Puberty & Adolescence Common Questions

 

What is puberty?
Puberty is a natural process where your body undergoes physical and hormonal changes, marking the transition from childhood to adulthood.

When does puberty start?
Puberty can start as early as 8 years old or as late as 13 for girls, and typically between 9 and 14 for boys. However, the timing can vary for each individual.

What are the physical changes in puberty?
Primary physical changes in puberty include breast development in girls, testicular growth in boys, growth spurts, body hair growth, and changes in body odor.

 

What are the first signs of puberty?

The first sign of puberty are breast buds normally occurring between 8 and 13 years old.  In addition to noticing small “peanut M and M sized” bumps under the maturing breasts there is also increased sensitivity and mild pain.

When does pubic hair start to appear?

Pubic hair can be seen as between 8 and 13years along with hair under the arms.

Are mood swings normal during adolescence?
Yes, mood swings are a normal part of adolescence. Hormonal changes, brain development, and other factors can contribute to shifts in emotions and moods.

How do I handle acne during puberty?
Acne is common during puberty due to increased oil production. Maintaining good hygiene, using gentle cleansers, and avoiding excessive face touching can help manage acne. If acne is severe, it’s best to consult a dermatologist.

What are the emotional changes during puberty?
Emotional changes during puberty can include increased self-consciousness, developing crushes, experiencing intense emotions, and seeking independence.

 

When will my first menstrual period come?

Your first menstrual period begins on average at 11-12y.  

 

What’s typical with a menstrual period?

• Age of onset 11-12y ranging from 8 to 14y
• Average frequency 32 days but 21-45 days is considered normal
• Length 2-7 days
• Normal blood flow requires 3-6 pads or tampons per day

 

When should I see a doctor if I think my periods are abnormal?

Most girls will start their menstrual periods around 11 to 14years old.  In a perfect world, periods come every 28 days, last 2-3 days and cramps don’t exist, but this may not be your story.  A menstrual period or cycle is counted from the first day of bleeding in one month to the first day of bleeding in the next month or whenever you get that next period.  Irregular periods can be the norm for many lasting a couple years after your menstrual cycles officially begins.  It may take a few years for your period to become regular.

 

How do you know if you have abnormal periods?  

It can be confusing during your teen years when your periods are coming every 3 to 6 months or once a year.  If you notice that your periods are coming frequently, less than 21 days, or infrequently, greater than 45 days, you should contact your health care provider to discuss reasons why this might be happening.  When your periods come less often, they tend to be heavier, last longer and with more painful cramping.

What are some reasons to have irregular periods?

• Thyroid and other Hormonal disorders
• Peri-menopause and Menopause
• Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
• Excessive Exercising
• Sudden Weight Changes
• Physical or Emotional stress
• Illnesses 
• Pregnancy
• Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

You can download a period tracker on your smart phone or use a calendar to keep track of your periods.

No matter what your mom or girlfriends tell you, having monthly periods tells us that you are hormonally balanced.  Whether you call it “Aunt Flo”, “Strings Attached” or “Sharks are Circling”, regular periods are best for you physically and emotionally.

What are some holistic and natural remedies to help create a regular period? 

In general, a healthy and regular diet doesn’t necessarily affect or regulate your periods. There are dietary and lifestyle changes that will put you in charge of your period instead of your period taking charge of you.

• Eat healthy foods including fresh fruits and veggies, proteins-fish, chicken- and complex carbohydrates such as whole grains and brown rice prevent bloating.
• Eat foods that are natural diuretics to reduce bloating and swelling such as celery, cucumbers, watermelon, tomatoes, asparagus, lemon juice, garlic, melon & lettuce.
• Exercise is often helpful for many PMS symptoms and cramps experienced during the menstrual cycle.  The feel good and mood boosting endorphins and serotonin help ease the pain and stress experienced during certain times of the month.  Walking, jogging, Pilates, yoga and swimming are excellent choices.
• Green tea is a great natural diuretic and can serve as a comforting beverage. 
• Calcium rich foods and supplements reduce muscles from cramping.  Ideally 1,000mg/day of calcium works best.  Dairy products (cheese, yogurt, and milk), sunflower seeds, spinach, soybeans, kale, figs, almonds, sesame seeds and tofu are excellent sources of calcium.
• Drinking water, warm or hot, helps relax the uterine muscles.
• Vitamins such as calcium, vitamin’s E, D, thiamine, magnesium and omega 3-fish oil may also be helpful in relieving the period bloat and swelling.

