Serotonin (also known as 5-hydroxytryptamine, or 5-HT) is one of the most talked-about neurotransmitters– molecules that help your nervous system communicate. You may know it as “the happy molecule” because of its role in regulating happiness, anxiety, and mood. The best-known indicators of low serotonin include depression and anxiety, but it plays a larger role in the body as well. …
The Morning-After Pill or Plan B is a medication that comes with a lot of confusion, including how the morning-after pill works. So, let me clear it up straight out the gate—the morning-after pill works by preventing ovulation. Perhaps the worst part of not knowing how the morning-after pill works is that typically, you have to make a decision about …
It is surprising that for as long as we’ve had birth control available to women there is still so much we don’t know about it impacts our body, our relationships, and our overall life. In this guest post by Dr. Sarah Hill, she explains how birth control can affect who you’re attracted to, along with other ways birth control may …
“I’ve been considering starting hormonal birth control, but I’m concerned about the side effects,” Natasha shared in her first visit. Like many women considering hormonal birth control, she wasn’t ready to start a family and she felt apprehensive that other methods would work for her. “It’s true that just like your natural hormones, synthetic hormones can affect every system in …
Information about contraception can make your head spin. There are so many kinds of birth control available today (yay!), and what works for one woman may not work for another. In my work with patients I’ve always advocated for an individualized review of risks and benefits so that each woman can choose the best form of birth control for her …
Does birth control cause weight gain? It’s a common side effect women report, yet it is often dismissed because the research is largely inconclusive. Concerns about weight gain are one of the highest reported barriers to women choosing to begin birth control and one of the number one reasons women quit it. Wait, if weight gain is a top reason …
We have to honor my patients in the evolution of the post-birth control syndrome Brighten Protocol™. The term Post-Birth Control Syndrome and protocols surrounding it were born out of my naturopathic medical practice and through my work with thousands of patients. Yes, these protocols were developed with the help of real patients like you! I am so happy to share that you …
Women are at a much great risk for gallbladder disease. In fact, some studies show we are two to three times more likely to develop gallstones and other gallbladder related conditions compared to men. Considering the vast majority of women are on or have used birth control pills at some point, it raises the question in many women’s minds, “do …
“My doctor has treated me for SIBO, candida, and gut symptoms, but every test shows I still have these infections. I feel like I can’t eat anything because everything makes me sick. I’m at my wits end and wondering, is birth control bad for your gut?,” Laura shared in her first visit. Her story is sadly common among women on …