Endometriosis and IBS

Endometriosis and IBS: Symptom Connection and Solutions

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Endometriosis, IBS & IBD

Endometriosis, a condition affecting millions that can be very painful, is not just about reproductive health—it’s also deeply intertwined with gut health. Patients with endometriosis are more likely to experience irritable bowel syndrome or IBS and suffer from gastrointestinal symptoms.  Understanding the link between endometriosis and IBS is crucial in managing endometriosis symptoms and improving quality of life. Gut health …

Vaginismus Treatment

Vaginismus: What it is and What to Do About It

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Endometriosis, Sexual Health

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 …

AMH Levels and Fertility

What is AMH and How Does it Impact Fertility?

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Balancing Your Hormones, Endometriosis, Fertility, Preconception & Fertility

If you are struggling with fertility issues, you’ve probably had your AMH tested, especially if you are over 35. Anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) levels give clues about reproductive health, ovarian function, and success with fertility treatments.  This article will cover everything you need to know about AMH levels and fertility. Plus, I’ll cover how to improve AMH levels naturally with nutrition, …

Pain During Ovulation

Pain During Ovulation: Is It Normal?

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Cramps, Endometriosis, Menstrual Cycle, Ovulation, Period Problems

The idea that women are destined to experience pain simply because they have a menstrual cycle is not okay with me. It’s true our bodies go through changes throughout the month that indicate hormone shifts, and sometimes this can cause discomfort, but that doesn’t mean you should have to rely on painkillers to get through your cycle.  Ovulation pain, aka …

AMH, PCOS, and Infertility

The Connection Between AMH, PCOS, and Infertility

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Balancing Your Hormones, Endometriosis, Fertility, PCOS

AMH, or Anti-Mullerian Hormone, can be a useful marker in evaluating those with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and fertility. While it does have utility, it also has limitations. But what is AMH and why might your doctor order it? The quick and simple answer is, AMH can give you information about the number of eggs you have. Low levels can …

what is vaginal steaming

What is Vaginal Steaming? Steaming Benefits Vs. Safety

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Balancing Your Hormones, Cycle Self Care™, Endometriosis, Mind-Body, Wellbeing

Are you curious about vaginal steaming? With deep cultural roots, vaginal steaming is an ancient practice that has recently become popular. Proponents of vaginal steaming claim it’s a “cure” for PMS, infertility, hormone imbalances, and more, but are these claims valid? And is it safe?  We all know the importance of self-care. This article will dive into vaginal steaming as …

Endometriosis and Fertility

Getting Pregnant with Endometriosis

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Endometriosis, Fertility

Endometriosis is a disorder where tissue that shares similarities with what lines the inside of the uterus (endometrium) grows outside of the uterus. It’s hard for people who don’t live with endometriosis to understand just how debilitating and even isolating the condition can be. Yes, some people have more mild cases and less pain, but for many women with endometriosis, …

ovarian cyst symptoms

Ovarian Cyst Symptoms And Natural Treatments

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Balancing Your Hormones, Endometriosis, Herbs & Supplements, PCOS

If you’ve got ovaries that ovulate, it is highly likely that you develop an ovarian cyst at sometime in your fertile years. You may not even notice the ovarian cyst symptoms or it may be very painful depending on the type and size of the cyst. Each ovulatory cycle, an egg matures inside of a follicle. Then the follicle bursts …

endometrial hyperplasia treatment

What Causes Endometrial Hyperplasia + What to Do About It

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Endometriosis, Estrogen Dominance

Endometrial hyperplasia can be the cause of heavy periods, large clots in the menstrual blood, and in some cases, cancer. Often excess estrogen in the absence of sufficient progesterone, known as estrogen dominance, causes the cells in the lining of the uterus  (the endometrium) to grow abnormally thick. When the endometrium becomes too thick, you end up with a condition …