PRE-PREGNANCY HEALTH FORUM BY PARENTHOOD MEDIA AND PANTAI HOSPITAL KL

Fertility, hormonal health and pregnancy preparation issues were front and centre at the ‘What Women Want – Before We Bloom’ Forum recently.

Hosted jointly by Parenthood Media and Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur at MyToday, Atria Shopping Gallery, the informative session was insightful for couples trying to conceive; opening up conversations on reproductive health, common fertility concerns and the importance of seeking medical guidance early.

Dr Raymond Lim, Obstetrics & Gynaecology (pic above) and Dr Lim Sue Wen, Endocrinologist (pic below) from Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur shared their knowledge on fertility, hormonal health, age-related considerations, underlying medical conditions and different factors that can affect conception.

Early Start for Pregnancy Preparation

 
Both Dr Raymond Lim and Dr Lim Sue Wen urged couples to begin pre-pregnancy care early instead of waiting until their attempt at conceiving. They reasoned it's better to look into one's overall and reproductive health earlier as this could help identify potential concerns and better support pre-pregnancy preparation.

Among the issues highlighted by the specialists included the impact of age on fertility and certain health conditions that may pose challenges to conception such as polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS), endometriosis, thyroid disorders and diabetes. As such, seeking medical advice early can help to identify possible health warning signs and enable women to better understand their reproductive health and the appropriate steps to take.

 

Fertility: A Shared Journey

 
Difficulty in conceiving should not be viewed solely as a women’s issue. When conception is taking longer than expected, both partners may need to undergo evaluation as infertility may be due to male factors.

The forum also emphasized the role of hormonal health, body weight, nutrition, physical activity, stress and underlying medical conditions in reproductive health and pregnancy outcome. Such open discussions on these topics make trying to conceive conversations more informative, practical and less intimidating.
 

Seeking Help Doesn’t Automatically Mean IVF

 
Both panelist speakers opined that consulting a fertility specialist doesn’t automatically mean underdoing in-vitro fertilization (IVF).

A fertility consultation is to understand the possible cause of a fertility concern and to explore suitable options for the individual or couple. Depending on situation, recommendations may range from lifestyle adjustments and medication to managing underlying medical conditions or where appropriate, consider assisted reproductive treatments such as IVF.

Through the interactive What Women Want: Before We Bloom Forum, Parenthood Media and Pantai Hospital KL aimed to spur more open conversations on trying to conceive and pre-pregnancy health issues, helping women to better understand influencing factors on fertility and viable options available.

After the forum concluded, we went for a whirlwind tour of MyToday. The spacious family and child-friendly space integrates multiple areas designated for children's activities such as reading, cooking, painting, etc. 

Also included is a well-equipped playarea, a cafe and private function rooms catering to birthday parties, workshops and special events.

If you or someone you know is facing difficulties conceiving or is considering pre-pregnancy consultation, visit www.pantai.com.my/kuala-lumpur to learn more about its specialist services and to seek professional medical advice.

THE ART OF LAMB AT DOUBLETREE BY HILTON KL

 

The art of preparing a whole lamb and showing the meat’s versatility inspired the culinary team at DoubleTree by Hilton Kuala Lumpur to place “The Art of Lamb” in the spotlight from 2 October until 28 November.

Every Friday and Saturday night, immerse yourselves in a dining experience where halal Australian lamb is front and centre at the Makan Kitchen buffet.

From familiar favourites to lesser-known cuts, The Art of Lamb explores and displays how different cuts of Aussie lamb can be braised, roasted, grilled, curried and smoked. The philosophy is simple: understanding the ingredient, respecting every cut and allowing thoughtful techniques to bring out its best attribute.
 

Each cut exudes its own character, be it slow-cooked for richness and depth, prepared as a tender loin or served as a classic roast-ready leg. Even lesser-known cuts and offal are celebrated, reflecting an “All Cuts, Zero Waste” approach.

Aside from Malaysia’s multi-cultural take: Australian Lamb Neck Assam Pedas, Sup Kambing Berempah, Malay Curry Lamb Hind Shank, and Cantonese Braised Lamb Ribs, we also sampled contemporary offerings such as Lamb Terrine with Dried Fruits, and Lamb Striploin with Pomelo and Tamarind-Palm Sugar Dressing.

