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.
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.
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.