatens you, they are breaking the law. It is against the law for someone to have sex with you when you are not able to give your consent (e.g. because you are asleep, unconscious or affected by alcohol). If you decide you are ready to have sex, make sure you and your partner are prepared. The best way to do this is to talk with your partner about your needs and how you plan to protect yourselves against sexually transmissible infections and unwanted pregnancy. For more information go to ReachOut.com.
Puberty Puberty is the process that changes a child’s body into an adult body that is capable of sexual reproduction. Puberty is triggered by the release of hormones from a small gland in at the base of the brain. Expand Puberty is the process that changes a child’s body into an adult body that is capable of sexual reproduction. Puberty is triggered by the release of hormones from a small gland in at the base of the brain. For girls puberty starts at around 10 years of age with a range of eight to 13 years being normal. For boys it is usually between 11 and 12 years, however the normal range can be from 9 to 14 years. Changes for girls: breast development hips widen and body becomes curvier grow taller hair growth – hair will start to grow in pubic area, under arms and hair on the arms and legs will darken vaginal discharge – may start having a clear or whitish discharge for the vagina periods will start pimples may appear Changes for boys: shoulders and chest becomes broader grow taller body becomes more muscular voice gets deeper penis and testicles become larger and darker in colour hair growth - hair will start to grow in pubic area, under arms, chest and back and hair on the arms and legs will darken during wet dreams or when masturbating, ejaculation may occur pimples may appear.
Testicular concerns Expand The testes hang ‘outside’ the body in the scrotum because sperm production needs a cooler temperature than the inside of the body. Because the testes are outside the main body cavity they are more vulnerable to injury, but also it is easier for a man to discover lumps or bumps. Testicular pain Testicular torsion or ‘twisting’ of the testis on its cord is an emergency situation. It is more common in the newborn and boys after puberty, but can occur at any age. Surgical correction is required to prevent damage to or loss of a testis. Other causes of scrotal pain include local Infection of the epididymis, mumps orchitis, or a hernia that has become trapped. All testicular pain needs to be seen urgently by the emergency department at the hospital or your own GP. Testicular cancer Testicular cancer is the most common malignancy in males between the ages of 15 and 35 years but overall accounts for only about 1 percent of cancers in men and treatment success is high Undescended testis or a family history of testicular cancer are risk factors for this cancer. Regular screening by examination of the testes is not recommended but if a man notices any change in the testis (a lump, firmness, tenderness) they should seek advice from a doctor. Scrotal swelling Not all lumps are a cancer. Other causes of swelling include a hydrocele (fluid around the testis), infections, and hernias. However, all swelling should be investigated by your doctor. For further information, go to Healthy Male (formerly Andrology Australia) or see Dr Michael Gillman's men's health fact sheets.
Sexual difficulties Expand In men, sexual problems may include an inability to acquire or maintain an erection satisfactory for sexual intercourse (also called impotence or erectile dysfunction [ED]), a lack of interest in sex (diminished libido), premature ejaculation, or delayed or inhibited ejaculation. It is important for all men with these problems to seek advice from their doctor. These can be caused by limited blood flow, nerve damage, medications and psychological causes. Cigarette smoking, diabetes, and high blood pressure may all contribute to these problems Men aged 55 or older tend to have less firm erections, produce a smaller amount of semen, and have less intense ejaculations, with less need to ejaculate and a longer recovery period than younger men. Difficulty in getting an erection if you are under 40 and otherwise fit, is usually caused by stress or some other psychosomatic problem. It is only rarely due to a physical cause. However, erectile dysfunction can be a warning of the following, all of which need to be checked: hidden diabetes raised blood pressure (two thirds of men with raised blood pressure have got some erectile dysfunction) raised cholesterol underlying cardiovascular problems (64% of those men who have had a heart attack have had a warning up to 3 years previously in the form of erectile difficulties).
Prostate and urinary concerns Expand The prostate is a small, but important gland in the male reproductive system. It provides the sperm with nourishment and lubricating fluid. In young men, the prostate is about the size of a walnut and as men age it enlarges. Because the prostate sits underneath the bladder and is wrapped around the ureter, when it enlarges it may slow or stop the flow of urine. Prostate problems include: benign (non-cancerous) enlargement of the prostate inflammation of the prostate prostate cancer There are a number of test that may be done to diagnose the problem: physical examination (this includes a rectal examination to check the size and shape of your prostate gland) urine test (to check for infection) urine flow-rate check – to estimate the speed with which you pass urine an ultrasound examination – to assess if the bladder is emptying completely and to examine your kidneys tests on the bladder to see how your urinary system is functioning may be recommended PSA may be used to monitor prostate problems When a diagnosis is made you and your doctor will decide on the management and treatment. Prostate cancer screening Prostate cancer screening involves testing for prostate cancer in men who have no symptoms of the disease. This test can find cancer at an early stage. However, medical experts disagree about whether prostate cancer screening is right for all men, and it is not clear if the benefits of screening outweigh the risks. You should talk with your doctor to decide what is best in your individual situation. For further information, go to Andrology Australia or see Dr Michael Gillman's men's health fact sheets. Urinary problems Many men experience urinary changes as they age. These may be the result of a blockage in the ureters due to a benign (non-cancerous) enlargement of the prostate gland (benign prostate hypertrophy). The most common symptom is difficulty starting to urinate, dribbling and not emptying the bladder. Treatment may be required if the symptoms become troublesome. Not all urinary symptoms are due to changes to the prostate and some men who have enlarged prostates do not experience any symptoms. If men have urinary problems caused by inflammation or an enlarged prostate, treatments include: antibiotics (these will need to be taken over a long time) medication to improve urine flow and other symptoms (for obstruction caused by an enlarged prostate) surgical procedures (for blockage caused by an enlarged prostate) There are other procedures that have been developed to reduce urinary symptoms so it is important to talk to your doctor about the options. Go to Andrology Australia for more information.
