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Archive

Welcome to Dr. Donnica's Archive. Browse the comprehensive list of Dr. Donnica's articles, FAQ's, Decisionnaires, Women's Health Report transcripts, real audio files, and more. You can also search for any specific article or other item you're interested in.

"Breast Cancer Can Be Beaten", by Cheryl Greene
On March 22, 1996 I was diagnosed with Stage III, High Risk, Inflammatory Breast Cancer. My doctor told us that I would probably live until Christmas. I decided that I would not give up. I had too much to live for!
(Women's Health Champions)
"Caring For Those With Alzheimer's Disease", by Emmy award winning actress, Miss Linda Dano
Celebrity Guest, Emmy award winning actress, Miss Linda Dano, discusses her personal experience with her father's battle with Alzheimer's Disease.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
"Endometriosis", by Actress Karen Duffy
For years, I smiled for the cameras and hid how I felt. I did what too many women do -- wrote off my period pain as just part of being a woman. I thought I knew everything about being a female until I realized what I thought were regular monthly cramps, weren’t regular at all.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
"Graduation into Menopause", with singer Patti Labelle
Super dynamo, singing sensation Patti LaBelle went into menopause 10 years ago. . .now 56, with a new CD, a national concert tour, a new book, and a new television show all within one year, she’s thrown the phrase “Finished At Fifty” out the window!
(Celebrity Speak Out)
"Hollywood Hopes For Final Go-Round With Diabetes" With Actress Halle Berry
Diabetes is the fourth-leading cause of death in the US and claims more than 180,000 lives each year.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
"Living With It" - Judy Pickett Is Outrunning Breast Cancer and Setting the Pace for Other Women
Three-time breast cancer survivor Judy Pickett, currently undergoing chemotherapy, is more than halfway to her goal of running 100 cancer benefit races throughout the country to show that women with breast cancer can lead a full and active life.
(Women's Health Champions)
"Menopause and Treatment Options", by actress Cheryl Ladd
Cheryl Ladd is currently working with Dr. Donnica and other women physicians on Baseline 50, a national campaign to educate women about menopause and its treatment options including HRT.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
"Menopause", by supermodel Lauren Hutton
Lauren Hutton is the most photographed woman in the world. She was the world’s first supermodel and is a super role model for women entering menopause: she is the celebrity spokesperson for the
(Celebrity Speak Out)
"My Battle with Blood Clots", by FBI agent John Douglas
I've tracked a number of insidious culprits, but my most formidable foe has been blood clots, or what my friends in the medical community call,
(Celebrity Speak Out)
"Obesity", by actor Michael Badalucco
Obesity is a national epidemic. More than 97 million Americans -- that is 55 percent of the U.S. population -- are overweight. I know first-hand that battling weight can be a depressing and frustrating experience since most diets produce only temporary results.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
"Osteoarthritis of the Knee", by LPGA Hall of Famer Nancy Lopez
I believe many other people with OA of the knee can benefit from Synvisc to maintain their active lifestyles. I encourage anyone with knee pain to see a knee specialist, and ask him or her about Synvisc.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
"Overactive Bladder", by actress Debbie Reynolds
After suffering for years with overactive bladder, Debbie Reynolds is sharing her personal story to encourage people with the condition to seek proper diagnosis and treatment.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
"POPSMEAR: Overcoming Cervical Cancer", by Christine Baze
“I’m going to be a rock star!” That was my dream in January of 2000, when I quit my day job to pursue fulltime my one true passion, music. My band was doing great and I could not have been happier. One week later, I saw blood. Immediately, I called my gynecologist.
(Women's Health Champions)
"Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder", by actor Noah Wyle
Post-Traumatic stress disorder can happen to anyone who goes through a traumatic event. It could be a physical or sexual assault, a natural disaster such as a hurricane or earthquake, a serious accident or even the sudden, unexpected death of a loved one.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
"Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder", with Ms. Kellie Greene
Ms. Kellie Greene is the National Spokesperson for the Pfizer/YWCA “Moving Past Trauma PTSD Community Outreach Program and founder of SOAR (Speaking OutAbout Rape).
(Women's Health Champions)
"ShopWellWithYou.com: Personal Shopping Service for Women with Cancer", by Emily Spivack
Using clothing as a means towards individual empowerment and healing, Shop Well with You is a wellness program that gives each woman the tools to boost morale and self-confidence which may have been affected due to the changes to her body as a result of cancer and its treatments.
(Women's Health Champions)
"Smoking Cessation", by cover model/entrepreneur/activist Christy Turlington
Supermodel Christy Turlington has graced the cover of so many magazines,her face has become almost synonymous with beauty and fashion. In a presentation adapted from a speech she gave to the Society for Women's Health Research, Christy speaks, not as a famous model, but as a super role model for women everywhere. Christy is a spokesperson for the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the American Cancer Society (ACS) advocating smoke-free healthy lifestyles.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
"Stop Ankylosing Spondylitis!", by Actress Mimi Kennedy
Mimi Kennedy talks about Ankylosing Spondylitis. Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is basically arthritis of the spine. “Anklos” means bent, or bowed. “Spondy” means vertebrae.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
"Surviving Ovarian Cancer", by Ginger Ackerman Smith
The first and most important thought I would like to express to you is that every single day is important and worth living like it is your last. If there are any gifts from cancer (and there are several), it is the ability to focus on and prioritize what is most important to you.
(Women's Health Champions)
"The Cause for Cancer Research and Clinical Studies", by Three-Time Tour de France Winner Lance Armstrong
Cancer is a disease that touches everyone. More than one million Americans are diagnosed with cancer every year, making the odds of cancer striking close to home pretty likely. No doubt you, a family member, or someone you know has been affected by cancer.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
"The Importance of Osteoporosis Testing", by award-winning actress Rita Moreno
Celebrity guest and award-winning actress, Rita Moreno, discusses osteoporosis prevention, detection and treatment.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
"Throwing" Your Back Out
Every so often, sometimes for no reason at all, I throw my back out and can't even walk for a few days. My doctor tells me to rest and take ibuprofen. Is that my only option?
(Frequently Asked Question)
"Thyroid Dysfunction", by Olympic champion Gail Devers
Olympic champion Gail Devers discusses her experience with thyroid dysfunction, and effective ways to control this common disease.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
"Virginia SLAM!", with singer/songwriter Leslie Nuchow
Leslie Nuchow began Virginia SLAM! as a counter movement against the Virginia Slims’ record label, Woman Thing Music. Virginia SLAM! produced two SLAM! concerts in 1997 and 1998, featuring the Indigo Girls and Shawn Mullins that focused on keeping the tobacco industry out of music.
(Women's Health Champions)
"Vulvodynia", by Lauren Kunis
Developing Vulvodynia has been life-altering. Being an outspoken voice in the community seems like second nature to me. This disease robs us of any normalcy that others have. My goal is to bring awareness about this disease to every woman.
(Women's Health Champions)
"We Don’t Have the Right to Remain Silent", by Actress S. Epatha Merkerson
As police lieutenant Anita Van Buren on NBC’s “Law & Order,” my television role is to help fight crime, but off camera, my role is to help fight a different battle - lung cancer.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
"Young Entrepreneurs", Princeton Alumni Weekly
Moore would encourage aspiring entrepreneurs to define success for themselves. That way,
(Dr. Donnica In The News)
5 Questions To Ask Your Physician For Women Over 40
All medical conditions, including wellness, can be discussed in terms of five primary areas: prevention, screening, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up. In this article, we discuss five general questions that all women in their 40’s should discuss with their physicians, one in each of these areas.
(Article)
5 Things Women Should Tell Their Doctor. . .But Often Don’t
(Fast Facts)
A Variety of Bladder Problems
I am a 34-year-old woman with a bladder problem. I have a pain in my right side that never stops. I go to the bathroom about 7 times at night and experience a lot of pain when having sex. Please help!
(Frequently Asked Question)
Abdominal Cramps and Diarrhea (IBS)
I've been suffering from bouts of abdominal cramps and diarrhea for as long as I can remember, but recently my symptoms have gotten much worse. Now it seems as though every time I have the urge to go I can barely make it to the toilet in time, and I'm almost afraid to leave the house for fear of being too far from the bathroom.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Abdominal Hernia
Last month I strained by lower back and abdomen while moving a heavy box, and the pain and tenderness around my navel haven't gone away since. My husband thinks it's a hernia, but isn't that a male health problem?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Abdominal Muscle Separation
I recently had someone tell me that they saw a special on TV that said sometimes abdominal muscles can separate, and not heal. How do I find out more about this? How do I find out if this is what's happened to me?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Abdominal Pain (Lower Right Side)
Pain of any kind, especially when it’s recurring, is not normal and should never be set on the back burner.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Abdominal Pain Decisionnaire
A decisionnaire that will help you understand the questions your physician or emergency room physician will ask when seeking medical attention for abdominal pain.
(Decisionnaire)
Abdominal Pain: Just Gas Or An Emergency?
Most of us have had some kind of stomach or side pain; it’s usually a stitch or a cramp and passes with time and rest. But how do you know if it’s something more serious—or even something that should be evaluated in the emergency room?
(Article)
Absence of Menses While on the Pill
I'm 35 years old, and have been taking birth control pills since I was about 16. I haven't had a period for about 3 months now, and I'm concerned. My gynecologist just laughed at me and told me this is very common, and not to worry. Should I be concerned?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Achilles Tendonitis from Wearing High Heels
High heels are my favorite fashion accessory but after we got our first snowstorm last week I had to switch to flats for safety’s sake. Now my feet are killing me! I keep getting these sharp pains that shoot up the backs of my heels. Why does it hurt when I wear my sensible shoes and boots?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Achilles Tendonitise
A few weeks ago I started walking before work. It was going pretty well, until the back of my ankle just above my right heel started hurting. I already gave up walking, but it still hurts. What should I do
(Frequently Asked Question)
Acne Scars
As a teenager I suffered from severe acne, and while I haven't had a breakout in years, I still have quite a few scars along my cheeks and forehead. They make me just as self-conscious as the actual acne. I know it's holding me back from being more outgoing with coworkers and friends. Is there help for me?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Acrochordons, Also Known as Skin Tags
Skin tags, or acrochordons, are common, harmless skin overgrowths that may develop on the face, neck, armpits, and groin.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Acupuncture and Morning Sickness
Dr. Donnica discusses the effectiveness of acupuncture to treat nausea, vomiting, and morning sickness in a question and answer format.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Adult ADD
In adults, ADD symptoms are similar to those seen in children: inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Adult Immunization Awareness Week
Dr. Donnica Moore discusses questions to ask your doctor to update your immunizations as an adult.
(Radio Transcript)
Adult Vaccines
Before the kids went back to school, you checked to make sure they were up-to-date on their vaccines...but what about yours?
(Radio Transcript)
Advances in Alzheimer’s Disease
25 years ago, dementia was considered an inevitable part of aging. Now we are learning Alzheimer’s may not be inevitable after all!
(Radio Transcript)
Aerobic Shopping
While mall walking can be great exercise--especially when carrying lots of packages (or a child)--the healthiest walk you take may be the one that by-passes the food court.
(Radio Transcript)
Aisha Tyler Sets A Healthy Example For Bones
An estimated 10 million or more Americans have osteoporosis. This condition is defined as low bone mass accompanied by structural deterioration of bone,leading to weakened bones and the increased risk of spine, hip, and wrist fractures.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Alcohol And Breastfeeding
Do you know of any research on the impact of alcohol consumption on a breastfed baby? I am wondering if light consumption (1/2 glass of wine 2-3 times per week) is okay. I did drink small amounts infrequently when breastfeeding my first two children but am feeling guilty about it this time.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Alicia Minshew reveals her secrets to living a healthy lifestyle and the luxuries of a youthful spirit
All My Children soap-star, Alicia Minshew has been naturally thin all her life. She is one of the many people out there who struggles to gain weight, rather than lose it. Alicia’s killer body, luscious hair, radiant skin, and youthful spirit are the fruits of living a healthy lifestyle.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Alternative Medicine
In general, when we talk about alternative medicine, we’re talking about medicines, foods or modalities that do not meet the research-based standards of what we call
(Frequently Asked Question)
Alternative Medicine
Americans now make more than 600 million visits to alternative practitioners per year, almost double the number of visits per year to family physicians source: Prevention, 7/99; p. 49). And while 4 out of 10 Americans say they have tried some form of alternative medicine, 7 out of 10 who do, have not shared this information with their physicians.
