Fertility Talk: Chase Career, or Change Diapers?

Do you know that in Malaysia, 1 in 6 couples are estimated to have fertility issues? In fact, I have many relatives and friends are facing fertility issues, and they have not managed to get a child even after married for 10 years or more. I recently got to attend a fertility talk where I have learnt more about fertility issues and I wish to share with all of you here.

Fertility Associates Malaysia is located at Jalan Gasing

The panel of the fertility talk included international and Malaysian fertility experts with Dr. Arasu Muthusamy (MD, Fertility Associates Malaysia), Dr. John Peek (General Manager Quality, Information and Science, Fertility Associates New Zealand) and Dr. Mary Birdsall (Chair and Fertility Specialist, Fertility Associates New Zealand).

L to R: Dr. John Peek (General Manager Quality, Information and Science, Fertility Associates New Zealand) and Dr. Mary Birdsall (Chair and Fertility Specialist, Fertility Associates New Zealand), Dr. Arasu Muthusamy (MD, Fertility Associates Malaysia), Atilia

According to the panel, in fact, it’s never too young to do fertility scanning. International fertility specialists panel advises women to take steps to safeguard fertility while pursuing their careers, to avoid challenges in conceiving when they are ready to start families. Women nowadays are getting married later in life, and often pursuing careers to provide financial security before having children.  This is leading to an increasing number of couples struggling to conceive when they do want to start a family.

Chase Career, or Change Diapers?

The expert also found out that lack of awareness is a major factor influencing Malaysian couples seeking help, with many only consulting a fertility doctor after they have been trying to conceive for a number of years. At the panel discussion Fertility Screening was raised as a great first step for young women and men to get proactive and understand their fertility health before it is too late.

Dr. Mary Birdsall has brought her daughter to fertility scan when she was only 25. Not because Dr. Mary Birdsall wanted to become a grandmother but it’s for the knowledge and understand their fertility health.

Atilia Haron also joined the panel sharing her own experience of trying to have a baby and encouraged fertility screening.  This has helped both her and her husband understand their fertility health status and therefore chance of success either with or without treatment. Atilia wants to raise awareness on the importance of fertility screening and encourage more open discussion on the topic.

Throughout my adult life, fertility was not something I worried about. The status of one’s fertility was also not something that was openly discussed. Now that my husband and I have been trying for some time, I realised it was time I reached out for help. I am here today to tell Malaysian men and women that it is possible to focus on your career growth and have a baby - if you take the necessary steps, starting with a fertility screening,” said Atilia. 

Fertility Screening

Currently Fertility Screening is not a consideration for many Malaysian adults until they are in their prime or even past their fertile years. Fertility screening is similar to having a health screen. For both men and women there are a range of tests that can help check your fertility to help you plan your future. These tests help predict if a woman may have a faster biological clock and therefore will lose their fertility sooner than expected. The tests available estimate what is called an ‘ovarian reserve’ by measuring the number of egg follicles developing at a particular time. Testing of the ovarian reserve involves doing a blood test for Follicular Stimulating Hormones FSH and estradiol between day 2 and day 4 of the cycle, a pelvic ultrasound and/or performing a blood test for Anti Mullerian Hormone (AMH) that can be done anytime of the month. 

For men a semen analysis looks at the number of sperm, their shape and their ability to move. A single test does not provide all the information required, which is why Fertility Associates Malaysia offers these tests as part of a fertility screening package including a consultation with a fertility specialist. 

Dr John Peek (General Manager, Quality, Information and Science, Fertility Associates) explaining Biological Clock

Age is the most important factor when trying to have a baby. Young women without fertility problems have about a 25% chance per month of having a baby naturally. This falls to about a 12% chance at age 37 and a 4% at 42. Every year counts when you are getting into your late 30’s. Fertility Associates also has an online tool called the Biological Clock to help people work out their chances of conception naturally and also with treatment, this can tell you how long to try for naturally before going to a fertility doctor.

Fertility Associates’ patients Fatemeh Jalilvand and Laavanya Gopal Krishna also shared their own personal stories of their journey towards having a baby and were at the panel with their babies.

L-R: Dr John Peek (General Manager, Quality, Information and Science, Fertility Associates), Dr mary Birdsall (Fertility Specialist & Chair, Fertility Associates), Atilia Haron, Dr Arasu Muthusamy (Medical Director, Fertility Associates Malaysia), Patient Fatemeh Jalilvand with baby boy Amir Arsalan and husband Saiful Zamri (behind), Patient Laavanya Gopal Krishna with baby girl Keshannaa and husband M. Kumara Guru (behind).

