Understanding the basics Uterine fibroids are very common benign tumors of the uterus in women of reproductive age. Key point: They are hormone-dependent (estrogen and progesterone play a role) But their development is mainly influenced by biological and genetic factors Diet and lifestyle may influence the general metabolic environment, but they are not a direct treatment for fibroids. What science really says about diet All available evidence comes mainly from: large populat

The discovery of a decreased ovarian reserve—most often through AMH testing—frequently causes significant concern among patients: “Is there a way to increase my ovarian reserve?” The scientific answer is nuanced: it is currently not possible to create new oocytes or restore a depleted ovarian reserve. However, certain strategies may optimize the function of remaining follicles and improve the chances of pregnancy. This article provides an up-to-date overview for 2026 of what

It is quite common for women to experience symptoms that resemble pregnancy even when a pregnancy test is negative or when no pregnancy is present. These sensations can be confusing and sometimes distressing, but they are often explained by normal hormonal and physiological processes. Hormonal Fluctuations During the Menstrual Cycle The menstrual cycle involves significant changes in hormone levels, particularly estrogen and progesterone. During the second half of the cycle (

There are symptoms that many women experience… but choose to ignore. Because of lack of time, habit, or simply because “it has always been like this.” Yet behind these small signals from the body, there can sometimes be significant gynecological conditions. Here are some of the symptoms most often minimized — although they deserve your full attention. “Normal” period pain that may not actually be normal Many women believe that suffering during menstruation is unavoidable. How

Lately, I have been receiving very frequent requests for a PCV test. Sometimes in the presence of symptoms such as fatigue or dizziness, but very often in completely asymptomatic women. In Cameroon, the PCV has become, for many women, an almost automatic reflex — somewhat similar to the importance given to intimate hygiene or routine “check-ups”. And it must be clearly stated: the PCV is a useful test. But it does not detect “all gynecological problems”. What can a PCV actual

Talking about vaginal discharge is still uncomfortable for many women. Yet it is a completely natural part of how the body works. Understanding it better helps you recognize what is normal—and what may need medical attention. Throughout the menstrual cycle, the vagina naturally produces secretions. These are not dirty or abnormal. On the contrary, they play an essential role: maintaining a healthy balance of vaginal flora, protecting against infections, and reflecting hormona

Understanding the causes of recurrent miscarriages Early miscarriage is unfortunately a common event. In the vast majority of cases, it is an isolated occurrence that does not repeat itself and is followed by a normal pregnancy. It is important to emphasize that most women who experience a miscarriage will later have a completely normal pregnancy carried to term. When miscarriages occur repeatedly, this is referred to as recurrent pregnancy loss. According to medical guidelin

Fertility is not just about age or “luck.”Many everyday habits can quietly reduce your chances of conceiving—without you even realizing it. Here are the 5 most common mistakes—and how to fix them: Waiting too long for the “right moment” Many women delay pregnancy for personal or professional reasons. However, fertility gradually declines after 30, and more rapidly after 35. Why it matters:Ovarian reserve and egg quality decrease over time. What you can do: Get a fertility che

"What your period really says about your health" Periods aren't just a phase of the menstrual cycle—they're a true biological indicator. Color, heaviness, pain, the presence of clots: these are all signals the body sends. The key is knowing how to interpret them. Color: a silent language Menstrual blood can vary from bright red to dark brown, sometimes almost black. Bright red : active flow, often at the beginning of menstruation — usually normal. Dark red / burgundy : slow

Understanding unexplained infertility: between science, complexity, and hope What is fertility? Fertility is the biological capacity of a couple to conceive a child. It depends on a finely coordinated sequence of events: a good-quality ovulation, functional and motile sperm, fertilization at the right time, embryo transport through the fallopian tube, successful implantation, and a receptive hormonal and immune environment. Even under optimal conditions, the chance of pregnan

There are pregnancies that begin without ever becoming visible. Real biological beginnings, but too early to be clinically perceived. And yet, everything starts perfectly: fertilisation, cell divisions, migration… before the process silently comes to an end. This is a fundamental reality of human reproduction: a large proportion of pregnancies do not progress beyond the very first stages. An invisible construction, step by step From the moment of fertilisation, a new organism

This is a common story in consultation: a woman presents with a diagnosis of infertility, sometimes established years ago, sometimes after multiple treatment attempts… and yet, she becomes pregnant spontaneously. At first glance, this may seem paradoxical. In reality, human fertility does not follow a binary logic. It is not a matter of being “fertile” or “infertile,” but rather a continuum of probabilities , sometimes very low… but rarely zero. What is infertility, exactly?

Persistent fatigue affects many women and goes far beyond a “tough day.” If you sleep enough but still feel constantly exhausted, it’s time to ask: could hormones be the cause? Hormones involved Thyroid (TSH, T3, T4): Hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism can drastically reduce your energy. Even subtle variations can cause severe fatigue. Prolactin: Excess prolactin can disrupt menstrual cycles, libido, and sleep, contributing to general fatigue. Nutritional deficiencies: Iron

Many women assume that regular periods automatically mean normal ovulation. However, this isn’t always true. So-called “anovulatory” cycles can occur even when menstruation seems perfectly regular. What is an anovulatory cycle? An anovulatory cycle is a menstrual cycle during which the ovary does not release an egg. Without ovulation, conception is impossible, and certain hormones such as progesterone remain low. This can go unnoticed because your periods may continue, althou

Hyperemesis gravidarum : quand les vomissements mettent la grossesse en danger… For some women, early pregnancy comes with intense and persistent vomiting, called hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) . This is not “just a little nausea” : it can be extremely exhausting and sometimes put the mother or baby at risk if proper care is not taken. Who is affected? About 1–3% of pregnant women experience severe HG. Many more have regular nausea, but HG is an extreme form that may require m

We are already in 2026.Yet many couples still believe that pregnancy preparation begins the day contraception is stopped. In reality, fertility cannot be optimized in just a few weeks. If you are hoping to conceive in the coming months or before the end of this year, the time to act is now. Here are the essential steps to consider. Schedule a Preconception Check-Up A medical evaluation before pregnancy helps identify factors that may delay conception or complicate pregnancy.

Reproductive health is often overlooked during adolescence and early adulthood. Certain habits and choices can have long-term consequences on fertility, sometimes irreversible. It is important to be aware of these factors in order to better protect your reproductive health. Untreated Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) STIs such as chlamydia and gonorrhea can cause damage to the fallopian tubes, increasing the risk of infertility. Many young people underestimate the import

Why hormones and evolution make us more sensitive at certain stages of life Sometimes, the smallest thing can trigger tears, anger, or anxiety… and that is completely normal. Many women wonder whether they are “too sensitive” or “hysterical.” The reality is very different: these emotional fluctuations often have clear biological and evolutionary explanations. Emotional incontinence — a term describing temporary emotional hypersensitivity — particularly affects women during ce

Introduction — Awareness and Social Pressure In Cameroon, what strikes me is how aware people are of the importance of age when it comes to the desire to have children — many understand it intuitively or speak about it openly. At the same time, the social pressure to become a mother is often very strong, sometimes even stronger than in other countries. This combination of knowledge and cultural expectations makes the topic of wanting children both emotionally significant and

Are you pregnant and wondering if the first-trimester ultrasound is really necessary? The answer is simple: yes, absolutely. This small exam, performed around the 12th week, is not just a formality — it can have a decisive impact on the safety of your baby and you . Confirm that everything is going well At 12 weeks, the ultrasound allows your doctor to check: The baby’s vitality and heart rate Proper progression of the pregnancy Accurate dating for precise follow-up This simp