Average Cycle Length

Why is My Menstrual Cycle Getting Shorter?

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Menstrual Cycle

Some women get their period like clockwork, following the same pattern each month. For others, the menstrual cycle can vary by a few days each month. And for most women, cycle length gradually decreases with age. All of these patterns are completely normal.  However, if you notice your menstrual cycle is consistently getting shorter, or your typical 28-day cycle suddenly …

Intermittent Fasting Women

Intermittent Fasting For Women 

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Food, PCOS, What to Eat

Intermittent fasting (IF) for women is complicated. There is a lot of positive research behind intermittent fasting, so it’s hard not to feel tempted to jump right in after hearing so many fasting success stories. But is it safe and effective for everyone? My goal with this article is to present the facts behind intermittent fasting— the good and the …

Low Carb PCOS

Is a Low Carb Diet Good for PCOS?

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: PCOS

If you’ve been following me (and if you are new, welcome), you know I embrace a root-cause approach to women’s wellness versus a band aid that may help short-term but doesn’t go deep enough to make a long-term difference.  So when I get so many questions about low carb diets and PCOS, I know it’s time to address it, especially …

Ovulation Signs Calendar

Ovulation Signs: How Do I Know If I’m Ovulating?

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Ovulation

Ovulation, or when an egg is released from your ovary, is the midpoint of your menstrual cycle. Without ovulation, you can’t get pregnant. But aside from the importance of ovulation for fertility, it’s also important for your overall reproductive health. Learning about your body and tracking ovulation signs can give clues about your fertility, menstrual cycle, and hormones. Many people …

benefits of vitamin a

7 Benefits of Vitamin A

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Herbs & Supplements

Vitamin A is an essential nutrient critical for whole-body health. From your eyes to the immune system, vitamin A is a must-have. So, what does vitamin A do, and why do we need it? Here are seven reasons vitamin A should be part of your daily routine and what you can do to ensure you are getting enough. What is …

fibrocystic breasts

Your Guide to Managing Fibrocystic Breast Disease Naturally

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Breast Health

Fibrocystic breast changes are widespread, with up to to 80%1 of women experiencing symptoms at some point in their reproductive years. While common, fibrocystic breast disease is not dangerous and non-cancerous. If you’ve got breasts and they have ever felt painful, heavy, lumpy, or uncomfortable leading up to your period, you may have been experiencing the symptoms of fibrocystic breasts. …

melatonin safe

Is It Bad To Take Melatonin Every Night?

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Sleep

Most people know melatonin as a supplement to help you sleep with bonus antioxidant benefits. It has a reputation for being safe and effective. But is it bad to take melatonin every night?  In this article, we’ll look at naturally occurring melatonin, the safety of melatonin supplements, and alternative non-drug sleep enhancing options.  What Is Melatonin? Melatonin is a naturally occurring …

diindolylmethane DIM supplement benefits

DIM Supplement Benefits For Women

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Balancing Your Hormones, Period Problems, PMS & PMDD

If you’ve been struggling with PMS symptoms, heavy periods, acne, breast tenderness or symptoms of PCOS or perimenopause then you’ve probably come across a DIM supplement as a solution.  That’s because DIM supports healthy estrogen levels in the body.  What Are DIM Supplements? DIM is short for diindolylmethane, a metabolite of indole-3-carbinol. DIM1 is a compound that can only be made …

pcos diet

The Best Diet for PCOS

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: PCOS

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a condition that can benefit greatly from diet and lifestyle therapies. In this article we’ll discuss the best diet for PCOS, which should be part of a comprehensive treatment approach to this complex condition. Often, once diagnosed with PCOS the initial treatment options include hormonal birth control, Metformin, and perhaps Spironolactone. While all of these …