“I would encourage women to seek advice and take up the Fertility Screening as soon as they are thinking about having a baby. It is easy and helps increase your chances in the long term. Don’t leave it too late.” – Fatemeh Jalilvand.

“Taking the first step is not that hard – the team at Fertility Associates really helped us along our journey.” -  Laavanya Gopal Krishna. 

Dr Arasu presents a token of appreciation to the patients who shared their personal journeys to motherhood at the panel discussion. LR: Dr Arasu Muthusamy (Medical Director, Fertility Associates Malaysia), Patient Fatemeh Jalilvand with baby boy Amir Arsalan and husband Saiful Zamri (behind), Patient Laavanya Gopal Krishna with baby girl Keshannaa and husband M. Kumara Guru (behind).

The fertility specialists from New Zealand highlighted that there have been many advances in the field of fertility. “I encourage women to take control of their fertility as soon as they are of adult fertile age. Start early and get yourself screened so that you can understand your fertility and therefore the options whether involving fertility treatment or not to a baby,” said Dr. Mary Birdsall (Chair and Fertility Specialist, Fertility Associates New Zealand.

Fertility Associates Malaysia wants to empower women with the right tools, knowledge, treatment and support to ensure her fertility, while she is working on her career growth. Through this panel discussion, Fertility Associates Malaysia hopes to raise awareness on the subject of fertility amongst Malaysian women and men and inspire them to find out the status of their fertility health in preparation for the near future.

Fertility Associates Malaysia can be reached at:

Fertility Associates

106 Jalan Gasing, Section 5,

Petaling Jaya, 46000, Selangor, Malaysia.

Tel No: 1 300 800 400 / +6-03 7931 9510

E. info@fertilityassociates.com.my

W. http://www.fertilityassociates.com.my

FB. www.facebook.com/fertility.associates.my

Buds Organics – Mild, Moisturizing and Nourishing for the Babies and Kids

Babies’ delicate skin needs extra cares and protection. I have chosen Buds Organics, the Certified organic skin and hair care for babies for my girls while they were infant.  Why? Because Buds Organics has specially formulated an Mild, Moisturizing and Nourishing infant range to meet the needs of infant’s fragile skin.

Not only that, they are one of the most comprehensive certified organic baby ranges in the World. They have a wide range of products below to cater different needs;

For the First 6 months’ old babies -

Infant Head to Toe Cleanser – Contains Aloe Vera and moisture boosting Fructan to gently cleanse while maintaining skin hydration.

Infant Massage Oil – Blended with Vitamin E, Jojoba, Sunflower and Virgin Olive oils to sooth the baby.

Infant Cream – It has skin barrier strengthening Inca Inchi, calming Bisabolol, hydrating Fructan and skin regenerating Portulaca, Calendula and Olive Leaf Extracts.

Nappy Time Rinse Free Cleanser – Instead of using wet wipes that contain harsh chemicals, simply apply Buds’ Nappy Time Rinse Free Cleanser on a piece of cotton and wipe.

Nappy Time Change Cream - Protect your baby’s bottom by Nappy Time Change Cream that contains Organic Beewax, Organic Olive and Sunflower oils, together with Shea Butter, Olive Leaf Extracts and Vitamin E.

For 6 months and above -

Everyday Head to Toe Cleanser – Perfect for active little babies as it is mild and hydrating.

My girls love the packaging a lot, it’s in their favourite colors of orange and light green. The cleanser is mild and their skin doesn’t feel tight after washing off. In fact, their skin is soft and supple after using Buds Everyday Head to Toe Cleanser.

Everyday Shampoo – With your baby’s locks getting longer now, you may wish to try the Vitamin E enriched Everyday Shampoo. Jojoba and Sunflower oils moisturize and keep baby’s hair soft while Aloe Vera Leaf Juice soothes and hydrates.

Everyday Baby Cream – Protect and moisture your baby’s still tender skin with the rich and protective Everyday Baby Cream.

On the Spot Rinse Free Cleanser – The perfect baby bag companion for cleaning up messy moments and sticky fingers.

For Outing -

Mozzie Clear Lotion – Repels mozzies safely and naturally with Buds Mozzie Clear Lotion.

Solar Care Lotion – Protect your baby’s skin against damaging UV rays with the water resistant, SPF 25 Solar Care Lotion.

Frost Defense Cream to defeat the winter season and many more products are in line for your babies and kids at Buds Organics.

For more information on Buds Organics, visit www.budsbaby.com

NEW! LEGO NEXO KNIGHTS #LEGONEXOKNIGHTS

Attention to all LEGO lovers, LEGO has launched the brand new product line – LEGO NEXO KNIGHTS just a couple of days ago! As a royal LEGO supporter, I brought my elder girl to the launch event happened at Centre Court, Mid Valley Megamall on last Saturday morning.