(Radio Transcript)
Alternatives to Laxatives for Hemorrhoids
I suffer from painful hemorrhoids and I’ve been using laxatives for about six months to prevent straining during bowel movements. Trouble is, now I think I might be addicted to them. Whenever I stop taking the laxatives I get extremely constipated. Is there any way to break free of these pills and stay regular?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Alternatives to Surgery for Reducing Breast Size
Are there any alternatives to surgery for women seeking breast reductions? Can a woman reduce her breast size by one or at least a half cup size through any changes in diet or intensive exercise?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Alzheimer’s Disease Decisionnaire
Do you or a loved one have the warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease? Determine whether you are at risk for Alzheimers by taking Dr. Donnica's decisionnaire.
(Decisionnaire)
American Medical Women’s Association
The American Medical Women’s Association is the only national organization of women physicians and medical students.
(Radio Transcript)
Amy Grant Has Faith About Defeating Pediatric Cancers
There's an old saying that "a stitch in time saves nine." When it comes to promoting the Quilt of Dreams campaign for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital,singer Amy Grant knows that a stitch in time may actually save lives.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
An Aspirin a Day Keeps the Heart Attacks at Bay
We know aspirin and its ability to reduce blood clotting is lifesaving as well. When two aspirin are chewed in the first minutes of a heart attack, it can stop or reduce heart damage and save lives.
(Radio Transcript)
Androgen Excess
Last year I noticed hair beginning to grow on my face and out of my nose. As if that's not bad enough, I'm also showing signs of balding!
(Frequently Asked Question)
Anesthesia For Outpatient Surgery, by Barry L. Friedberg, MD
Barry L. Friedberg, MD, answers a question regarding anesthesia options associated with outpatient cosmetic surgery.
(Guest Expert)
Anthrax, Bioterrorism & Children's Health, by Alan Greene, M.D., F.A.A.P.
Noted pediatrician, Alan Greene, discusses anthrax treatment in children. Dr. Greene also discusses side effects of the antibiotics used to treat anthrax.
(Guest Expert)
Antidepressants and Breastfeeding
Dr. Donnica Moore discusses the use of antidepressants while breastfeeding in a question and answer format.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Antidepressants and Conception
My doctor put me on Prozac for depression over a year ago. Now we want to have a baby. I have not been able to conceive and have been trying for four months. Could it be the Prozac?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Antidepressants: Side Effects and Alternatives
I've been taking medication for the past three years to help with my depression, and I've gained a lot of weight because of it. I really want to do something natural instead so I don't have to take the pills anymore. What can I do?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Anxiety and Driving
Anxiety disorders are very common in women. There are five kinds: social phobias, specific phobias, generalized anxiety disorder, post traumatic stress disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety Disorders Health Links and Resources
(Women's Health Resources)
Anxiety in Women
Anxiety disorders are at least twice as common in women as they are in men. There are five kinds: social phobias, specific phobias, generalized anxiety disorder, post traumatic stress disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder.
(Radio Transcript)
Are “Low Carb”  Diets Safe?
Many people rave about the high-protein,low-carbohydrate diets—like the Atkins diet—but they’re raving both pros and cons.
(Radio Transcript)
Are you at risk for a brain attack?
We all know about heart attacks—but have you ever heard of a brain attack? You may be more familiar with its other name: stroke.
(Radio Transcript)
Are You at Risk for a Heart Attack or Stroke?
Heart attacks and strokes combined kill nearly half a million American women each year. What are your risks?
(Radio Transcript)
Are You Spending More Time With Your Doctor?
A recent study in the New England Journal of Medicine (1/18/01) disputes the widely held notion that managed care has reduced the amount of time doctors spend with their patients. If anything, according to this study, office visits may be getting longer!
(Radio Transcript)
Are You Taking St. John’s Wort?
Many people who take St. John’s Wort are not aware that it has side effects, just like any other medication. An important summer warning: If you take St. John’s wort, avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight. St. John's wort may increase the sensitivity of your skin to the sun.
(Radio Transcript)
Arm Numbness and Tingling During Exercise
When I exercise for more than 20 minutes, my left arm seems to feel like it is falling asleep. Is this something I should be concerned about?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Arthritis
Arthritis Health Links and Resources
(Women's Health Resources)
Arthritis and Acupuncture
I've heard a lot about acupuncture lately--can it help with arthritis pain?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Arthritis Decisionnaire
How do you know if you have arthritis? Take Dr. Donnica’s Decisionnaire ™. Check off all the points that apply to you and take this list with you when you consult your physician.
(Decisionnaire)
Arthritis in General
Arthritis is common in women mostly because of the hormones, which probably have an influence on the immune system. The female hormones might be influencing the immune system and cause arthritis in women.
(Radio Transcript)
Arthritis In Women
There are now known to be more than 100 types of arthritis. Five of those account for nine out of ten cases: osteoarthritis (OA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), fibromyalgia, lupus, and gout.
(Article)
Arthritis Management
Dr. Donnica's Top 5 Tips for Managing Arthritis.
(Tip)
Arthritis Myths
Dr. Donnica debunks 5 common myths about arthritis.
(Debunking Myths)
Aspirin and Asthma
I’m asthmatic, and whenever I take aspirin to relieve a headache or muscle pain, I wind up congested and sometimes even gasping for air. Why is aspirin triggering my asthma attacks, and is there anything else I can safely take for pain?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Aspirin, Your Heart and You, by Cynthia D. Mulrow, MD
Women need to take care of their hearts. Every year, nearly 500,000 American women suffer a heart attack, making it the single leading cause of death of American women.
(Guest Expert)
Asthma Among Women
Are we doing too good a job at protecting our children from germs? The “hygiene theory” proposes that allergies and asthma are increasing, in part, because children’s immune systems are not being properly primed through early exposure to infections.
(Radio Transcript)
Asthma and Exercise
What did 1 in 6 American athletes have in common at the 1996 Summer Olympic Games? According to a recent study, they shared a history of asthma.
(Radio Transcript)
Asthma During Pregnancy, by Michael P. Carson, M.D.
Michael P. Carson, M.D., discusses asthma during pregnancy and the importance of avoiding an asthma attack while expecting.
(Guest Expert)
Atopic Dermatitis
I’ve developed these itchy red patches above my eyebrows. The skin looks dry and scaly, but it actually feels a little greasy, and it’s impossible to cover up with makeup. Is there any way to clear it up fast?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Audrey Hepburn’s Spirit Still Heals The World’s Children
While Audrey Hepburn won her first Academy Award for Roman Holiday at age 24 and starred in such screen classics as Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Funny Face and Sabrina, her most important roles were as a mother and a tireless advocate for the world’s children.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Avoiding Long-term Medication Side Effects
I feel like I've taken every medicine there is for arthritis, but I'm worried about the long-term side effects. What can I do to prevent them?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Back Pain
“Oh, my aching back!” This common complaint can signal many different medical problems, both physical and psychological.
(Radio Transcript)
Bacterial Vaginosis Testing
Should pregnant women be tested for bacterial vaginosis?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Bad Body Odor
When people talk about "bad body odor," the source is usually the mouth, underarms, genital area, or feet. Sweat itself is odorless, but a bad "sweaty smell" can develop after sweat reacts with bacteria on skin.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Beating the Genetics of Diabetes
I have a strong family history of type II diabetes and I feel like I'm doomed to repeat it. I am 35 years old. Is there anything I can do to change my destiny?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Becky Hammon Shoots to Eliminate Cervical Cancer
Becky Hammon talks about cervical cancer prevention.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Bed Bugs
During a recent business trip, I stayed in a swanky hotel and I seem to have had some sort of allergic reaction to something in the room. I’ve been home for a week now and what started as a rash on my stomach that looked like a line of small red welts has grown into a half-dozen ugly patches that itch like crazy! What’s going on?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Beverly Johnson Spotlights Hysterectomy Awareness
Former supermodel Beverly Johnson enjoyed fame and fortune because of her beauty. But Johnson is all brains when it comes to uterine health issues.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Bill Phillips Weighs In On Eating Right For Life
“I don’t believe in diets,” states Phillips, who has helped millions of readers lose weight and get fit through his best-selling Body for Life books.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Birth Control
Birth Control links and resources.
(Women's Health Resources)
Birth Control Pills & Cancer Risk
Is it true that birth control pills actually decrease your risk of cancer?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Black Cohosh: A Safe Alternative For Menopause Symptom Management, by Maida Taylor, MD
Dr. Maida Taylor explains hormone replacement therapy, it's side effects, and the use of black cohosh as an alternative to HRT.
(Guest Expert)
Black Hairy Tongue
Frequent use of bacteria-killing mouthwashes can disrupt the natural balance of mouth flora, causing fungi or chromogenic (color-changing) bacteria to collect and form a dark coating.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Bladder infections Myths
Dr. Donnica takes a look at the myths surrounding bladder infections and UTI's and answers questions based on these myths.
(Debunking Myths)
Bladder Woes Become Bedroom Foes
Dr. Donnica Moore discusses the symptoms of overactive bladder and its effects on bedroom activity and social life.
(Radio Transcript)
Blepharitis
blepharitis, which is a common inflammatory malady of the eyelids that interferes with tear-producing glands and irritates surrounding skin.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Blisters in the Nose
I get painful blisters on the inside of my nose that can last up to three weeks. What’s causing this, and how can I get rid of them for good?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Bloating
Why do I get so bloated before I have my period? What can I do to prevent it?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Blood Clots
The National Alliance for Thrombosis and Thrombophilia - This consumer organization addresses major treatment issues to prevent thrombosis.
(Women's Health Resources)
Blood Clots: An Overlooked Women's Health Issue, by Samuel Z. Goldhaber, MD
Blood clots can affect anyone from Olympic athletes to ailing senior citizens, and women are prime candidates for this condition.
(Guest Expert)
Bob Dole Campaigns For Better Healthcare
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Boils
I have been getting boils for about 5 years. I have read that recurrent boils are a symptom of diabetes. Is this true?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Bone Density Tests and Differing Results
The most dramatic period of bone loss for women is in the first 5 years of menopause.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Books and Tapes
Dr. Donnica's Book and Tape Recommendations
(Books & Tapes)
Boomer Esiason Mounts Winning Drive Against Cystic Fibrosis
there’s no bigger moment in all of pro football than playing in the Super Bowl. But Boomer Esiason would gladly give up his NFL legacy if he could emerge victorious over a far greater adversary – cystic fibrosis.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Brain Tumors
Brain Tumor Links and Resources
(Women's Health Resources)
Breast and Cervical Screening--How Well Are We Doing?
Women are bombarded with information about annual mammograms and Pap smears...but how well are we doing?
(Radio Transcript)
Breast Cancer And Antiperspirant Use
I thought I read somewhere that there may be a link between antiperspirants and some illnesses-- maybe cancer. Does this ring any bells with you or is it one of those
(Frequently Asked Question)
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in women and the second most common cause of cancer death among American women. Women are justifiably afraid of this disease, even though great strides have been made in breast cancer research, early detection and treatment.
(Radio Transcript)
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
October is breast cancer awareness month. Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in women and the second most common cause of cancer death among American women. . .it will cause more than 40,000 deaths this year alone.
(Radio Transcript)
Breast Cancer Detection
Is mammography the only way to detect breast cancer?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Breast Cancer Genetic Test
What is the blood test for breast cancer?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Breast Cancer Treatment
How is breast cancer treated?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Breast Cysts
I have a history of cysts forming in my breasts due to hormonal changes. I know that cysts are sacs of fluid and are movable to the touch, but can a malignant lump move the same way?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Breast Discharge
I noticed a milky white, sticky discharge coming from my breasts, is this normal?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Breast Enlargement Without Surgery?
I am interested in a breast enlargement without an operation. Is it possible?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Breast Health and Breast Cancer
Breast Health Links and Resources
(Women's Health Resources)
Breast Health Decisionnaire
Take Dr. Donnica’s Decisionnaire ™ to see if you have a lump that your doctor should evaluate- sooner rather than later. Check off all that apply and take this list with you to consult your physician.
