Estimated reading time: 9 minutes Should you focus on length before strength with pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD)? This is a question I am often asked. Maybe you are wondering what this even means? Length would imply stretching exercises such as yoga and strength would imply strengthening such as lifting weights. Some may quickly jump to the answer that you should lengthen if your muscles are “tight” and strengthen if your muscles are “weak”, however, it is not that simple. For one, tight muscles are not strong. Also, if you have weak muscles, other muscles will have to take the load so it is inevitable that you will have some muscles that need to lengthen and some that need to be strengthened. Back in 2015 when I was facing a life of incontinence following pelvic mesh removal, I felt that strength was very much needed in order to prevent leakage. The thought of lengthening was frightening as I also had a rectocele (a form of pelvic organ prolapse). Back then, my understanding of pelvic organ prolapse was based on what my gynaecologist had told me; my rectum was falling into my vaginal passage due to tissue laxity. The idea of organs falling made me tense up. I almost wished my vaginal opening had a zip so I could ensure none of my organs would drop out. Thankfully, through years of diligent investigation, education and training, I have changed my understanding of pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic floor dysfunction in general. With this change in understanding came a change in practice that saw an end to my PFD symptoms. Whether you are suffering from prolapse or pelvic pain, this article should provide some valuable information to propel your journey to empowerment. Nervous System Control The management of both strength and flexibility is governed by your nervous system. The nervous system utilizes both the musculoskeletal system and the connective tissue system to manage the balance of tension throughout your body. It is this balance of tension that dictates if you have hypertonicity (tightness) or hypotonicity (laxity). 10% off Empower Your Flower The nervous system can be viewed as an electrical system within the body that is responsible for protecting organs, muscles and joints so they can function optimally keeping you safe and ensuring your survival. This understanding – that the nervous systems primary goal is to protect –  holds the key to relieving the symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction (incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, pelvic pain etc.). Regardless of whether you choose to stretch with yoga or to do strength exercises, you are simply communicating with your nervous system as all movement is a form of communication with this amazing system. Your thoughts also communicate with your nervous system. Maybe you have noticed this before. When remembering something horrible from your past, you might have felt a visceral response in your body. This is because your brain cannot tell the difference between a horrible memory from the past and something horrible that is presently happening. What you think about your pelvic organ prolapse, pelvic pain, incontinence or any other pelvic floor dysfunction, can dramatically impact how the condition manifests in your body. Let me explain… Survival Instinct Your autonomic nervous system is focused on protecting you and keeping you away from danger. At the core of your autonomic nervous system is a primitive survival instinct. The autonomic nervous system subconsciously controls major functions such as heart rate, breathing, digestion, urination and sexual function. There are two major subdivisions of this system: the sympathetic nervous system (“fight or flight”) and the parasympathetic nervous system (“rest and digest”). Negative thoughts have the power to influence your autonomic nervous system triggering the flight or fight response. This causes an increase in heart rate and respiration while pausing digestive function to prepare your body to escape imminent danger. Along with these autonomic changes, it is common to have an increase in muscular tension. This is where the term “a tense moment” originates. It indicates a state of nervous strain that creates tension in your tissues. Autonomic Nervous System – PNS & SNS The Business of Your Body’s Movement To gain a better understanding, we can explore the business of your body’s movement. The function of muscle is to shorten (contract). From the nervous systems perspective, the shortening of muscle is a protective response to prevent overstretching and muscle fiber damage. It is this shortening of muscles that moves your joints to create motion, therefore, you can view movement is an important function in your survival. Your muscles are connected to your bones through tendons; part of your connective tissue network. The connective tissue network which mechanically distributes tension throughout your body, stretching from the top of your head to the soles of your feet. Within your muscle tendons, there are sensory organs which monitor the stretch of your tendons. Again, this is a protection mechanism. As a muscle’s fibers shorten, the tendons at both end of that muscle are being stretched. Your nervous system will inhibit the contraction to save your tendons;  another protective reflex that helps to ensure your survival as muscle tissues repair faster than connective tissues. This business of your body’s movement is complex and, in my opinion, extremely fascinating! We manage to achieve amazing feats with our movement every day – just standing up or walking around requires an amazing balance of tension through the entire network of tissues that make up your body. The body, being a self-healing organism, is always striving to rejuvenate and repair. It attempts to do this as efficiently as possible while expending minimal energy. Such a complex system is not without flaws, especially when we live such busy, stressful lives. It becomes easy to forget that what we think and do each day is sending subtle messages to the nervous system that can change the balance of tension in the body. Changing the Question So, when it comes to the question of length before strength, I think

