Women's Health | Health Channel
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Your Body On…Allergies
In the first minute
It all begins with a mating game. Male pollen grains drift off in search of female plant parts to fertilize. Cute, except that the powdery stuff is so pervasive that you'll undoubtedly breathe it in or rub it into your eyes. If you're allergic, your body makes antibodies called IgE. Pollen launches them into action.
IgE antibodies coat the outside of mast cells, which are part of the immune system and are abundant in the nose, throat, eyes, skin, and lungs. As pollen binds to IgE, mast cells release a trove of chemicals, the most famous of which is histamine, the marine corps of allergy warfare.
Mast cells continue to fire off, releasing more and more histamine. Problem is, the tricky chemical can be tough on your body.
After five minutes
Histamine has set your mucous membranes into overdrive—by now you've said hello to sneezing, a runny nose, and watery eyes.
Your airways may begin to constrict, leaving you short of breath or with a tight feeling in your chest. Histamine may also make your throat itch.
As long as you're exposed to pollen, the miserable cycle keeps going—unless you take an antihistamine. It's best to pop one stat (or better yet, in anticipation of an attack), because mast cells are popping off like crazy.
In the next few hours
The mast cells release a second offensive wave of immune mediators, which turn your dripping, sneezing nose into a stopped-up disaster. An antihistamine will be less effective now.
If you're very allergic, your eyelids might begin to swell.
After a few days
If you're still in pollen territory, mucus has set up camp in your nose and sinuses. Gone are the days of suffering in silence with a tissue—the phlegm in your throat makes you cough and snore. (Using a prescription nasal steroid, such as Flonase or Nasonex, before this point might have quieted the reaction.)
Your respiratory system, normally able to sweep out germs with its tiny hairlike cilia, is now gridlocked with congestion, creating an ideal bacterial breeding ground. You're at higher risk for a sinus or ear infection. If you have seasonal asthma, you could develop a chronic cough. Only a visit to a doctor, who can give you a stronger treatment, can quell your advanced allergic reaction.
After a few months
It's fall—you're home free! Unless, of course, you're allergic to ragweed...
The Doctor Will Skype You Now
When Shirley Velasquez's husband was relocated to Paris, she quit her job and bid their friends and New York City apartment good-bye. But there was one thing the 36-year-old journalist couldn't leave behind: her weekly therapy sessions. So at the same time each week, Shirley pops open her laptop, and via live-streaming video, she unloads the week's emotional highs and lows while her shrink listens carefully from across the Atlantic.
Sure, Shirley could have found a new doctor (she's fluent in French) but, she says, "after five years together, my therapist knows me. The way we work through issues feels comfortable and safe."
Streaming Your Shrink
Ever since the debut of Lisa Kudrow's Showtime series Web Therapy (which premiered on the Internet, natch), people have been buzzing about the viability of transferring couch sessions to the computer. Though the show is a spoof, it's based on a very real trend: Therapists are reporting a rise in the number of patients requesting video sessions, says Mary Alvord, Ph.D., presidentelect of the American Psychological Association (APA) Media Psychology Division. Sites such as Cope Today, TherapyLiveCare, and NowClinic have sprouted up to meet demand by providing the technology (and, in some cases, the therapists as well).
This counseling 2.0 is booming in part because so many people are suffering from mental-health woes such as stress, anxiety, and depression—and women are at higher risk, says David Muzina, M.D., of the Medco Neuroscience Therapeutic Resource Center in Dallas. "Psychological counseling should really be the first method of treatment for most of these conditions," says Muzina.
And although a new APA study found that women are five times more likely than men to seek help from a mental-health professional, many of those women don't have the time or money to spend on traditional therapy sessions. Add the fact that plenty of people are now at ease communicating online, and the door opens for video therapy. Many find that it's more convenient (you can do it from your home, office, or anywhere you have a Web connection), faster (it eliminates time spent commuting or sitting in a waiting room), and more affordable (therapists typically charge about $20 less per session).
Research has found that Web therapy can work just as well as the face-to-face kind. Patients feel satisfied and have reduced symptoms after video treatment, according to a 2011 study, and a handful of other studies show the medium can be effective in dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder, social anxiety, depression, and obsessive behavior. "After all, it is still therapy," says Alvord. "Nothing about the therapists' clinical training or skill level changes when their care is delivered via the Internet."
No skill level, however, can make up for technical glitches. A frozen or dropped connection can interrupt a session at a crucial moment, says psychologist Marlene M. Maheu, Ph.D., executive director of the TeleMental Health Institute. But a bigger concern is that important off-screen nonverbal behavior can be lost in translation. During an in-office session, a shrink will be on the lookout for telling signs such as finger fidgeting, foot tapping, or frequent shifting around (all potential anxiety flags). Via video, neither party can see much below the other person's neck, and therapists could miss other physical cues like odors (if, for example, a patient has been drinking or let her hygiene slide). Therapists also have little control over the situation if, say, an angry spouse walks into the patient's room. "Many things can go wrong," says Maheu. "A therapist must be clinically and technically prepared."
