Morning Light Exposure

• Why it matters: Exposure to natural sunlight in the morning helps regulate your circadian rhythm, which governs hormone production, including cortisol and melatonin.

• Action step: Spend 10–15 minutes outdoors shortly after waking, allowing sunlight to reach your eyes (without sunglasses) to signal your body that it’s time to start the day.

Nutrient-Dense Meals

• Why it matters: Consuming balanced meals rich in protein, healthy fats, and fiber stabilizes blood sugar levels and supports hormone production.

• Action step: Incorporate foods like eggs, leafy greens, avocados, and whole grains into your meals. For example, a breakfast of scrambled eggs with spinach and whole-grain toast provides a solid foundation.

Mindful Movement

• Why it matters: Engaging in moderate physical activity reduces stress hormones and enhances insulin sensitivity.

• Action step: Participate in activities like yoga, walking, or cycling for at least 30 minutes. These exercises promote hormonal balance without overtaxing your system.

 Prioritize Sleep

• Why it matters: Adequate sleep is crucial for hormone regulation, including those that control appetite and stress responses.

• Action step: Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep. Establish a calming bedtime routine, such as reading or taking a warm bath, and maintain a consistent sleep schedule.

Stay Hydrated

• Why it matters: Proper hydration supports metabolic processes and the elimination of toxins that can disrupt hormonal balance.

• Action step: Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily. Adding a slice of lemon can enhance flavor and provide additional benefits.

Stress Management

• Why it matters: Chronic stress elevates cortisol levels, which can interfere with other hormones.

• Action step: Incorporate stress-reducing practices such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or journaling into your weekend routine.

 Consider Natural Supplements

• Why it matters: Certain supplements, like inositol and folic acid, have been shown to support hormonal health, particularly in conditions like PCOS and during perimenopause.

• Action step: Discuss with your healthcare provider the possibility of integrating supplements like OVARIAN BOOST, which combines these ingredients, into your regimen.

The post Weekend Reset: Natural Strategies to Balance Hormones and Boost Energy appeared first on Best Uro-Gynecologist Los Angeles, OB/GYN Glendale | Dr. Michael Tahery.

The reality is, PCOS is one of the most prevalent yet frequently misunderstood hormonal disorders affecting women today. Its symptoms often mimic other conditions or are dismissed as normal variations, making diagnosis a complex and confusing journey.

In this blog, we’ll delve into the key features of PCOS, explore its various phenotypes, and discuss the importance of early recognition and management. Understanding these aspects can empower you to take proactive steps toward better health and well-being.

Key Diagnostic Features of PCOS

Diagnosing Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) can be complex due to its varied presentation. The most widely accepted criteria for diagnosis are the Rotterdam Criteria, which require the presence of at least two of the following three features:

1. Hyperandrogenism (Elevated Androgen Levels)

• Clinical Signs: Excess hair growth (hirsutism), acne, and scalp hair thinning.

• Biochemical Evidence: Elevated levels of androgens, such as testosterone, in blood tests.

2. Ovulatory Dysfunction

• Irregular Menstrual Cycles: Infrequent (oligomenorrhea) or absent (amenorrhea) periods, indicating irregular ovulation.

• Anovulation: Lack of ovulation leading to fertility issues.

3. Polycystic Ovarian Morphology (PCOM)

• Ultrasound Findings: Ovaries containing 12 or more follicles measuring 2–9 mm in diameter or increased ovarian volume (>10 cm³).

• Appearance: “String of pearls” pattern observed in transvaginal ultrasound imaging.

It’s essential to rule out other conditions that may mimic PCOS symptoms before confirming the diagnosis.

Understanding the Four Phenotypes of PCOS

PCOS can present in various phenotypes based on the combination of diagnostic criteria met:

1. Phenotype A (Classic PCOS)

• Hyperandrogenism, ovulatory dysfunction, and polycystic ovaries.

• Often associated with more severe symptoms and metabolic disturbances.

2. Phenotype B

• Hyperandrogenism and ovulatory dysfunction without polycystic ovaries.

• Symptoms include menstrual irregularities and signs of androgen excess.

3. Phenotype C

• Hyperandrogenism and polycystic ovaries with regular ovulation.

• May have milder symptoms but still at risk for metabolic issues.

4. Phenotype D

• Ovulatory dysfunction and polycystic ovaries without hyperandrogenism.

• Typically presents with menstrual irregularities and polycystic ovarian morphology.

