Women's Health
Men and women have rather different issues to confront as they pass through the milestones of life. This page aims to signpost you towards contacts who may be best able to help where you confront and need support in particular area. General advice and information is always available from your GP Surgery and NHS Direct. Other agencies may provide more specialized advice on occasions.
> Breast Health
> Pregnancy
> Miscarriage
> Termination of Pregnancy
> Menopause
> Menstrual Problems
> Cervical Smears
> Fertility and Infertility
> Sexual Dysfunction
> Rape, Sexual Violence and Abuse
> Sexual Identity
> Female Genital Mutilation
> Disability
> Family Matters / Individual Support
> General
Breast Health
Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women in England and Wales. Regular self examination is important to make sure that any lumps aren't missed. Find out how to carry this out here. Mammography (an x-ray of the breasts) is a test which can be carried out to check for tumours in the breasts - there exists a screening programme where people aged between 50 and 70 may be called to have a routine check up. The cancer is very treatable if caught before it has chance to spread to the lymph nodes in the breast region. More information on examination and lumps can be found here. Breast cancer can be hereditary - there are families who carry genes which make them more susceptible to developing breast cancer. For further information about this, click here.
All women worry about whether or not their breasts are normal. At the back of everyone's mind is always the possibility of breast cancer and it is only sensible that women pay attention to feeling their breasts at regular intervals, looking out for pain, lumps, discharge from the nipple, changes in skin appearance or colour. If you have any concerns about breast symptoms then you should consult your GP or practice nurse for further advice. A short trip to the surgery is likely to relieve you of most of your anxiety about breast problems.
Breast pain is known as 'mastalgia'. It is very common indeed and often occurs just before a period. It is unusual for breast pain to be an early symptom of breast cancer; for further information click here.
Nipple discharge is a fairly common symptom in women - a discharge can be expressed in about 10% of women. Often there is nothing to worry about but you should seek advice from your doctor with any discharge from the nipple. Hormone variations can give rise to a discharge but sometimes it can be a sign of cancer, especially when there is blood in the discharge.
NHS Breast Cancer Screening Programme
Established in 1987, the programme has proved successful in reducing death cancer death rates. The programme is available to women between 50-70, who are invited for an examination every three years.
Breast Cancer Care
0808 800 6000 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm)
Breast Cancer Care is the leading provider of breast cancer information and support across the UK. They are committed to providing accessible, high-quality services for everyone affected by breast cancer. All services are free and include a helpline, website, publications and practical and emotional support.
Cancer Backup
0808 800 1234 (Mon-Fri 9am-8pm)
Leading national information and support services for people affected by cancer. They have a helpline, local drop-in centres, a website, booklets as well as fact sheets (which are sold through the website).
Pregnancy
Pregnancy is both a joyful and worrying time of any woman's life. Planning a pregnancy gives you and your future baby the best opportunity for a happy and healthy outcome. Woman are advised to stop smoking, drink very little or no alcohol and lead a healthy lifestyle before and during the pregnancy. We also advise that you take a daily tablet of folic acid 4000mcg as this reduces the chance of the baby developing neurological problems. Please consult your doctor, practice nurse and midwife who will be able to give you advice and support.
Patient Plus gives accurate and helpful advice. There are numerous leaflets on the Patient Plus website giving up to date information that will take you through your pregnancy with links to other sources of help and advice.
ARC - Antenatal Results & Choices 020 631 0285 (Mon-Fri 10am-5.30pm)
Helpline and email support (info@arc-uk.org) for parent which can assist with the difficult decisions to be made both before and after ante-natal abnormality screening.
La Leche League 0845 120 2918 (24/7)
Support and information on breast feeding. The national number can provide local contacts for counselling and support groups. Monthly meetings are organised in Halesowen which take place on the 2nd Tuesday of the month. The service is mother to mother.
The Miscarriage Association 01924 200 799 (Mon-Fri 9am-4pm)
Helpline offering support and information regarding miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy. They have a wide network of volunteers and groups. Asian language leaflets are available.
Multiple Births Foundation 020 8383 3519 (Mon-Fri 8.30am-4.30pm)
Advice and information for affected families, as well as professionals on issues raised by multiple pregnancies and births.
