acne and polycystic ovary syndrome

Acne and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Hormone and Skin Care Treatment

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Acne, PCOS

In cases of acne and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), acne can appear on the face, neck, chest, and back. Imbalances of androgens, insulin, and inflammation can cause acne to be deep, cystic, and painful. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex hormonal condition that presents with several hormone symptoms beyond cystic acne. For some women, this means weight gain. For …

Endo belly

Endo Belly: Causes and Treatments for Endometriosis Bloating

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Cramps, Endometriosis, Estrogen Dominance, Menstrual Cycle, Period, Period Problems, What to Eat

Endo belly refers to the severe abdominal distention or bloating that occurs in patients with endometriosis. It can not only take a significant physical toll but also has psychological impacts. Nutrition, lifestyle, and, in some instances, medications can help with the management of symptoms. Endometriosis is a common condition affecting about 10% of women1 and can present as pelvic pain, …

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 …

PCOS Skincare

Comprehensive Guide to PCOS Skincare: Expert Strategies for Radiant, Clear Skin

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: PCOS

The skin PCOS symptoms of oily skin, hormonal acne, and hirsutism can be some of the most daunting aspects of living with PCOS. There are evidence based ways to effectively approach PCOS skincare to help resolve these symptoms, which is what I’ll be sharing with you in this article.  The same hormonal disorders that cause symptoms like irregular menstrual cycles, …

Bloated Before Period

Bloated Before Period—Solutions to Manage PMS Bloating

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Menstrual Cycle, PMS & PMDD

Period bloating is a common and often frustrating symptom of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS). It’s that uncomfortable, swollen feeling that makes your jeans feel a bit too tight and leaves you longing for your comfiest pair of yoga pants. It may even make you feel like you’ve had weight gain come out of nowhere, even though you haven’t, and it can …

how to lose weight with pcos

How to Lose Weight With PCOS

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: PCOS, Weight Loss

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. Research1 suggests that losing 5 to 10 percent …

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 …

Ozempic for Weight Loss

Ozempic for Weight Loss: Side Effects, Benefits, Risks

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: PCOS, Weight Loss

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 …