Lichen sclerosus is a chronic skin disease that results in thin, white, wrinkled patches of skin, usually on the genitals. It can be excruciating and incredibly itchy to deal with. While doctors previously believed it was rather rare, in recent years, doctors have suggested it’s more common than initially thought. By some estimates, cases have doubled1 between 1991 and 2011. …
Did you know there are several phases of the menstrual cycle and a whole lot more going on than just your period? That’s right. There is a symphony of hormones playing throughout your cycle, which can explain why we feel different throughout the month. In medicine, there are three phases of the menstrual cycle: the follicular phase, the ovulatory phase, …
There are many reasons for a missing period, and you shouldn’t ignore any of them. Left untreated, the hormone imbalances associated with missing periods can wreak havoc on your cardiovascular, neurological, and bone health. In this article, I will explain common reasons that can cause your period to stop or never start in the first place, plus what you can …
By educating your daughter about how her menstrual cycle works, her period, and how her hormones change throughout the month, you can help make her adolescent years less confusing. In this article we’re going to review how to prepare your daughter for her first period so you’re both well equipped. For many parents, discussing periods with their children can be …
Puberty can be a confusing time for young women. Bodies are changing rapidly — breasts are starting to develop, body hair is beginning to grow, the shape of your body is changing, and the anticipation of the first period is looming. The onset of your first period can be scary if you are not prepared for it. In this article, …
You probably know serotonin best as the “happy molecule,” but how exactly is it linked to our mood? This hormone plays a role in digestion, sleep, memory, and more but is best known for its impact on regulating happiness, anxiety, and mood. Low serotonin levels in the brain can lead to symptoms of depression, so understanding this powerful hormone is …
Have you ever shopped for a personal lubricant before? The choices can be confusing and overwhelming. There are so many different types and different advantages of each kind of lube. How are you supposed to choose? And what to avoid in a lube can feel confusing too. I’ve decided to do a breakdown of personal lubricants to cut through all …
Before you throw on a swimsuit and grab your sunglasses for a day of sunbathing, there’s an important step you should not skip: applying sunscreen. I see an eye roll coming and maybe even the common excuse I hear from my patients, “there’s no hormone safe sunscreen,” so let me explain. While sunscreen can be an annoying part of the …
Ever notice that your appetite seems to increase in the days leading up to your period? If so, you’re not alone. During our weekly Ask Dr. Brighten Q&A on social media I am often asked, “why am I so hungry on my period (or before),” especially for sugary snacks. It’s a common question among my patients too. So if you’ve …