Bacterial meningitis acts fast: What may start as mild, cold-like symptoms can turn into a life-threatening situation in less than 24 hours. Ultimately, the disease — which is most common in teens, as well as infants and the elderly — kills about one in six people who develop it, and 20% survivors live with enduring side effects, such as hearing loss, according to the World Health Organization.  That’s why it’s so important to be familiar with the symptoms of meningitis. Being able to recognize early signs of the condition and get help right away can make a huge difference in survival rates. Our experts break down meningitis, including what causes it, the red flags symptoms everyone should know, and the best prevention techniques.  Related story What Makes Meningitis So Deadly For Teens & 4 Simple Ways to Address the Risk What Is Meningitis?  “Meningitis, in general terms, is a severe infection involving the brain,” says Sharon Nachman, M.D., chief of pediatric infectious diseases at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital.  The brain and spinal cord are covered by delicate membranes called meninges. Between the brain and spinal cord and the meninges, there’s fluid known as cerebrospinal fluid. Meningitis occurs when an infectious agent such as a virus or bacteria gets into the cerebrospinal fluid and causes inflammation in the meninges, explains William Schaffner, M.D., a professor of infectious diseases at the Vanderbilt University Medical Center.  That swelling can create pressure inside the skull and affect blood flow, leading to headaches, fevers, confusion, loss of consciousness, and seizures, according to the National Library of Medicine.  “[Meningitis] can be a milder or a much more severe infection, depending upon the nature of the infectious agents,” Dr. Schaffner says.   What Are the Types of Meningitis?  Meningitis can be caused by viruses or bacteria, and more rarely fungi or parasites, the World Health Organization reports.  Over half of meningitis cases are viral, according to the National Library of Medicine. “The viruses usually produce a transient infection that heals itself. These infections are, relatively speaking, mild,” Dr. Schaffner says.  Bacterial meningitis can be much more severe. It requires treatments, and even if cured can leave patients with “substantial disabilities,” Dr. Schaffner says. And this is the type that targets teens and young adults (as well as infants and the elderly), per the Meningitis Research Foundation.   The good news is that bacterial meningitis is relatively rare. In 2006, about 22% of all meningitis cases were caused by bacterial infections, according to the National Library of Medicine research. But since then bacterial meningitis has become less common, thanks in part to the development of vaccines that protect people from the disease, a 2025 study in The Lancet Regional Health shows.  Many different bacteria can cause bacterial meningitis. “Meningococcal meningitis is the most common form of bacterial meningitis in adolescents and young adults. [It] is caused by a bacterium called Neisseria meningitidis,” says Patti Wukovits, BSN, RN, AMB-BC, the co-executive director of the American Society for Meningitis Prevention and Executive Director of the Kimberly Coffey Foundation.  “Neisseria meningitidis lives harmlessly in the back of the nose and throat of roughly 10 to 35% of the population at any given time. In most people, the immune system keeps it contained. But in some, and we still don’t fully understand why, the bacteria breach the blood-brain barrier, enter the bloodstream, and trigger a very serious, potentially deadly infection,” Wukovits says. What Are the Symptoms of Bacterial Meningitis? One reason bacterial meningitis is so dangerous is because it moves very quickly. “Many initial symptoms are mild and are similar to most illnesses: headache, fever, feeling unwell,” Dr. Nachman says. “However, these symptoms rapidly progress to severe illness.” In one The Lancet study of children and teens under age 16 with the condition, most had non-specific symptoms in the first four to six hours of infection, but were close to death by 24 hours. She says later symptoms of bacterial meningitis include:  An inability to stand or walk A red or purplish pinprick rash High fevers Unresponsiveness A severely stiff neck that may impede movement A headache that progressively worsens Light sensitivity Trouble answering questions or confusion. Viral meningitis can cause similar symptoms. According to the National Library of Medicine, these include:  A fever A headache Sensitivity to light Neck stiffness  Nausea and vomiting. While people with bacterial meningitis will get worse over time, those with viral meningitis typically recover. But since bacterial meningitis is so severe and fast-acting, it’s not safe to wait and see how symptoms progress before seeking help.  