Common Period Problems + 6 Natural Treatments

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Menstrual Cycle

When Myra first came to see me she listed her number one concern in all caps at the top of her intake form: PERIOD PROBLEMS. For as long as Myra could remember, she’d had incredibly long and heavy periods which made it impossible for her to leave her house or engage in anything fun at least one to two days …

menstrual cramps

Cramps but No Period? 9 Possible Causes

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Menstrual Cycle

Cramping but no period? There are several gynecological and non-gynecological reasons you may be experiencing cramping. But is it normal to have cramps but no period? While they may be harmless, it’s always worth investigating the root cause of having cramping but no period to ensure your symptoms aren’t more serious. Menstrual cramps are common, especially for women experiencing estrogen …

supplements for pcos

10 Best Supplements For PCOS

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: PCOS, Sex Hormones

Patients often ask me to suggest some of the best supplements for PCOS, which is a complex endocrine disorder that can cause a long list of hormonal symptoms. While the foundational therapies remain nutritional and lifestyle intervention, supplements can help support your efforts to restore balance. Many women are looking for alternatives to the typical lineup of prescription drugs, which …

What Causes Endometriosis & Natural Treatments That Help

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Endometriosis, Menstrual Cycle

Endometriosis is a very common condition for many women. In fact, it’s estimated that 200 million people worldwide are living with this condition. Here, we’ll discuss the condition, how it works and the symptoms you can expect. But we’ll also go further and look at natural treatments for endometriosis. What is Endometriosis? Endometriosis is the growth of endometrial-like tissue in …

Natural Remedies for Cramps & PMS

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: PMS & PMDD, Sex Hormones

If you’re suffering from PMS and menstrual cramps, you’re not alone. If you’re searching for natural remedies for cramps and PMS, again you’re not alone. Many women suffer from PMS. In fact, it is estimated that 75% of women experience headaches, bloating, difficulty sleeping, mood swings and other symptoms of PMS — symptoms that are debilitating and threaten our relationships. …

PCOS, Inflammation & Insulin

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: PCOS, Sex Hormones

What do PCOS, inflammation & insulin have in common? Like many chronic conditions and disease, inflammation and insulin dysregulation are at the root of the issue, with PCOS being no exception. Is there a PCOS insulin resistance connection? In fact, inflammation and insulin resistance can lead to infertility, difficult and painful periods, PCOS, high testosterone, mood disorders, and many other …

Prescribed Birth Control for PCOS? Why That’s Dangerous

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Birth Control, PCOS

The symptoms of PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome) can be so frustration. As a solution, a woman with PCOS is often met with the birth control pill, maybe an androgen blocker and then sent along her merry way. Told there is nothing that can be done. Told she will never conceive naturally. And told that it’s just in her genes. And …

hormones and sleep

Which Hormones Affect Sleep? The Hormone-Sleep Connection Explained

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Sleep

Melatonin, a hormone produced by the pineal gland of the brain, is most commonly associated with sleep as it helps you both fall asleep and stay asleep. Cortisol, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands plays a pivotal role in your ability to wake in the morning. Together, cortisol and melatonin are most closely associated with your sleep-wake cycle, also …