Safe Connection
In other words, Web therapy makes finding a qualified professional—who you feel a comfortable connection with—even more crucial. Though many sites, including Cope Today, provide instant access to therapists, you should do your own due diligence: Search for providers who are trained in telemental health or distance counseling, says psychotherapist DeeAnna Merz Nagel, cofounder of the Online Therapy Institute. Always confirm that a therapist is licensed by your state's board of mental health practitioners (after all, anyone can hang up a "therapist" shingle online) and have at least one face-to-face assessment before going live. Also, be sure the process is lawful: In some states it's illegal for a therapist to treat an out-of-state patient.
A skilled, trained therapist, says Maheu, will know if Web therapy is appropriate for you. Though it can be a huge help for many patients, it's rarely the right choice for assessing a drug or alcohol addiction, for instance, or treating those who live in relative isolation with little social support. A Web shrink should also know to use a video platform that's compliant with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), a federal law that ensures your personal details stay private. Though many well-meaning shrinks use Skype, says Maheu, it's not HIPAA compliant or totally secure.
Once you find an ideal therapist—or confirm your current one is Web-trained and willing—set up guidelines for what to do if a connection drops, if you don't "show up," or if some sort of emergency occurs, says Nagel. With a reliable therapist and video platform, the process can be a big help—whether you need long-or short-term care.
Putting It in Writing
When you can't voice your concerns, there's always e-mail.
More therapists are beginning to offer e-mail therapy, which—though it has many of the same shortcomings as video sessions—can eliminate the on-the-clock feeling of a real-time appointment.
A decent option for patients with jam-packed daily schedules, e-mail counseling can be used in conjunction with traditional therapy (if, say, you'll be traveling and can't make your regular appointment) and allows you to take your time describing an issue or formulating thoughtful questions.
Here's how it works: First, set up an encrypted e-mail account through a free service such as Hushmail (never use your regular personal e-mail address!), advises psychotherapist DeeAnna Merz Nagel. Next, type out what's bothering you—it works best if you stick to a single issue—and then hit send. You and your therapist will work out a timeframe in advance (for example, you'll each respond to e-mails within two days).
Most therapists charge $35 or more per exchange, which encompasses the patient's initial e-mail and the therapist's first reply. Theoretically, you can e-mail back and forth as many times as you'd like, assuming you're willing to pay.
Before you start typing, though, it's still a good idea to start with a face-to-face session. And, just as you would in traditional therapy, be sure there are clear boundaries: Don't e-mail your shrink outside of your agreed-upon exchanges. This is a professional relationship, not a friendship.
Vagina University
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23 Essential Health Tips from Dr. Oz
My patients are among my best teachers. They've taught me how to communicate clearly—and how to live a better life. On The Dr. Oz Show, I've seen that once people are emotionally involved, change happens quickly, especially if they feel that their behavior is letting loved ones down. Large-scale change seems daunting. We want simple routines that we can automatically follow. Adopt some of the steps here, which anyone can do, and you will like your life more in just a couple of weeks. And you'll live longer. Try them—they work for me.
ROTF, LMAO
Laughing not only eases stress, promotes social bonding, and lowers blood pressure, it may also boost your immune system. So bring some humor into your life, whether it's through friends or even a new TV show (preferably mine).
Women's Health Tip
Besides laughing, certain foods have been proven to soothe stress and can counteract the damage that chronic pressure does to your bod. Stock up on these eats and beat down stress for good.
Don't Skip Breakfast
Fiber in the morning means less hunger late in the afternoon, when you're most likely to feel tired and gorge yourself on sugar. My morning dose comes from steel-cut oatmeal, usually mixed with raisins, walnuts, and flaxseed oil. An early start on eating also keeps your metabolism more active throughout the day; breakfast eaters are thinner than people who just rush out the door.
Women's Health Tip
Need a new recipe? Try one of these eight healthy oatmeal mix ins for an instant breakfast upgrade.
Hit the Sack
Conan and Dave are funny, but they're not worth the strain on your system. Seven hours of sleep a night not only helps you live longer, but also lowers your stress, sharpens your memory, and reduces cravings for pants-splitting foods. Set a bedtime and stick to it. My target is 10:30 p.m. I record the late shows and then watch them the next day as I pedal a stationary bike.
Women's Health Tip
Are you sabotaging your sleep? Test your bedtime knowledge with our quiz to see if you're actually getting the z's you need.
Admire Your Work
Don't be so trigger-happy with the flusher. Turn around and take a look at your poop, which speaks volumes about your gut and overall health. Poop should be smooth and S-shaped, like your colon. If it comes out too lumpy, or drops into the bowl like marbles, you're constipated. Increase your fiber and water intake. This happens to me when I travel, so I fiber-load before a trip to avoid getting irritable.