Identifying your specific phenotype can aid in tailoring treatment and management strategies.

Importance of Early Recognition and Management

Early identification of PCOS is vital, especially for young women, as it can:

• Facilitate Weight Management: Early intervention can help in adopting lifestyle changes that promote healthy weight, which is often challenging due to insulin resistance associated with PCOS.

• Address Skin Concerns: Timely treatment can alleviate acne, a common symptom resulting from elevated androgen levels.

• Prevent Hair Loss: Managing hormone levels early can reduce the risk of androgenic alopecia, characterized by thinning hair on the scalp.

• Reduce Excess Hair Growth: Early treatment can mitigate hirsutism, which involves unwanted hair growth on the face and body.

Moreover, early diagnosis and treatment can lower the risk of long-term complications such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and infertility.

If you’re experiencing symptoms like irregular periods, acne, hair thinning, or unwanted hair growth, I encourage you to schedule a consultation. Together, we can work towards a comprehensive approach to manage PCOS and enhance your quality of life.

The post Do I Have PCOS? appeared first on Best Uro-Gynecologist Los Angeles, OB/GYN Glendale | Dr. Michael Tahery.

The Role Of Testosterone in Women

Testosterone, commonly associated with male physiology, is also produced in women’s ovaries and adrenal glands. It plays a significant role in:

• Sexual Health: Enhancing libido, sexual arousal, and satisfaction.
• Mood and Cognitive Function: Contributing to emotional well-being and mental clarity.
• Muscle and Bone Strength: Supporting muscle mass and bone density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
• Energy Levels: Influencing overall vitality, energy and stamina.

Testosterone levels naturally decline with age, and imbalances can lead to symptoms such as decreased libido, fatigue, and mood disturbances. In certain cases, testosterone therapy may be considered to alleviate these symptoms.

Estrogen: The Conerstone Of Female Health

Estrogen is pivotal in regulating the menstrual cycle and reproductive system. Its functions include:

• Reproductive Health: Controlling the menstrual cycle and supporting pregnancy.
• Bone Density: Maintaining strong bones and preventing osteoporosis.
• Cardiovascular Health: Promoting healthy blood vessels and heart function.
• Skin and Hair: Influencing skin elasticity and hair growth.

During perimenopause and menopause, declining estrogen levels can lead to symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. HRT can help mitigate these effects.

Progesterone: The Harmonizer

Progesterone works in tandem with estrogen to regulate the menstrual cycle and maintain pregnancy. Its roles encompass:

• Menstrual Regulation: Balancing estrogen’s effects and preparing the uterus for pregnancy.
• Mood Stabilization: Exerting calming effects and supporting sleep quality.
• Bone Health: Contributing to bone strength alongside estrogen.

In HRT, progesterone is often combined with estrogen to protect the uterus from potential risks associated with estrogen-only therapy.

Taking Hormonal Changes Across Life Stages

If you’re experiencing a persistent decrease in sexual desire that’s causing distress, it’s important to seek support. A healthcare professional can work with you to determine the underlying causes and develop a personalized treatment plan.

• Puberty and premenopause (ages 10-40): Hormone levels fluctuate during the menstrual cycle, affecting mood, energy, and reproductive health.
• Perimenopause (ages 40-50): Hormonal shifts can lead to irregular periods, mood swings, and sleep disturbances.
• Menopause (ages 50 and up): Significant declines in estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone can result in various symptoms, including hot flashes, decreased libido, and bone density loss.

Understanding these changes is crucial for managing symptoms and maintaining quality of life.

Conclusion

Testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone each play integral roles in women’s health. Recognizing the importance of testosterone alongside the other hormones is essential for a comprehensive approach to well-being. If you’re experiencing symptoms related to hormonal imbalances, consult with a healthcare provider specializing in HRT to explore personalized treatment options.

The post Breaking The Cycle: Transforming Fatigue into Energy with Hormonal Insight appeared first on Best Uro-Gynecologist Los Angeles, OB/GYN Glendale | Dr. Michael Tahery.

As an OB/GYN specializing in hormone replacement therapy (HRT), I often hear from patients who are concerned about a decline in their sexual desire. It’s important to understand that fluctuations in libido are common and can result from a combination of physical, emotional, and hormonal factors.

Understanding the Causes

Several factors can contribute to a decrease in sexual desire:

• Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in estrogen and testosterone levels, especially during perimenopause and menopause, can impact libido.

• Psychological Factors: Stress, anxiety, depression, and past traumas can affect sexual desire.

