I am a 43 year old woman with a 4 year old child delivered by c-section. In 2007, I had a myomectomy for uterine fibroids (in order to help with infertility) and an appendectomy in 1981. For the past year, I have had some terrible upper abdomen pain that only comes during the first 3 days of my period (however, not every month). It is a constant mild pain for those few days, but comes in very severe waves of pain after I eat anything, even water. I become nauseous and my stomach becomes very bloated and painful when even mildly touched. Curling into the fetal position is the only thing that has helped ease the pain.

My gynecologist did an ultrasound and found no cysts on my ovaries, but did find some new small fibroids and said my uterus was slightly larger than normal. She said all looked normal, though, and suggested I take ibuprofen during my period to help with pain. Do these things have to do with menopause approaching?

Description Whether you’re a busy executive with a 60-hour work week or a mom who is busy putting your family’s needs first, you can’t afford to neglect your health. CustomFit Physicals for Women provide a uniquely personalized healthcare service that offers a comprehensive set of evaluations and an individual plan of action based on your results—in just one day. Your CustomFit experience starts with a call to a women’s health expert who is a registered nurse. After discussing your…

A touch of sweet with a touch of heat in this exceptionally wonderful chicken dish. Serve over rice.

This recipe is from Holly Clegg’s trim&TERRIFIC® KITCHEN 101.

Is the sodium in nasal sprays enough to raise blood pressure if used daily to flush the nose?

I started on a hormone therapy pill back in September (Estradiol 1 mg). A month after starting the hormone therapy pill, I completely stopped having periods. I then got my period about 4-5 months later and it’s still going. It stops for a day or two and then starts right back. I recently quit taking the hormone pill, hoping to stop the bleeding. My period is now light, but still there.

Is it common to bleed like this?

I had a partial hysterectomy last year, and since then I have gained almost 25 pounds. I am still very active as I was prior to the hysterectomy.

I get hot more often than not, but don’t feel it is a true hot flash. I am not sure if the weight gain is from lack of hormones, but would appreciate any suggestions.

I was reading your article about the new study on mammograms and it mentioned high and low breast cancer risk, how do you know what group you fall in, what’s the criteria?

Shoulder pain and injuries are extremely common – whether due to exercise, age, overuse injuries or trauma. In fact, they account for nearly 20 percent of visits to the doctor's office. When shoulder pain interferes with your ability to do the things you need to each day, its time to seek medical advice. Download our free guide that discusses common shoulder conditions and available treatment options.

There are many safe, proven treatments available that can eliminate or reduce chronic pain. The sooner you seek effective treatment, the sooner you can start enjoying life again. Download our free pain management guide to learn more about the different treatment options for chronic pain related to any type of disease, injury or accident.

Elbow pain is extremely common – whether due to aging, overuse, trauma or a sports injury. When elbow pain interferes with carrying the groceries, participating in your favorite activities or getting a good night's sleep, it's time to seek expert advice. Download our free guide that discusses common elbow conditions and injuries and treatment options.

The average person will walk the equivalent of four times around the world in his or her lifetime. So it's hardly surprising that nearly three-quarters of Americans will eventually experience some type of foot or ankle problem. Download our free guide that discusses common foot and ankle conditions and available treatment options by our specialists at Cleveland Clinic.

At some point in their lives, eight out of 10 Americans will suffer from back pain. Even the most basic tasks can become difficult and painful for people with back and neck problems. Download the free Back Pain Treatment Guide to learn more about medical and surgical treatment options for chronic back pain.

Does taking calcium supplements contribute to hardening of the arteries?

Read Dr. Holly L. Thacker's column about female orgasm, female sexual dysfunction and on-label and off-label treatments.

How can I remove my pregnancy mask? I am from Bhutan and am 29 years old.

Read Dr. Kristi Tough’s educational and uplifting column about feeding your baby.

Whip up these “wow”-inducing enchiladas in no time using rotisserie or leftover chicken. Toss in a can of black beans, drained and rinsed, for added flavor and nutrition.

This recipe is from Holly Clegg’s trim&TERRIFIC® Gulf Coast Favorites cookbook.

I am 49, in excellent health, watch what I eat, am a diligent runner (5 miles, 4 days a week) and workout with weights 3 days a week. I had a complete hysterectomy and have been on Estrace 2mg tablet daily since, and it has worked very well for me. I take Estrace the last weekend of each month and do not take it for 4 days, which was a suggested "break" by my doctor a couple of years ago and that worked fine. My only problem has been the beginnings of osteoporosis, which now I am on Fosomax weekly for that.

At my annual visit this year, my doctor (not a GYN) told me to read the pros and cons on HRT and decide whether I wanted to continue it or not. I have been confused over the years with the mixed reports and try to stay abreast of current information. So, I stopped taking my Estrace about a month ago and began using a natural Progessence Oil (by Living Well). I chose that route because my sister-in-law is an RN and suggested I might try it --- she is a huge believer in the oils.

However, I have hot flashes and hot flushes all through the day and they wake me up several times during the night. My moods are fine, but my weight gain is as if I can see the pounds go on each day. I am 5’2" and petite and have always been small, but I make sure I watch what I eat.

I have no family history of breast cancer, but my father did have a heart attack 20 years ago and has done great since and I personally have no health issues other than the beginnings of osteoporosis, which I chalk up to my body frame more so than anything. I would appreciate any input you could give to help me better understand and decide if I should begin the Estrace again. I do not like what is going on with the flashes and weight gain! Thank you.

What is your take on the popular supplements such as Plexus Slim, Skinny Fiber, and Limu for weight loss and optimal health?

By Holly L. Thacker, M.D. In October 2013, the Women's Health Initiative (WHI) investigators published a comprehensive overview of findings from their two hormone therapy (HT) trials, including extended follow-up representing 13 years of cumulative data.1 When I analyzed this latest WHI report, I initially focused almost exclusively on the data presented in figures and tables within the article itself, as well as on supplemental data presented on the Internet.2 Only then did I read the…