Women's Health Tip
You don't need Metamucil—here are 30 great-tasting ways to add fiber to your diet.
Don't Pamper Your Bad Back
Even if you're hunched over in agony, taking to your bed will only make a bad back worse. The latest research shows that bed rest weakens back muscles and prolongs the suffering. Married men may suffer more than single men because of all the pampering. I used to love milking the care from Lisa, but the best solution is to get up, take a pain reliever, and be a soldier.
Women's Health Tip
Try these safe and simple yoga moves to prevent and relieve back pain.
Taste the Colors
Foods with bright, rich colors are more than just nice to look at. They're also packed with flavonoids and carotenoids, powerful compounds that bind the damaging free radicals in your body, lowering inflammation. (Sadly, skittles do not count.) Eat nine fistfuls of colorful fruits and vegetables each day and you'll reap the benefits without having to give up other foods. Whenever I shop the produce aisle, I'm reminded that these foods are often more powerful than the drugs sold in pharmacies. My favorites are arugula and blueberries.
Women's Health Tip
Want to experiment with more exotic veggies? If you're tired of the same-old produce picks, switch 'em out for these delish and super-healthy alternatives.
Brushing is Not Enough
If you plan to spend your later years eating more than yogurt and applesauce, invest in some floss. No matter how thoroughly or long you brush your teeth, you're missing a good portion of their total surface. That's like washing one armpit after a workout. But the dangers of skipping floss go beyond hygiene: The bacteria that linger can increase your risk of heart disease. I use Reach Ultraclean floss, which stretches to glide between teeth.
Women's Health Tip
For a brighter smile, check out these 15 ways to whiten your teeth.
Take a Deep Belly Breath
Do this anywhere, anytime. Push out your bellows and suck air through your nose until your lungs are full. They'll fill with nitric oxide, a chemical found in the back of your nose that opens up blood vessels. The dose of oxygen will make you feel happier and more alert. This is my secret technique for calming down before a show or a tough stitch in the OR.
Women's Health Tip
Learn even more ways to iincorporate breathing as a healing and preventative tool with these techniques.
Join a Yoga Class
Yoga is the most important exer cise of my daily routine. Being surrounded by beautiful women in spandex should be reason enough for you to join a class, but if you need more motivation, consider this: Yoga eases stress, lowers blood pressure, slows heart rates, and increases flexibility. And there's nothing mystical about it. Loosening your muscles will make them more adaptable, so you may be less likely to injure yourself playing sports. Sure, some of the poses may look ridiculous, but that's for a reason you'll learn quickly enough. Yoga can reach and work muscles that are ignored during routine sports and daily life. My favorite maneuver is the sun salutation.
Women's Health Tip
Learn that pose and many others in this list of the best yoga poses for women.
Don't Be an Island
Ever wonder why women live longer than men do? One major reason: You form tight networks and actually talk about your problems. If you face life's stresses alone, you will make yourself older. Bankruptcy, for example, causes enough stress to wreak havoc on your body. With another person's love and support, that inner aging can be reduced. Don’t forget to reach out to your friends when you need them.
Women's Health Tip
Don't forget your guy friends! See why there are specific boons that only male friendships can bring to your life.
Avoid Fad Diets
The secret to weight loss is not to avoid carbs, fats, yellow foods, solid foods, or foods that start with the letter G. The real trick is to lower your daily intake by about 100 calories. You'll hardly notice, but it'll add up to a loss of about 10 pounds in a year. Calorie restriction has been shown to lengthen life (in rats and monkeys). I cut back once a year to reset my appetite and tastebuds. Healthy food tastes great afterward. Frankly, any food would.
Women's Health Tip
Lose weight by eating all the foods you by following the secrets in Eat This, Not That! Supermarket Survival Guide.
Be a Smart Patient
Your doctor can help keep you in good health, but the responsibility ultimately falls on you. Seek a second opinion before undergoing any procedure, because 30 percent of the time, that opinion will change the diagnosis or plan. Keep a written medical history, and educate yourself about any family problems, even if that means calling your creepy uncle. You might even consider signing onto Microsoft HealthVault or Google Health, so your files are accessible in case you find yourself in trouble away from home.
Women's Health Tip
Read our cheat sheet — put together with top emergency physicians and medical experts — to learn more about some common health crises and the best ways to handle an emergency room visit.
Lose the Belly
Grab a tape measure and put it around your body at the level of your belly button. That number should be less than half your height. So for my 6'1" frame, I need to keep my waist under 36.5". Just think—you’ll be avoiding heart attacks and diabetes as well as looking hot in your bikini. That’s a win win win.
Women's Health Tip
Learn the cutting-edge, 4-week plan to a leaner, stronger, leaner body in The Big Book of Exercises.