 

What are dietary foods and beverages to avoid 1 to 2 weeks before your period?

• Limit your alcohol consumption during this sensitive time during your menstrual cycle since it makes bloating symptoms worse.
• Avoid foods that are classic causes of bloating including beans, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage and cauliflower. Other dietary culprits include rich and fatty foods, whole grains, apples, peaches, pears, lettuce, onions, Dietary rituals including many “B” and C vegetables are classic causes of gas and bloating and include beans, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage and cauliflower.
• Avoid foods high in sodium that contribute to bloating and weight gain such as Chinese and other salty ethnic foods.

 

What is the best way to treat period cramps?

My mom used to give me a hot water bottle for my period cramps when I was younger and to this day, I still recommend it.  Cramps can be easily treated with ibuprofen such as Advil and Motrin.  The feeling of pain is caused by increased levels of prostaglandins which makes the uterus contract.  NSAID’s block the action of prostaglandins which decrease the pain brought on by period cramps.

I suggest keeping track of your period using a “period tracker” app so that you can take ibuprofen prophylactically or before you know your cramps and period are coming.  Oral contraception or “the pill” is not only a great birth control but makes your menstrual blood less heavy which minimizes your cramps 

each month.  Other easy remedies include a warm bath, heating pad or a hot water bottle that your grandma might have suggested.

Massage is associated with relaxation. Massaging muscles and pressure points may help reduce pain, tension and stress associated with cramping. It doesn’t have a direct effect on uterine muscles but it is certainly relaxing and pleasurable.  

Biofeedback is also helpful in treating period cramps.

Lifestyle choices that will help ease cramps and other symptoms related to PMS include exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet and avoiding salt, sugar, caffeine and alcohol.

Does acupuncture help with period cramping and irregular periods? 

Acupuncture has long been used for painful medical problems including menstrual cramping and irregular periods. Even though scientific research is limited, it’s thought to work by activating your body’s own self-healing mechanism. 

Does CBD help with period cramping? 

CBD is the active ingredient in marijuana that helps make your body feel good, relaxes muscles in the pelvis and distracts your brain from feeling the pain associated with menstrual cramps.  There are many ways to use CBD products including bath salts, tampons, suppositories, infused chocolates, body balms and tinctures and they all seem to be effective for mild and moderate cramps. They are safe and harmless products.

When are cramps a sign of a bigger health issue?

Your uterus is basically one big muscle (the shape of a pear) which starts to contract, causes cramping, that helps the lining of the uterus shed.   This shedding will be your 4 to 6 days of uterine bleeding and is called your menstrual cycle or “period”.  Period cramping can be felt in the lower back or belly.  Cramps tend to be more intense during the first day or two of a period. 

Every woman experienced cramps differently.  If you are having heavy periods with large blood clots you will probably experience more intense cramping.  Some women may have light bleeding but still have severe cramps.  Blood flow and volume don’t always correlate how significant the cramping will be.

For many of us cramps can be completely debilitating and stop us from doing our daily routine.  For others cramps are noticeable but not disruptive.  Cramps can be a normal part of the period cycle.   

A constant, low-grade pain that is bearable could represent mild cramping that doesn’t respond to typical treatment include a ruptured cyst, a bladder infection, sexually transmitted infections, pregnancy, or endometriosis. All reasons to be worked up by a healthcare provider.

If period cramps don’t respond to typical treatment remedies including ibuprofen, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, acupuncture, biofeedback or the birth control pill. 

I would be concerned endometriosis was the cause of the pain which doesn’t always respond to traditional treatments.

When should you be worried about a change in color/what period colors are “worrisome”?