National Childbirth Trust Main: 0870 444 8707 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm)
Pregnancy & Birth: 0870-444-8709 (Mon-Fri 10am-3pm)
Breast feeding: 0870-444-8708 ( Every day 8am-10pm)
Providing support for parents both during and after pregnancy. They can put you in touch with local support groups, help you make friends and even arrange antenatal classes your own home.
Action on Pre-eclampsia 020 8427 4217 (24/7)
This helpline is designed to provide information about and raise awareness of pre-eclampsia - a disease affecting some 5-8% of pregnant mothers during and after pregnancy.
Twins & Multiple Birth Association 0800-138-0509 (Every day 10am-1pm / 7pm-10pm)
Helpline offering support for families with multiple pregnancy. Also providing support to those who have lost a child from multiple pregnancy.
Miscarriage
Losing a pregnancy, be it at 5 or 39 weeks can be a very lonely, frightening and difficult experience for any woman. If you find yourself in this position and are looking for support, do go and see your GP or nurse. Midwives also have training in miscarriage counselling to help you through this emotional period.
The Miscarriage Association
This service
offers an information and support service. Further advice can be obtained from Patient Plus.
Foundation for the Study of Infant Death
Carrying out research and providing support relating to sudden infant death. Offer a nation wide befrienders service via the phone line.
SANDS (Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Society) 020-7436-5881 (Mon-Fri 9.30am-5pm)
The telephone helpline offers support for those with stillbirths/neonatal bereavements as well as an information service, local self-help groups and publications.
Child Death Helpline 0800 282 986 (Mon-Fri 10am-1pm / 7pm-10pm, Wed 1pm-4pm)
This is a helpline for all of those affected by the death of a child.
Termination of Pregnancy
An unplanned (or sometimes planned) pregnancy can cause upset and confusion. About 1 in 5 of all pregnancies end in a termination - whatever your decision it can be very hard and lonely in making the journey. You will wish to and need to talk about your feelings in a safe environment with people who you trust. Professionals who can give you support in coming to your own decision include your GP and practice nurse, Birmingham Brook (those aged under 25) or a local family planning clinic. The British Pregnancy Advisory Service (BPAS) offer advice on their website; the Calthorpe Nursing Home also offer independent advice on abortions.
BPAS 08457 304030 (Mon-Fri 8am-9pm, Sat 8.30am-6pm, Sun 9.30am-2pm)
This is a national charity for unplanned pregnancy, which also offers vasectomy/sterilisation. Can do TOPs over 20 weeks - 1-24 week range. Can provide give advice if GP refused to support TOP. Call the action line to discuss your case, following which you may be referred to a local consultation centre, and then finally to an appropriate clinic. The action line team will be able to tell you if you need to pay or not.
Calthorpe Clinic 0121 455 7585 (Mon-Fri 8am-8pm)
This is a private clinic which can advise on and perform terminations, chlamydia testing, female sterilisation, and vasectomies.
Menopause
The word menopause comes from the Greek words 'men' (mouth) and 'pausis' (halt). It is the time when menstruation ceases and the last period marks the end of reproductive life. Women can suffer a variety of quite distressing symptoms at this stage in their lives which can affect them physically and emotionally. This can combine with a time of social isolation as children leave home to take on their own lives. Physical symptoms can include sweats, flushing, headaches, urinary frequency, lack of sleep, back pain and irritability. For those women who are suffering side effects, safe and effective treatment can be obtained from your GP and practice nurse. Some of the family planning clinics also provide help and advice about the menopause and its treatment.
Menopause advice can also be obtained through the Sexual Health Service and for those in difficulty after trying standards treatments a referral to the Menopause Clinic at City Hospital by your GP could change your life. General information about the menopause is available here.
British Menopause Society
The homepage of the British Menopause Society (BMS). BMS is dedicated to raising awareness of post-menopausal healthcare issues and providing training to improve care.
Menstrual Problems
Menstrual problems with pain, irregular, absent or frequent periods can occur at any time of a girl of women's life. Advice from a doctor or nurse will often reassure you that the changes are normal. Sometimes, however, menstrual variations can suggest that there is a problem and you are advised to discuss this with you GP or practice nurse.(More Information).
