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.

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

CALIFORNIA WINES CELEBRATE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE JUDGMENT OF PARIS

 

It’s a coup like no other. In 1976, California wines outscored highly regarded French wines in a blind tasting organised by British wine merchant Steven Spurrier in Paris.

Known as the Judgment of Paris, the ground-breaking event established the excellence of California wines and California as a world-class wine producing region.

In celebration of the 50^th anniversary of the Judgment of Paris, California Wine Institute hosted a convivial afternoon of California wine sampling for trade partners and local media.

Christopher Beros, Director for Greater China & Southeast Asia (top pic) said, “2026 is a landmark year for California wines. The 50^th anniversary of the Judgment of Paris not only commemorates the historic victory for California wines but also showcases how California continues to lead in quality, innovation and sustainability of its wine-making.”

Held at the Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur, we watched a short documentary on the Judgment of Paris. A curated range of California wines including those from participating wineries in the pivotal event 50 years ago.

The Chardonnays showcased were Chateau Montelena Napa Valley Chardonnay 2023, Spring Mountain Vineyard Chardonnay 2024, Veedercrest Vineyards Chardonnay 2022 and David Bruce Winery Chardonnay 2022.

Notable Cabernet Sauvignons included Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars Artemis Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, Ridge Vineywards Monte Bello 2023, Mayacamas Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, Clos du Val Winery Cabernet Sauvignon 2023, Heitz Wine Cellars Martha’s Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 and Freemark Abbey Cabernet Sauvignon 2021.

 
Stellar pioneers such as Grgich Hills Chardonnay 2022 and Robert Mondavi To Kalon Reserve Cabernet 2022 left us thoroughly charmed.

The Golden State of Mind, embodying California’s optimism, boldness, innovation and sustainability, is in every bottle of California wines.

Notable modern day picks included Gallica Albarino 2022, Maggie Hawk Jolie Pinot Noir 2021, Massican Annia 2024, Matthiasson Cabernet Sauvignon 2023, Rombaeur Chardonnay 2024, Senses Charles Heintz Chardonnay 2023, Terah Barbera Amador County 2024 and Titus Napa Valley Zinfandel 2023.

For more information, visit the official website: www.discovercaliforniawines.com