(Decisionnaire)
Breast Implants: Silicone or Saline – Which is better?
(Guest Expert)
Breast Self Exam: What You Can Do To Optimize Your Breast Health
Breast self exam (BSE) is an important tool-but not the only tool-to detect potentially malignant breast masses early.
(Article)
Breastfeeding With Inverted Nipples
I'm pregnant with my first child and after doing some research I've decided that breastfeeding is what's best for my baby. But there's a problem: I have inverted nipples. My doctor says that breastfeeding is still possible -- is there anything I can do to improve my odds?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Bumps On The Cervix
I have recently noticed several bumps on my cervix. I was told that it is normal to have bumps on your cervix and that the cervix is not smooth like we believe it is. Is this true or do I need to be concerned?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Burning Mouth Syndrome
It affects seven times more women than men and is more likely in postmenopausal women.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Caffeine and the Unstable Bladder
Dr. Donnica Moore discusses the relation to caffeine, alcohol, and certain foods to an unstable bladder, or urge incontinence.
(Radio Transcript)
Calcium
What do PMS, colon cancer, high blood pressure and osteoporosis have in common? A secret enemy: calcium.
(Radio Transcript)
Calcium
What do PMS, colon cancer, high blood pressure and osteoporosis have in common? A secret enemy: calcium.
(Radio Transcript)
Calcium 101
Women have heard for years that adequate calcium intake--from food or supplements--protects bones and delays osteoporosis. Recent research shows that calcium's value extends to many other functions as well.
(Radio Transcript)
Calcium 101
What do PMS, colon cancer, high blood pressure and osteoporosis have in common? A secret enemy: calcium.
(Radio Transcript)
Calcium 101: How Do I Know Which Supplements to take and how much?
The average 44 yr. old American woman has a calcium intake of 440 mg per day, a third of the RDA. Menopausal women need even more daily calcium: 1500 mg, whether or not they take estrogen.
(Radio Transcript)
Calcium 101:  How Do I Know Which Supplements to Take and How Much?
The most important reason for most women to take calcium is to protect their bones. Calcium may also have a role in preventing colon cancer, heart disease, and even PMS.
(Radio Transcript)
Calcium and PMS
If you’re suffering from PMS or Pre-Menstrual Syndrome, you may crave sugar and salt. . .But your body may actually need calcium.
(Radio Transcript)
Can Aspirin Prevent Ovarian Cancer
A recent study (presented at the Society for Gynecologic Oncologists annual meeting 3/6/01) suggests that aspirin use three or more times per week for at least six months may actually decrease the risk of the most common form of ovarian cancer by 40%!
(Radio Transcript)
Can Breast Cancer Be Prevented?
The best weapon against breast cancer remains early detection. All women over 18 should perform monthly breast self exams, have annual breast exams by their health care provider, and have annual mammograms at age 40.
(Radio Transcript)
Can Breast Cancer Be Prevented?
The best weapon against breast cancer remains early detection. All women over 18 should perform monthly breast self exams, have annual breast exams by their health care provider, and have annual mammograms at age 40.
(Radio Transcript)
Can You Trust Your Pap Smear?
Dr. Donnica Moore discusses what a Pap smear is; who should have a pap smear and how often, what the new cervical screening technologies are, and whether you should request them.
(Article)
Cancer
What is cancer? Normal cells grow and divide in an orderly way. Cancer cells do not.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Cancer
Cancer Links and Resources
(Women's Health Resources)
Cancer And Five-year Survival Rates
A "survival rate" is simply the percentage of people who live a certain period of time. Accordingly, the "5-year survival rate" refers to the percent of patients with any particular cancer who liveat least 5 years after their diagnosis.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Cancer Rates Declining
We have more good news about cancer: a recent report in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute (6/01) shows that rates for cancer cases and deaths in general DECREASED in the 1990s. The overall decrease was 1.1% per year from 1992 to 1998...and was led by reduced rates for prostate cancer, lung cancer and colon cancer.
(Radio Transcript)
Candace Bushnell Celebrates Birth Control Advance
Data estimates that more than 16 million American women now take oral contraceptives.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Canker Sores
For six months I've been having a problem with recurring mouth ulcers. Every two to three weeks, small sores pop up on my lips and inside my mouth on my cheeks and gums. They're not pretty, but even worse, they hurt and sometimes it's hard to eat. How can I make them go away?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Carbonated Water and Calcium
A friend told me that drinking carbonated water robs the bones of calcium. Is this true? If so, does soda do the same?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Carmen Rasmusen Breaks Up Duet With Acne
“I hated having zits so I thought this would be a great help to teenagers to show them that acne is normal and everyone gets it,” says Carmen Rasmusen of 'American Idol' fame, “I want to explain to teens that going to a dermatologist is not scary and there’s a way to cure zits.”
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Carnie Wilson And Friends Make Healthy Resolutions
Carnie Wilson’s success in keeping her resolutions of eating less, consuming healthy foods, and exercising regularly, follow a careful and psychologically sound pattern, say experts. And it’s a blueprint that anyone can follow, whether or not they have the impetus of medical necessity behind it.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Carnie Wilson Walks From Obesity
After deciding four years ago to undergo gastric bypass surgery, Carnie Wilson embarked on a ‘long walk home’ to find herself as she had always dreamed – thin and healthy.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Carnie Wilson's Surgery and Treatment for Obesity
I am interested in more information about the surgery that Carnie Wilson had for weight loss. Can you tell me how to find a doctor in my area?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Carotenemia
Recently I noticed that the palms of both my hands have turned a yellowish-orange color, like the color you’d get from a self-tanner. The only problem is I’m not self-tanning.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Carre Otis Models Healthy Eating
It is critically important that people recognize that eating disorders are very serious illnesses – not trendy lifestyle choices.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Cataract Awareness Month
Cataracts are simply a thickening of the lens in the eye, which can result from heredity, aging, diabetes, infections, or the use of certain medications like steroids.
(Radio Transcript)
Celeb Rehab: The Art of Compassion
This access to the private lives of celebrities who face constant scrutiny and challenges unimaginable by most people- is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it exposes us to the waking nightmare that losing control of one's life can be, but on the other hand, it has opened dialogue about addiction and mental illness that has, until now, been hush-hush.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Celebrities are Hot on Global Warming
According to climate experts the ten hottest years on record have occurred in the last 15 years.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Cell Phones And Cancer Risk
Is there any truth to the rumor that cell phones can increase your risk of cancer?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer is preventable, treatable and curable if detected in its earliest stages. Prevention, detection and treatment are essential.
(Article)
Cervical Cancer
Cervical Cancer Links and Resources
(Women's Health Resources)
Cervical Cancer
What is cervical cancer?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Cervical Cancer Prevention Tips: What Every Woman Should Know by Marie Savard, MD
Many women don’t know what the Pap smear– a test most have gotten every year since they turned 18 or so – is designed to do, or whether there is anything else they should be doing to prevent cervical cancer.
(Guest Expert)
Change in PMS Symptoms
Since puberty, I've had very predictable PMS symptoms -- a headache on the same day every month. I'd take a few Advil and the pain was gone. But now at age 32, my PMS profile has suddenly changed: no more headaches. Now I get painfully sore breasts and Advil doesn't help. Why the change, and how should I treat the pain?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Changing Your Menstrual Cycle
I have a major event coming up and it coincides with my period. Isn't there a way I can change my cycle by changing the day I start taking my birth control pills?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Checking Out Freckles and Moles
I've had freckles and moles all my life. How do I know if any of them are the kind I need to be concerned about?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Cherry Angiomas
Over the past few months I've noticed several bright red blister-like growths popping up on my chest and midsection. They don't hurt or itch, but I'm still a little anxious. Is it just a rash, or could these bumps be a sign of something serious?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Cheryl Hines Enthusiastic About ‘Curbing’ Cerebral Palsy
Cheryl Hines will be helping raise awareness about birth defects – particularly cerebral palsy.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Chlamydia Screening
Who should be screened for chlamydia?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Chlorine and Hair Loss
I suspect my sudden hair loss is due to not taking proper care of my hair after swimming, but I'm not sure. If this is true and chlorine is the culprit, will my hair ever grow back?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Cholesterol and Women
High cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease, the number one killer of men and women. But are cholesterol concerns the same for men and women?
(Radio Transcript)
Cholesterol Myths
Dr. Donnica debunks common myths about cholesterol.
(Debunking Myths)
Cholesterol: The Good, The Bad, And The Triglycerides
More than half of all Americans have cholesterol levels that exceed the recommended total; one in five Americans have cholesterol levels that are considered “high”. Dr. Donnica addresses what we really need to know about cholesterol and what we should do if our numbers are too high.
(Article)
Choosing a Gynecologist
I'm trying to choose a new gynecologist--is there anything specific I should ask before I become a patient?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Choosing a Gynecologist
Tips for Choosing a Gynecologist.
(Tip)
Choosing A Gynecologist Decisionnaire
Different women need different things from an Ob-gyn, and most women's needs change throughout their lives. Use Dr. Donnica's Decisionnaire to help you determine how to choose the most appropriate gynecologist for you.
(Decisionnaire)
Choosing a Health Care Provider
Women's Health Care Provider Links and Resources
(Women's Health Resources)
Choosing and Using Alternative Remedies
Dr. Donnica gives practical tips and basic principles to practice before choosing alternative medicines for yourself and your family members.
(Tip)
Christina Aguilera Promotes HIV/AIDS Awareness
Christina Aguilera sells millions of CDs combining her astounding vocal talent with provocative fashion and music. As a spokesperson for the MAC AIDS Fund, Aguilera hopes she commands even more attention with her message of awareness.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Chronic Diarrhea After Gallbladder Surgery
Six months ago I had my gallbladder removed and ever since then everything I eat goes right through me. Sometimes it travels so fast I can't make it to the bathroom in time! As if that isn't embarrassing enough, I also have uncontrollable flatulence. What do you suggest?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Chronic Pancreatitis
Two weeks ago I began experiencing nausea, fever and severe pain in my upper abdomen, plus I was so bloated that I looked five months pregnant. I finally went to the hospital where I was diagnosed with chronic pancreatitis. The doctor recommended an OTC painkiller, but it does nothing to ease the bloat. Is there anything else I can do to feel better?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Chronic Wounds
About a month ago, I cut my finger while chopping veggies and wound up with a few stitches. My doctor removed them a week later, but since then the cut has reopened and doesn't seem to want to heal. I've kept it clean with saline and water and covered it with surgical tape, but it looks worse than ever.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Clay Aiken Idolizes Kids With Developmental Disabilities
Clay Aiken became a national sensation on the hit show American Idol. But while music may be his bread and butter for now, Aiken’s real passion is giving a voice to children with developmental disabilities.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Clicking Joints
The other day I noticed that my right ankle kept clicking every time I took a step. This has happened before and it just went away, and even though it doesn’t hurt, I’m worried it could be a sign of a serious joint problem like arthritis. Am I overreacting?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Clinical Trials
If you would like to be in a clinical trial, the best place to start is usually to discuss it with your own physician.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Clinical Trials And Medical Research
Information about clinical trials and medical research, including links to various organizations.
(Women's Health Resources)
Clinical Trials for Women
Explanation of clincial trials and how they pertain to women's health issues.
(Article)
Clinical Trials: Answering Questions and Saving Lives, by Phyllis E. Greenberger
Phyllis E. Greenberger, to improve the health of women through research, addresses the issue of awareness and knowledge when participating in clinical trials.
(Guest Expert)
Cold and Flu Differences
What's the difference between the cold and flu?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Cold and Flu Treatment
Can antibiotics treat colds or the flu?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Cold Sores
I've suffered from the occasional canker sore for as long as I can remember. But a few months ago one popped up, and just as soon as it went away another one appeared. Now it seems like I can't go for more than a few days without an ugly sore forming on my lip. It's getting so I'm embarrassed to show my face. What should I do?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Colon Cancer Prevention
Colon cancer is the second most common cause of cancer death in the United States killing 56,000 Americans per year.