Go Green
I drink green tea three times a day. It's packed with heart-boosting and cancer-stopping polyphenols that black tea doesn't offer. (These beneficial chemicals are lost when it's fermented.) Green tea also delivers a boost of alertness, but from a smaller dose of caffeine than black tea. Green tea can even fight dandruff, although only if you pour it directly onto your scalp. (It's probably a good idea to let it cool down first.)
Women's Health Tip
Any time you're thirsty, tea is a great choice—but you don’t have to steep it to reap the rewards. Check out how to incorporate other varieties of the green stuff to your everyday dishes.
Sweat Till You're Wet
If you can work up a sweat for just 1 hour a week, you'll enjoy a range of benefits: reduced risk of heart attack, better mood, and lower blood pressure. I like interval training on the elliptical, with 15 pullups and 15 dips every 10 minutes. Your muscles will become more efficient, so you'll have more stamina for more enjoyable activities that also work up a sweat.
Women's Health Tip
Try our free downloadable training guides to lengthen, strengthen, and tone.
Put It in the Bank
Most people rank personal finance as their number one stressor, usually because they feel powerless. Stress not only shortens lives, it also drives people to habits like smoking, drinking, or bingeing on food. Keep some money in a special bank account, safe from your lust for a new television, and you'll establish an emotional comfort zone with major health benefits.
Women's Health Tip
How can you do that considering the economy? Throw out the old rules and learn the right way to negotiate a raise, or haggle for a discount.
Have as Much Sex as Possible
If a 50-something woman could have sex 700 times a year, the exercise and stress reduction would make her look and feel years younger. I wouldn't recommend quitting your day job in order to hit that number—but what's the harm in trying? The next time you don’t feel particularly in the mood, remind yourself that not having sex is literally killing you. It works for me.
Women's Health Tip
Not that you need to be convinced, but we put together 17 more reasons hitting the sheets can help your health. Check ‘em out.
Know Your Numbers, Then Aim Lower
Take the part of your brain dedicated to your nail salon’s phone number and reassign it to your heart's vital signs. These include blood pressure (which ideally should be below 115 over 75), LDL cholesterol (under 100), resting heart rate (under 70), and fasting blood sugar (under 100). If your numbers aren't ideal, change your diet until they improve.
Women's Health Tip
Keep your body working properly with these 18 self-checks every woman should do.
Add Some Weights
Just 30 minutes twice a week spent lifting weights can build significant muscle mass. What's more, working all that muscle burns tons of calories, making it a great way to lose your gut, too. Don't have weights? Try lifting yourself: Pullups are the most valuable muscle-building exercises I do. Oprah's trainer, Bob Greene, pointed out to me that pullups work the back, pecs, arms, and belly all at once. And since you're lifting yourself, you'll think twice before eating that doughnut, because you'll just have to lift it later.
Women's Health Tip
Can’t do a pull-up? Try our plan for tackling the most difficult workout moves (like pull ups, push ups, and yoga headstands)!
Grab Some Nuts
Nuts are among the best sources of healthful fats and protein around. I keep a bag of walnuts in my fridge and use their massive dose of omega-3 fatty acids to boost my brainpower while I see patients. Half of a handful eaten about 30 minutes before a meal will temper your appetite and help you avoid the drive-thru.
Women's Health Tip
Find other good-for-you snacks in our list of 125 best packaged foods.
Hit the Dance Floor
Crosswords and card games aren't the only way to keep your brain razor sharp. It turns out that any kind of dancing with complex moves is stimulating enough to give your neurons a workout. Even the simplest moves provide some physical exercise. So don't be such a wallflower on your next night out.
Women's Health Tip
Boost your memory, amp creativity, and fine-tune focus with these fun brain games.
Learn to Cook
Think you know how much butter goes into those mashed potatoes at a restaurant? You're probably off by half. If you can cook, you not only save money but also gain control over what goes into your meals. Plus, cooking is sexy. I have trouble boiling water. Thankfully, I'm already married.
Women's Health Tip
Turn on the man in your life with these guy-approved romantic meals.
Some Pills Should Be Popped
The indoor life gives us protection from the elements and the ability to watch Gossip Girl in private. Unfortunately, roughly half of us are deficient in vitamin D which the sun is a major source. This crucial vitamin may aid in fighting cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. I take a 1,000 IU supplement each morning.
Women's Health Tip
Consult this vitamin guide to figure out which other supplements you should take for your health and fitness.