Blood is a form of liquid but can turn solid and appear as a clot in certain conditions. If your blood flow is heavy and leaves the uterus quickly blood clots are not usually created.  But if you have a heavy flow and blood leaves the uterus slowly, blood clots develop. Blood clots are not uncommon during a period.  They tend to be dark or bright red in color and come in irregular shapes and sizes. Small clots the size of raisins are usually nothing to worry about and can happen during a heavy blood flow.  Larger and thicker blood clots, greater than the size of a quarter, are reasons to be concerned. Blood clots can develop during a period but are not considered normal if persistent.  Causes of blood clots can be due to a hormonal imbalance, uterine fibroids, uterine polyps or an abnormal pregnancy. Seeing your healthcare provider who can check your blood for medical conditions and getting a pelvic Ultrasound will be helpful in determining a potential explanation.

Is spotting between periods normal?

Spotting between periods is a common problem for many women.  Once in a while it can be normal to have some spotting as a result of physical or emotional stress.  If you are having 3 or more months of erratic and heavy spotting it is an important time talk to your health care provider to see if it’s due to a hormonal disorder, sexually transmitted infection, or other organic reason. 

 

If a woman’s period stops, how can I regulate it and get it back?

There are many reasons a period can just stop on its own if you are not taking the birth control pill or using a progesterone IUD for contraception as a known side effect.  The most common hormonal issues associated with irregular periods where it may stop completely include pregnancy, polycystic ovary syndrome and thyroid dysfunction—too much or too little.  Other hormonal causes include Cushing’s disease, poor control of diabetes mellitus, premature ovarian failure and congenital adrenal hyperplasia. 

When a women’s period stops the first step is to try and figure out the cause by checking blood tests. Once this is done, it’s often easy to jump start a period by inducing it with the hormone progesterone.

Working with a health care provider is important when new period changes occur.

What is PMS? 

Please Make it Stop!

Part of being a woman is experiencing the physical and emotional craziness that happens 1 to 2 weeks before your period. Also known as premenstrual syndrome, PMS symptoms start 1 to 2 weeks before your period and are much more disruptive.  The majority of PMS symptoms, caused by normal cyclic hormonal changes, include bloating, weight gain, menstrual cramps, headaches, crying spells, depression, mood swings, anxiety, irritability and fatigue, quickly go away once your period begins.

 The cause of these physical, emotional and psychological symptoms are thought to be caused by the hormonal changes and fluctuations during the menstrual cycle. 

Why do some women feel depressed and sad before a period?

Emotional changes such as mood swings, depression and crying spells is a completely common and normal symptom of PMS. As long as these emotional symptoms are manageable through lifestyle changes and not affecting your work or personal life, they are not a cause for concern.

 

Why do some women have food cravings and feel hungrier before a period?

Food cravings and feeling hungrier is thought that the production of sex hormones, estrogen and progesterone, and their cyclic nature has a strong effect on appetite. Researchers found that an increase in progesterone production happens before your period, and this is responsible for binge eating.  Estrogen, on the other hand, peaks before ovulation and drops before your period, and acts as an appetite suppressant.

 

Is there anything we can do to minimize PMS symptoms?

Emotional changes including depression, mood swings, irritability and anxiety are common and normal symptoms associated with PMS. When these emotional changes become disruptive with work or your personal life, the diagnosis of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMD) is made.  Medications that treat depression and anxiety are often given to women suffering from this debilitating diagnosis.

It’s best to avoid foods that cause excessive bloating 1 to 2 weeks before your period.  During this time, hormonal changes cause bloating, diarrhea and constipation so it’s best to avoid foods and beverages that make these symptoms worse. 

Dietary rituals including many “B” and C vegetables are classic causes of gas and bloating and include beans, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage and cauliflower. Other dietary culprits include rich and fatty foods, whole grains, apples, peaches, pears, lettuce, onions, sugar-free foods containing sorbitol, mannitol and xylitol are directly associated with this frustrating symptom.  Lactose intolerance commonly affects women and is a frequent cause of bloating. Other lifestyle behaviors include drinking carbonated beverages, overeating, eating too fast, lack of exercise and drinking alcohol all contributes to bloating.  

Foods high in sodium contribute to water retention, weight gain and bloating.  These symptoms also increase your risk of depression during this vulnerable time of the month.

When you try without success of dietary other lifestyle changes, there are scientifically studied herbs that help you get your life back on track.  Herbs including Chasteberry, Passion Flower extract, Royal Jelly, Ashwagandha and Chromium have been found to combat the most disturbing symptoms including bloating, water retention, mood swings, anxiety, depression, night sweats and cramps.