What Should You Do If You Think Your Teen Has Meningitis?  Bacterial meningitis is rare, so unless there’s an outbreak going on in your area, early symptoms can go overlooked. But any delay in treatment can be devastating. “Call 911 or get to an emergency room immediately. Do not wait to see if they improve. Do not wait for a doctor’s appointment in the morning. This is one of the very few diseases where hours, sometimes minutes, can make a very big difference,” Wukovits says.  Specifically, Dr. Schaffner says that if your teen ever complains of a severe headache and fever of about 101 or higher at the same time, it’s a good idea to visit the doctor and ask about meningitis. If there’s a known outbreak in your area, any sign of illness at all is enough of a reason to at least call your doctor, if not go to the emergency room.  A purplish rash that doesn’t fade when you press a glass against it is also a red flag to visit the ER, Wukovits says. That said, not everyone develops one and it can be harder to see on darker skin tones, Dr. Schaffner says. So the absence of a rash can’t be taken as reassurance, especially when other symptoms of meningitis are present.  The bottom line is that since bacterial meningitis is so dangerous, it’s never a bad idea to act quickly, even if you’re not entirely sure whether

Abdominal diastasis (diastasis recti) occurs when the front abdominal muscles separate to make room for the baby’s growth. This happens because the connective tissue stretches as the uterus expands during pregnancy. While it affects the majority of pregnant women and often improves after birth, it can persist and cause discomfort in many cases. Understanding the symptoms, prevention, and available treatments is essential for protecting your health before and after delivery. Symptoms of Abdominal Diastasis Diastasis recti causes a range of symptoms that often continue postpartum, including: Physical changes: A flaccid or sagging belly, or visible bulges (hernias). Pain: Constant discomfort in the lower back and pelvic area. Pelvic floor issues: Incontinence (leakage of urine or feces), pain during intercourse, and the sensation of internal organs dropping (prolapse). Mobility difficulties: Lack of balance, poor posture, and stiffness when twisting the torso. Digestive problems: Gas, constipation, and heavy digestion. Emotional impact: Low self-esteem, anxiety, or depression. Risk Factors Some common risk factors for developing diastasis recti during pregnancy include: Weight and Build: Obesity or excessive weight gain during gestation. Muscle Condition: Having an abdominal wall or pelvic floor that is either too weak or excessively tense (hypertonia). Activity Level: Sedentary lifestyles are detrimental, but so are high-impact exercises (like running or tennis) and lifting heavy objects. History and Age: Being over 35, having multiple pregnancies, or undergoing prolonged labors (including C-sections). Prevention and Treatment Experts suggest a multi-angled approach. The most effective methods for prevention and recovery include Kegel exercises, hypopressive abdominals, physical therapy, and yoga. It is vital to avoid traditional sit-ups/crunches and always seek professional guidance. Kegel Exercises Kegels are the best tool for strengthening the pelvic floor. They help prevent diastasis and issues like incontinence. Biofeedback-based trainers (like KegelSmart) are highly recommended as they recognize your specific muscle strength and guide you through a routine tailored to your level. Research shows that training the abdomen and pelvic floor during pregnancy can reduce diastasis risk by up to 35%. Core Exercises Combine Kegels with “core” routines. Hypopressive exercises and those that activate the transverse abdominal muscle are the most effective. Ensure you have a personalized plan supervised by a professional. Physical Therapy and Postural Education Physical therapy that strengthens the transverse and rectus abdominis reduces risk. Similarly, “postural hygiene”—maintaining proper posture during daily activities like lifting weights, working at a computer, or sleeping—is crucial. Diaphragmatic Breathing This deep, conscious breathing using the diaphragm is beneficial throughout pregnancy and postpartum. Pre-delivery: It activates the pelvic floor, relaxes the abdominal wall (reducing back pain), and improves core control. It also increases oxygen for the baby and reduces stress. Postpartum: It promotes gentle activation of the transverse muscle, helping to restore abdominal function and reduce separation. Proprioceptive Exercises This training focuses on body awareness, balance, and stability. By combining diaphragmatic breathing with balance exercises, it effectively rehabilitates the abdominal wall and pelvic floor. Prenatal Yoga Prenatal yoga increases strength and flexibility in essential muscles while preventing excessive pressure on the abdomen. It also aids postpartum recovery by stabilizing the core. Note: Always consult a doctor before starting, and ensure the class is specifically for pregnant women and taught by specialists. Kinesiotaping Neuromuscular taping, when combined with abdominal exercises, has proven more effective at reducing diastasis and activating muscles than exercise alone. Postpartum Abdominal Binders (Belly Wraps) Wraps can provide support, improve posture, and stabilize the core. However, they have downsides: They may cause circulatory or digestive issues if used incorrectly. Some experts argue they can weaken muscles further because the body “relies” on the external support rather than working itself. Consult your doctor to see if a binder is right for you. Final Tip: Avoid risk factors like excessive weight gain, heavy lifting during pregnancy, and a sedentary lifestyle. Happy pregnancy! Source link