(Radio Transcript)
Colon Cancer Risk Reduction
There are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of colon cancer. Dr. Donnica explains risks and prevention of colon cancer.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Colon Cancer Screening
Colon cancer is the second most common cause of cancer death in Americans though it is often a preventable or curable disease when discovered early.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Colon Cancer Screening
Jay Monahan and Ethel Blum are not household names, but the superstars championing their memory are: Katie Couric and Judge Judy both have lost loved ones to colon cancer. Thanks to their efforts, the screening tests which could save your life have become well known: sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy. But what’s the difference?
(Radio Transcript)
Colon Cancer Symptons
As with most cancers, the signs and symptoms of colon cancer can also be “normal” abnormalities or signs and syptoms of many other diseases and conditions.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Colorectal Cancer--Screen for Life
Ask most women what their most feared cancer is and breast cancer will usually be the answer. But colorectal cancer is a bigger threat.
(Radio Transcript)
Complementary Medicine
Complementary Medicine Links and Resources
(Women's Health Resources)
Connection Between Hormone Replacement Therapy and Asthma
Is there a connection between hormone replacement therapy and asthma?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Constance Marie Serves A Healthier Thanksgiving
Actress Constance Marie has a lot for which to be thankful. But while she’s starring on both The George Lopez Show on ABC and American Family on PBS, she won’t be giving thanks for her success with a traditional Thanksgiving meal.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Constipation
Dr. Donnica Moore discusses constipation, its symptoms, and its association with some medications and diseases.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Constipation from Calcium Supplements
I'm 50 years old and perimenopausal, so my doctor suggested taking a daily OTC calcium and magnesium supplement to help protect my bones from osteoporosis. I've been following his advice for a few months, but now I'm constantly and painfully constipated. How can I help my bones without this annoying side effect?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Corbin Bernsen Rules In Favor Of Aspirin
“I’ve been on a Bayer aspirin regimen for the last eight years or so,” Bernsen says. “My dad had a stroke...it was enough to provide a serious wake-up call.”
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Coronary Heart Disease Prevention for Women, by Nanette K. Wenger, M.D., M.A.C.P., F.A.C.C.
Coronary disease is the leading cause of death for U.S. women. Guest expert Dr. Nanette Wenger talks about what women can do to prevent heart disease.
(Guest Expert)
Cost of Chlamydia
Does screening for chlamydia save money?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Counting The Days Of Pregnancy
Is the 40 weeks of pregnancy measured from date of conception, or date of last period?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Cover Model Speaks Out Against Smoking
Christy Turlington's message to teens is, “It's easier not to start than it is to stop!
(Radio Transcript)
Cushion Your Breasts for Mammograms
Have you ever had a painful mammogram? Most women haven’t. But those who have had painful experiences are often reluctant to return annually for this potentially life-saving test.
(Radio Transcript)
Dark Circles Under the Eyes
There are many causes of dark circles under your eyes. The good news is that while they are cosmetically undesirable, they are generally medically harmless and don't necessarily indicate any serious medical problems.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Daryl Hannah Fights Against Women’s Heart Disease
As Miss Driver in Kill Bill Daryl Hannah plays an amoral villain with no compassion for her victims. Now the Blade Runner alum is helping track down a similar foe -- America’s #1 serial killer of women – heart disease.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Dave Mirra 'Goes Big' For Bicycle Safety
Dave Mirra’s gravity-defying stunts knock out the competition on the BMX bicycle circuit. But keeping bike-riding kids from getting knocked unconscious may be an even tougher challenge.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Dealing with Loss and PMDD
I have secretly suffered for many many years, always on the defensive, blaming everyone else for upsetting me. I am usually a very gentle, caring, quiet person until literally the day before my period.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Dealing with PMDD
How Can We Handle Premenstrual Dysphoric Dysfunction (PMDD)?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Deborah Norville Reports On Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid Arthritis is one of the most serious forms of arthritis and is a chronic lifetime disease that over time has the potential to damage and/or deform joints, produce major disability and even cause death.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Debunking More Birth Control Pill Myths
Myths, misunderstandings and misconceptions abound about birth control pills—and unintended conceptions can result.
(Radio Transcript)
Debunking More Myths About Birth Control Pills
Despite many changes in birth control pill formulations over the past 40 years, certain “myths” about the Pill and its possible side effects still persist. One of those myths—that the Pill causes your face to break out--has not only been disproven, but has been shown to REDUCE acne!
(Radio Transcript)
Debunking the Myths About Birth Control Pills
Nearly 17 million women in the US rely on birth control pills for reliable contraception and other medical benefits. But I wonder how many others would benefit from the Pill if it weren’t for several myths in circulation.
(Radio Transcript)
Debunking the Myths About Breast Cancer
The good news about breast cancer awareness month is that, more women are doing breast self exam, finding small lumps, getting mammograms, and are diagnosed with cancers small enough to be cured. The bad news is....
(Radio Transcript)
Debunking the Myths About Breast Cancer: Common Myths, Misconceptions, and Misinformation About Breast Self Exam
The good news about breast cancer awareness month is that more women are doing breast self exam, finding small lumps, getting mammograms, and are diagnosed with cancers small enough to be cured. The bad news is...
(Radio Transcript)
Debunking the Myths about Fibroids
Fibroids are common benign tumors of the uterus in one out of 5 women ages 18-50 Despite the fact that they are so common, there is not a lot of common knowledge circulating about fibroids. . .yet there are several common myths.
(Radio Transcript)
Decreased Libido After the Baby Arrives
Ever since my one-year-old was born, I'm basically never in the mood. My husband thinks my birth control pills could be the culprit. Is that possible?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Deep-Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Pulmonary Embolism (PE)
Deep-vein thrombosis, or DVT occurs when a thrombus (blood clot) forms in one of the large veins, usually in the lower limbs, leading to either partially or completely blocked circulation.
(Article)
Della Reese Touched By Diabetes
On the long-running CBS hit Touched by an Angel, Della Reese was a party to many miracles. Now in real life the actress hopes to create life-changing results for those suffering from diabetes.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Denise Austin Solves Women's Fitness Problems
"I'd like women - and men - to know that we can all look and feel better, and that starts by recognizing the great progress that's possible and discarding crazy claims which sound great but leave us ending up looking and feeling no better, or even worse, than before," Austin explains.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Dennis Quaid Protects Children From Health Disasters
Dennis Quaid calls his new movie, The Day After Tomorrow, “the ultimate disaster movie ever made.” But Quaid wasn’t worried about the Memorial Day weekend’s opening box office. A far more important problem concerns the leading man – the health of the world’s children.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Denzel And Pauletta Washington Lead Brain Crusade
The incidence of brain diseases is increasing -- especially when we discuss Alzheimer’s. But one of the most shocking things...is that the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in children is brain tumors.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Depression & Mental Illness
Depression & Mental Illness Links and Resources
(Women's Health Resources)
Depression Help
I am really confused because I don’t know if I have a depression disorder or if I have PMDD. There is so much going on in my life and I just don’t know how to analyze anything.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Depression in Women
We’ve all had the blues, but how do you know when you’re clinically depressed?
(Radio Transcript)
Diabetes Stamp to be Released Today
Diabetes is a life-threatening disease which kills one American every 3 minutes. About one-third of those affected have yet to be diagnosed, allowing their condition to progress untreated.
(Radio Transcript)
Diabetes, Type 1
In Type 1 or juvenile diabetes, the body no longer has enough insulin to convert sugar into energy. To survive, people with type 1 diabetes must take multiple insulin injections daily and monitor their blood sugars closely, several times a day.
(Radio Transcript)
Diabetes, Type 1
In Type 1 or juvenile diabetes, the body no longer has enough insulin to convert sugar into energy. To survive, people with type 1 diabetes must take multiple insulin injections daily and monitor their blood sugars closely, several times a day.
(Radio Transcript)
Diabetes, Type 2
Type II diabetes has a different cause than Type I: patients with type 2 diabetes do not respond properly to insulin, the hormone that normally allows the body to change blood sugar into energy or store it for later use.
(Radio Transcript)
Diabetes, Type 2
Type II diabetes has a different cause than Type I: patients with type 2 diabetes do not respond properly to insulin, the hormone that normally allows the body to change blood sugar into energy or store it for later use.
(Radio Transcript)
Diane Schuur Raises Eye Disease Awareness
The great jazz singer Diane Schuur’s upcoming CD Midnight is a complex, stunning arrangement of 13 well-crafted songs. Even more complex is the disease, retinopathy of prematurity, which robbed Schuur of her sight as an infant.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Diet Success
Dr.Donnica give tips for diet success.
(Tip)
Dietary Changes That Can Affect Blood Pressure
Are there any dietary changes that can affect blood pressure?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Dieting and Hair Loss
I've been on a diet for about six months, and the good news is I've lost 15 pounds. But the bad news is I'm also losing my hair! Could I be missing some nutrient that's making me go bald, and can I ever get my hair back?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Discontinuing Premarin
I have been taking Premarin for over two years (after having a hysterectomy). Two days ago, I decided to quit taking the medication after reading the recent reports. Is it safe to quit Premarin
(Frequently Asked Question)
Dizziness and Vertigo
Dizziness is fairly common and has many possible causes. It may be called lightheadedness, feeling faint, being unsteady, losing balance, or feeling that you or the space around you is spinning (vertigo).
(Frequently Asked Question)
Do Birth Control Pills Increase Your Risk Of Breast Cancer?
A new study published this week in the prestigious medical journal, the Journal of the American Medical Association (10/11/00) evaluated whether there was any increased risk of breast cancer in women who have a strong family history of breast cancer already.
(Article)
Do I Need Glasses?
I couldn't see the class board in my school because I sat all the way in the back of the room, but some of my friends do see the board. Do I need glasses??
(Frequently Asked Question)
Do I—or Does My Child--Have CFS?
The diagnosis of CFS is based upon having four or more of the following symptoms in addition to the first one (which is required for the diagnosis), and having no other medical problems to explain these symptoms.
(Decisionnaire)
Do Kegel Exercises Work?
Did you ever wish that there were exercises you could do while riding in the car? For women, Kegel exercises might be the answer.
(Radio Transcript)
Do Women Need Male Hormones?
What do we know about recent reports that menopausal women may benefit from taking male hormones, or testosterone? How can this be?
(Radio Transcript)
Do You Leak?  What Is Incontinence?
Bladder leakage—or incontinence—affects nearly 10 million American women...most of whom have never even discussed this with their physicians.
(Radio Transcript)
Do You Need a Second Opinion?
One of the most confusing issues in managing your own medical care is when to get a second opinion and who you should see. Some people feel uncomfortable about asking for second opinions, worried that this will offend the first practitioner.
(Radio Transcript)
Do You Take Better Care of Your Car than Your Body?
Most drivers know how often to have their cars’ oil changed, the tires rotated, and their inspections done. But do you know how often you should have your blood pressure checked, your cholesterol measured, or your Pap smear done?
(Radio Transcript)
Does Brushing and Flossing Keep the Doctor Away?
You know the importance of brushing and flossing to keep the dentist away—but can good oral hygiene prevent other illnesses as well? You betcha!
(Radio Transcript)
Does Estrogen Have a Role in Preventing Alzheimer’s Disease?
Is there a relationship between estrogen and Alzheimer’s disease? Several studies suggest there is: and that there is a beneficial role for estrogen to play in Alzheimer’s prevention.
(Radio Transcript)
Does Heartburn Keep You Up at Night?
According to a new survey, nearly 8 out of 10 heartburn sufferers experience symptoms at night.
(Radio Transcript)
Does Romance Trigger Migraines?
Chocolate, candlelight, red wine, perfume can trigger more than romance.
(Radio Transcript)
Does Sex Matter?
Differences between the sexes begin in the fetus at the cellular level and continue to shape individual medical profiles throughout the life span. These sex differences prevail from “womb to tomb.
(Radio Transcript)
Don’t Forget to Vote!  Women’s Health Research--a Bipartisan Issue
“Less than 1% of our national budget is spent on medical and health research. Recent surveys conducted by Research!America show that Americans show very strong support for changing this fact, and making medical and health research a much higher national priority.”
(Radio Transcript)
Donnica Moore to be featured on E! special
When E! Entertainment Television was looking for a doctor to share their opinions on the
(Press Release)
Down Syndrome
What is Down Syndrome? How important is it for me to be screened for it when I’m pregnant?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Dr. Donnica becomes 'Doc on Call' for "First for Women" Magazine
“While no magazine columnist can take the place of a woman’s private consultation with her own physician, my hope is that this column can give women useful information to encourage them to see their own physicians when necessary,” said Dr. Donnica.