Premenstrual syndrome or premenstrual tension is the term commonly used to describe the variety of symptoms that some women experience prior to a period. Some of the symptoms such as breast fullness and tenderness, bloating and irritability are almost 'normal' before a period as up to 90% of women complain of these before a period. Most, however, can manage without seeking advice. Other information can be found at PMS.org.uk, BUPA.co.uk or patient.co.uk.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complicated condition where the ovary starts to produce many cysts that fail to develop into producing eggs and at the same time the balance of hormones is affected, often resulting in a loss of periods. It seems to be quite common ion the UK with about 5 - 10% of women suffering from PCOS at any one time. Other symptoms can include obesity and weight gain, acne and hairiness and depression. The periods often disappear completely or become irregular and becoming pregnant can be a problem. More information can be found here or contact your GP for further advice and information.
Heavy Periods (menorrhagia) Periods vary so much that it is often difficult to say when they are heavy, normal or light. If you lose over 80ml of blood during a period then your doctor would advise this to be a 'heavy period' and when this occurs with each period you will have 'menorrhagia'. There are numerous causes such as fibroids, endometriosis, hormone irregularities, the presence of a contraceptive coil, warfarin and blood clotting disorders and obesity. More information is available here. If you feel that you periods are causing a problem, then talk to your doctor who will be able to refer you to a gynecologist for further assessment if necessary.
Cervical smears
A cervical smear test is an examination of the cells of the neck of the womb. It is taken to check that the cells are healthy because in some situations (such as in the presence of wart, human papilloma virus), the cells can turn cancerous. The test is simple take - an instrument is gently inserted into the vagina so that the neck of the womb can be clearly seen. Then a sample of the cells is taken with a fine brush or shaped device and the cells then placed onto a slide.
A new way of processing the tests whereby the head of the brush where the cells are lodged is either broken off or rinsed into a glass vial containing preservative fluid is being introduced across Birmingham. This new method, called 'Liquid based Cytology' will reduce the number of inadequate tests and slides should be reported more quickly.
The Cervical Screening Programme has seen the incidence of cervical cancer fall between 1988 and 1997 in England and Wales by 42%. Happily, cervical screening now prevents about 5000 deaths every year in women in the UK. Further information can be obtained from the UK Screening Programme. Your eligibility of screening depends on age - those under 25 may be invited, those aged 25-49 will be called every three years, those aged 50-64 every 5 years, and those aged over 65 will only be screened if the previous three tests included an abnormal result.
Fertility and Infertility
Not every woman is fortunate enough to be fertile and carry a child for a full 9 months. About 1 in 6 couples seek advice from a doctor because of difficulty or delay in conceiving a first or subsequent child. In England there appears to be an 'epidemic of infertility' at the present time. This is thought to be for a variety of reasons which include delaying having children in a woman until she is older and therefore less fertile, higher rates of divorce, reduced opportunities for adoption and of course the effects of sexually transmitted infections.
Remember that 90% of all women under the age of 35 who try to conceive are pregnant within a year of starting to try. If you feel that you are having a problem in trying to become pregnant then you should discuss this with your GP. Further advice is available from a number of websites.
British Association for Adoption & Fostering
0207 421 2600 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm)
The BAAF promotes the interests of adopted and fostered children and will give advice to involved adults. They have a library in London (phone to arrange use) and are able to provide information on other agencies which offer parent tracing.
British Infertility Counselling Association 0174 475 0660 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm)
BICA helps put people in touch with their network of counsellors providing information on fertility and infertility services. They are also able to refer you to services in another country if you don't live in the UK.
Infertility Network 0870 188 088 (24/7)
This 24 hour helpline offers support and advice to those with infertility problems. They cannot offer treatment but are able to provide information about local groups.
Human Fertilisation & Embryology Authority
020 7291 8200
(Mon-Thurs 9am-5.30pm / Fri 9am-5pm)
This government-run body does not offer treatment, but can send out lists of licensed centres and their success rates as well as providing general fertility information. They offer an excellent selection of frequently asked questions and leaflets. The HFEA sets various code of practice and can provide information on these.
Sexual Dysfunction
The expectation of a happy and fulfilling sex life is a reasonable expectation for mature adults. The NHS has already accepted this and supports the prescribing of drugs for men with erectile difficulties. We have tended to neglect the emotional aspect of sexual probelms, where a sympathetic approach using councilling skills, together with an awareness and understanding of physical problems can bring about great change. Women with sexual difficulties (eg. an inability to have an orgasm, no interesting sex, painful intercourse etc.) can obtain help. Your GP and Practice Nurse may have experience in this area, as may some of the staff at the Genito-Urinary-Medicine Clinic. Birmingham Brook and Relate may also be able to help you.