We’ve just launched two new series on our YouTube channel! One series focuses on hypopressive exercises beginning with some simple exercises on all fours. This hypopressive series will add new poses and increase in difficulty each week. If you decide to follow along, you do not need to move to the next step after one week. Instead, we would encourage you to move forward when you feel you have mastered your current level. This practice is a great compliment for those with pelvic organ prolapse or other pelvic floor dysfunctions. The other series focuses on hip strengthening exercises. The hips provide lot of support to the pelvic floor and so a good balance of length-tension across the hips can greatly assist when trying to optomize pelvic floor function. The exercises increase in intensity each week eventually working up the strength to perform pistol squats. Like the hypopressive series, we recommend you only progress to the next level once your body has mastered your current level. Listening to your body with any physical practice is  imperative! As always, we recommend you get approval from your health practitioner or pelvic floor physiotherapist before adding any exercise to your regular practice. Please read our disclaimer you begin. Source link

Mid-March in Miami is a special kind of idyllic; the reason my fellow locals and I stick out the soggy and punishing summer months. On the evening in question, I enjoyed the backyard breeze on my bare shoulders and midriff. It was the perfect weather for a crop top and maxi skirt— no boob sweat and no jacket was required to show a suggestive little bit of skin. I was celebrating a friend’s husband’s birthday, and I’d brought a new flame to the party—a cute, younger guy from my gym whom I was simultaneously hiding from my kids but excited to show off to my friend group. The party presented a unique challenge, though. Like many parent friend groups, mine overlapped almost entirely with those of my little ones, and the birthday boy’s kids were best friends with mine. Related story Why This Viral NYC ‘Mommune’ Is Hitting Home With Other Single Moms I wasn’t ready for those worlds to collide, but in theory, I was safe from any awkward cameos. The party was for adults only, and all the kiddos had been shuffled off to a playdate with another friend. This left me free to sidle up to my date, carefree, with a spicy margarita in my hand and his arm around my shoulders. These days, I was either “single” or a “mom” but not both at the same time, and on this occasion, I was intent on being the former. It’s possible that I’d become overly confident in my abilities to juggle the dual roles. “Are you sure this is a good idea?” my date had asked as I dressed for the party. He didn’t have kids himself, but worried that I might be playing with fire with the zero degrees of separation. Our entanglement was new, casual, and definitely not appropriate for discussion with my children. “Of course!” I assured him. “Everyone there knows the drill. Separation of church and state. It will be fine.” I was wrong. An hour and a half and two cocktails into the night, with the background of a booming early aughts playlist and deep conversation, I spotted her. While my date loaded up a baked potato for me at the food station, the unmistakable bouncing ponytail of my ten-year-old daughter made its way into the crowd. The adults froze in unison, like kids getting caught misbehaving at a party, but in reverse. Apparently, whoever had been watching the group of kids hadn’t received the secret lover memo and thought it would be fun to show up with them as a surprise. “It will be so cute!” they probably thought. And it was, but for me, the surprise was also slightly terrifying. Within seconds, my body morphed from “single” to “mom” like some creature from a Transformers movie (Optimus Prime’s ex-wife, probably). The baked potato was abandoned, and my date was ignored for the rest of the night as I tried to justify my skimpy outfit to my daughter, offering her platitudes about the weather and how it’s nice to dress up for a friend’s birthday. Though the run-in sent me into a mild panic attack, I ultimately got away with the duplicity. My date maintained a respectful distance while my daughter was at the party, and she was none the wiser about whose arm I’d been on before she arrived. If she had figured it out, I’m sure we could have had an age-appropriate conversation about what mommy was up to, but I was grateful that it hadn’t been necessary. Asha Elias and her boyfriend. Courtesy of Asha Elias Motherhood, no matter what the relationship status, is a constant balancing act. Morning routines, pickups, drop-offs, career, housework, keeping the little ones alive, keeping yourself alive. The thing that no one talks about, though, is how divorce can actually relieve some of