For many women, trying to conceive can come with a long list of questions, from “Are we doing this right?” to “When should I actually see a doctor?” And sometimes, getting clear answers is the first step towards feeling a little more prepared.
That was the conversation at What Women Want Forum: Before We Bloom – A Couple’s Guide to Pre-Pregnancy, organised by Parenthood Media in collaboration with Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur (PHKL). Held at MyToday, Atria Shopping Gallery, the forum brought women together for an open and honest look at trying to conceive (TTC), fertility and pre-pregnancy health.
Beyond the usual pregnancy talk, the session explored common fertility concerns, reproductive health and why getting the right medical guidance early can make a meaningful difference when planning for pregnancy.
The panel featured Dr Raymond Lim, Obstetrics & Gynaecology (O&G), and Dr Lim Sue Wen, Endocrinologist, from Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur. Together, they shared insights on fertility, hormonal health, age-related considerations, underlying medical conditions and the different factors that can affect conception.
Preparing for Pregnancy Starts Earlier Than Many Think
One of the key messages from the forum was that pre-pregnancy care does not have to begin only when someone is actively trying to conceive. Looking after reproductive and overall health earlier can help identify potential concerns and support better preparation for pregnancy.
Dr Raymond and Dr Lim Sue Wen, also discussed how fertility changes with age, while health conditions such as polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS- previously known as PCOS), endometriosis, thyroid disorders and diabetes may make conception more challenging.
Recognising possible warning signs and seeking medical advice early can help women better understand their reproductive health and what steps may be appropriate for them.
Fertility Is a Shared Journey
Another important takeaway was that difficulty conceiving should not be viewed solely as a woman’s issue.
When conception is taking longer than expected, both partners may need to be evaluated, as male factors can also contribute to infertility.
The discussion also touched on the role of hormonal health, body weight, nutrition, physical activity, stress and underlying medical conditions in reproductive health and pregnancy outcomes.
By addressing these topics openly, the forum aimed to make trying to conceive (TTC) conversations feel more informed, practical and less intimidating.
Seeking Help Does Not Automatically Mean IVF
The panellists also addressed a common misconception that seeing a fertility specialist automatically means undergoing IVF.
A fertility consultation starts with understanding the possible cause of a fertility concern and exploring suitable options for the individual or couple.
Depending on the situation, recommendations may range from lifestyle adjustments and medication to managing underlying medical conditions or, where appropriate, assisted reproductive treatments such as IVF.
Through What Women Want Forum: Before We Bloom, Parenthood Media and Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur aimed to encourage more open conversations around trying to conceive (TTC) and pre-pregnancy health, helping women better understand the factors that can influence fertility and the options available to them.\
If you or someone you know is facing difficulties conceiving or considering a pre-pregnancy consultation, visit www.pantai.com.my/kuala-lumpur to learn more about its specialist services and seek professional medical advice.
For more stories, expert insights and updates on women’s health, pregnancy and family life, follow Parenthood Media on Facebook and Instagram.