(Press Release)
Dr. Donnica Discusses Cervical Cancer Vaccine on GMA
Dr.Donnica discusses cervical cancer vaccines.
(Press Release)
Dr. Donnica on "The View"
While few women really look forward to their gyn appointments, most women become comfortable with the routine breast and internal examinations.
(Press Release)
Dr. Donnica Partners with L’EGGS SHEER ENERGY® on Leg Health Awareness for Women
“Ironically, most women are more concerned about having better looking legs than having healthier legs.
(Press Release)
Dr. Donnica Returns to "The View"
Dr. Donnica Moore, President of Sapphire Women’s Health Group and host of DrDonnica.com will reappear on ABC’s “The View” Thursday, June 9, 2005 to discuss a topic relevant to all premenopausal women.
(Press Release)
Dr. Donnica Returns to "The View"
Dr. Donnica Moore, President of Sapphire Women’s Health Group and host of DrDonnica.com will reappear on ABC’s “The View” Friday, June 1, 2007 to discuss the important topic “New Products in Women’s Health”. Products to be covered include the new “no period” contraceptive pill, Lybrel™; the human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccine, Gardasil™; and a new product being marketed to treat menopausal symptoms.
(Press Release)
Dr. Donnica Selected as one of the Most Influential Forces in Healthcare IT
The cover story of this month’s Advance for Health Information Executives announced their selection of “The Most Influential Forces in Health Care Information Technology”. Dr. Donnica Moore, founder and President of DrDonnica.com was one of only 15 individuals selected for this honor.
(Dr. Donnica In The News)
Dr. Donnica to MC Women’s Health & Counseling Center Imperial Ball
The Imperial Ball serves as WHCC’s largest fundraising event, raising more than $100,000 each year.
(Press Release)
Dr. Donnica's Women's Health Report
For the first time, a nationally syndicated radio program will address women’s health concerns; a review of issues, symptoms and situations to help your listeners stay in touch with the latest medical information and news.
(Press Release)
Dr. Donnica’s Top Ten Tips for Healthful Holiday Weight
Read suggestions for making it through holiday parties without adding excess weight to your body.
(Radio Transcript)
Dr. Donnica’s Top Tips for Better Sleep
What can I do to get a better night's sleep?
(Tip)
DrDonnica.com Launches Clinical Trials Listing
The Clinical Trials Center includes general information about clinical trials participation, and now lists specific on-going clinical trials looking to recruit women.
(Press Release)
Drinking May Increase Risk of Breast Cancer
Women with family histories of breast cancer may be at increased risk of the disease if they have one or more alcoholic drinks on a daily basis.
(Radio Transcript)
Driving & Posture
Of course, a gentle massage at the end of your day may help as well!
(Frequently Asked Question)
Drug Compliance
Of the 2 billion prescriptions filled each year, about half are taken improperly! In light of this shocking finding, the American Heart Association has identified noncompliance as a national hidden health threat.
(Radio Transcript)
Drug Interactions--What You Should Know
Most people aren’t aware that any medicine they take may interact with other medicines, or even with certain foods and beverages.
(Radio Transcript)
Dry Eyes and Computer Vision Syndrome
I know it’s possible to get addicted, and I think that’s what’s happened.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Dule Hill ‘All In’ To Help Beat Leukemia
Dule Hill is betting on a cure for his friend's leukemia.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Dustin Hoffman Advocates Stem Cell Research
Dustin Hoffman’s roles in Kramer vs. Kramer, Tootsie and Rain Man, challenged our perceptions of what it is to be a parent, a man and a brother. Now Hoffman is using that same sense of humanity to appeal to California voters to support stem cell research.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
DVT: David Bloom’s Silent Killer
The tragic loss of NBC correspondent David Bloom in Iraq put three deadly letters in the health headlines – DVT. They stand for deep vein thrombosis, a blood clot that can form in the major veins of the legs or pelvis due to prolonged periods of physical immobility.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Ear Feeling Clogged and Jaw Pain
For the past couple of months, my right ear has been feeling clogged. I keep thinking that if I could just pop it, I’d get some relief. I’ll try to yawn and open my mouth as wide as I can, but it doesn’t help and actually makes the whole right side of my jaw feel sore. My doctor says I don’t have an ear infection, so what could it be?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Early Perimenopause
While the average age of menopause in American women is 51, many women enter menopause much earlier.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Early Puberty
The average age for white girls entering puberty is nine-point-seven years, and for African-American girls it is eight-point-one.
(Radio Transcript)
Early Waking
Every morning I wake up at 5:30; a full hour before my alarm actually goes off. I’m not ready to get out of bed yet, but it seems like no matter how tired I am, I can’t fall back asleep.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Eating Disorder Decisionnaire
Eating disorders are increasingly common in young women, but often concealed from loved ones. Take Dr. Donnica’s decisionnaire to become aware of the signs of anorexia nervosa or bulimia.
(Decisionnaire)
Eating Disorders
Eating Disorder Health Links and Resources
(Women's Health Resources)
Eating Disorders, Depression, and Suicidal Thoughts
I'm 21 years old and have had multiple eating disorders throughout my life. I've been
(Frequently Asked Question)
Eating Recommended Foods Associated With Decrease in Risk of Mortality For Women
Your mother always told you to eat more fruits and vegetables. Now, there’s more new research supporting that Mom was right.
(Radio Transcript)
Economy Class Syndrome: A Real Threat?
Economy Class Syndrome is the name given to explain recent high profile deaths in economy class travelers on lengthy airplane flights. Are you at risk?
(Radio Transcript)
Educating Children & Teens with CFS: The Show Must Go On
Children and teens with CFS have many of the same issues as other children with chronic illnesses, confounded by the fact that they have an illness which is poorly understood, often misunderstood, and too often misdiagnosed.
(Article)
Educating Ourselves About Health Issues
Dr. Donnica Moore answers a question about women educating themselves when it comes to their own health care.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Effects of Hepatitis B Virus Infection
Hepatitis B is one of several viruses that can attack and damage the liver, a critically important organ in the upper-right side of your abdomen. How does a person become infected with Hepatitis B?
(Radio Transcript)
Eikenberry And Tucker Know The T-Score
“Like most men, I didn’t think a whole lot about bone loss,” says actor Michael Tucker, 57. “After all, I felt fine and nobody can see your bones anyhow, so it wasn’t a concern of mine.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Emergency Pregnancy Prevention
Emergency contraception means taking certain birth control pills within 72 hours after unprotected sex. Ideally, you should take the first dose as soon as possible.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Empty Nest Syndrome
When I moved out of my parents' house last year, I left an empty nest. Since then, I've noticed on my visits home that my mother is getting thinner and thinner. She insists it's just my imagination, but Dad told me that she has started a new early-morning exercise routine and her appetite isn't what it used to be. Is it possible that my 48-year-old mother could have anorexia?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Endometrial Polyps
I am looking for information on endometrial polyps and whether these were something that can be passed during monthly cycles and if so, what might they look like?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Endometrial Polyps, the Pill & Menopause
I was just diagnosed with an endometrial polyp and am having surgery for its removal. Am I at risk for a recurrence of these polyps?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Endometriosis
Endometriosis Links and Resources
(Women's Health Resources)
Endometriosis and Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Dr. Donnica Moore discusses endometriosis and irritable bowel syndrome, their similarities and symptoms.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Enhancing Fertility
Is there anything I can do to enhance my fertility?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Enhancing Fertility Decisionnaire
If you think infertility has affected you, see your physician sooner rather than later. Your chance for a healthy pregnancy may be much more successful if begun early.
(Decisionnaire)
Enhancing Fertility: What Works?
For millions of women who would like to become mothers, the best Mothers’ Day present of all would have been a positive pregnancy test. In their efforts to conceive, these women and their partners have heard about every possible intervention. What really works?
(Article)
Enhancing Your Fertility
How can I enhance my fertility?
(Tip)
Enlarged Aorta
Aortic enlargements can be hereditary or caused by injury, infection or a congenital weakness in the connective tissue of the artery wall.
(Frequently Asked Question)
ERT and Endometrial Cancer Survivors
A new study from the University of California-Irvine [Obstetrics and Gynecology, 4/01] shows that the use of estrogen replacement therapy (ERT), with or without progestins, in women diagnosed with endometrial cancer does not appear to increase their risk of recurring cancer or death.
(Radio Transcript)
Estrogen & Breast Cancer
What is the relationship between estrogen and breast cancer?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Estrogen & Endometrial Cancer
What is the relationship between estrogen and endometrial cancer?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Estrogen And Citrus
Recently, I heard you comment on the radio about taking estrogen (Premarin) with citrus juice. Please tell me the point of those comments.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Evaluating Media Medical Information
What factors should be considered when evaluating medical information?
(Tip)
Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Fibroids
One in five women between the ages of 18 and 50 will develop fibroids. These are generally benign tumors of the womb, but have been nicknamed
(Article)
Excessive Yawning
I have a question which might sound silly. I don't want to go to the doctor about it because it sounds ridiculous. Have you ever known of anyone yawning excessively? Is this something I should be concerned about or not?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Exercise and Urinary Incontinence
After having my second child, I decided it was time to do something about the 30 pounds of baby fat I'm still toting around. So I signed up for step aerobics classes at the local gym, but after just two classes I had to stop. Both times, jumping up and down off of the step caused urinary leakage!
(Frequently Asked Question)
External Otitis (Swimmer's Ear)
Last week was my family’s annual trip to the beach, and for the first few days after we got back, my right ear felt really clogged and sounds were sort of muffled.I figured I just had water in my ear and it would drain on its own. But then the inside started itching, and now it really hurts, plus my hearing seems to be getting worse. What’s going on?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Extreme Scalp Odor
I've had a problem with extreme scalp odor for years. At first, I blamed it on the chemicals in my hair products but expensive and all-natural specialty products haven't helped a bit. Even prescription anti-fungal shampoos have zero affect. Now it's so noticeable that I'm too embarrassed to leave my house. What else can I do?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Eyelash Loss
My upper eyelashes have been falling out a lot lately, and then growing back uneven and sparse. It's mostly in the middle of my eyelid, right where it's most noticeable, and no amount of mascara or curling makes my lashes look any better. My eye doctor is stumped, and I'm worried I'll wind up without any lashes at all. Is there anything I can do?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Facts All Smokers Should Know
Most smokers who make New Years Resolutions resolve to stop smoking...And then fail. This is despite knowing that smoking is a killer: it is the number one cause of cancer death in Americans.
(Radio Transcript)
Facts All Smokers Should Know, Part II
Did you resolve to stop smoking this year? Did you make it through the tough part--the first few days? If you did, hang in there and keep on going--abstaining for the first few days is the toughest, but each day it will get easier.
(Radio Transcript)
Fast Facts on Anorexia
One out of ten patients with eating disorders are male, even though this is considered a
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on Blood Clots
Blood clots in the lungs (pulmonary emboli) kill 200,000 people each year, more than AIDS, breast cancer and highway accidents combined.
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on Breast Cancer
Dr. Donnica's facts about breast cancer, mammograms and prevention.
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on Cardiovascular Disease
Nearly half a million women die each year from heart attacks and stroke—nearly double the number of people who die from ALL forms of cancer combined!
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on Cervical Cancer
The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2005, about 10,370 cases of invasive cervical cancer will be diagnosed in the United States.
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on Chlamydia
Chlamydia is the most widespread sexually transmitted infection in the United States.
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on Depression
In any one-year period, 9.5 percent of the U.S. population, or an estimated 19 million American adults, suffer from a depressive illness.
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on Eating Disorders
By late adolescence, up to one out of 100 girls show clinical signs of anorexia.
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on Ectopic Pregnancy
An ectopic pregnancy, also called a “tubal pregnancy,” is any pregnancy in which the fertilized egg implants on any tissue other than the endometrial lining of the uterus (womb).
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on Emergency Contraception
3 million unintended pregnancies occur each year in the United States alone; approximately 1.4 million of them end in abortion.
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a non-cancerous disorder in which functioning endometrial tissue is present outside the uterine cavity.