that pressure. Shared custody and healthy co-parenting came with an unexpected benefit for me—time. Do I miss my kids when they’re with their father? Tremendously. But I’m also at ease knowing that they are spending quality time with a loving and responsible parent. It allows me to be more present on “my” days and to figure out who I am when I’m not being a mother on the other days. I try to schedule girls’ nights, events, and dates exclusively when the kids are with their dad, so when they’re with me, I can focus on meals together, homework, and bedtime routines. This is definitely a luxury, and I feel for the full-time moms who need to rely on childcare for those activities. On the days I don’t have the kids, I have more time to work, practice self-care, and —yes—let my hair down (and put on my crop top) to live a double life. The “single” part of my identity is exciting and fulfilling, even though the mom guilt about not being devoted to my children 24/7 still eats at me. Is it ever possible to truly be two different people in one body? It’s a question that I’ve heard asked dozens of times from my fellow divorced moms and in online communities, so I asked Dr. Mindy DeSeta, PhD, a therapist and certified sexologist, for her clinical take on my personal duplicity. “Let’s drop the outdated message that becoming a mom means you have to give up who you are and pour every ounce of yourself into your kids,” DeSeta told me. “Motherhood is a huge part of you, but it shouldn’t be the only part.” She also says that guilt is not always a reliable compass, and that sometimes we feel guilty about things that can actually be good for us.  “Kids do best when their moms are supported, cared for, and emotionally well. Taking care of yourself, staying connected to your identity, and rebuilding your confidence isn’t “extra”—it’s part of being a healthy parent,” DeSeta says. The confidence part can be tricky for recently divorced women. For me, reentering the dating scene was almost as

Tired of the same predictable dinner date? If your relationship needs a jolt of excitement, it’s time to ditch the pricey gifts and focus on a different kind of “connection.” This year, intimate wellbeing brand INTIMINA is challenging couples to swap the sweets for a surprising workout: Kegel exercises. Pelvic Floor 101: The Underrated Muscle Before you start, you need to know what you’re training. The pelvic floor is a “hammock” of muscles that supports your vital organs. For Women: It supports the bladder, womb, and bowel. Life events like childbirth or aging can weaken these muscles, leading to leaks or discomfort. For Men: It’s just as vital! It supports the bladder and plays a starring role in achieving and maintaining strong erections. “Nearly 1 in 3 women experience issues like leaking,” says Dr. Susanna Unsworth. “But these issues aren’t limited to women. For men, pelvic floor exercises can enhance erectile function, confidence, and overall wellbeing.” The “Pleasure Principle” Why do Kegels together? Because strength = sensation. Tensing the pelvic floor increases blood flow to the genital area, which heightens sensitivity for both partners. By syncing your squeezes, breathing, and eye contact, you turn a simple exercise into a powerful bonding ritual. Your Couples’ Kegel Starter Pack The best part? No gym required. You can do these anywhere. 1. The Basic Squeeze (Isolate) The Move: Imagine you are trying to stop the flow of urine or hold back gas. The Count: Squeeze and hold for 3–4 seconds (aiming for 10). Repeat 10–15 times. The Rule: Don’t hold your breath! Keep your stomach and glutes relaxed. Couples’ Twist: Make eye contact and try to hold a conversation while squeezing. The first one to laugh loses. 2. The Power Play (Variety) Mix long, slow holds with short, “fast-twitch” squeezes. Vary your positions (sitting vs. lying down) to engage the muscles differently. 3. Smart Training (For Women) If you want measurable progress, a device like the KegelSmart 2 acts as a personal coach. It vibrates to tell you exactly when to squeeze and rest, personalizing the routine to your current strength level. When Will You See Results? Consistency is the secret sauce. A few weeks: You’ll begin to notice initial changes. A few months: Significant improvements in bladder control and sexual sensation. Dedicating just 5–10 minutes a day to this shared routine can have a profound impact on your health and your intimacy. Squeeze together, stay connected.   Source link

You have spoken and we have listened! After many requests, we will begin a weekly live YouTube streaming session for pelvic floor relaxation. Each session will take just 30 minutes. Pelvic floor relaxation is pivotal to healthy function. Relaxation can benefit not just your pelvic health but also your health in general. The sessions will utilize yin yoga poses which are held for 3 to 5 minutes depending on the pose. The practice is an opportunity to let go of excessive tension which can help immensely when dealing with pelvic pain conditions such as overactive bladder, vaginismus and dyspareunia. Pelvic floor is beneficial for women and also for men (yes, men have a pelvic floor too!). You can watch the live stream here: As always, we recommend you get approval from your health practitioner or pelvic floor physiotherapist before adding any exercise to your regular practice. Please read our disclaimer you begin. Source link