How can a woman tell if she suffers from Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder? 

Emotional changes including depression, mood swings, irritability and anxiety are common and normal symptoms associated with PMS. When these emotional changes become disruptive with work or your personal life, the diagnosis of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMD) is made.  Medications that treat depression and anxiety are often given to women suffering from this debilitating diagnosis.

 

Why do women experience changes in bowel movement during their period?

Gastrointestinal havoc is common during your menstrual cycle.  Bloating, nausea, diarrhea or constipation are the most frequent intestinal symptoms.  The most common bowel change is diarrhea.  It’s thought to be caused by the release of certain chemicals, primarily prostaglandins and progesterone.  Prostaglandins are also responsible for the cramps experienced during your period.  These disruptive prostaglandins make the intestines and uterus contract causing diarrhea and menstrual cramps the first 3 days of your period. An increase in the hormone progesterone causes bloating, diarrhea and constipation. 

The best way to treat these disruptive symptoms include eating a healthy, fiber-rich and colorful diet, exercising regularly and avoid caffeine, sugar, salt, diary, spicy foods and alcohol.  Adding a probiotic made especially for women helps balance and control the healthy bacteria needed to improve annoying gastrointestinal symptoms. It’s also important to manage stress through relaxing techniques such as mindfulness, yoga and Tai Chi.   

Everyone experiences that time of the month differently.  Hormonal changes can be more troublesome to some women and not others. Healthy lifestyle and dietary behaviors will definitely control some of these less common and unusual symptoms.

 

Is there such a thing as a normal nipple?

During different stages of life and hormonal surges, nipples change in size and appearance. The majority of nipples point away from the body, while others, known as “inverted” nipples point into the body.  The belly button has a similar, “innie” v. “outtie” variation. These women with inverted nipples rarely have their “headlights on” which can be a good thing for many women.  Nipple variations are common. The same factors that affect breast size and shape also affect the appearance of nipples.

 

What determines the shape and size of a breast and why are some breasts bigger than others?

The Hollywood red carpet, social media and fashion magazines have made it easy to see the endless assortment of breast shapes, sizes, and variations.  There are a number of natural factors determining your breast shape and size including:

• Family history and genetics-Ex if your mom and her 4 sisters are a 38 Double D chances are you will too. 

 

• Body type-Basal Mass Index (BMI) and significant weight gain or loss.

 

• Number of Pregnancies 

 

• Breastfeeding-The number of babies you have breastfed and length of time.

 

• Age & Hormonal Changes-Puberty v. Menopause

 

• Skin elasticity and breast density

 

• Ethnicity-Ex Asian women tend to have smaller breasts culturally compared to European women.

You know that saying about how no two snowflakes are alike? Well, the expression could refer to breasts and nipples as well. Any body parts that come in a set of two are never exactly a mirror image of each other.  Your ears, eyes, lips, breasts and labia are all slightly different in shape and size. The extent your breasts are perky, with hairless quarter size areola and perfectly round, eraser size nipples depend of many variables and luck. This is completely normal. Different is normal.

 

Are there things I can do to make my breasts look different (not including surgery?)

Intimate apparel including bras has changed the way breasts look in all styles of clothing.  The safest and most natural way to like the way your breasts look in clothing is to make sure your everyday bra fits properly.  It has been found that 80% of women wear bras that are not fitted correctly to their breasts.  Whether it’s a special occasion or a vigorous workout, the appropriate bra can make all the difference in the world.

Lifestyle choices including diet and healthy living will help keep your body mass index (BMI) under 25 which helps keep your breast size consistent and true to their natural size. Medications such as the birth control pill and hormone replacement therapy can make your breast tissue making them slightly larger.  Caffeine and nicotine stimulate fibrocystic densities in breast tissue increasing their size as well.

 

Are there any tips for taking care of your breasts long term?

We have all heard the saying, “you are what you eat”.  This can be applied to many medical conditions including breast health.  Eating a colorful plant-based diet, limiting alcohol and caffeine intake, not smoking, and controlling your weight have all been shown to improve breast health and lower your risk of getting breast cancer.