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on Epilepsy And Seizure Disorders
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that makes people prone to seizures. A seizure is a change in sensation, awareness, or behavior brought about by a brief electrical disturbance in the brain.
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on Fibroids
Fibroids are the reason given for most hysterectomies. It is estimated that fibroids are responsible for 66% of the 600,000 hysterectomies per year in the US (400,000 hysterectomies per year).
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on Heartburn
Heartburn is the most common symptom of gastroesophageal reflux or acid reflux (also known as
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on HIV/AIDS
Hiv/AIDS definitions, facts and statistics.
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on HPV
The HPV DNA test (also called “The HPV Test” or the “DNA with Pap”) uses advanced, molecular technology to determine whether any one of the HPV virus types that cause cervical cancer is present in the cervical cells.
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on HPV and Cervical Cancer
In most cases,the body's immune system fights off or suppresses the virus before it causes cancer or any other problems.
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on Incontinence
Urinary incontinence and Overactive Bladder definitions, facts and statistics.
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on Interstitial Cystitis
Dr. Donnica Moore outlines the definition of interstitial cystitis, how IC is diagnosed, as well as the treatment options available.
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable Bowel Syndrome, or IBS, is a relatively common syndrome of abdominal discomfort or pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits.
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on Lipids
Lipid is a medical term used to describe fats in the bloodstream, more commonly referred to as cholesterol and triglycerides.
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on Lung Cancer
More Americans die each year from lung cancer than from breast, prostate, and colorectal cancers combined.
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on Mammography
Dr. Donnica's fast facts about mammograms!
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on Menorrhagia (Excessive Menstrual Bleeding)
Menorrhagia, or excessive menstrual bleeding, is defined as blood loss of more than 80mL during a menstrual cycle. This translates into bleeding for more than seven days or needing to use more than 10 pads or tampons per day during the menstrual cycle.
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on Migraines
The International Headache Society Defines a migrane as
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic -- and sometimes disabling -- autoimmune disease of the central nervous system.
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on Obesity
The heaviest adults are 80 percent more likely to have asthma than the thinnest ones.
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis, or “porous bone”, is a disease characterized by low bone mass and structural deterioration of bone tissue, leading to bone fragility and an increased risk of fractures of the hip, spine and wrist.
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on Ovarian Cancer
The Cancer and Steroid Hormone Study (CASH), the largest investigation to date, found an average 40% decrease in the likelihood of ovarian cancer in women who had ever taken birth control pills.
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on Overactive Bladder (OAB)
What is Overactive Bladder?
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on PMDD
PMDD is characterized by severe monthly mood swings and physical symptoms that interfere with everyday life, especially a woman’s relationships with her family and friends. PMDD symptoms go far beyond what are considered normal or manageable premenstrual symptoms.
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
PTSD is a serious medical condition that may result after exposure to an extremely traumatic event involving death or threatened death, serious injury, or another physical threat.
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on Postpartum Depression
Dr. Donnica Moore addresses postpartum depression, those at risk of developing ppd, and treatment options.
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on Sleep Disorders
The average American woman gets only 6.5 hours of sleep per night. Seven to 8 hours of sleep is recommended by the National Sleep Foundation (NSF).
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on Smoking
Estimates are that 4 million people will die of tobacco-related illnesses worldwide this year; by the 2020’s, the death toll will increase to 10 million deaths per year.
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on Social Anxiety Disorder
Social anxiety disorder—also called “social phobia”—is characterized by an intense fear of being scrutinized by other people in social or performance situations and of negative evaluation.
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on St. John’s Wort
St. John’s wort is an herbal preparation most commonly used for the treatment of mild depression or simply as a mood elevator. Many people who take St. John’s Wort are not aware that it has side effects just like any other medication.
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI)
SUI often goes undiagnosed because many women are too embarrassed to discuss it with their doctors. Estimates show only one out of 12 women talk to their doctor.
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on Stroke
Stroke is the second leading cause of death in the US.
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on Vaginal Candidiasis (“Yeast”) Infections
Women tend to be more susceptible to vaginal yeast infections if their bodies are under stress from poor diet, illness, or lack of sleep.
(Fast Facts)
Fast Facts on Women And Testosterone
How does testosterone affect a woman's health?
(Fast Facts)
Female Pattern Baldness
I’ve always had a thick, shiny head of hair, but recently I’ve noticed clumps of it coming out when I brush. I usually blow-dry in the morning, but I don’t use dyes or any harsh chemicals. It’s hard to believe that hot air could be causing this much damage. Could it be something more serious?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Fertility
The most important way to enhance your fertility is to identify which days are your most fertile, and then to be certain to have intercourse on those days.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Fertility Awareness And The Rhythm Method
Also known as natural family planning or periodic abstinence, fertility awareness entails not having sexual intercourse on the days of a woman's menstrual cycle when she is more likely to become pregnant, or using a barrier method of birth control on those days.
(Article)
Fertility Monitor
I heard about a new method for enhancing fertility called
(Frequently Asked Question)
Fibrocystic Breasts, Caffeine and Estrogen
I had read that fibrocystic breasts can be caused by consuming caffeine, but my doctor didn’t tell me to stop. Should I? Can fibrocystic masses turn into cancer?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Fibroid Decisionnaire
How do you know if you have fibroids? Take DrDonnica's Decisionnaire to help your physician determine if your symptoms are consistent with fibroid disease.
(Decisionnaire)
Fibroids
While the vast majority of women with fibroids have no symptoms, fibroids can be responsible for a variety of symptoms with a broad range in severity.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Fibroids and Uterine Artery Embolization
Fibroids are the reason given for nearly 200,000 hysterectomies per year in the United States alone, creating a strong demand for less invasive therapies.
(Radio Transcript)
First Aid Kit
If you purchase a commercially available first aid kit, open it after purchase and see what’s really in there; you may need to add certain items.
(Frequently Asked Question)
First Gynecological Exam
What's the rule for taking my teenage daughter for her first visit to the gynecologist? Should I wait until she has a problem, is age 18, or is sexually active?
(Frequently Asked Question)
First Trimester Pregnancy Myths
Is it true that if you have bad morning sickness, it’s a girl; mild or none and it’s a boy?
(Debunking Myths)
Five Questions Every Woman Should Ask Her Doctor
Too much to do, too little time. . .especially in the doctor’s office. Many women say they don’t have enough time to ask their most important questions.
(Radio Transcript)
Five Questions Every Woman Should Ask Her Doctor!
The average doctor visit is only 7.5 minutes. Whatever you do to improve communication with your doctor will make better use of that time and improve your health care. What specific should you ask your doctor?
(Radio Transcript)
Five Questions to Ask Before Taking Any New Medicine
You often hear that you should ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions about medicines. This is great advice--but what questions should you ask?
(Radio Transcript)
Flu
Flu Prevention Links and Resources
(Women's Health Resources)
Flu Myths
Can you get the flu from the vaccine? Dr. Donnica debunks this myth and many others about influenza.
(Debunking Myths)
Flu Treatment
We used to say that there weren’t any prescription drugs to treat flu, because all we had at our disposal were antibacterial antibiotics. Now there are 4 different anti-viral drugs available.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Flu Vaccine
Vaccines can prevent infection in 7 to 9 out of 10 healthy people less than 65 years old and in one out of 3 nursing home residents. Yet only about one in 3 people under 65 and two out of 3 people over age 65 currently get vaccinated.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Fly-In Surgery
Dr. Donnica Moore weighs the pros and cons of flying to another city for heart bypass surgery.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Flying Early in Pregnancy
I just found out I am 5 weeks pregnant, however I have booked a holiday in two weeks time and I'm concerned about the radiation and its effect on the embryo.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Folic Acid
I am trying to get pregnant. How much folic acid should I take?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Folic Acid for Men
Should men take folic acid supplements too?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Folic Acid Prevents Birth Defects
January is birth defects prevention awareness month: are you aware that the most important steps a woman can take to preventing birth defects are actually before she’s pregnant?
(Radio Transcript)
Food and Drug
Food and Drug Links and Resources
(Women's Health Resources)
Former Miss America, Heather Whitestone, Recovers Her Hearing
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Former Surgeon General, David Satcher, Targets Health Challenges
“I think we need to be realistic about the state of America’s health,” says David Satcher. “In some areas, we have made substantial, exciting breakthroughs. In others, we still have great improvements to make.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Fran Drescher Announces Campaign For Women’s Health
Women’s health is a topic with which Fran Drescher is all too familiar. The 46 year-old actress chronicled her victorious battle with uterine cancer in her book Cancer Schmancer.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Frequent Dizzy Spells
Recently I've been experiencing pretty frequent dizzy spells, sometimes as often as once a day. They hit just after I stand up from a chair, and usually it's after a full day of running errands and feeling fine. I don't understand: I eat well and exercise regularly. What could be wrong?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Frequent Urination
My husband always teases me for having “tiny bladder syndrome,” and I’ll admit I go to the bathroom more than most people. But it hasn’t been a real problem until recently. Now I can’t even sit through an entire movie without making at least one trip to the ladies’ room! Whenever I go out, I’m constantly keeping an eye out for the nearest toilet just in case. What’s wrong with me?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Frozen Headaches
A recent study published in a prominent headache journal [Cephalgia, 2001; 21: 230-235] showed that women who had at least one migraine in the past year were twice as likely to get a frozen headache after drinking cold water through a straw...compared to women who had never had a migraine.
(Radio Transcript)
Gaining Weight While on the Pill
I have been on the pill for 3 months to treat ovarian cysts, and I've since gained seven pounds. I don't want to take any diuretics because I hear they can deplete potassium. Is there anything I can do to safely get rid of my water weight?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Ganglion Cyst
Several months ago I noticed a lump on the joint between my ankle and the top of my foot that's about the size of a quarter and jelly-like in consistency. It's painless and doesn't seem to be growing, but I'm scared it's a tumor or something really serious. Can you help?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Ganglion Cyst II
Ganglion cysts are also known as “Bible cysts” because people used to try “treating them” by smashing a large book (like a Bible) on top of them. Do not do this!
(Frequently Asked Question)
Gastrointestinal Disorders
Gastrointestinal Disorder Links and Resources
(Women's Health Resources)
Gastroparesis
Do you have any information on Gastroparesis? My wife is suffering through this since she had her thyroid oblated with radioactive iodine 2 months ago.
(Frequently Asked Question)
General Women's Health
Womens Health Links and Resources
(Women's Health Resources)
Geophagy And Pica
I love the smell of dirt, and sometimes I even want to eat it. Is my body lacking minerals or something?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Geraldine Ferraro Races Against Multiple Myeloma
In 1984, Geraldine Ferraro made history as the first woman vice-presidential candidate. What history could not have foretold was that 14 years later Ferraro was going to run the race of her life against a deadly disease.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Getting a Better Night’s Sleep
16 tips for Getting a Better Night's Sleep.
(Tip)
Getting Heart Healthy For The Holidays: Managing Your Blood Pressure
We think of high blood pressure as something that increases with stress - and the holiday season has lots of triggers!
(Article)
Getting Help and Helping Others with Eating Disorders
I am a recovered anorexic and I would like to know if there is any way that I can get involved with helping other girls through this struggle.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Getting Help for Early Menopause and Depression
I am entering menopause quite early as my mother did, at 38 years old. There are extreme hormonal changes going on with me. My doctor has put me on the pill but I am still emotionally out of control and nearly suicidal at times. Can you give me any help at all?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Getting Help for PMDD
You do not need a hysterectomy or hormones to treat PMDD.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Getting Help for Severe PMDD
I just read your article on PMS and PMDD, and I am very concerned. You make it sound so simple to get help, when in reality it is very difficult. There is no help. No one understands! Please help me! Don't offer medicine. I don't have time or the money to go through trial and error until I find one that doesn't make me sick. What are my options?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Getting Ready for Vacation: Add Giving Blood to Your List of Things To Do
Though people donate blood less often during the summer months, the demand for blood actually increases during the summer. . .particularly during holiday weekends when traffic and other accidents are at a high.
(Radio Transcript)
Getting the Most Reliable Pap Results
Tips for getting the most reliable pap results.