If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, SheKnows may receive an affiliate commission. Postpartum weight loss isn’t always about giving in to “bounce back” culture. Instead, it’s helping mothers align their health and fitness goals after a monumental life event, and feel like themselves again, whether it’s about the number on the scale or lowering visceral fat, which helps reduce diseases like cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. That’s where the best GLP-1 programs come in. The medications are revitalizing postpartum health, and an increasing number of women are seeking them out. But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide on a program that’s best for you. Related story This Drugstore Baby Soap Brand Is #1 in the UK & It’s About Replace All Your American Products The best programs are those that take a personalized, medically supervised approach. “Postpartum weight loss isn’t just about the number on the scale: It’s about hormonal health, metabolic changes, and long-term wellbeing,” explains Dr. Melynda Barnes, Chief Medical Officer at Ro. “Programs that combine clinical oversight with nutrition, lifestyle support, and ongoing monitoring tend to be the most effective, as they meet women where they are rather than applying a one-size-fits-all solution.” Keep reading to learn more about the medications and the best programs to help you reach your postpartum goals. Best GLP-1 Programs for Postpartum Weight Loss, at a Glance Best Overall: Noom, $129Best Runner-Up: Ro, $199+Most Popular Program: Mochi, $79+Most Affordable Program: Ivim Health, $75+Best Specialized Women’s Program: Hers, $149+Best App-Based Program: Fridays, $150+ How do GLP-1 Medications Work? GLP-1 medications work by suppressing appetite and increasing weight loss. There are also many other functions the medications serve, like addressing some of the underlying biological drivers of weight gain, according to Dr. Melynda Barnes, Chief Medical Officer at Ro. “They help regulate appetite and metabolism by slowing gastric emptying, increasing feelings of fullness, and reducing cravings,” she adds. “They also improve insulin sensitivity, which plays a key role in how the body stores and uses energy. This makes them particularly effective during life stages like postpartum or aging, when hormonal shifts can disrupt normal metabolic function.” Here’s how it works on a more scientific level: GLP-1 is a hormone your body already makes. It helps regulate blood sugar, slows the rate at which food moves through your stomach, and signals fullness to your brain. “GLP-1 medications like semaglutide mimic that hormone, which is why people feel satisfied with less food and notice the constant chatter about food, what we call ‘food noise,’ quiet down,” explains Dr. Jessica Duncan, an obesity certified MD and Chief Medical Officer at Ivim Health. “They’re not appetite suppressants in the old sense. They’re working on the biological drivers of hunger and metabolism.”  Can You Take GLP-1s Postpartum? GLP-1s are generally safe to take postpartum, but there are caveats according to experts. Dr. Duncan explains that GLP-1s are not approved or studied during pregnancy or breastfeeding, so the postpartum window is really about timing. “Once a patient is no longer breastfeeding and their body has had time to recover from delivery, GLP-1 therapy can be appropriate, and for many women dealing with significant postpartum weight concerns, hormonal shifts, and metabolic changes, it can be life-changing,” she says. And since every case is different, it’s best to be evaluated by your provider first. Dr. Amy B. Lewis, a Yale-trained board-certified dermatologist in private practice in New York City, also adds that the safety of using a GLP-1 should be determined based on nutritional status, including iron stores, protein stores, hormone recovery, and breastfeeding status. How Soon Can You Take a GLP-1 After Giving Birth?  Much like returning to physical activity postpartum, it’s best to give your body time to rest and heal after giving birth. “There’s no single number that applies to everyone, and I’d be skeptical of any program that gives you one,” Dr. Duncan says. “What I think about with my patients: Are you finished breastfeeding? Has your body stabilized, meaning hormones, cycle, and sleep are settling into a new rhythm? Are you medically cleared by your OB?” Experts say that this time period is past the six-week postpartum visit, and sometimes longer when breastfeeding. Is Taking GLP-1s Safe While Breastfeeding? GLP-1s are not recommended for those who are breastfeeding. The side effects haven’t been studied enough to know if the medication is transferred into breastmilk and then to an infant. Doctors are concerned with the potential harmful effects on an infant’s growth and feeding if GLP-1s get into the bloodstream. “In addition, appetite suppression in the mother may reduce caloric intake needed for milk production,” Dr. Lewis says. Are GLP-1s, Constipation & Your Pelvic Floor Related?  