"I never learned much about my ovaries beyond their role in ovulation in ovulation. What are the basics every woman should try to understand about their ovarian health? “

Such a great question! Here’s my answer:

Your ovaries are dynamic organs that do far more than release eggs - they're central to your hormonal health, mood regulation, bone density, and metabolic function throughout your entire life. Many women are surprised to learn that ovarian function naturally begins changing in your 30s, not just at menopause, and that certain lifestyle factors can either preserve or accelerate this timeline. I've found that most women have never been taught how to identify early warning signs of ovarian issues, often dismissing symptoms like cyclical pain, bloating, and fatigue as just "normal period problems" when they could indicate addressable conditions.

In my full article on this topic, I explain the five crucial phases of ovarian health from puberty through post-menopause, how to recognize the difference between normal changes and concerning symptoms, and the specific protective measures I recommend to all my patients regardless of their age or reproductive plans.

Read the full article here.

Women’s Health News You Can Use

FDA approves first drug designed to treat hot flashes

In May 2023, the FDA approved fezolinetant (Veozah), a nonhormonal drug specifically designed to reduce the frequency and severity of hot flashes in women.

The FDA's approval of Veozah (fezolinetant) marks a significant milestone in women's health as the first non-hormonal medication specifically designed to treat moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause. This medication works by blocking neurokinin B (NKB) receptors in the temperature control region of the brain, addressing the root cause of hot flashes without introducing additional hormones. Clinical trials demonstrated meaningful reductions in both the frequency and severity of hot flashes compared to placebo, with effects beginning within a week of treatment. This advancement offers an important alternative for women who cannot or choose not to use hormone therapy due to medical contraindications, cancer history, or personal preference, though patients should be aware of potential side effects including abdominal pain, insomnia, and liver enzyme elevations requiring monitoring.

How to You Can Use This Information In Your Health Journey:

If you're struggling with hot flashes disrupting your daily life and sleep, this new non-hormonal option might be worth discussing with your healthcare provider. At your next appointment, bring up Veozah and ask whether it might be appropriate for your specific situation, especially if you've been hesitant about hormone therapy or if it's not recommended for you. Your provider will consider your complete health picture, including your liver function, current medications, and specific symptom patterns. Remember that management of menopausal symptoms is highly personalized - what works wonderfully for one woman may not be ideal for another. Be prepared to discuss the required liver function monitoring (before starting and at 3 and 6 months) and potential side effects. Don't hesitate to ask about how this option compares to other approaches like hormone therapy, lifestyle modifications, or other non-hormonal treatments so you can make an informed decision that aligns with your health goals and personal preferences.