Dr. Kristi Tough DeSapri shares her experiences of navigating motherhood with her first child.

Risk of Heart Disease Increases as you Age Heart disease, the No. 1 killer of American women, isn’t “one size fits all.” Symptoms can differ from one woman to the next — heart palpitations and dizziness in one, shortness of breath and fatigue in another, swollen legs and ankles in someone else. But one thing is true for every woman: “Risk of heart disease increases as you age. And it skyrockets after menopause, when your ovaries stop making the heart-friendly hormone estrogen,” says Andrea…

Read guest columnist Dr. Michael Krychman's, noted OB-GYN physician and sex therapist, exciting column on female sexual function, low libido and sexual therapy controversies.

It's cold outside and nothing beats a good soup, and especially one you can make in minutes that is soothing and an ultimate comfort food. This simple soup starts with hash browns (no potato peeling) resulting in an effortless smooth and creamy soup. Top with condiments, if desired.

This recipe is from Holly Clegg's cookbook, Eating Well to Fight Arthritis. Enjoy more delicious Holly Clegg recipes at hollyclegg.com.

I have a question about HRT and severe weight gain. I had a full hysterectomy one year ago. I am age 45 now and I have gained nearly 30 pounds. I am on the highest dose of the Vivelle dot patch.

I work out 5-6 days a week, running between 3-5 miles every day. I eat about 1600 calories a day. I have always been about 130-135 pounds and am 5’7", but now I am about 163 pounds.

My workouts are strenuous, and I run trails and do about 9-10 minute miles. Never before have I had trouble dropping fuve pounds by increasing my workouts and being diligent with eating healthy, small portions. I csannot drop one pound no matter how hard I work out. My diet needs to remain the same for I need the fuel for my workouts.

Have I gained weight because I have no ovaries? Or is the patch making me fat? My body has never been like this and I am so physically uncomfortable. I will make an appointment to see my doctor, but in the meantime, I need your help as today I gained another pound. Please help!

What is your opinion regarding chewy supplements vs. tablets?

At what age is a pelvic exam no longer necessary as part of an annual physical?

One pharmaceutical company can now brag about a nonhormonal option to treat hot flashes during menopause.

Noven Therapeutics knows that's welcome news to scores of women who've developed a fear of hormone therapy following the increased risk of heart disease and breast cancer seen in the Women's Health Initiative (WHI).

But Brisdelle is just an old medication dressed up in a new feminine name and packaging – it's the antidepressant paroxetine, better known by its brand name, Paxil.

Speaking of Women's Health Executive Director Dr. Holly L. Thacker offers a short list of "things to do in the new year" for women.

What happens when your calicum is too high? How do you bring the numbers down?

Two popular desserts, red velvet cake and cheesecake create the ultimate indulgence. This delicious recipe is from Holly Clegg's trim&TERRIFIC Kitchen 101: Secrets to Cooking Confidence.

Read Dr. Holly L. Thacker’s latest column on the joys of the holiday season and how to make the most of the time with family and friends, while staying happy, healthy and in charge!

I have noticed that my skin has lightened around my throat area. Is this something to worry about? I am 64 years old and had radiation for breast cancer on my left side in 2006.

I had my blood levels checked in June. I had a good mammogram and doctor’s visit in October. My only health concern is trying to control my cholesterol levels. Is there anything I should worry about?

I’m officially in menopause and gaining weight. What are some strategies for weight loss that will work for me now?

Why are women vulnerable to stress? If you’re “dashing through the snow” this holiday season, chances are you’re experiencing stress — especially if you’re a woman. Women are vulnerable to stress due to: Socialization - Women are taught to nurture others and spend less time caring for themselves. They often feel guilty saying “no.” Too many hats - About 70 percent of married women with children under 18 work also outside the home. Struggling to meet the “male standard” at work and the…

Memory difficulty is a typical symptom of menopause, but some might fear that it’s an early sign of Alzheimer’s. Many describe a sudden inability to recall simple facts as “brain fog.” If this sounds familiar, don’t worry. You’re not likely losing it or developing dementia. Dipping levels of estrogen — whether from menopause or having a baby — affect brain function. Facts to ease your mind about memory ‘blips’ People with Alzheimer’s aren’t aware enough of their condition to recognize it…

Make the right birth control choices for your lifestyle. Download a free guide to learn about the daily and permanent options that could be right for you.

I am a 63 year old white female in excellent health. I drink a powdered, protein supplement in 12 ounces of 1 percent milk daily. Should I be concerned about too much protein in my diet?

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

Use yoga exercises for back pain relief. Certified yoga therapist Judi Bar, from the Cleveland Clinic, demonstrates four yoga positions that help treat a sore back.