• Physical Health: Chronic illnesses, fatigue, and certain medications, including antidepressants and hormonal contraceptives, may lower libido.

• Relationship Dynamics: Emotional closeness, unresolved conflicts, and communication issues with a partner can influence sexual interest.

Exploring Solutions

Addressing low libido often involves a multifaceted approach:

• Medical Evaluation: Consulting a healthcare provider can help identify underlying medical or hormonal issues contributing to decreased sexual desire.

• Therapy and Counseling: Engaging in individual or couples therapy can address psychological factors and improve relationship dynamics.

• Lifestyle Modifications: Regular exercise, adequate sleep, stress management, and a balanced diet can positively affect libido.

• Medications: In some cases, medications like flibanserin (Addyi) or bremelanotide (Vyleesi) may be prescribed for premenopausal women experiencing hypoactive sexual desire disorder.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

For women experiencing low libido due to hormonal changes, HRT can be an effective treatment option:

• Estrogen Therapy: Helps alleviate vaginal dryness and discomfort during intercourse, enhancing sexual satisfaction.

• Testosterone Therapy: Though not FDA-approved for women in the U.S., low-dose testosterone therapy has been shown to improve sexual desire in postmenopausal women.

It’s crucial to discuss the potential benefits and risks of HRT with your healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment for your individual needs.

Taking the Next Step

If you’re experiencing a persistent decrease in sexual desire that’s causing distress, it’s important to seek support. A healthcare professional can work with you to determine the underlying causes and develop a personalized treatment plan.

The post What Happened To My Sex Drive? appeared first on Best Uro-Gynecologist Los Angeles, OB/GYN Glendale | Dr. Michael Tahery.

Feeling persistently tired is a common complaint among women, and as an OB/GYN with 30 years of experience, I’ve found that hormonal imbalances often play a significant role. However, fatigue can also stem from various other factors. Let’s delve into the potential causes and explore ways to address them.

Hormonal Factors

Hormones regulate numerous bodily functions, and imbalances can lead to fatigue:

• Estrogen and Progesterone: Fluctuations during perimenopause and menopause can disrupt sleep patterns and energy levels.

• Thyroid Hormones: Hypothyroidism, characterized by low thyroid hormone levels, slows metabolism, leading to fatigue and weight gain.

• Cortisol: Chronic stress can elevate cortisol levels, disrupting sleep and causing persistent tiredness.

• Testosterone: Though often associated with men, women also produce testosterone. Low levels can contribute to decreased energy and motivation.

Other Medical Conditions

Several health issues can cause fatigue:

• Anemia: Iron deficiency reduces oxygen transport in the body, leading to exhaustion.

• Vitamin Deficiencies: Low levels of Vitamin D or B12 can result in decreased energy.

• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: A complex disorder characterized by extreme fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest.

• Sleep Disorders: Conditions like sleep apnea interrupt sleep, leading to daytime drowsiness.

Lifestyle and Psychological Factors

Daily habits and mental health significantly impact energy levels:

• Poor Sleep Hygiene: Irregular sleep schedules and screen time before bed can impair sleep quality.

• Diet and Hydration: Inadequate nutrition and dehydration can cause sluggishness.

• Lack of Exercise: Physical inactivity can lead to decreased stamina.

• Mental Health: Depression and anxiety often manifest as fatigue.

Addressing Fatigue

If you’re experiencing persistent tiredness, consider the following steps:

• Medical Evaluation: Consult with a healthcare provider to assess for hormonal imbalances or other medical conditions.

• Lifestyle Modifications: Establish regular sleep patterns, maintain a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and incorporate physical activity into your routine.

• Stress Management: Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga.

• Mental Health Support: Seek counseling or therapy if emotional factors contribute to your fatigue.

Understanding the root cause of your fatigue is essential for effective treatment. With proper evaluation and targeted interventions, it’s possible to restore energy levels and improve overall well-being.

The post Why Am I Always Tired? Exploring Hormonal and Other Causes appeared first on Best Uro-Gynecologist Los Angeles, OB/GYN Glendale | Dr. Michael Tahery.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is a treatment used to relieve symptoms of menopause by replenishing estrogen and progesterone levels that decline during this phase. As an OB/GYN, I aim to provide you with comprehensive information to help you make informed decisions about HRT.

What is Hormone Replacement Therapy?

HRT involves supplementing the body with estrogen or a combination of estrogen and progesterone and testosterone to alleviate menopausal symptoms and prevent bone loss.