(Tip)
Gisele Bunchen Gives Her Heart To St. Jude's Children
This holiday season supermodel Gisele Bunchen is selling her heart to benefit St. Jude Children’s Hospital.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Give the Gift of Life
The easiest way to give during the holidays is charitable giving to organizations that provide food and shelter for those without. But have you ever given blood? Our blood supply is in greatest demand during holidays.
(Radio Transcript)
Give Up the Pill Before the Honeymoon?
Would there be any short-term side effects if my fiancée stopped taking her birth control pills? We are getting married in 11 days. Should she wait until after the wedding to stop taking them?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Give your Medicine Cabinet a Make-over
As if you didn’t have enough to do over the holidays, now is a good time to give your medicine cabinet a long overdue makeover.
(Radio Transcript)
Give Your Medicine Cabinet A Makeover For The New Year
When was the last time you cleaned out your medicine chest or cabinet? If you’re like most people, this important task is way overdue.
(Article)
Graves' Disease
What is Graves' disease?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Graves' Disease Resources
Where can I find a physician in my area who specializes in Graves' Disease?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Graves' Disease, by Jake George and Nancy Hord-Patterson, ARNP, PhD
Jake George and Dr. Nancy Hord-Patterson discuss treatment options for treating Graves Disease, an autoimmune disease
(Guest Expert)
Grayish Areas That Cannot Be Cleaned
The appearance may range from a thickened, velvety brown streaking to a leathery lesion, most often on the neck or in skin folds under the arm or breasts, around the belt line or in the groin, but it may develop elsewhere.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Hair Loss in Women
We usually think of hair loss as something that only affects men, but at least 20 million American women suffer from this!
(Radio Transcript)
Hammer Toes
A few months ago I noticed that my left middle toe started looking bent and now it's starting to cause me quite a bit of pain. Because it's so buckled, it's hard to put on shoes without them rubbing against my toe and causing even more discomfort. What's going on and what can I do?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Hannah Storm Reveals Truth About Vascular Birthmarks
Hannah Storm revealed on camera during her morning show that she has a port wine stain under her left eye.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Happy Chanukah!  (save the oil)
Tonight heralds Chanukah, the 8-day Jewish festival of lights. Because that light came from oil, celebrating Hanukah includes eating foods fried in oil. This year choose an oil low in cholesterol and saturated fats.
(Radio Transcript)
Happy Ground Hog’s Day
Read an article that urges you to seek medical treatment at the first sign of a problem rather than hiding like a ground hog.
(Radio Transcript)
Happy Mothers’ Day
When was the last time your mother had a general check-up? Many women neglect their annual Pap smears and pelvic exams after they’ve finished having children or gone through “the change”; is your mom one of them?
(Radio Transcript)
Happy Thanksgiving: Advances in Women’s Health We Are Most Thankful For
As I reflect on all that I am thankful for today, I have to include the progress made in women’s health research and development in the past year alone. We now have medicines available that were only pipe dreams a decade ago.
(Radio Transcript)
Have You Had Your Mammogram Yet?
Most doctors recommend that their patients have a baseline mammogram at age 35. Why not earlier?
(Radio Transcript)
Have You Had Your Mammogram Yet?
Most doctors recommend that their patients have a baseline mammogram at age 35. Why not earlier?
(Radio Transcript)
Having Breasts of Different Sizes
I'm 42 and over the past 10 years or so, my right breast has slowly grown larger than my left breast. What causes the difference in breast size?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Headache and Dizziness After Miscarriage
I had a miscarriage 2 weeks ago. Ever since then sometime throughout the day I get a headache with a dizzy feeling. Is this something I should be concerned about or is my body just going through changes because of the miscarriage?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Headache Decisionnaire
Most women with migraine suffer for 3-4 years before seeking medical attention! This is unnecessary!
(Decisionnaire)
Headache Myths
Dr. Donnica debunks four common myths about headaches.
(Debunking Myths)
Headache Prevention
Since stress is high on the list of headache causes and migraine triggers, stress management techniques are high on the list of headache prevention strategies. These include massage, meditation, biofeedback, and having a positive attitude.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Health on the Web
There are a lot of websites out there that provide health information. How do I know if they’re reliable and what can I do to protect myself against false information?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Healthy New Year’s Resolutions
This year try a different approach to New Year's resolutions. Try writing 10 healthy resolutions that you can and will achieve; write resolutions that are not only specific and achievable, but which you can view as GIFTS to yourself. . .and to your family.
(Article)
Healthy New Year’s Resolutions
Think of your resolutions as gifts to yourself, rather than as punishments. Resolve to give yourself--and your family--the gift of a healthier lifestyle this year.
(Radio Transcript)
Healthy Skin Tips
Having healthy looking skin is not just a cosmetic concern. When skin looks healthy, that’s generally because it IS healthy! Here are Dr. Donnica’s Top 10 Tips for Healthy Skin:
(Tip)
Healthy Travel
Dr. Donnica’s Top Tips for Healthy Travel
(Tip)
Healthy Weight Gain
The only articles I ever see in magazines regarding weight is how to lose. How can I put weight on?!! I'm 5'6' and weigh 118lbs. I know that is acceptable, but I look very thin. Is there a healthy way to put pounds on while maintaining a healthy diet???
(Frequently Asked Question)
Healthy Weight Management Tips For The Holidays
A major myth related to holiday weight gain has been busted just in time for this year’s holiday season: most people don’t gain the 3-7 pounds we previously thought.
(Article)
Healthy Women Over 40 Decisionnaire
If you are a woman over age 40 and if any of the following 7 items can be checked, it’s time to schedule your next doctor’s appointment!
(Decisionnaire)
Heart Attack Decisionnaire
Complete a check list about heart attack to discuss with your physician.
(Decisionnaire)
Heart Attack Prevention
Can Heart Attacks be Prevented?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Heart Disease:  Reducing Your Risks
Read a radio transcript discussing the high risk of heart disease in women.
(Radio Transcript)
Heart Health
Heart Health Links and Resources
(Women's Health Resources)
Heart Healthy for the Holidays
Since heart disease is the number one killer of women and men in this country, we want our holiday gift to you to be information on how you can reduce your risk of this deadly and disabling condition.
(Radio Transcript)
Heart Healthy for the Holidays--Hypertension
We think of high blood pressure as something that increases with stress. . .and the holiday season has lots of triggers!
(Radio Transcript)
Heart Healthy For The Holidays: How To Reduce Your Risk Of A Heart Attack
We have a hard time shaking our false beliefs that women (especially young women) don’t die of heart attacks and yet this is the cause of death for one in three women.
(Article)
Heavy Periods and Fibroids
I've given birth to two healthy children, my first when I was 23 and the second at age 31. I hemorrhaged after both deliveries. My doctor blamed it on a fibroid and told me I have nothing to worry about. But for the past year, my periods have been extremely heavy and sometimes they contain several clots. Could this be due to the fibroids?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Help Finding Free Breast Health Services
I have a friend who told me that she will not get a mammogram because she has no insurance. I worry about her because she told me that she felt a lump on her one breast. I told her that she needs to get a mammogram. I know every once in awhile there are free screenings. Can you tell me where I can direct her?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Help for Chronically Chapped, Peeling Lips
For nearly a year, my lips have been painfully chapped and cracked, and the corners are so dry that the skin is peeling and revealing raw, tender skin. I feel totally dependent on chapstick. Is there anything else I can do?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Help for Panic Attacks
Isn't there any way to deal with anxiety without the drugs and their annoying side effects?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Help for Those in Need of Extensive Weight Loss
I am 33 years old. I have developed a heart condition from taking fen-phen, but still need to lose weight. I am looking for some type of teaching center that would perform the lap-band surgery on me. I need to lose weight so bad, but cannot take any more diet pills.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Help Your Incontinence Today! by Dr. Cecile Storrie
Dr. Cecile Storrie, a board-certified urologist, discusses the causes of incontinence, what we can do to avoid it, and the treatment options available.
(Guest Expert)
High Blood Pressure
My doctor told me I have high blood pressure. Is there anything I can do to lower it?
(Frequently Asked Question)
High Blood Pressure
Studies show sitting in a chair with feet on the floor and arm held at heart-level gives a more accurate reading than sitting on an exam table with feet dangling.
(Frequently Asked Question)
High Blood Pressure and Aspirin for Heart Attacks
Recently I had my blood pressure checked at one of those mall kiosks and the nurse told me it was high, which increases my risk of heart attack. Since then I keep hearing about the benefits of taking an aspirin every day to prevent heart attacks, but I'm allergic to aspirin! I'm really nervous, especially because heart disease runs in my family. Is there something else I can take to protect my heart?
(Frequently Asked Question)
High Cholesterol
In adults, cholesterol is classified by levels. Your doctor must interpret your cholesterol numbers based on other risk factors.
(Frequently Asked Question)
High Frequency Hearing Loss
Last spring, I went to bed one night with perfectly good hearing, and woke up the next morning with a loud annoying buzz in my ears. My doctor conducted a hearing test and told me I have high frequency hearing loss. Can that really happen overnight, and is there anything I can do to stop it?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Hip and Knee Replacement for Osteoarthritis
Patients with osteoarthritis should be aware that surgery is not always the only option. What other types of interventions can help this condition?
(Radio Transcript)
Hollywood Fashions A Fight Against MS
MS is a chronic, debilitating disease of the neurological system that does not typically shorten a patient's life span, but affects quality of life by progressively disabling them.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Hollywood Philanthropist ‘Babies’ Her MS
For 13 years Hollywood philanthropist Nancy Davis has had multiple sclerosis. For 11 years she has spearheaded efforts to raise money to find a cure by founding the Center Without Walls.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Hormonal Contraceptive Options
There are now three hormonal, long-term, reversible contraception methods: hormone implants (Norplant) and hormone injections (Depo-Provera or Lunelle). They're all highly effective, but they can cause side effects some women find unacceptable.
(Article)
Hormone Replacement Therapy and Side Effects
For many menopausal women, hormone replacement therapy is a great solution to a number of bothersome menopausal symptoms. However, some women experience side effects, which are sometimes as annoying as the symptoms the medicine was meant to treat. What should women do?
(Radio Transcript)
Hormones and Vision
Women are often accused of having our hormones affect the way we see things. Scientists have confirmed, however, that our hormones do affect our vision.
(Radio Transcript)
Hot Flashes
Hot flashes are the most common menopausal symptom reported by American women. Learn more about recognizing and preventing premenopausal hot flashes.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Hot Flashes and Calorie Burning
I am beginning to experience night sweats and hot flashes, nothing too terrible, though annoying for sure. I just wondered if, with all the heat my body is generating, there might be any calorie burn associated with thehot flashes.
(Frequently Asked Question)
How Can The Cause of Death Be Determined?, by Alan Greene M.D., F.A.A.P.
Dr. Greene has had a powerful Internet connection with families around the world since co-founding DrGreene.com in 1995. He has conducted daily live chat sessions on the web for over three years.
(Guest Expert)
How Can you Participate in a Clinical Trial?
Questions to ask your physician if you want to be in a clinical trial.
(Decisionnaire)
How Do I Know if I Have PMDD?
I've heard that there is a severe form of PMS (premenstrual syndrome) called PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder) and I think I might have it. How do I know for sure?
(Frequently Asked Question)
How Do You Know If You're a Candidate for Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)?
One of the most difficult decisions for menopausal women is to decide whether or not hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is for them. To help you decide, check off all of the descriptions that apply to you, and take this with you when you visit your physician.
(Decisionnaire)
How to Choose a Fertility Specialist, by David Adamson, M.D., FRCSC, FACOG, FACS
Numerous factors, such as medical history and behavioral and environmental health risks, can play a part in reproductive health for both women and men. Fertility specialist, Dr. David Adamson, talks about infertility and its causes and offers advice on choosing a doctor.
(Guest Expert)
How To Choose Your Gynecologist
Your obstetrician-gynecologist (“Ob-gyn”) may be the most important health care partner you ever have. Dr. Donnica discusses different ways to identify the best gynecologist for you.
(Article)
How To Counteract Bloating
Dr. Donnica Moore discusses tips to counteract bloating.
(Tip)
How Your Body Changes When You Stop Taking the Pill
I stopped taking the oral birth control pill. Should I be having any side affects from going off the pill?
