Introducing FACTS Advisory Council Member: Allison Macbeth
The FACTS Advisory Council consists of a talented and diverse group of individuals whose guidance and support are crucial to the success of our organization. This month, we feature Allison Macbeth, the newest member of the FACTS Advisory Council. Trained in the Justisse Method, she wants to break the taboos that surround topics such as periods and menstrual health and bring these conversations out into the open.
Factors Contributing to a Suboptimal Luteal Phase: A Research Review
A short luteal phase has significant implications for a woman’s fertility and is associated with early pregnancy loss and infertility. In this week’s post, Dr. Shum Sin reviews a 2018 research article by Abdulla et al titled, “Hormonal predictors of abnormal luteal phases in normal cycling women.” The study sheds light on the importance of normal follicular development, ovarian follicle size, and a healthy hormonal milieu to support a normal luteal phase.
Benefits of FABMs and Charting: One Couple’s Experience
Over the years, we have published many interviews with couples that reveal the various reasons why people choose to use fertility awareness-based methods (FABMs) both for family planning and health monitoring for women. In this interview, summarized by Henry Linford while on the FACTS fertility awareness elective, a husband and wife who have used the Billings Ovulation Method for nearly a decade, recount several ways in which FABMs and charting the menstrual cycle improved their communication, led to greater intimacy, and contributed to their emotional and mental wellbeing.
Treatment Options in Postpartum Depression: A Research Review
During Mental Health Awareness Month, we have published about the relationship between stress and premenstrual syndrome (PMS), the impact of estrogen and progesterone on the brain, and how charting the menstrual cycle serves as a tool for mental health. This week, Dr. Brenda Wafo reviews a 2009 research article by di Scalea and Wisner titled, “Pharmacotherapy of Postpartum Depression.”
Physical Activity and Women’s Health: A Research Review
Mental Health Awareness Month. Physical health is a key aspect of mental and emotional health for all people. It is important to consider the impact of physical activity on every aspect of a woman’s health throughout her lifespan, including the reproductive years and beyond. In this week’s post, Rajwinder Kaur summarized a 2016 article published by Harrison et al titled, “The Role of Physical Activity in Preconception, Pregnancy and Postpartum Health.”
Charting the Menstrual Cycle as a Tool for Mental Health
This patient interview is part of this month’s series to portray different applications of fertility awareness-based methods (FABMs) to enhance a woman’s emotional and mental health. A young woman shares how she learned to manage cycle-related mood symptoms by charting her menstrual cycle. This empowering approach improved her outlook and mood, helped her understand her body better, and led to greater self-acceptance.