How to Lose Weight With PCOS

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: PCOS, Weight Loss Leave a Comment

Weight gain or difficulty losing weight is a common symptom of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Because PCOS has a complex metabolic and reproductive hormone imbalance associated with it, the question of how to lose weight with PCOS is more complicated than the standard “eat less and exercise more” many of us hear. Conversations about weight are complex. In some ways, …

Vaginismus Treatment

Vaginismus: What it is and What to Do About It

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Endometriosis, Sexual Health Leave a Comment

Vaginismus is a type of sexual pain disorder characterized by involuntary muscle spasms in the pelvic floor that make vaginal penetration of any kind painful or impossible. Someone with symptoms of vaginismus can’t control these spasms, and the pain can range from mild to extreme. It can seriously disrupt relationships, quality of life, and self-esteem. Painful intercourse is only one …

Ozempic for Weight Loss

Ozempic for Weight Loss: Side Effects, Benefits, Risks

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: PCOS, Weight Loss Leave a Comment

Ozempic®  for weight loss claims are everywhere—the drug that became popular as a celebrity trend and crossed into the mainstream. The big question I get is, does ozempic work for weight loss or is it just another trend? This is especially true for women with PCOS, hypothyroidism, or those going through perimenopause. Ozempic or Semaglutide is used to treat type …

Holy Basil Benefits

Holy Basil Benefits & Hormonal Balance

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Adrenal, Anxiety, Depression, Mood, Sleep Leave a Comment

Holy basil is an herb used for hormonal balance, blood sugar support, anxiety, cholesterol, and inflammation by many people. As I’ll explain in this article, research has shown holy basil benefits range from stress and mental/ emotional support to helping with fatigue and providing nutritional support. Holy Basil Benefits:  Addressing hormone balance takes a holistic approach, but holy basil is …

What Causes Rosacea on Face

What Causes Rosacea on Face: Treating Rosacea Naturally

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Acne, Balancing Your Hormones, Hormone Replacement Therapy, Perimenopause/ Menopause, Sex Hormones, The Pill Leave a Comment

Rosacea is a common, chronic skin condition that affects the face and sometimes the eyes, as well. While not a debilitating condition, it can impact an individual’s confidence and mental health when struggling with persistent red, irritated skin. It’s common for rosacea on face, chest, neck, and ears to be associated with anxiety and depression, as we’ll discuss. We’ve known …

Acne During Pregnancy Tips

Acne During Pregnancy

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Acne, Pregnancy Leave a Comment

People often talk about the “pregnancy glow”—that elusive radiance that’s supposed to come with growing a tiny human. But let’s be honest here: not every woman experiences this dewy complexion. In fact, for many women, pregnancy can bring on a whole host of skin issues, including acne.  Acne is a chronic inflammatory condition with links to genetics, environment, and—yep, you …

How Coffee Affects Your Health and Hormones

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Balancing Your Hormones, Food, Mood & Emotions, PCOS Leave a Comment

The love for coffee runs long and deep for so many of us. I am a coffee lover, too, so I get it. Aside from enjoying the morning ritual, research points to many health benefits of coffee, ranging from brain health to a lower risk of type 2 diabetes. These associations appear to stem from coffee’s antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. …

PCOS and How to Lower DHEA Levels Naturally

PCOS and How to Lower DHEA Levels Naturally

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: PCOS Leave a Comment

Polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, is the most common endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age. While PCOS presents differently in different women, many experience hormone imbalance, insulin resistance, and fertility challenges.   PCOS also has an adrenal component involving DHEA, which is the focus of this article. We’ll cover high DHEA levels, symptoms, causes (including PCOS), and, most importantly, how …

How Sexual Desire and Arousal Change With Your Cycle

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Libido, Menstrual Cycle, Mood & Emotions, Sexual Health Leave a Comment

We all have different sex drives, so what’s “normal” for you may not be for your best friend. Sexual desire can change daily, weekly, monthly, or even hourly. Sexual desire is complex, and what turns you on is so individualized. Add stress, sleep disruption, and feeling connected to a partner in the mix, and there’s no single predictor of desire …