Ideas from different corners of the world brought out Moroccan Lamb Sausage, Roasted Australian Lamb Leg with Gremolata and Figs, Signature Lamb Shoulder Biryani, Lamb Trunk Rogan Josh, Smoked Lamb Ragout Penne, Lamb Merguez Cumberland, Rosemary Braised Lamb with Parmesan Potato Crust, and Lamb Fore Shank Pot with Beancurd and Radish.

 
Learn first-hand from Makan Kitchen chefs on different parts of the lamb through the interactive “Know Your Cuts” corner and discover different cooking methods applicable to each cut. Then put your newfound knowledge to the “Know Your Lamb” test for a chance to take home DoubleTree by Hilton’s cookie tin.

The Art of Lamb dinner buffet is available every Friday and Saturday from 6.30pm to 10pm, priced at RM168 nett per adult and RM84 nett per child. Guests can also enjoy a Buy 4, Free 1 promotion, while Hilton Honors discounts apply.

For reservations at Makan Kitchen, DoubleTree by Hilton KL, call tel: 03-2172 7272, +6012 290 4551 or email:

KULDT_FB@Hilton.com.
 

TOSHIBA EMPOWERS MOTHERS’ BREASTFEEDING JOURNEY

Toshiba Lifestyle Malaysia recently launched its "Empowering Every Mother's Journey" initiative in conjunction with the World Breastfeeding Month 2026.

Aimed at inspiring and empowering mothers and promoting breastfeeding through meaningful conversations, expert insights and practical support, Toshiba Lifestyle Malaysia highlighted the importance of a supportive environment for mothers and newborns at a special event officiated by YB Yeo Bee Yin, Chairperson of the Parliament Select Committee (PSC) for Women, Children and Community Development.

 
Vanice Foo, Head of Brand Management, Toshiba Lifestyle Malaysia said "At Toshiba, we believe innovation should serve a greater purpose by enhancing the quality of everyday life. Supporting families and mothers with insights and home solutions mothers goes beyond, enabling them to navigate important moments with greater confidence. By integrating technology, education and community care, we aim to support mothers throughout their breastfeeding journey and contribute towards healthier beginnings for newborns."

 
YB Yeo Bee Yin emphasised "Breastfeeding is not only a mother's personal journey but also involves families, communities and healthcare professionals. Mothers may face many challenges in their motherhood journey. Today's initiative demonstrates the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in educating and building a more supportive environment for mothers and babies."

 
A panel discussion saw YB Yeo Bee Yin sharing perspectives alongside Elizabeth Richard, Certified Lactation Consultant & Infant Care Expert and Natasha Hudson, model, ceramist and wellness advocate on the realities of breastfeeding. They also highlighted the importance of education, support systems and making informed choices when empowering mothers on their breastfeeding journeys.

Elizabeth Richard, Certified Lactation Consultant & Infant Care Expert explained "breast milk provides important nutritional and protective benefits to support a baby's growth, development and overall well-being. However, breastfeeding can come with physical, emotional and practical challenges. Without the right information and support, mothers may find it difficult to continue. Consistent education, professional guidance and a supportive environment are essential in helping mothers feel more confident throughout their breastfeeding journey."

Renowned actress, model, ceramist and wellness advocate Natasha Hudson opined every mother's journey is unique, shaped by its own challenges and beautiful moments. "Having the right support can make a meaningful difference. Conversations like these are important reminders a mother's well-being matters too."

 
In conjunction with the breastfeeding awareness event, Toshiba Lifestyle Malaysia supported The Nesting Place Confinement Centre, Kimporo Postnatal Rejuvenation Centre and LYC Mother & Child Centre by donating refrigerators, washing machines, dryers and dishwashers valued at approximately RM60,000.

Parenthood Records lauded Toshiba Lifestyle Malaysia for the Most Home Appliances Donated to Confinement Centres, paying tribute to Toshiba's commitment in supporting mothers and babies through the provision of safer, healthier and more nurturing postpartum environments.

Guests at the launch event also experienced Toshiba's home solutions in creating a more comfortable, hygienic and calming environment for mothers, babies and families. 

The immersive 5-Senses Toshiba Lifestyle Experience Zone highlighted Toshiba's wider home solution ecosystem in creating a nurturing home for mothers and supporting their breastfeeding journey.

For information about Toshiba Lifestyle Malaysia, visit
www.toshiba-lifestyle.com/my