Using a daily moisturizer on the skin of your breasts also contributes to healthy appearing breasts.

 

Do young women need to give themselves breast exams?

Yes, I believe it’s important to know your breasts well starting at an early age. During your first visit with the gynecologist, which should be around 16 to 18 years old, you should be shown how to do a self-breast exam.  Breast tissue can be intimidating in the beginning but once you are familiar with your own breast tissue and all its normal lumps and bumps, you will be able to find abnormal changes if they occur. The best time to check your breasts is during the first week of your period when the hormonal effects on breast tissue have subsided.

 

How do I do a breast exam?

You and your breasts have a long relationship together so it’s important to identify any changes in breast shape, size, skin changes or nipple discharge.  There are 5 steps of a breast self-exam. With each step you need to look at your breasts closely to identify any new changes. 

Step 1: Stand in front of the mirror with your hands on your hips. 

Step 2: Raise your arms over your head while looking for changes in the mirror.

Step 3: Look for any discharge or fluid coming from the nipples.

Step 4: Now, lie on your back and feel each breast looking for lumps and unfamiliar tissue changes. Extend the hand over your head of the breast you are examining. Use the opposite hand, running your fingertips firmly over the breast tissue in a circular motion, about the size of a quarter. Think of the breast as a “+” sign, feeling each quarter in a purposeful way each month. Once you have finished examining each breast, check each underarm to feel for similar changes. 

Step 5: Now stand up or sit and recheck your breasts in a similar fashion as Step 4.  

Sometimes checking the breasts in the shower, when the skin is wet and slippery, helps identify abnormal findings more easily.

 

Why do breasts get random hairs around the nipple?

You probably have already noticed some women are lucky not to have any stray hairs around the nipples.  During different stages of life and hormonal surges, hair growth around the nipples is considered normal. The area around the nipples is called the areola and it naturally has hair follicles.   If you are getting random hairs around your nipples, you might also notice hair growth on your chin and face.  Some women are more prone to this than others.  Puberty, pregnancy and menopause are times in women’s lives where hormonal changes are more physically noticeable.

When can you have a breast reduction if your breasts are oversized?

Surgery for breast reduction surgery is one of the most gratifying and rewarding plastic surgeries for women suffering for oversized breasts.  Those women with genetically oversized breasts have daily emotional and physical pain which interferes with every aspect of their daily life. Neck and upper back pain are common symptoms, and many women are unable to exercise regularly without suffering from breast pain. For this group of women, I often suggest getting a breast reduction to improve their quality of life.  Of all the plastic surgery procedures a breast reduction is without question the most gratifying and life changing.  “I should have done it sooner”, 99% of these women say. When you turn 18year you become a candidate for breast reduction surgery.

How can I deal with body image concerns?
During puberty, many girls become self-conscious about their body. It’s important to focus on having a positive body image and remember that everyone develops at their own pace. Surround yourself with supportive friends and family members who promote body positivity and confidence.

Is it true the vagina is self-cleaning?

You may have heard that the vagina is “self-cleaning” …well it sort of is, but using an intimate wash on the vulva and vaginal opening is safe and recommended.  As a gynecologist, I suggest that you clean your vulva/labia as if it was any other part of your body daily. Using a gentle, non-fragranced intimate personal wash is ideal, especially made for the vulva and vaginal opening!  Using genital cleaning products especially made for this delicate part of the body allows you to keep the area clean, hydrated, and moisturized.  

 

Do you see a shift in the industry towards more awareness and care about what women put in their bodies?

 

Yes there is definitely a trend for companies in the feminine health space to meet the demands of women, especially those who are looking for a pristine lifestyle.  What a woman puts in any of her orifices, including her vagina, is under the health microscopic in 2019, especially if there is any potential to be harmful or dangerous. Anything that is labelled organic and natural has a sex appeal for those wanting to live their healthiest lives even if medical research is lacking. The feminine health industry is eager to please what women want and is trending.

 

 

Is there any other advice you think would be helpful for a woman’s first trip to the gynecologist? 