Your Nickname Guide
FLORA AND FAUNA
6. Coconut
5. Bearded Clam
4. Barracuda
3. Honey pot
2. Beevs
WINNER: Panty Hamster
EDIBLES
6. Pink Taco
5. Hot Pocket
4. Bikini Biscuit
3. Juice Box
2. Twinkie
WINNER: Waffle
HOUSEHOLD ITEMS
6. Peep
5. Thigh Master
4. Furry Goblet
3. Catcher's Mitt
2. Cookie Jar
WINNER: Lunch Box
SILLY
6. Whispering Eye
5. Spasm Chasm
4. Yum Yum
3. Doodiddle
2. Clithouse
WINNER: The Business
PLACES
6. Panama Canal
5. Coochie Cavern
4. Fortress of Solitude
3. West Vagina
2. Cave of Wonders
WINNER: South Beach
VARIATIONS
6. Ginah
5. Vagine
4. Bajingo
3. Vajayjay
2. Notorious V.A.G.
WINNER: China
PEOPLE
6. Lil' Miss Muffet
5. The Britney
4. Little Debbie
3. Chewbaca
2. Harry Potter
WINNER: Jimmy Choo
WH READER FAVES
6. The Peace Keeper
5. Küssi
4. Susie Q
3. Tuck Tuck
2. Pikachu
WINNER: Howler Monkey
GYNO 101
I've never been to the gynecologist. What can I expect at my first visit?
The first time you see a new gyno, you'll often meet in his or her office to talk. Your doc is going to want the scoop on your life before beginning the exam. "[The patient] should expect to be ready to be truthful about a lot of issues, including sexual activity, the number of partners she's had, whether they were male or female, the age she first got her period, and when she became sexually active," says Shari Brasner, M.D., an assistant clinical professor of obstetrics, gynecology, and reproductive science at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City, and a partner in a private practice. The gyno will want to know your family history and things that have affected your health and that of your parents and siblings. Think you may need to be tested for an STD? Bring that up now. Your gyno will discuss the Pap smear, appropriate testing for sexually transmitted infections like gonorrhea, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis, as well as whether you need blood work to test for HIV, hepatitis C, or syphilis.
Then you will move into the exam room, where you will undress completely and put on a robe. Your gyno will do a head-to-toe exam, including possibly checking your neck for thyroid abnormalities, a breast exam, and then the pelvic exam. During the pelvic exam, your doc will use one or two fingers inside the vagina and one hand on top of the belly, in the pubic region, to feel the internal organs. He or she may also use a speculum to hold the walls of your vagina apart to see the cervix and take specimens using swabs.
Total time? Approximately 20 minutes. Since that's such a short amount of time, it's wise to come prepared with a list of specific questions you want to ask. It's very important not to leave the office without disclosing something important that could influence what kinds of tests the doc should perform. "I don't want to finish my specimen collection and then find out that the patient suspects her boyfriend is cheating on her," Brasner says.
What kinds of things should I talk to my gyno about?
Sexually transmitted diseases and infections
These days, your gyno is going to talk to you about sexually transmitted infections even if you're in a long-term, stable, monogamous relationship. That's because so many of these infections are viruses that can be dormant or latent for many years. Plus an STIs like HPV can lead to cervical cancer if left untreated.
Aches and pains or concerns
Ask your doc about anything that's of concern whenever you want, but be sure to tell her when something has happened a repeated number of times, Brasner says. Although there may be no need for an expensive workup, it's important that the problem is addressed and monitored so both you and your doc can get a better idea of what's going on down there. If you have an acute pain or urgent question, don't hesitate to call. Many times the office will be able to screen over the phone the need for an immediate visit. For example, says Brasner, if someone has symptoms of a urinary tract infection, she shouldn't wait an extra day. Speak with a doctor to see if a visit is necessary or if it's something that can be handled on your own or over the phone.
Non-vaginal issues
Gynecologists sometimes take on the role of an overall women's health expert, and some ladies see their gyno and no one else. "I talk to my patients about their sleep habits or exercise habits, because even though I may not be an expert in those fields, I have a network of colleagues I can refer my patients to," says Brasner. Plus, more than any other kind of doctor, a gynecologist also deals the most with urinary problems. If you have a urinary issue, or suspect you have a urinary tract infection, call your gyno first.
How much info is too much to disclose about my sexual partners?
It is critical to discuss your sexual partners. "I need to know the health of the relationship, if you have suspicions of infidelity, if you have been unfaithful, and how many partners you have, and I need honest answers in terms of safe sex versus unsafe sex," says Brasner. Your gyno appointment is not the time to feel embarrassed and withhold information. Remember, there's nothing you can say that your doc hasn't heard before. A gynecologist isn't there to pass judgment, and you have to be willing to talk about things.
How will I know if my exam results are normal?
First, ask for feedback during any phase of the exam. "When I'm doing an exam, I may forget to let my patient know that her breast exam is completely normal. It's absolutely fine for her to ask if everything feels right," Brasner says. Also, clarify how the results from your exam will be communicated. Every office has its own policy. Sometimes you will be given a code to check online in a couple weeks, and sometimes you will be told that you'll get a call from the office only if something showed up abnormal on your Pap or other tests.
Is there anything I shouldn't ask or tell my gyno?