Every expert agrees that the most common side effects of GLP-1s are constipation. “In our published research on more than a thousand patients on tirzepatide, constipation was the single most reported side effect,” Dr. Duncan notes. “Now layer that on a postpartum body, where the pelvic floor is already healing from pregnancy and delivery, and yes, there can be a real connection.” Putting additional strain from constipation adds even more stress and pressure onto the pelvic floor that’s already trying to heal. “The fix isn’t to avoid GLP-1s. It’s to, first, allow the body to heal post-partum and, second, manage the constipation proactively with hydration, fiber, gentle movement, and consider certain over-the-counter aids or even working with a pelvic floor physical therapist — this is exactly the kind of nuance that gets missed when someone’s just handed a prescription with no support,” Dr. Duncan explains. Are the Side Effects of a GLP-1 Heightened During Postpartum?  In addition to constipation, there are a handful of other side effects that a woman can experience when on a GLP-1, such as nausea, fatigue, and decreased appetite. “These are similar to what any patient might experience, but in the postpartum phase, when the body is already adjusting to hormonal shifts and sleep

When things feel “off” in your V Zone, the first instinct is often to assume a simple yeast infection or Bacterial Vaginosis (BV). However, for many women, persistent or recurring intimate discomfort is a sign of something completely different. It can be a hidden hormonal shift, a reaction to everyday products, or chronic stress. As a brand dedicated to women’s intimate health, INTIMINA brings an educational guide to help women move past the guessing game and understand the true source of their symptoms. Intimate issues can often be misidentified. The symptoms of infection, hormonal changes, and simple irritation can overlap, leading many to self-treat common conditions with remedies that don’t address the root cause. This cycle of treating the wrong issue can delay healing and cause frustration. And that is why understanding the distinct profile of discomfort is the quickest path to lasting comfort. Dr Susanna Unsworth, women’s health specialist and INTIMINA’s medical expert explains: “It is very common for women to assume any vulval or vaginal irritation must be thrush and to keep re-treating when symptoms persist. Unfortunately, this can delay the right diagnosis. True thrush usually settles quickly with one course of treatment. When it doesn’t, this really is a red flag that something else is going on, often hormonal changes or a dermatological condition such as lichen sclerosis.” How To Differentiate Symptoms To achieve true intimate wellness, it is vital to know whether you are dealing with a microbial issue, a hormonal change, or an external sensitivity. Infections (BV & Yeast) Defining characteristics: Typically involves a specific odor (fishy for BV) or unique discharge (thick, cottage-cheese for yeast). May include intense, localized pain. What might be causing it: An overgrowth of yeast or bacteria that requires targeted medical treatment. Hormonal Shifts Defining characteristics: Persistent dryness, thinning tissue, and pain during intercourse. Symptoms may noticeably link to your menstrual cycle. What might be causing it: Decreased Estrogen levels due to factors like perimenopause, menopause, breastfeeding, or certain types of contraceptives. Non-Infectious Irritation Defining characteristics: Generalised itching, redness, or burning on the outer skin (vulva), usually without noticeable changes in vaginal discharge. What might be causing it: External factors such as harsh laundry detergents, scented washes, or tight fabrics can trigger irritation.  Dr Unsworth also warns: “However, persistent symptoms may also indicate a dermatological condition such as lichen sclerosis. This is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder that can cause scarring and, if left untreated, increase the risk of vulval cancer. Because these symptoms can easily be mistaken for thrush, it’s important to seek medical advice if irritation or soreness doesn’t resolve quickly with standard treatment”. The Power of Informed Advocacy The goal is to stop the cycle of quick fixes. By documenting whether your symptoms involve changes in odor, texture, or sensation, and noting if they align with life changes (like stress spikes or cycle changes), you empower yourself and your doctor. Women deserve treatment that addresses the underlying imbalance, not just the surface symptom.  “Not all vaginal or vulval symptoms are caused by infection, and understanding that can make a huge difference. There are many possible causes, such as hormonal changes, dermatological conditions and skin sensitivity, and each needs a tailored approach. Women often take great care of the skin on their face, but we forget that the vulval skin also needs regular moisturising and gentle care. I often advise keeping a vulval moisturiser by the loo to use each time you go; it is a simple and effective way to support tissue health. And if symptoms persist despite one over-the-counter treatment, don’t keep guessing. Trust your instincts and consult your doctor to determine the root cause. Most issues can be effectively treated once the correct diagnosis is made,” concludes Unsworth. Source link