Hormones in males Expand What is testosterone? Testosterone is the most important androgen (male sex hormone) in men and it is needed for normal reproductive and sexual function, muscle and bone strength. Testosterone is important for the physical changes that happen during male puberty, such as development of the penis and testes, and for the features typical of adult men such as facial and body hair. Testosterone also acts on cells in the testes to make sperm. What controls the production of testosterone? The pituitary gland and the hypothalamus, located at the base of the brain, control the production of male hormones and sperm. Hormone messages are sent from these glands to the testes where testosterone is produced and sperm are made. The level of testosterone in the blood feeds back to the pituitary gland and the hypothalamus and when the level is low more hormone messages are sent to increase the production. The Luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) are the two important messenger hormones made by the pituitary gland that act on the testes. LH is needed for the Leydig cells in the testes to make testosterone that leads to the production of sperm. Reproduction The testes hang ‘outside’ the body in the scrotum because sperm production needs a cooler temperature than the inside of the body. Because the testes are outside the main body cavity they are more vulnerable to injury, but also it is easier for a man to discover lumps or bumps. Testosterone deficiency In men with low testosterone levels, the symptoms that may be experienced include low energy levels, little interest in sex, feeling sad, down or depressed, mood, irritability, poor concentration, and reduced muscle strength. Symptoms often overlap with those of other illnesses. The symptoms of androgen deficiency are different depending on the age when testosterone levels are below the normal range. Use of testosterone replacement This hormone has been used for hormone deficiency treatment. Testosterone in Australia is only able to be prescribed by a specialist in the field. Off-label use to promote muscle development (when hormone levels are in the normal range) is not advised as this may lead to depression of natural hormone production, small testes and subsequent infertility.
What are Fertility Awareness Based Methods (FABMs)? Expand Fertility Awareness Based Methods (FABMs) utilise awareness of the fertile phase in the menstrual cycle to indicate when sexual intercourse should be avoided to prevent apregnancy. Methods of predicting or calculating the fertile phase include: Calendar method Temperature method Billing’s ovulation method Symptothermal method
How do FABMs work? Expand A woman is fertile from a few days before ovulation until after ovulation has occurred. As sperm can survive in the uterus or Fallopian tubes for up to 5-7 days, women are most likely to become pregnant if they have sex in the week before ovulation. FABMs require a woman to calculate and record fertile days by: counting the cycle length over a period of time observing signs that indicate that ovulation (egg release) is about to or has occurred During the fertile days a couple need to abstain from sexual intercourse or use a barrier method. Depending on the individual, sex may need to be avoided for 7-14 days during each menstrual cycle.
How effective is the FABM? Expand The effectiveness of these methods relies on motivation to prevent a pregnancy, length of time in using the method, and the type of method used. If used correctly every time, these methods are 75-99% effective. This means that if 100 women used these methods, between 1 and 25 could become pregnant in a year. It is more successful for couples that have undertaken training with FABM educators.
What are the advantages of FABMs as a method of contraception? Expand no hormone or device use and it does not interfere with the menstrual cycle cost effective - there is no ongoing expense women gain a high level of knowledge of their body, which can be used to know when they are most fertile. This can be used to prevent or achieve a pregnancy.
What are the disadvantages of FABMs as a method of contraception? Expand it can be difficult to confidently predict ovulation requires daily awareness of changes and continued observations requires varying periods of abstinence if it is the only method used
Is the FABM suitable for all women? Expand This method is most suited to women who have a strong preference for natural methods because of health or religious reasons. Partner cooperation is also an important factor in the success of this method. Some situations can make FABMs more difficult to manage. For example: irregular periods breastfeeding after childbirth (and not breastfeeding) after stopping hormonal methods of contraception approaching menopause
How do I learn about FABM? Expand Those interested in developing a detailed understanding in the use of this method and requiring individual support are encouraged to contact local FABM educators. Further information and local contacts can be found on the Australian Council of Natural Family Planning website.
What is Lactational Amenorrhoea Method (LAM)? Expand LAM is the use of breastfeeding as a contraceptive method by women who fulfil the following criteria: fully breastfeeding and not feeding the baby with any food or milk supplements less than 6 months since giving birth menstrual periods have not returned since the birth
How does LAM work? Expand Breastfeeding has an effect on the production of hormones that reduces the probability of ovulation (egg release) occurring, therefore reducing the chance of a pregnancy.