Don't ask your gyno about your best friend's health issues. Although you may be concerned about your pal, the time you have with your doctor is all about you, so you want to make the most of your time. Yes, your gyno will want to know if you have a lot of stress at work, but she can't sit with you to discuss your awful boss. If you have other things you want to discuss that are not typical for a checkup, ask if it is appropriate to set up another appointment.
Do I have to get completely naked for the exam?
Actually, no. You can leave your socks on, Brasner says. It's the one item of clothing you can feel free to wear in the chair, especially if your feet get cold. Other than that, it's everything off. Your doc is most likely going to do a breast exam, so be sure to take your bra off too and avoid an awkward moment. And stop worrying about how you look, says Brasner. You don't need to shave your legs or worry about making sure your lady parts are waxed. The gyno is down there for more important reasons.
How often do I need a pelvic exam and a Pap test?
Today's doctors know more than ever about HPV and its link to an abnormal Pap smear. They've learned that young women do not have the same HPV risk that older women do, so the guidelines have relaxed in terms of the age of your first visit. However, since many ladies see only a gynecologist, it's still important to have checkups. "I try to keep in mind that a lot of my patients don't see other doctors and aren't going to have any other face-to-face contact with a health-care professional if they don't come to see me," says Brasner.
There is a difference between how often you need a Pap smear and how often you need to visit the gyno. For younger women, Brasner recommends having a Pap every three years but going for a checkup every year to get the interaction or feedback from her about anything new, vagina-related or not.
Do I really have to go to a gynecologist for my problem? Can't I just self-diagnose?
Self-diagnosis on the Internet is a double-edged sword, says Brasner. The Web has a wealth of information, but without the proper filters and or education to sort through symptoms, it may be difficult to separate fact from fiction. "The Internet will walk a patient down the path of the worst-case scenario, so the patient will assume she has an awful problem when it is really a mild issue," says Brasner.
But if you're going to use over-the-counter products without consulting your gyno, Brasner has a few tips. Anything that's heavily cosmetic—such as lotions, potions, and perfumed sprays—is no good. If you have an itch, buy an OTC product that is free of parabens and alcohol. If you really don't know what to buy, call your gyno, who will be able to recommend the right OTC products.
Is it normal to have a sonogram at the gyno if I'm not pregnant?
Sonograms are used for nonpregnant women only if something in their medical history or physical indicates an abnormality. If you have no history of cysts or health issues, consult your insurance company before agreeing to a sonogram from your doc. They can be quite expensive and can sometimes produce false positives, requiring the need for further testing, says Brasner.
I just moved to a new area. What should I look for in a doctor, and how can I find a good one?
Ask around. Your peers are a great resource to start with, because most of the time, they have similar needs as you. For example, your coworkers may have similar insurance policies and will know how to find a local gyno who is on your plan.
The big debate: Would you feel more comfortable with a male or female gyno? Back in the day, patients didn't have much of an option because most gynos were men. Plenty of women still see male doctors, and every doctor is required to have a nurse in the room during the exam, so you should feel safe with either sex.
Do some research. Find out if your new doc is board certified and if he or she is affiliated with a hospital. This may not seem important to you now, but it's good to know. If you ever need to be hospitalized or if you are planning on having a baby, you'll want to be familiar with the hospital where your gyno works. Determine how many doctors are in the practice and if your preferred gyno is there part time or full time. And inquire about office hours, what days the practice is open, and if special appointment times (such as early morning or evening) are available.
The PMS Diet
Wine
During the week before your period order a glass of wine with dinner. What? Wine! Yes, believe it or not, your PMS may lessen.
The study of Women's Health across the Nation recently linked moderate alcohol consumption (about one drink per day) to fewer pre-period mood changes and headaches. Hello, happy hour!
Sweet Potatoes
Premenstrual mood swings and crazy cravings come down to a shortage of the brain chemical serotonin, says Judith Wurtman, Ph.D., coauthor of The Serotonin Power Diet. "The only thing that helps—and it helps instantly—is to eat carbs, because that's the only way the brain makes new serotonin," says Wurtman, who adds that the serotonin boosters need to be eaten straight with no fat or protein.
Instead try this savory mashed recipe:
In a medium saucepan, combine 1-inch chunks of sweet potatoes and enough cold water to cover them. Cover the pan and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes in a colander and return them to the medium saucepan. A drizzle of honey, and a dash of cinnamon and pepper. Mash until smooth.
Skim Milk
Science backs up the old warm-milk remedy for insomnia and restlessness. Turns out calcium can reduce muscle spasms and soothe tension, says Mary Dallman, Ph.D., professor of physiology at the University of California, San Francisco. A glass of moo juice (preferably skim or 1 percent) may also reduce stressful PMS symptoms such as mood swings, anxiety, and irritability. According to a 2005 study from the Archives of Internal Medicine, women who drank four or more servings of low-fat or skim milk per day had a 46 percent lower risk of pre-period misery than women who had no more than one serving per week.
