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Ms.Medicine Blog

The Ms.Medicine blog is your trusted source for comprehensive women's health information. We’ll cover a wide range of topics including general health, wellness, lifestyle, nutrition, and women's specific health concerns. With evidence-based articles and practical advice, we aim to empower women to make informed decisions about their health and well-being at every stage of life.

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WOMEN'S HEALTH Tara Derington WOMEN'S HEALTH Tara Derington

Cold Weather Heart Care: Why Women's Heart Health Matters More in Winter

Cold weather can significantly impact women's heart health, with heart attacks being more common during winter months. As temperatures drop, the body works harder to maintain core temperature, leading to increased heart rate and blood pressure. Learn essential prevention strategies and practical tips to protect your heart health during the cold season.

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WOMEN'S HEALTH Tara Derington WOMEN'S HEALTH Tara Derington

The Hidden Dangers in Your Tampons: What You Need to Know About Toxic Metal Contamination

In an age where we are increasingly conscious of the ingredients in our personal care products, a recent study has uncovered a concerning revelation - many popular tampon brands may contain traces of toxic metals. This discovery has left many menstruating individuals questioning the safety and integrity of one of the most commonly used feminine hygiene products. As we delve deeper into this issue, it's crucial to understand the implications, the potential health risks, and what steps can be taken to address this pressing concern. Let’s explore the hidden dangers in your tampons and what you need to know about toxic metal contamination, empowering you to make informed decisions for your health and well-being.

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WOMEN'S HEALTH Tara Derington WOMEN'S HEALTH Tara Derington

Empowering Communities: Promoting Comprehensive Sex Education and Access to Reproductive Health Services

Access to quality reproductive and sexual health care and education is crucial for fostering happier and healthier lives, yet reproductive and sexual health justice face significant challenges in today's landscape. With over 500 anti-LGBTQ+ bills introduced and 43 states heavily restricting access to safe abortions in 2023, destigmatization efforts are more crucial than ever. From cancer screenings and STI tests to practicing safe sex and supporting comprehensive sex education in schools, every individual can play a vital role in empowering communities and promoting reproductive health awareness. Join the movement to donate menstrual products, advocate for comprehensive sex education programs, deprioritize health care restrictions, and expand access to reproductive health services at a local and national level, making a tangible difference in the lives of many.

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WOMEN'S HEALTH Tara Derington WOMEN'S HEALTH Tara Derington

Understanding Breast Cancer Risk: What Olivia Munn’s Experience Reveals 

While sharing her journey with breast cancer, Olivia Munn has sparked a crucial conversation about the significance of breast cancer risk assessment. Understanding why Olivia Munn's breast cancer reveal emphasizes the need for risk assessment is vital, as this evaluation can provide essential insights into one's individual risk factors and empower informed decision-making regarding preventive measures. Exploring what a breast cancer risk assessment can and can't reveal is key to demystifying this process, guiding women over 40 towards proactive healthcare. In this piece, we delve into the importance of this tool, highlighting the specialized support Ms.Medicine providers offer in conducting risk assessments and providing personalized guidance. Dr. Lisa Larkin's personal experience as a breast cancer survivor further underscores the importance and value of this assessment, demonstrating the necessity of proactive healthcare in promoting women's well-being. 

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WELLNESS Tara Derington WELLNESS Tara Derington

The Power of Female Friendships: Building Strong Connections

In a world where connections are increasingly digital and superficial, the power of female friendships remains a valuable and essential aspect of a woman's life. Genuine female friendships have the potential to be a source of energy, emotional fulfillment, and empowerment. Unfortunately, societal norms and expectations often discourage and undermine the bonds between women. However, by reclaiming the power of sisterhood and actively fostering meaningful connections, women can create a supportive network that enhances their well-being and personal growth.

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WOMEN'S HEALTH Bebe Hodges WOMEN'S HEALTH Bebe Hodges

Does Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Cause Early Menopause?

Menopause is a big transition in every woman’s life. During the menopausal transition, a woman’s menstrual cycle becomes irregular and eventually ceases. This happens because your ovaries are making less estrogen, a female sex hormone. How does this change in hormones impact women with hormone imbalances? If you have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a health issue related to an excess production of male sex hormones, this may be a question that you’ve asked yourself. It’s an important question and one that women deserve answers to. So, let’s do some digging to find out.

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WELLNESS Tara Derington WELLNESS Tara Derington

The Art of Yearly Reflection: A Woman's Guide to a Meaningful Year-End Review

Let's be real: patting yourself on the back for the wins, giving the side-eye to the not-so-great moments, and plotting world domination for the upcoming year is basically Adulting 101. But how do you wrap up your year without feeling like you're just spinning your wheels? Fear not, my friend, because I've got the ultimate cheat sheet for crushing your year-end review. Get ready to take notes; we're about to dive into the nitty-gritty of self-reflection with a twist of fun and a dash of future-planning finesse. Buckle up, it's going to be an enlightening ride into setting up your next lap around the sun for epic success.