It’s recommended girls 13-15 years see their gynecologist to start and build a relationship to discuss sexually transmitted infection screening, prevention and other health care advice. The good news is your first visit may be only a conversation and/or an external examination to make sure everything is normal with your female parts.  Unless you are sexually active or have vaginal discharge or other complaints down south you will not need an internal pelvic exam. A pap smear testing for cervical cancer involves an internal exam and does not start until you are 21 years old.  

If you missed this window, now is the time to make yourself an appointment.  You want to develop an open and honest relationship where you feel comfortable to ask questions that may make you squirm in your seat or blush.  

The good news is your first visit may be only a conversation and/or an external examination to make sure everything is normal with your female parts 

 

Should I shave or wax before my first gynecology appointment?

Some women consider grooming their vaginas as part of their weekly or monthly beauty prep along with their mani-pedi and brow wax. It’s not necessary to shave or wax your vagina before getting a gynecologic exam. Vaginal grooming is your personal choice. The main consideration on how to prepare for an exam is to simply be clean so showering or using a vaginal hygiene wipe prior to your visit is suggested.

If I have my period, should I reschedule my gynecology appointment? 

Having your period and getting a gynecologic exam is not a good idea.  If you have a pap smear during your period, blood can make the results inaccurate.  Hormonal changes during your period can make a breast exam really uncomfortable and vaginal bleeding makes a pelvic exam messy. It’s best to reschedule your gynecologic exam if Aunt Flo pays you a visit.

Will I need to pee in a cup during my gynecology appointment?

You will need to pee in a cup during your gynecologic exam. When you pee in a cup the gynecologist is able to perform a “dipstick” test of your urine.  This simple office test can check to see if you have anything you may be unaware of happening in your body.  Finding bacteria can suggest a bladder infection or finding sugar (glucose) may suggest you have diabetes.

Will you need to take a blood sample during my gynecology appointment?

The good news is if you are having a routine gynecologic exam, meaning you are not having any health problems, it is unlikely you will need to have your blood drawn. If you are having irregular periods or want a complete sexually transmitted infection screening, a blood sample is likely.

Will the birth control pill make me fat?

Study after study does not show weight gain to be a side effect of the pill. Adolescence or going off to college is when most women start the pill and this is also a time that young women tend to gain weight.

 

Will the birth control pill put me at risk of breast cancer?

There is no evidence to show that the pill significantly increases breast cancer risk or other types of cancers.  In fact, the pill gives you protection against ovarian, uterine and colorectal cancers.

 

Can I get pregnant on my period?

While it’s hard to get pregnant during your period there is still a small chance it can happen.  For some women with shorter intervals between periods (for example 21 days between each period) these women ovulate on day 7 or 8 so they are prone to getting pregnant at the end of a long period.  Ovulation is the 24-hour window when the egg is available for the sperm to fertilize.  With fewer days between each period, you will ovulate earlier in the month.  For women who have a period every 21 days and a period lasting 7 days they can get pregnant on day 5, 6 or 7 if they have unprotected sex. Don’t’ forget that sperm lives for 3-5 days!   

 

My Aunt told me masturbation is only for sex addicts, is that true? 

 

Masturbation is the perfect way for you to figure out what feels good.  By taking matters” in your own hands” you are on your way towards getting in touch with your sexual pleasures.   A large national study showed that 89% of females and 95% of males have masturbated.  Masturbation is a completely normal part of adolescence and is usually the first sexual experience.  Masturbation is a lifelong gift!

What’s your best advice on cleaning my female parts clean? 

 

A healthy vagina needs the same hygienic attention as any other part of your body. Between urine, sweat and being so close to the anus cleaning the vagina regularly is critical to prevent dirty bacterial buildup and to avoid the offensive odors that develop throughout the day.  

You may have heard that the vagina is “self-cleaning”…well it sort of is but using soap and water on the vagina is ok, safe and recommended!  As a gynecologist I suggest that you clean your vulva and labia every day as if it was any other part of your body. Use 2 fingers at the entrance of the vagina and 1 to 2 knuckles into the vagina using a gentle, non-fragranced soap.

 

I hear douching is the best way to clean my vagina, is that true?

Just say “no” to douching in your teens! Just like smoking cigarettes, douching is a bad habit. Douching is a premade cleaning mixture that comes in a plastic bottle that can be squirted high up into the vagina. This internal vaginal cleaning is not a recommended routine to keep the vagina smelling fresh and clean. The active cleaning ingredients used in most douches can upset the healthy vaginal discharge and pH balance and create a yeast or bacterial infection.