Benefits of HRT

HRT offers several benefits:

• Relief from menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and mood swings.

• Prevention of bone loss, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.

• Potential reduction in the risk of heart disease and colon cancer when started within 10 years of menopause onset or before age 60.

Risks and Considerations

While HRT has benefits, it’s essential to consider potential risks:

• Slightly increased risk of breast cancer with combined estrogen-progestin therapy.

• Increased risk of blood clots and stroke, particularly with oral HRT.

• Estrogen-only therapy can increase the risk of endometrial cancer in women with an intact uterus; adding progesterone mitigates this risk.

Discussing your personal and family medical history with your healthcare provider is crucial to determine if HRT is suitable for you.

Types of HRT

HRT can be administered in various forms:

• Oral tablets

• Skin patches

• Topical gels and creams

The choice depends on your symptoms, preferences, and medical history.

Who Should Consider HRT?

HRT is beneficial for:

• Women experiencing menopausal symptoms.

• Those with a significant risk of osteoporosis and heart disease.

• Women who have experienced premature menopause (before age 40).

However, HRT may not be recommended for women with a history of certain cancers, blood clots, liver disease, or unexplained vaginal bleeding.

Final Thoughts

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In order to maximize the use of hormone replacement therapy and to also make it safe, we, as scientists, are constantly working on discovering the benefits and risks of using HRT. Even though a lot of myths about hormone replacement therapy have been debunked, some of them are still very common and may discourage women from using hormones that can drastically improve their lives. The following are some of the most common myths about hormone replacement therapy I have come across in my patients over the past 25 years.

Hormone Replacement Therapy  Increases Risk of  Cancer and Disease

In balance, hormones decrease the risk of cancer and other diseases in women who use them. Studies show HRT reduces the risk of colorectal cancer significantly (by 1/3), reduces the risk of bone loss and osteoporosis, reduces the risk of heart attacks (number 1 killer of women after menopause), and contributes significantly to the quality of life. The most common concern women have is the possibility of a rise in the risk of breast cancer. The relationship between the use of hormone replacement therapy and the risk of breast cancer is still a controversial topic. In many large studies, Hormone replacement therapy has shown to minimally (by <1%) increase the risk of developing breast cancer, and other hormone associated cancers. There is sufficient evidence to support a slight increase ( <1%)  in the risk of breast cancer with long-term estrogen and progestin substitution (longer than 5 years). Breast cancer is also very well studied and cure rates are very high if detected early. Also, the lifetime risk of breast cancer in a woman without HRT is 1 in 8. Therefore regular self-exam, evaluation by Dr. Tahery, and yearly mammogram, and if needed breast ultrasound is important with or without HRT.  women at high risk for certain cancers may require closer and more regular evaluation as recommended by Dr. Tahery.

Bio-Identical Hormones

In terms of molecular and functioning, bioidentical hormone replacement are no different from the hormones produced by the body. Therefore likely they are better tolerated by the body than other forms. We compound both female and male hormones in a cream form. Experience has shown that cream applied to the skin provides gradual absorption and better tolerance by the body. Bioidentical hormones absorbed through the skin do not increase the risk of blood clots, heart attacks, and strokes.

Hormone Replacement Therapy is Illegal

HRT has always been legal and is designed to make up for hormonal deficiencies. So it has a healing role. Huge numbers of postmenopausal or “hormonal women” benefit from HRT. Therefore, there is no reason why it should be illegal. You can buy and use HRT without legal concerns. 

Hormone Replacement Therapy is Good for Only 5 Years

There is no scientific evidence on the basis of which it is necessary to stop therapy after 5 years. Every woman is different and for each woman, HRT must be arranged individually. The risk of unwanted complications may be related to the length of time HRT is used. Scientific studies do not provide conclusive findings in this respect but some studies say that while the risk of developing breast cancer does not increase noticeably during the first 5 years of using HRT, it slightly begins to increase with longer therapy. 

There is a lot of controversy surrounding HRT. However, the benefits of using it may be much greater than the possible risks. We believe that each and every woman is different and HRT requires a personalized approach in order to get the most of it. 

Dr. Tahery is a big supporter of hormone replacement therapy in women during transition years of perimenopause to menopause. Based on his years of experience he believes HRT is essential to health after menopause under expert guidance. 

If HRT is of interest to you, Dr. Tahery looks forward to speaking with you about how it can enhance your life.

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