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WOMEN'S HEALTH Alexa Fiffick | DO, MBS, MSCP WOMEN'S HEALTH Alexa Fiffick | DO, MBS, MSCP

Women, Alcohol, & The Holidays 

The Holidays are right around the corner, and many of our joyous celebrations are often associated with a plethora of alcoholic beverages. While we have traditionally heard and even recommended that alcohol in moderation is ok, or that red wine has heart health benefits, more recent research says otherwise, especially for women. Over a decade ago, alcohol earned the classification by the International Agency for Research on Cancer as a “Class 1 Carcinogen.” Other substances that are in this class, the absolute highest risk class of carcinogen, include tobacco, asbestos, Human Papillomavirus, radiation, and plutonium.

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WOMEN'S HEALTH Bebe Hodges WOMEN'S HEALTH Bebe Hodges

Understanding Osteoporosis: Causes, Risk Factors, & Prevention

October 20 marks World Osteoporosis Day. The day is all about making noise about a disease that silently weakens your bones over time. As you get older, your bones naturally become less dense, making them more susceptible to break. For people with osteoporosis, their bones lose density and mass to a greater degree and become especially prone to fractures. Osteoporosis can result in bone fractures from seemingly minor injuries, like “a minor fall, a bump, a sneeze, or a sudden movement’” according to the International Osteoporosis Foundation.

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WOMEN'S HEALTH Alexa Fiffick | DO, MBS, MSCP WOMEN'S HEALTH Alexa Fiffick | DO, MBS, MSCP

Top 5 Things I Wish Everyone Knew About Women’s Health.

This blog is just more than words on a screen; it is a movement fueled by a burning desire to empower women with knowledge and change the healthcare dynamic. Together we can ensure that every woman receives the care and attention she rightfully deserves. So, whether you are a female patient seeking answers or a medical professional eager to enhance your understanding, I invite you to continue reading so that we can shape a healthier, more informed future for all.

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WOMEN'S HEALTH Tara Derington WOMEN'S HEALTH Tara Derington

The Comprehensive Guide to Understanding Sunscreen for Women

In our daily lives, sunscreen plays a pivotal role in safeguarding our skin from the sun's damaging rays. It's not just a mere item in our beauty arsenal; it's an essential shield reducing the risk of skin cancer. With countless sunscreen options, understanding how sunscreen works, its absorption, and the efficacy of different Sun Protection Factors (SPFs) can be daunting. This comprehensive guide aims to demystify the intricacies of sunscreen to help you make informed choices for your skin health.

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WOMEN'S HEALTH Tara Derington WOMEN'S HEALTH Tara Derington

Eye Health During Menopause

Menopause is a natural phase in a woman's life, marked by the cessation of menstrual periods for at least 12 consecutive months. While menopause is commonly associated with symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances, it's essential to recognize that hormonal changes during this time can also impact various aspects of health, including eye health. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the effects of menopause on the eyes, the changes that may occur, and practical tips to maintain good eye health during this transitional phase.

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WELLNESS Tara Derington WELLNESS Tara Derington

The Loneliness Epidemic: What You Need to Know

I've seen my fair share of health epidemics, from the flu to heart disease. Still, a new epidemic has been creeping up on us, and it's not a virus or bacteria. It's loneliness. Dr. Vivek Murthy, the United States Surgeon General, has said, "Loneliness is not just a feeling. It is a public health crisis that threatens our physical and emotional well-being."

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WOMEN'S HEALTH, GENERAL HEALTH Tara Derington WOMEN'S HEALTH, GENERAL HEALTH Tara Derington

Living with Rheumatoid Arthritis: Reflections on Life, Pain, and Resilience 

Over the past few years, in living with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), I’ve been faced with many hurdles. I've decided to share my story and some things I’ve learned along the way. I hope that it might resonate with some of you who are faced with chronic illnesses and encourage you to keep moving forward on your journey of resilience.

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WOMEN'S HEALTH Tara Derington WOMEN'S HEALTH Tara Derington

Taking Charge: A Decade-by-Decade Guide to Women's Health

As a woman, you may feel unstoppable in your twenties, overwhelmed in your forties, and satisfied with all that you have achieved in your sixties. However, while striving to attain your personal goals, it's crucial to prioritize your health and well-being while staying mindful of the physical and hormonal transformations that occur throughout the journey. According to Ms.Medicine experts, here are some measures that can help you preserve your health and overall well-being as you advance through the different stages of life.

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