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes Vaginismus is a condition in which an involuntary contraction of the pelvic floor muscles makes sexual intercourse difficult or impossible. It is a type of dyspareunia (which is pelvic or vaginal pain associated with intercourse); however, dyspareunia specifically relates to sexual pain, whereas vaginismus can also impede the use of tampons or prevent your gynecologist from performing an internal vaginal examination. The impact on quality of life can be substantial, particularly if you are in active sexual relationships.  The taboo surrounding pelvic floor dysfunction can make it difficult to seek treatment due to embarrassment and lack of knowledge about the legitimacy of your condition. Working up the courage to speak to your GP can take time, and fear around having an examination may also deter you, introducing unnecessary delay in getting treatment. Vaginismus can leave you feeling helpless and isolated.   When you understand that the contraction of pelvic floor muscles is involuntary and know that it is outside your control, you may feel powerless. This site is all about helping you to empower yourself to overcome pelvic floor dysfunctions, including vaginismus, so in this article, we will explore some steps to help you overcome the condition. The Protective Nervous System If you have read our recent article asking the question if you should focus on length before strength with pelvic floor dysfunction, you will have learned that the management of both length and strength is governed by your nervous system. The nervous system utilizes both the musculoskeletal system and the connective tissue system to manage the balance of tension throughout your body. It is this balance of tension that dictates if you have hypertonicity (tightness) or hypotonicity (laxity). The nervous system’s primary function is to protect you to ensure your survival. The protective responses from the nervous system would prove very useful if you were being chased by a saber toothed tiger – your heart rate and blood pressure would be increased to quickly ship nutrients out to major muscle groups so you could run quickly away, you pupils would dilate to ensure you can take in as much light as possible allowing you to see more of the environment around you. Your digestion is slowed so all of your energy can be used to get you out of that dangerous situation. Autonomic Nervous System – PNS & SNS Indeed the survival of our species was insured by the ability of the human nervous system to elicit protective responses. Those protective responses are not just the “fight or flight” type responses to get you away from that saber toothed tiger. Your nervous system communicates with you continuously sending sensations to guide you towards survival. The feeling of hunger is your nervous system telling you to eat to survive. The feeling of being tired is your nervous system telling you to sleep. Pain is also a message from your nervous system, telling you to be careful. The nervous system really is amazing, but not without its flaws. Two Way Communication Unfortunately in it’s drive to protect us, the nervous system can also initiate unnecessary and unwelcome muscle contractions, such as those involved in vaginismus. Thankfully communication is not “one way”. We communicate with our nervous system through movement, actions and thoughts When you get a hunger signal from your nervous system and you eat – that is your message in response to that signal. When you work hard at the gym to grow your muscles, you are sending a message to your nervous system: you are saying “I need the strength to lift this heavy weight”. There is a constant back and forth of messages between you and the system that ensures your survival. Step 1 – Combat Negative Thinking Have you ever noticed a visceral response in your body when remembering a horrible event from your past? You nervous system cannot tell the difference between your thoughts and what is actually happening presently. This is important to know because of its implication – what you think can impact what physically manifests in your body. Changing negative thoughts you may hold towards yourself, your body, or sex and sexuality can send a positive “safety” messages to your nervous system encouraging it to let go. If you have been to your doctor to discuss vaginismus, they may have suggested Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) which is a treatment often used to help with vaginismus.  I know when CBT was first recommended to me, I was offended as it felt as thought I was being blamed for my pelvic floor dysfunction. By understanding how my thoughts could impact what was happening physically, I was able to make my peace with this type of therapy and it helped me immensely.  The most simple form of CBT I have used is Byron Katie’s “the work”, which is a very effective way to address negative thought patterns. Step 2 – Vaginal Dilation If you suffer from vaginismus, you may well have heard of vaginal dilation using dilators or “trainers”. So many people get in touch to ask about dilators for “stretching” the vagina. When you use dilators, it’s not so much about “stretching” the tissues. It’s more about communicating safety to your nervous system. I believe that it matters where, when, how and with whom you use dilators as all of these can have an impact on whether or not you feel safe: Where – You should be in a place where you feel safe and comfortable. When – It should be at a time when you feel you will not be disturbed or under pressure to “hurry up”. How – Your body should be comfortable and supported, ensuring that your inner thigh muscles can relax. With Whom – Going solo is great, but it can also help to work on dilation with a loving trusted partner. Dilators can range in size from baby-finger width to the size of a large erection. If you struggle with the smallest dilation, you can