Women's Health
We've brought together information on key topics - periods, fertility, mental health and menopause, to help you make informed decisions and know what services are available in our community.
You can also read our Women's Health Reports, where we share what local women have told us about their experiences and the changes they want to see.
Women's Health
Menstrual health can vary widely from person to person, and changes over time are completely normal. While many people experience manageable periods, others may have symptoms such as severe pain, heavy bleeding or irregular cycles that impact daily life. Conditions like endometriosis, fibroids and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can also affect menstrual health and may take time to recognise or diagnose. Understanding what is typical for you, knowing when to seek advice, and being aware of the support available can make a big difference. This section brings together reliable information to help you explore common menstrual health concerns and find guidance on when and how to get further help.
Healthwatch Luton Report on Period Poverty
Heavy Periods Endometriosis Nhs Endometriosis Nhs Video
The Endometriosis Foundation Polycystic Ovaries
Fibroids Women's Hair loss Contraception Vagina and Vulva Health
Planning a pregnancy
Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes Integrated Care System (BLMK ICS) has commissioned Healthwatch Luton to support their aim of improving care for women and other people who are thinking about starting a family, by improving pre-pregnancy health.
The ICS aims to ensure optimum health of women and other people who are thinking about starting a family, prior to pregnancy, by providing pre-pregnancy education, advice and support in the community.
Tommy's website contains midwife-led information covering everything you need to know about having a safe and healthy pregnancy, from conception to birth.
Pregnancy and your heart: why it’s important to plan ahead.
If you have a heart condition, you should get specialist advice before trying to conceive.
Specialist Perinatal Mental Health Service
This is a service for people who need extra support with their mental health, before, during and after pregnancy.
Pregnancy and early parenthood can be a joyful time, but for many women it can also feel overwhelming or emotionally challenging. Some women experience changes in their mental health that make day-to-day life harder, while others find that existing conditions become more difficult to manage.
Specialist perinatal mental health services are designed to support women who need extra help with their wellbeing before, during and after pregnancy. These teams include mental health professionals who understand the unique pressures of the perinatal period and can offer tailored assessments, treatment and ongoing support for you and your baby.
Many women tell us they’re unsure where to turn or what help is available locally. If you want to understand more about how these services work, who they support, and how to access them, you can explore detailed information through the link below.
Menopause
Menopause and perimenopause are natural life stages that can bring a range of physical and emotional changes. For some women these changes are mild, while others may notice symptoms that affect their daily life, work or overall wellbeing.
Women often seek clear, reliable information about what to expect, how symptoms can be managed, and which treatments or lifestyle changes may help. Many also want to understand when to speak to a GP, what support is available locally, and how menopause can influence long-term health.
This section brings together trusted advice, national guidance and local resources to help you understand your options and feel confident making informed decisions about your health.
Healthwatch Luton Report on Menopause
NHS Menopause British Menopause Society HRT NHS Guidance
HRT British Menopause Society Advice Menopause and Cancer
Women's Health Concern Website