Depicting a medieval kingdom set in a futuristic world at the LEGO NEXO KNIGHTS ACADEMY event. We are so proud as Malaysia is the first country to host such an event in the whole of the South East Asia!

LEGO NEXO KNIGHTS Products

Dick Yoong, the Country Manager of LEGO Malaysia said during the event, “Technology is constantly evolving and has inevitably impacted the way the younger generation plays today. We have introduced LEGO® NEXO KNIGHTS™ to enable children and LEGO fans of all ages to relish an augmented play experience in both online and offline realms as they immerse themselves in the world of Knighton to be the best knights.

Dick Yoong, the Country Manager of LEGO Malaysia

We at LEGO® are always exploring and offering options for family bonding and enabling newer and interesting ways for parents to enjoy uniquely curated experiences and adventures with their children. We feel this multi-platform product line which integrates a modern storyline and technology with the timeless enjoyment of building blocks, should capture the imagination of children and parents alike, empowering them to learn together in a fun, new way through play.”

Kevin Hagino, Senior Regional Brand Manager of LEGO®

Then, Kevin Hagino, who is the Senior Regional Brand Manager of LEGO® has told us the story of LEGO NEXO KNIGHTS. Set in the futuristic, high-tech world of the kingdom of Knighton, LEGO NEXO KNIGHTSfollows five young knights in their quest to battle the royal court’s evil jester Jestro, his sidekick, the Book of Monsters and their Lava Monster Army. Heroic knight, Clay Moorington leads the band of knights including alpha superstar Lance Richmond, hipster Aaron Fox, Macy Halbert, a princess who would rather be a knight and Axl, the giant. Together, under the tutelage of Knights’ Academy mentor and Great Digital Wizard, Merlok 2.0 App, they join forces to defeat the enemy.

So cute posing in "Power up" pose!

The launch event was followed with exploring the various activities available at the LEGO NEXO KNIGHTS ACADEMY event.

From Left to Right: Kevin Hegino, Senior Regional Brand Manager of LEGO®, Clay Mascot, Dick Yoong, the Country Manager of LEGO Malaysia and Carol Chuo, the Country Manager of Toys “R” Us Malaysia.

First, my girl had enjoyed playing with the Merlok 2.0 App on iPads in the Training Zone. She fell in love with the multi-dimensional and interactive play a lot. I have even downloaded it on our own iPad and my Android phone so that she could play at home during this school holiday too. The game is available on App Store and Google Play Store to download for FREE!

Once downloaded, you could register at the NEXO Academy website at http://bit.ly/LEGO_NEXOKNIGHTSMYand “power up” by scanning the “shields” you obtained during the event, or from the LEGO building sets.

We proceeded to the Battle Zone/Virtual Battle Tour next. There my girl had her special VR experience. She told me it was really nice experience as the video was in 3D and she could play it interactively. It’s also her most favourite activity for the event.

The Forge zone is showcasing the latest LEGO NEXO KNIGHTS as well as a corners for kids to play LEGO®.

Play the video to see the cool LEGO NEXO KNIGHTS figures

Last but not least, we walked towards the other area of the LEGO NEXO KNIGHTS ACADEMY event, which is the Power Zone. The Power Zone is the place for you to explore all the latest products from LEGO NEXO KNIGHTS line, and obtain “Power ups” by purchasing the products. 

Once added to a digital power collection, children can continue their journey to knighthood with the LEGO NEXO KNIGHTS ACADEMY as they gain access to more exclusive shields not found elsewhere and also find new ways to join the knights to defeat the evil Jestro.

We have indeed bought some latest LEGO NEXO KNIGHTS products from the event. My girls had been building the blocks since then and I am glad that they really love this educational toy.

We will visit LEGO NEXO KNIGHTS ACADEMY event again because it is a fun event that suitable for all ages. To all the parents, do bring your kids to this ACADEMY in this School holiday for a fun filled day.

LEGO NEXO KNIGHTS ACADEMY event

Date: 8^th March 2016 to 20^thMarch 2016

Time: 10am to 10pm

Venue: Centre Court, Mid Valley Megamall

Don’t forget to collect the exclusive limited edition LEGO NEXO KNIGHTS merchandise cards by flashing my Instagram post at the event area from 8^th to 20^th March 2016. It’s FREE for the first 500 redemptions only.