 

Can my friends tell I am on my period by that special period odor?

You may smell a “special period odor” but trust me others can’t smell it.  Menstrual blood has a unique smell but the scent doesn’t travel beyond your personal space.

Why do women sometimes follow the same period cycle?   

The “alleged” menstrual synchrony came from a paper published in 1971.  As the story goes it says, when women spend more than 3 months together, they periods will start within 4 days of each other’s.  It’s not really a medical truth, more or a women’s wives’ tale.  In other words, menstrual synchrony cannot be duplicated in controlled medical studies.   

 

Is it true that if you don’t wear a bra you’ll get saggy boobs?

Poor support leads to saggy breasts regardless of your size.  If you don’t wear an everyday bra, the delicate and sensitive breast tissue becomes unsupported causing breasts to sag. A bra should be properly fitted and provide needed support to breast tissue during typical daily activities to prevent “sagging”.   Larger breast women (greater than a C cup) are more vulnerable to saggy breasts when unsupported breasts occur for extended periods of time.

During exercise, a sports bra, with its stronger fabric and purposeful construction provides additional care and comfort to breast tissue in motion. 

It is interesting to note in western cultures, 10-25% of women don’t wear a bra.   

Other factors that affect saggy breasts include genetics, age, breastfeeding, and menopause.

 

What are common problems that gay and lesbians people face during high school?

They and many others are helping members of the LGBT community fight the daily battles of employment discrimination, hate crimes, custody rights, religious persecution, bullying in schools, inadequate health care and mental and physical abuse. It is especially important to lead the way for our LGBT youth in showing them that they can have hope for the future.

For many LGBTQ people, their sexual orientation was known to them early on; sometimes as far back as they can remember. For others it was a less obvious and more gradual understanding. Whether your own revelation came before or after puberty it is known that a person’s sexual orientation is a result of biologic, hereditary and environmental influences. Regardless of your age, if you are struggling to understand your own sexual identity it’s important to understand that you are completely normal in your confusion. The care of your body and mental and sexual health all carry equal weight. Being in touch with your feelings and asking the hard questions must be a priority. Reach out to friends, and then find a reliable and trusted medical professional.

health care LGBT

It’s Your Health Care

The National Survey of Family Growth suggests that 1.1 percent of women identify themselves as lesbian, and 3.5 percent of women identify as bisexual. Historically, lesbian and bisexual women have felt afraid and apprehensive about getting health care because of confidentiality and disclosure, discriminatory attitudes and treatment, uncertainty about their health care needs and risks, and because of limited access to health care and health insurance. Know your rights. The bottom line is that all health care providers must provide the same complete medical care to lesbian, bisexual, transgender and heterosexual women.

 Health care providers are often uncomfortable asking questions directly related to sexual orientation, but these specific questions are important and necessary in providing proper preventive care and treatment. When you’re having your medical and sexual history taken by your healthcare provider, they may overlook your sexual orientation. A “yes” to the question of “Are you sexually active?” needs to be followed up with “Are you sexually active with a male or female?” A lesbian may not offer the information unless she is asked directly, and if there’s no exchange of this vital information, there is no real communication between patient and healthcare provider. I believe the medical community needs to take the lead and learn the appropriate and sensitive way of asking the potentially uncomfortable medical questions necessary to bridge the gap in a doctor-patient relationship, especially concerning lesbian and bisexual patients.

            Studies in the past have found that lesbians and bisexual women have higher health risks than heterosexual women and a greater incidence of the following:

• Obesity
• Tobacco use
• Alcohol and drug use
• Type 2 Adult Onset Diabetes
• Lung cancer
• Cardiac disease and heart attacks

Whatever the factors in these health concerns (perhaps depression caused by alienation or discrimination?), it is important for lesbians to be aware of their increased health risks and even more important for them to disclose their sexual orientation to their healthcare provider so that they may provide the appropriate medical screenings.

 It’s essential that a lesbian or bisexual women find a healthcare provider with whom she feels completely comfortable. And that comfort needs to extend to a welcoming and receptive office staff as well.