Institute of Psychosexual Medicine
This organisation trains doctors to help you look at the nature of your sexual probelms.
Rape, Sexual Violence and Abuse
Sadly, our society reflects the extremes of behavior shown by all human beings. The consequences of rape, sexual violence and abuse are enormous affecting individuals physically, emotionally and socially. If you have been subjected to any such violence and wish to talk to someone in absolute confidence then you should contact Rape and Sexual Violence Project Helpline (0121 233 3818).
Many GPs also have concerns and are interested in supporting patients who are in difficulty. The most important action is to have courage and share your feelings and the events to which you were subjected with a confidential listener who can support you and point you in the direction of professional help. Just remember that you will be believed.
You can find details on regional support for men or women on the Rape Crisis website, which also contains information on what to expect when you go to the police or about court procedures.
Rape and Sexual Violence Project (Birmingham) 0121 233 3818 (call for hours)
Offering a telephone helpline and face-to-face counselling for female and male survivors of rape, sexual assault and childhood sexual abuse. They also offer support for friends, family and partners of survivors, and have disabled access.
BREATHE 0121 616 5060 (Mon-Fri 10am-5pm)
A helpline providing advice and support to African and Caribbean women affected by domestic violence.
The National Association for People Abused in Childhood (NAPAC) 0800 085 3330
(Mon-Fri 10.30am - 3pm, extra evenings: Wednesday 7 to 9pm, Thursday 8.30 - 10.30pm)
This group provides support no matter how long ago the abuse took place, pointing people in the right direction to take control of their own recovery. Call the free confidential helpline for support.
The Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Centre 0845 1221 331
(Mon-Fri 12am-2.30pm, 7pm - 9.30pm, weekends and bank holidays 2.30pm-5pm)
This group
offers support and information for women and girls who have been raped or sexually abused, however long ago
WAKE - Birmingham Women's Advice and Information Centre
0121 212 1881 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm)
WAKE help women in domestic violence situations and can provide assistance with admission to hostels. They have a wide range of literature in their library on a variety of issues and offer a drop-in service (with disabled facilities and interpreters if prior notice is given) on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10am-4pm.
West Midlands Police Domestic Violence Unit
0845 113 5000 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm) / 999 for emergencies (24/7)
Providing advice to men and women in domestic abuse cases.
Sandwell Victim Support Bham: 0121 569 7980 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm) / National: 0845 30 30 900 (Mon-Fri 9am-9pm, Sat-Sun 9am-7pm)
This is a general helpline service for victims of any crime, whether it be reported or not.
WAITS - Women Acting in Today's Society English Language: 0121 440 7000
Chinese language: 0121 446 5384 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm)
WAITS provide 1-1 support for women in domestic violence situations.
Women's Aid Routine: 0121 685 8550 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm) / Emergency: 0808 2000 247
Helping female / young domestic violence and sexual abuse victims as well as offering emergency support and housing. Interpreters are available with advanced notice.
Webwell Rape and Sexual Abuse
This offers advice to people who have been victims of rape, providing information on support services. Webwell also offer advice to clubbers who might be at risk of rape, or sexual violence.
Sexual Identity
What's it like to be gay, lesbian or bisexual? The answer depends entirely on the individual. The important thing is that same sex attraction does not have to dictate who you mix with, what you wear, and how you live your life.
It can be helpful to distinguish between sexual orientation and sexual identity. Sexual orientation: the direction of individuals sexual longings and or fantasies and attraction toward a male/female partner Sexual identity: self-recognition of one's sexual orientation and sexual behaviors and the meanings one places on them.
Some of this relates to different theories about homosexuality - is it innate and biological or is it culturally defined? The idea that being attracted to someone the same sex as you defines your identity is actually quite a western concept. Across different cultures, the same behavior (eg. anal sex between two men) can be understood very differently. People can also change their understanding of their own desires over time. The challenge is to find an understanding of yourself and your sexuality that fits with you and the life you wish to lead. It can be difficult coming to terms with a minority sexuality.