Instagram link: https://www.instagram.com/p/BC18ws3EDLP/

The Best Family Suite in Kuala Lumpur

As a mother of two lovely girls, I treasure the time we spend together. During holidays, we love to go for a staycation with the whole family because it’s the best time for bonding. However, it’s not easy to find a hotel suite that can accommodate a family or 4 or more. It’s frustrated especially when we are looking for a big space to stay in the heart of Kuala Lumpur City Center. Well, worry no more coz we had a fantastic family staycation last weekend. 

Thanks to the wonderful invitation, my family and I got to stay at the best family suite in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, at Pullman Kuala Lumpur City Center Hotel & Residences (Pullman KLCC). Pullman KLCC recently completed a revamp on its facilities for the residences, which include the 2-Bedroom Family suite, Living Space (The exclusive lounge for residences) and The Zone (Play area for fun, gaming and entertainment).

We love the strategic location of Pullman KLCC as it is just a 2 minutes’ walk to Pavilion KL Shopping Center. There are also plenty of complimentary car parks available for hotel guests (just use your room card to access). The security is tight as the lifts are accessible by room card only.

Located at Jalan Conlay, the family suite at Pullman KLCC is overlooking the Pavillion Shopping Centre. We checked into Room 1931, and we love the fantastic view from the 19^th floor. It’s lovely to watch the people and cars passing by during the rush hour and the empty street in early morning. We did not know it was such a strong contrast in the largest city of Malaysia. 

Pullman KLCC’s 2-Bedroom Family suite is very spacious (at 107 square metre). It is furnished with a living room, kitchen, 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. It’s perfect for a family of 4 to 5 for a holiday getaway.  We love the bright and clean suite, it made us feel so comfortable and feel like home!

Designed to fascinate the children, the kids’ bedroom is decorated with colourful wallpapers, glowing stars, a bunk bed and filled with toys. There is also a Playstation and children’s books available in the room. 

My children have enjoyed the special welcome amenities a lot, until they don’t want to go home and begged me to stay there forever lol.

The 2-Bedroom Family suite is fully carpeted (except bathrooms, kitchen and main doorway) which is safe for young children. It has full amenities; you could find everything you need in the suite. For example rice cookers, kettler, 2-doors fridge, full set of utensils, Bath robe for the adults and kids, Bath toys, Shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, lotion, soap, emergency torch light, safe, iron and board, slippers, and many more!

There are 2 bathrooms in the suite, both has their own bathtubs. This is nice as we don’t need to rush while enjoying the hot bath. 

One would not be bored as there are 3 flat-screen TVs in the suite. Each bedroom has their own flat-screen TVs, and one in the living room hence each and every one could watch their favorite channel. Pullman KLCC also provides complimentary in-room high speed wifi plus a workstation.

We love that the hotel provides full of facilities and entertainment. Living Space, formerly the Residence Lounge in Pullman KLCC, is now a contemporary chill out area for guests and residences. Set in a contemporary style, Living Space is filled with colourful furniture, and with warm lighting which oozes a certain creative charm making this and oasis for business and leisure travelers alike. 

Besides serving daily continental breakfast, Living Space also serves complimentary coffee and tea during the day and after a hard day or work or play, it also offers residents a Happy Hour promotion from 5pm to 7pm daily with a 2 for 1 offer on draught beer, house wines and soft drinks.

Residents can also enjoy watching movies or live sports in the built-in home theater room whilst snacking on light snacks that can be ordered or even try their hand at self-made popcorn. 

The former Kid’s club has been renamed and refurbished too. Known as The Zone, it is not a stylish and modern space where fun and entertainment take place. The Zone is equipped with the latest gaming gadgets such as Playstation and Xbox. It’s an ideal place for toddlers to teenagers or even adults! The Zone is open daily from 9am to 10pm for hotel and residences’ guests.

Next to The Zone is a huge fitness lounge, equipped with all the fitness equipment.

Not only that, there is an adults swimming pool, kids pool and Jacuzzi located at the same level 15. It’s a place my children and I love so much and wish to go back for more.

Before we checked out, we have enjoyed our welcome drinks at Mezzanine lounge which offer variety of drinks, from juices to tea and coffee to wine. All of us have enjoyed our drinks in the cool atmosphere.

For food lover, the hotel has a few restaurants including Living Space, Eccucino, Enju, Tai Zi Heen that serves different types of finest cuisines. Staying at Pullman KLCC has been an extraordinary experience for our family, we would love to go back for more soon.

Pullman KLCC address:

No 4 Jalan Conlay

50450 KUALA LUMPUR

MALAYSIA

GPS: N 3° 9' 0.47'' E 101° 42' 52.20''

For more information or room reservations, visit www.pullmanhotels.com/A0C5 or email to reservations@pullman-klcc.comor call +6-03-2170 8888.