Instant appointment autism signs? a question of contraception Steroids and osteoporosis

With Dr Arabella Onslow

dr arabella Onslow has been a Gp for 11 years and was rosemary conley’s health professional Slimmer of the year in 2012 after losing 10st.

Qcould my daughter be autistic? She’s OK at academic work, but finds people overwhelming, making her tongue-tied and withdrawn.

also she’s very literal and seems not to be able to use her imagination. Lucy, Dorking

aIt could be mild autism. She has a typical triad of difficulties – in social interaction, communication and imagination.

Speak to your GP, as he or she may be able to refer you to a specialist.

QMy last period was almost a year ago now and i’ve recently met a new partner.

i’m very much looking forward to having sex,

but wonder whether i’ll need to use contraception. Rianne, Otley

aWhile unlikely, you could conceive up to two years after your last period, so use contraception.

Consider using the progesterone-only Pill, the coil or condoms (although these can be unreliable).

Qi need to take inhaled steroids, but am concerned about side effects, as osteoporosis, runs in our family. Eleanor, Thaxted

aLow-dose inhaled steroids do not cause osteoporosis but can be essential for asthma control.

Not smoking or drinking, eating a healthy, calcium-rich diet and taking regular weight-bearing exercise will help keep your bones strong.