We often find ourselves caught up in the never-ending cycle of responsibilities and commitments. We juggle multiple roles, constantly putting others' needs before our own. But here's the truth: neglecting self-care is a recipe for disaster. Without taking the time to recharge and prioritize our well-being, we risk burnout, exhaustion, and a negative impact on our mental and physical health.

With the days getting longer and the first signs of warmth returning to the air, we know spring is coming. Spring is typically associated with new beginnings and fresh starts. It’s the perfect time to tidy up, physically and mentally. Spring cleaning isn’t just about sprucing up your living space, it’s also about rejuvenating your body & mind.

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.

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. 

As February unfolds, we are honored to recognize National Cancer Prevention Month—a time to empower ourselves with knowledge, make proactive choices, and collectively work towards a cancer-free future. Cancer touches the lives of many, and through awareness and action, we can make a significant impact.

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.

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.

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.

Do you have missed periods or heavy bleeding during menstruation? Do you have excess hair growth or acne? Have you been struggling to get pregnant for more than 12 months? You may have Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) if you struggle with any of these issues.  

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.

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.

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.

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."

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.

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.

Summer is often associated with sunshine, beach outings, and outdoor activities. However, for individuals experiencing Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), the summer months can be anything but enjoyable. As the iconic song from the movie "Grease" goes, "Summer lovin', had me a blast," but for those with Summer SAD, the heat and humidity can trigger feelings of depression, anxiety, and irritability.

Sip on something sweet and sober this Alcohol Awareness Month with a delicious mocktail! ⁠Try out these recipes, for a great fresh spring drink alternative that is alcohol-free! Let’s raise a glass to make responsible choices and prioritizing our health! 

Moms - I know you're superheroes, but even superheroes need a break. That's why I'm here to discuss the best meditation apps to help you find your inner peace during Stress Awareness Month. As busy moms, it's easy to get caught up in the chaos of everyday life, but taking just a few minutes to meditate can make all the difference. So, let's dive into the top apps that will help you cultivate a meditation habit and find some much-needed calm in your day.

Ladies, let's face it: menopause is no joke. The hot flashes, the mood swings, the night sweats…it can all feel overwhelming at times. I've seen it all when it comes to menopause. And I'm here to say that you don't have to suffer through it alone.

As a primary care physician, I've seen my fair share of uncomfortable topics. But when it comes to colorectal cancer, I've noticed a trend: patients would rather talk about anything else than their butts. And while I understand that it's not the most glamorous topic, the fact is that colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in the US, and it's highly treatable if caught early. So, it's time to destigmatize and talk about it - because the first step in preventing and treating colorectal cancer is to get comfortable with our behinds.