My gynecologist's office closed suddenly, and I was having my pessary cleaned every 10 weeks. How do I clean it myself?

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Slynd (drospirenone) for use as an oral contraceptive pill. The pill contains drospirenone 4 mg and comes in sets of 24 active pills along with 4 inactive tablets.The New Drug Application (NDA) for drospirenone was submitted to the FDA by Exeltis USA, Inc, which announced the approval of this progestin-only contraceptive tablet."Slynd may be an excellent choice for women who need or want safe and effective oral contraception without the…

Authors Julie A. Elder, DOHolly L. Thacker, MD Published: October 2013 Last reviewed: February 2016 Definition Menopause is defined as the absence of menses for 1 year. Women usually experience menopause between 40 and 55 years of age, with the median age being 51. Smokers and women with chronic illnesses tend to experience menopause at an earlier age. Menopause transition consists of fluctuating ovarian function and occurs 2 to 8 years before menopause and up to 1 year after the final…

I recently learned I have osteoporosis. I read Dr. Moreno’s article about exercising safely. I would like to know if she would recommend using a weighted vest? I’d like to use one to increase weight-bearing load, but wonder if if it is advised?

My doctor prescribed vaginal inserts to treat vaginal atrophy, but they are too expensive. Are there more natural/herbal, less expensive ways to address the same issue that will truly get results?

I have chronic pain in my fingers, wrist, hips, knees, shoulders, ankles, toes and bottoms of my feet. I am gaining weight. What can I take to alleviate my pain, so that I can exercise and lose this weight?

I am an OB/GYN physician and am curious if you have any experience using Tranexemic Acid/Lysteda® pills, one daily orally to treat melasma? I am considering prescribing a non-hormonal IUD for my patient who can’t tolerate hormone contraceptive pills.

Are there special devices that can be paid for by Medicare to improve weak (and possibly damaged) pelvic floor muscles?

I've been having pain in my toes, legs, hips, lower back and stiffness in my ankles and legs. I'm 50 years old and I need something to help relieve my pain. I would like natural help, please.

Read guest columnist, Cleveland Clinic psychiatrist Dr. Joseph Baskin’s column on life transitions.

I began BHRT (bio-identical hormone replacement therapy), and after extensive blood work I began my therapy with 0.25ml estradiol, 0.25ml testosterone, 100mg progesterone, and 5mg DHEA capsules. (Important to note that before the estradiol pump cream began, I did start with an estradiol patch and then half a patch since I had nipple sensitivity from the start of the program).

After 8 months of titration, the nipple soreness & sensitivity remain as long as I am taking the hormones. During this time of working with the doctor we have not been able to determine the cause of this problem, a way to eliminate it or a successful way to move forward.

I have been very careful in following instructions and giving feedback along the way. I have been told that this group has never encountered this problem before. In essence, they are stumped. I am a 69 year old women in relatively good health. I take blood pressure medicine and Valacyclovir daily. I eat well, sleep well, walk daily, I don't smoke or take any other drugs aside from those prescribed above. I have a glass of red wine once a week and take good care of myself making every effort to keep carbs to a bare minimum along with sugar. Any suggestions or light you may be able to shed on my situation would be very much appreciated.

I had a urine test done last month that came back with microscopic blood detected, so I was retested and that came back with microscopic blood detected, bilirubin, protein and ketones. The blood in my urine was 6-10. I have no medical conditions that I know of, so should I be worried or not?

My vitamin B12 levels run high. Is 2000 dangerous? All of my other blood tests are fine. I eat mostly chicken and fish, and no red meat. My oncologist has ran several tests, including a PET Scan and all is good.

Read Dr. Thacker’s column on the buzz on Bio-identical Menopausal Hormone Therapy.

BioSyent Inc. (“BioSyent”, “the Company”, TSX Venture: RX) announces that Health Canada has approved Tibella® (tibolone), indicated for the short-term treatment of vasomotor symptoms due to estrogen deficiency in postmenopausal women, more than one year after menopause. Tibella® is a prescription hormone replacement therapy (“HRT”) consisting of tibolone. Tibella® is different from other HRTs, as it does not contain actual hormones. Instead, the body breaks down tibolone to make three…

A colorful concoction bursting with fresh flavors tossed with a zingy vinaigrette hits the spot on any table. Use as salad, side or salsa.

A lemon cake and fresh blueberries pair up for a simple, delectable cake.

The corner of my mouth was sore and I thought it was a pimple, so I squeezed it and it turned into a sore. I was told to use over the counter Clotrimazole cream - is this acceptable for my sore?

Dr. Chad Deal, Dr. Sabrina Sahni and Dr. Anna Camille Moreno discuss Hypophosphatasia (HPP) also known as “deficiency of alkaline phosphatase” or “phosphoethanalominuria.”

Please read guest columnist, Dr. Rupali Chadha’s column on this common condition and new therapies available to women.