Others may find it difficult to understand and accept and you may find this difficult yourself. However, many people say that they find acknowledging and exploring their sexuality a life changing experience. Some people find that the experience of being different can also be freeing, in that it enables them to choose the gender expression or relationship styles that suit them, rather than what society prescribes. Equally the lesbian and gay community can offer an opportunity to meet and mix with a wide variety of individuals. The experience can be both challenging and inspiring. (Courtesy of UCL website)
Female Genital Mutilation
Female genital mutilation is an ancient practice where the external sexual tissue of the young girl is forcibly removed. The procedure is unlawful in the UK and always has unpleasant and sometimes very dangerous consequences for the child. Long term effects are seen in adulthood and with pregnancy. If you have been injured by this mutilation then there is sympathetic and understanding help to hand. Please contact your GP or visit Birmingham Walk in Centre who will be able to point you in the right direction. There are some experienced gynaecologists across the City who will be able to help correct the deformity. You should feel confident to approach your GP and seek help before trying to become pregnant.
Forward 020 8960 4000 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm)
A helpline devoted to providing information and support regarding female genital mutilation.
Disability
Sometimes talking about sex for many able, let alone disabled people can be extremely embarrassing and difficult. The more open and relaxed that we can be then the more likely it is that we will deal with sex in a caring, loving and respectful way. Those of us with a disability have a need for and interest in sex that is now different to anyone else. You should discuss the practical aspects of your disability with your partner and then with a doctor or nurse to see best how to get around any problems that might arise during the sex act. Disability Now, the charitable group with the interests of the disabled at the core of their work, have developed a good website for you to share.
Disability Now
Disability now offer advice and information for the disabled.
Family Matters / Individual Counselling and Support
Many of us need a little bit of help and support over the years. You may find the services listed below can offer you support and counseling.
Birmingham District Family Mediation 0121 233 1999 (Weekdays 9am-5pm, Sat 9am-1pm)
A divorce-mediation charity for couples who have decided to divorce or separate, or couples who have already divorced. Interpreters are available with notice.
Bharosa (HOPE) 0121 303 0368/69 (Mon-Thurs 9am-5pm, Fri 9am-4pm)
This services is aimed at helping vulnerable adult Asians by providing counselling, advice and support via telephone and face to face services. Bharosa aim to assist with a number of issues: e.g. housing difficulties, self esteem and relationship problems (eg. forced marriages) and reconciliation cases.
Change 0121 6433057 (Tues-Thurs 12am-6pm)
Change offer counselling and support to anybody and deal with a variety of issues including depression, stress and bereavement.
Carrs Lane Counselling Service 0121 643 6363 (Mon-Fri 11am-1pm)
Carrs Lane offers an independent service of trained and experienced counselors providing person centred, non-directional counseling at a very low cost.
You can make enquiries about an initial counselling session by telephoning them. You may have to try more than once, as their counsellors are often very busy.
Relate 0121 643 1638 (Mon-Thurs 9.30am-9.00pm Fri-Sat: 9.30am-1.30pm)
Relate offers counselling, psychosexual therapy, and other services to help those experiencing difficulties in any adult couple relationship. Please contact their helpline on 0845 456 1310 (Mondays to Fridays 9.30am-4.30pm) for details of local centres, services and publications available, or call the advice line 08451 30 40 10 to talk to a counselor. This line can be very busy so you may find the information you need on their website at www.relate.org.uk. They do charge a fee for their services (income-assessed) and offer disabled access.
General
National Association for Premenstrual Syndrome (NAPS)
0870 777 2178 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm)
Aims to create awareness of Premenstrual Syndrome. Contact for written information and numbers for counselling and advice. NAPS offer an online service (forum) for self help.
Ovacome - Ovarian Cancer Support
020 7380 9589 (Mon-Fri 9am-4pm)
Nationwide ovarian cancer support network. They run a free-of-charge service with extensive resources (see website) and a quarterly newsletter. They also have a local support group in Dudley, who meet on the fourth Wednesday of every month at The White House, Dudley. Contact Ailine Madders 0121 5505409 (group coordinator) or The White House 01384 231232..
Toxic Shock Syndrome Information Service 01483 418 561 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm)
Medical information service on Toxic Shock Syndrome. Literature available for general public and health professionals.
The SAFE Project 0121 446 1068
The Safe Project seeks to promote the health and well being of women who have worked, are working or are at risk of becoming involved in the commercial sex industry. SAFE also work to reduce the harm associated with sex work and to empower women to make positive choices. The Safe Project also provides a drugs service which includes prescribing for women involved in the sex industry. The Safe Project does not strive to control, reduce or promote commercial sex work.