Ginkgo Biloba
The herb ginkgo biloba can reduce PMS puffiness. In a recent study that was published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, subjects took 40-milligram ginkgo tablets three times a day for two months during the last half of their menstrual cycles, while another group took placebos. The ginkgo takers reported that their PMS symptoms—including belly bloat—were about 20 percent less severe, compared with the group taking the placebo. Ginkgo biloba contains flavonoids, which reduce inflamma-tion and increase blood flow. Both ease bloating, says lead study author Giti Ozgoli of Iran's Shahid Beheshti Medical University.
Spinach
Mighty magnesium has been linked with lessening some of those heinous that-time-of-the-month symptoms. First, the mineral can help lower your stress levels, keeping you less likely to fly off the handle. Also, not getting enough magnesium can trigger migraine headaches and make you feel fatigued. (And almost seven out of 10 of us don't get enough of the stuff. No wonder we're cranky.) Spinach delivers a megaload of magnesium. Just one leafy cup provides 40 percent of your daily value -- so try subbing it for lettuce on sandwiches and salads. Or whip up a hot side of wilted spinach to pair with your next PMS-busting dinner:
Heat a teaspoon of olive oil, a crushed garlic clove, and some black pepper in a nonstick skillet over medium heat, then toss in four handfuls of spinach leaves and turn them frequently for a minute or two.
Want a whole PMS-busting meal plan? Try this combo of mood-boosting, cramp-curing meals for a week and watch your symptoms fade:
Breakfast
Cottage cheese, berries + fortified OJ
OR
Oatmeal + low-fat milk + whole wheat toast
Lunch
Spinach salad, salmon + glass of low-fat milk
OR
Tuna, low-fat mayo, whole-wheat bread + cantaloupe
Snack
Air-popped popcorn (no butter) drizzled with fat-free chocolate sauce
OR
Whole wheat bran muffin + nonfat yogurt with honey
OR
Low-fat cheese + whole-wheat crackers
Dinner
Whole-wheat pasta + garlic, mushrooms, onions in a tomato sauce
OR
Broiled salmon + brown rice + steamed broccoli + blueberries
Easy Health Tips: The 101 Best Things to Do For Your Body!
We called more than 70 top authorities on health and wellness, and asked each of them the same question: What are the most important things a woman can do to stay healthy?
After weeks of taking notes and poring over research, we’re passing the information on to you: a list of the 101 smartest tips, from the tried and true to the brand spanking new. Your strategy: Pick five this week. Implement. Next week, five more. The week after that—well, you get the idea. Twenty-five tips are listed below—print the guide for the remaining 76!
1. Can you hear me now? Plug your ears before you blow out your eardrums
Rocking out at home is one thing, but Spice Girls reunion concerts, lawn mowers, or fireworks can damage your hearing permanently. Properly fitting earplugs can provide a marked reduction in the amount of sound energy you're exposed to. Try Mack's silicone earplugs ($5 for six pairs, earplugstore.com) or have an audiologist custom-make a pair for you. Cranking up the volume to 11 on your headphones can cause damage too, so listen at a reasonable decibel level. Don't make us repeat ourselves.
2. Discover a workout you dig
You know, the one you look forward to not because you can time it with The Bachelor, but because it's actually fun. University of Michigan research shows that women who exercise because it makes them feel happier or more energized are more likely to keep it up than women who work out just to look better.
3. Don't apply mascara in the car
One of the most common eye injuries: corneal abrasions caused by mascara wands. Youch!
4.You snooze, you win!
Studies show that power naps can help you kill stress and recharge; just don't doze for more than a half hour. After 30 minutes, your body enters the deep stages of sleep, and studies show that if you wake up right before deep sleep, you'll feel more refreshed.
5. Score now, reap later: Sunglasses
Swap your H&M aviators for grown-up shades that block UVA and UVB rays, both of which up your risk of eye damage, including cataracts. We like Ryders Eyewear Duchess Polarized sunglasses ($70, ryderseyewear.com), which offer 100 percent UV protection.
6. STOP...drinking your calories.
Between 1995 and 2002, the number of calories Americans swigged each day more than doubled—and those from sugary quenchers like soda, fruit drinks, and alcohol quadrupled. That's a whole lot of Jamba Juice, people.
7. STOP...asking your doc for an antibiotic every time you sniffle.
Overusing antibiotics can lead to drug-resistant bacteria, which the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention call one of the world's biggest health challenges. The drugs also kill your body's good bacteria (like those that protect against yeasty beasties) along with the bad.
8. Score now, reap later: cast iron skillet
Get this: The metal seeps out of the pan and into your food, increasing its iron content many times over.
9. Step into better-fitting sneaks
The right shoe and fit can help correct for anatomical flaws like flat arches or overpronation and fend off overuse injuries. You'll get the best service from a store that specializes in running, such as FleetFeet (fleetfeetsports.com).
