Labour and birthing tonic recipe
For women looking for targeted support in the final weeks of pregnancy, a natural labour drink can play a valuable role. Hydration, electrolytes, and gentle herbal support all contribute to smoother birth outcomes and improved stamina. This recipe fits seamlessly into a birth preparation routine.
In clinical and naturopathic practice, supporting the body through hydration, minerals, and uterine-toning herbs is a cornerstone of evidence-informed birth preparation. This simple recipe offers an accessible, effective tool for women wanting a more empowered, nourished, and supported birth experience.
Sunshine in my basket, foraging St. John’s Wort in the Southern Highlands
Depression, low mood, PMS-D (premenstrual sadness), and the emotional weight of grief are concerns I support in clinical practice every day. St. John’s wort remains one of my favourite herbal allies for gently lifting emotional burdens and offering respite during life’s heavier seasons. Numerous randomised controlled trials now support its traditional use, reinforcing its effectiveness and safety within modern clinical practice.
TW: Rapid weight loss drugs (Ozempic) and suicide ideation
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has issued a new safety alert for popular GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic, highlighting potential risks of depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts. Emerging research from 2024 shows significantly increased rates of psychiatric side-effects — including up to a 195% higher risk of major depression and a 106% increased risk of suicidal behaviour. This is especially important for women using these medications for PCOS, weight loss and fertility support. In this article, we break down the latest TGA warnings, and share naturopathic strategies to stay nourished, protect mood and safeguard fertility. We also cover the new alert on Mounjaro reducing the effectiveness of oral contraceptives and why cycle charting with methods like Billings is now more important than ever.
Birth control changes your brain, emerging research shows this
Hormonal contraception doesn’t just prevent pregnancy — it quietly shapes how women feel, react, and even who they’re drawn to. Emerging research shows the pill can soften stress responses, shift emotional memory, and change the way the brain reads social cues. These subtle changes influence everything from mood to relationships, often without women ever knowing why.
Pregnancy, Paracetamol (Tylenol) and my opinion
An evidence-based overview of paracetamol use in pregnancy, recent autism and ADHD research, proposed biological mechanisms, and current TGA guidance. Learn what the 2021 expert warnings meant and what newer studies now show. Written by a fertility naturopath in Wollongong, supporting women with pregnancy health, natural fertility, and naturopathy services. Book a consultation for personalised guidance.
The Billings Ovulation Method: what a consult looks like
Curious about the Billings Ovulation Method® and how it can help you understand your body? This post covers the basics: the history and origins of the method, what to expect in an initial consultation (including a full health and fertility history, couple goals, and hands-on teaching), and the role of follow-up sessions in building confidence. You’ll also learn about the resources provided to support your learning at home. Read on to discover how this natural, hormone-free method can help you track your cycle, support fertility, or guide natural family planning.
Dear Men, your sperm counts are plummeting
Male fertility is often overlooked in conversations about conception, yet research shows that sperm health is declining worldwide. In fact, sperm counts have dropped by more than half in the past 50 years. The good news is that many of the factors that affect sperm quality are within your control. Small, consistent changes can have a significant impact on sperm count, motility, and overall reproductive health.
Here are some of the biggest everyday influences on male fertility, and the science behind them.
Protein-packed chocolate bites for the afternoon slump
We all know the feeling — it’s mid-afternoon, energy dips, and the sugar cravings hit. It’s easy to reach for something sweet, but what your body might actually be asking for is protein.
Why every woman should track her cycle – even if she’s not trying to conceive
When people hear about cycle tracking, they often assume it’s only for women trying to get pregnant. But the truth is, every woman—whether she’s single, married, postpartum, or perimenopausal—can benefit from understanding her cycle. Your menstrual cycle isn’t just about fertility, nor is it singularly important to make a baby, it’s a vital sign of your overall health, just like your heart rate or blood pressure.
Here’s why tracking your cycle is one of the best things you can do for your health, regardless of your reproductive goals.
9 nutrients depleted by your birth control pill
Most medications affect our nutritional biochemistry, and the Oral Contraceptive Pill is no exception—something known since 1970. Yet, despite 1 in 4 Australian women (18–49) using it, many aren’t informed about its impact on nutrition, cardiovascular health, or mental well-being. Let’s explore how the Pill works, its long-term effects on health and fertility, and ways to counteract deficiencies.
The role of healthy fats in enhancing your reproductive health
While the word "fat" might have negative connotations in popular culture, the truth is that certain fats are essential for maintaining optimal hormonal balance and overall well-being. However, factors such as stress, poor diet, and environmental toxins can disrupt this delicate equilibrium, leading to various health issues. In this article, we'll delve into the importance of healthy fats in supporting hormone health and explore some delicious and nutritious sources you can incorporate into your diet.
The silent threat to fertility… microplastics
Microplastics are environmental pollutants generated when plastic materials (from clothes, bottles, tires etc.) break down and fragment a size ≤5 mm. These particles are ingested or inhaled but cannot be digested or degraded. Let’s delve into the relationship between microplastics and fertility, exploring the scientific findings, potential risks, and ways to mitigate this invisible threat to reproductive health.