10. Don't Leave Home Without: Health insurance card
Get insured now, before a problem shows up that will be considered pre-existing if you shop for coverage later. Learn more about your options online from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (finder.healthcare.gov) or the Foundation for Health Coverage Education).
11. Don't Leave Home Without: Personal medical record
After tumbling head-first over your niece's Big Wheel, the list of prescription drugs you're taking won't exactly roll off your tongue—especially if you're, um, unconscious. Line your wallet with a list of your meds (including supplements), allergies or drug sensitivities, the name and number of your primary-care doctor, conditions you're being treated for, and a brief family history of major medical problems.
12. Don't just think you can do it… now you can!
You'll increase your self-esteem if your "can do" attitude is based on real skills. Learn how to unclog the toilet, file your taxes, or hang those Ikea shelves. One great DIY book: Dare to Repair: A Do-It-Herself Guide to Fixing (Almost) Anything in the Home, by Julie Sussman and Stephanie Glakas Tenet ($13, amazon.com).
13. STOP...sunbathing.
What is this, 1972? Despite what shar-pei-faced Aunt Doris says, a "base tan" won't protect against anything. Better to go faux: We like Neutrogena MicroMist Tanning Sunless Spray ($12 for 5.3 oz, drugstore.com).
14. Score now, reap later: Condoms
A recent report shows that rates of gonorrhea (which can cause pelvic inflammatory disease) and chlamydia (which can damage fertility) are up—and that means use of protection is sorely down.
15. STOP…stepping out in four-inch stilettos.
Stripper heels strain the joints from your toes all the way up to your lower back and can lead to nasty deformities like bunions and hammertoes. Stick with a height of two inches or less.
16. Score now, reap later: A sports helmet
Whether you board or bike, look for a melon protector that conforms to the standards of the American Society for Testing and Materials. A good helmet will fit snugly (no wobbling when you push it side to side) and sit level on your head (not tilted back) with the front edge no more than an inch above your eyebrows.
17. Don’t Be a Dummy, Buckle Up
Motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of death in people ages 2 through 34. It's estimated that from 1975 to 2006, seat belts saved 226,567 lives, yet according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 18 percent of people don't wear one.
18. STOP…with the fad, cleansing, and detox diets.
Beyond wreaking havoc on your metabolism, they make your hair do really bad things. That's because your mane is one of the body's fastest-growing tissues, but since it's also nonessential (unlike, say, brain cells), your locks are the first to go if your body lacks nutrients. And once your body is done shedding its more expendable parts, it's not long before the rest of you is in deep doo, too.
19. Honey, You Need a Better Bra
Straps that are too thin or too tight can put pressure on the trapezius muscle (which spans your shoulders, neck, and upper back), causing pain in your upper body and even tension headaches. Quit squeezing your girls into an ill-fitting Maidenform today and save on Advil tomorrow. RELATED:
How to measure your bra size correctly
20. Get your hot little hands on…A good birth control method
Been taking the Pill or using condoms since college out of habit? Your BC may no longer be right for you. If you've started bumming cigarettes during happy hour, for example, you shouldn't pop OCs, which can increase the risk of blood clots, hypertension, and heart disease. Talk to your gyn every year about whether your current contraceptive is still your best.
21. STOP…sporting talons instead of nails.
The No. 1 place germs live on your body is beneath your fingernails. If you can't trim the habit, dig your claws into a bar of semi-soft soap twice a day.
22. Score now, reap later: A showerhead filter
Screw one on to block chlorine, which can kill helpful bacteria on your skin, zap moisture, and worsen conditions like eczema and psoriasis. A filter can even deep-six chemicals that lead to dull hair and split ends. Check out showerfilterstore.com for products.
23. Zip. It. Uuuhhp.
Your old prom dress. Try it on: If the zipper on that Versace knockoff you nabbed at the mall won't budge past your ribs, you could be at an increased risk for breast cancer. A recent American Cancer Society study found that women who had gained 21 to 30 pounds after age 18 were 40 percent more likely to develop the disease than those who didn't put on more than five pounds. Women who had gained 70 pounds doubled their risk.
24. Stick junior in a babybjorn
When you use your hip as a baby hanger, structures in your back are compressed and joints, muscles, and discs become strained. Instead, distribute the little tyke's weight evenly across your spine by holding him in front, close to your body—or try strapping him into a sling.
25. Get your hot little hands on…A good 'tude
People whose tumbler is always half full tend to live longer and have fewer life-threatening diseases. Debbie Downers also get sick and visit the doctor's office more frequently than their optimistic counterparts. Womp-womp…
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Worst Foods for Teeth: Are Healthy Foods Wrecking Your Smile?
Thank You for Entering the Hunger Games Laptop Giveaway
Thanks for entering the WH Hunger Games Laptop Giveaway! If your name is chosen, you will be notified via email on or about April 17, 2012. So stay tuned!
Go back to the HUNGER GAMES LAPTOP GIVEAWAY blog post.