(Frequently Asked Question)
HPV
HPV infection is rampant among college students and usually those infected have no symptoms. More importantly, HPV has been well established as the most important causative factor of cervical cancer, as well as penile and anal cancer.
(Radio Transcript)
HPV and Cervical Cancer Myths
Common Myths, Misconceptions, and Misinformation About HPV and Cervical Cancer
(Debunking Myths)
HPV Decisionnaire
How Do You Know If You Need An HPV Test To Prevent Cervical Cancer? Taking this Decisionnaire ™ will help you discuss this with your healthcare provider.
(Decisionnaire)
HRT 101
Estrogen--progesterone--HRT--ERT--do you know the difference? We hear a lot about hormone replacement therapy, or HRT, yet 7 out of 10 women cannot name the two most important female hormones.
(Radio Transcript)
HRT 101
Estrogen—progesterone—HRT—ERT—do you know the difference? We hear a lot about hormone replacement therapy, or HRT, yet 7 out of 10 women cannot name the two most important female hormones.
(Radio Transcript)
HRT 101
Estrogen—progesterone—HRT—ERT—do you know the difference? We hear a lot about hormone replacement therapy, or HRT, yet 7 out of 10 women cannot name the two most important female hormones.
(Radio Transcript)
HRT 101
Estrogen—progesterone—HRT—ERT—do you know the difference? We hear a lot about hormone replacement therapy, or HRT, yet 7 out of 10 women cannot name the two most important female hormones.
(Radio Transcript)
HRT 101
Estrogen—progesterone—HRT—ERT—do you know the difference? We hear a lot about hormone replacement therapy, or HRT, yet 7 out of 10 women cannot name the two most important female hormones.
(Radio Transcript)
HRT After Breast Cancer Does Not Increase Risk of Cancer Recurrence or Mortality
More good news was recently revealed in the debate about hormone replacement therapy--or HRT--and breast cancer!
(Radio Transcript)
HRT and Mental Function
A recent review of the literature sponsored by the federal Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality may clear up some of the confusion about the impact that hormone replacement therapy may have on improving mental function in postmenopausal women.
(Radio Transcript)
HRT and Osteoarthritis of the Knee
More good news for women on hormone replacement therapy: Australian researchers have shown that women who take hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may get protection from osteoarthritis of the knee.
(Radio Transcript)
HRT And The Risk Of Breast Cancer
I heard that the National Institutes of Health just cancelled a huge study on hormone replacement therapy because it increased the risk of breast cancer. Is this true?
(Frequently Asked Question)
HRT and Your Heart
Three studies presented at this year’s American College of Cardiology's Annual Meeting (3/01) indicate that estrogen helps improve several markers of cardiovascular disease.
(Radio Transcript)
HRT Duration
How many years should a woman be on HRT?
(Frequently Asked Question)
HRT Use Prevents Osteoporotic Fractures
A recent article in the Journal of the American Medical Association (6/13/01) supported the importance of early menopausal hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to prevent fractures from osteoporosis.
(Radio Transcript)
Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)
I've been recently diagnosed with cervical dysplasia and was told after asking, that I have HPV. My son's FORMER girlfriend has the same diagnosis. Do my husband and son need to be tested? My son is concerned about infecting a future partner? We are confused!
(Frequently Asked Question)
Hydradenitus Supperativa
What is Hydradenitus Supperativa?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Hyperhydrosis
For the last six months or so I've been experiencing excessive sweating in my feet (hyperhydrosis, or so they tell me!). One doctor told me it's due to an overactive sympathetic nervous system. Is there anything I can do to regulate that?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Hypertension Decisionnaire
Are you at risk for hypertension? Even if you don't have high blood pressure yet, pay particular attention to the factors which are under your control.
(Decisionnaire)
Hypothyroidism & PMDD
I am 28. About 8 months ago I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism. This week I was diagnosed with PMDD as well. Please help me to understand the likelihood of suffering both disorders, or tell me if a second opinion is warranted.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Hypothyroidism--Gail Devers
Gail Devers, track champion, shares her experiences in hypothyroidism, a disease that nearly ended her career, to help others.
(Radio Transcript)
Hysterectomy
Hysterectomy Links and Resources
(Women's Health Resources)
Impact of Obesity on Heart Disease
More Americans battle obesity than any other health problem, but generally do so for cosmetic reasons: most are not even aware what a significant health risk it is to be overweight.
(Radio Transcript)
Implants and Breast Feeding
Can women breastfeed if they have breast implants?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Implants and Mammograms
While breast implants are not causally associated with an increased risk of breast cancer per se, they are known to interfere with mammogram screening.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Important Questions To Ask Your Physician If You Want To Be In A Clinical Trial
Before you enter a clinical trial, it’s a good idea to discuss it with your physician. Dr. Donnica provides a list of questions to ask your doctor if you’re interested in participating in a clinical trial.
(Tip)
Improve Communication With Your Primary Care Physician About Depression
The National Depressive and Manic-Depressive Association (National DMDA) learned in a new survey that consistent and open communication about treatment for depression and antidepressant side effects does not occur often enough -- or thoroughly enough -- between patients and their primary care doctors.
(Tip)
Improving Dental Health for Women
Maintaining proper oral hygiene is an important part of women’s wellness. Your aging smile brings about a new set of concerns you may not have known about in your earlier years.
(Guest Expert)
Improving Women’s Health
Dr. Donnica Moore explains what a woman can do to improve her health in a question and answer format.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Incontinence
Incontinence Links and Resources
(Women's Health Resources)
Incontinence Decisionnaire
If you are experiencing incontinence or bladder leakage, talk to your healthcare provider. Taking this decisionnaire may make things a bit easier.
(Decisionnaire)
Incontinence Myths
Is it true that incontinence is not a disease after all, but simply a
(Debunking Myths)
Increasing Flatulence
Age-related changes in the large intestine, along with increased use of medications and reduced physical activity, tend to slow the transit of stool through the large intestine causing an increased incidence of flatulence (gassiness) as well as constipation.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Induced Labor?
I found your web site because I was looking for some pregnancy info. I am due Friday, and have no signs of labor. My OB told me I will probably have to be induced. Can I wait a few more weeks?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Inducing Labor: When Mother Nature Needs Help Making You a Mother Sooner
Each decision to induce labor is based upon the balance between the risks if the baby stays inside the mother versus those if the baby is born, to both the mother and her child. When is it appropriate to induce labor?
(Article)
Inexplicable Hangovers
Enjoy the hors d’oevres, too, because alcohol’s more apt to cause more problems on an empty stomach.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Infertility
For the 6 million couples trying to conceive, the best gift would be a positive pregnancy test. These couples are often bombarded with advice. But what really works?
(Radio Transcript)
Infertility
Infertility Health Links and Resources.
(Women's Health Resources)
Infertility And The Clear Plan Easy Fertility Monitor
If an individual already knows for sure their day of ovulation, is it worth it to buy the clear plan monitor? Does the day of ovulation change?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Infertility Specialist, Dr. David Adamson, Featured on New Women's Health Web Site
Dr. David Adamson, a nationally known infertility specialist and Medical Director at Fertility Physicians of Northern California (FPNC), is currently a featured expert on DrDonnica.com, the new women’s health web site launched by Dr. Donnica Moore.
(Press Release)
Insomnia
Insomnia includes difficulty falling asleep, difficulty staying asleep, and difficulty with waking up too early.
(Radio Transcript)
Insurance for Mammogram
Are insurance companies required to reimburse for mammograms?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Interstitial Cystitis
I have been getting urinary tract infections since I was 17 years old. I am now 22 and I get them at a rate of about 6 a year, sometimes more. Could you give me any more information on this topic that I could relay back to my doctors?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Interstitial Cystitis
What is interstitial cystitis?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Interstitial Cystitis
Resources pertaining to interstitial cystitis and incontinence.
(Women's Health Resources)
Interstitial Cystitis and Pepsi
I have had interstitial cystitis forever and I drink a lot of Pepsi. I wanted to know if that has something to do with my frequent urination?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Intertrigo
Lately I've noticed some sort of rash developing in the creases beneath my breasts. It's red, itchy and looks like it's spreading. What can I do to get rid of it?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)
The greatest barrier to more widespread IUD use is the lack of familiarity of the product among women and physicians alike. In well-selected patients, IUDs provide reliable contraception for up to 10 years with minimal side effects and complications.
(Article)
Iron or Vitamin Deficiency and Fingernail Health
fingernails may be a window to certain nutritional deficiencies. But don’t read too much into your self-diagnoses.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Irregular Periods
I have been having irregular periods for the past 4 years. They say I am too young to be going through menopause (29). When they started me on the birth control pills, they mentioned that if the pills didn't work that the only other option was having a hysterectomy. If they can't find anything wrong why would they mention a hysterectomy? Where does this leave me!
(Frequently Asked Question)
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Up to 20 percent of all U.S. adults are affected by IBS, (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) which involves an abnormality of the muscular action that passes food along the colon, as well as an increased sensitivity of the nerves in the colon.
(Radio Transcript)
Is it hot in here, or is it just me?
Menopausal hot flashes have become the news flashes of this decade. Now that the Baby Boomers are entering menopause at a rate of 4,000 per day, hot flashes are a popular topic of conversation. But what are they, really?
(Radio Transcript)
Is it Hot in Here, or is it Just Me?
Menopausal hot flashes have become the news flashes of this decade. Now that the Baby Boomers are entering menopause at a rate of 4,000 per day, hot flashes are a popular topic of conversation. But what are they, really?
(Radio Transcript)
Is Ovarian Cancer Racist?
National statistics show that African American women have a much lower incidence of ovarian cancer than white or Hispanic women, but they have much higher death rates from ovarian cancer than either of these two groups.
(Radio Transcript)
Is There a Blood Test for Breast Cancer?
We hear a lot about new scientific discoveries every day in the fight against cancer, and most of them are positive, although pretty confusing. Is there a blood test for breast cancer?
(Radio Transcript)
Is There a Blood Test for Menopause?
It seems as though you can go to the doctor’s and get a blood test for just about anything these days--is there a blood test for menopause?
(Radio Transcript)
Is There a Blood Test for Ovarian Cancer?
We hear a lot about new scientific discoveries in the fight against cancer, and while most of the new is good news, it's also confusing. Is there really a blood test for Ovarian Cancer?
(Radio Transcript)
Is There a Link Between Caffeine and Miscarriages?
Caffeine has been blamed for a host of medical problems, but a big mystery has been whether healthy pregnant women really needed to go cold turkey from their morning cup of coffee. Is there a link between caffeine and miscarriages?
(Radio Transcript)
Is There a Relationship Between Breast Cancer and HRT?
Are you confused about hormones and breast cancer? While the relationship between estrogen and breast cancer is not crystal clear, doctors generally agree that estrogen does not cause breast cancer, although it may cause an existing cancer to grow.
(Radio Transcript)
Is there a relationship between Breast Cancer and HRT?
Are you confused about hormones and breast cancer?
(Radio Transcript)
Is There a Relationship Between Breast Cancer and HRT?
Are you confused about hormones and breast cancer?
(Radio Transcript)
Is Your Marriage Breaking Your Heart?
Anyone who is married or has been knows that marital stress can cause everything from heartache to heartbreak. But can it cause a heart attack?
(Radio Transcript)
It's More Than "Just The Flu"
The
(Article)
It’s getting to be that time of year when mothers say “Put your coat on or you’ll get the flu!”
It’s getting to be that time of year when mothers say “Put your coat on or catch a cold!
(Radio Transcript)
It’s Not All In Your Head: What To Do About Subtle Changes As You Age
Are you feeling sick and tired? Are you tired of feeling sick and tired? Or are you just plain tired? Are you tired because you are just getting older? Or. . .is it “just in your head”?
(Article)
IUD Usage
Most American women don’t even think of the copper IUD—intrauterine device—when it comes to selecting a contraceptive. In fact, only 1% of American women use an IUD. Why?
(Radio Transcript)
James Woods Directs Stroke Awareness
Stroke is the third leading cause of death in America. Approximately 700,000 Americans have new or recurrent strokes each year.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Jamie Lee Curtis Helps Teens Cope
After her roles in the Halloween movies, teens might be used to Jamie Lee Curtis trying to scare them. But the Emmy and Golden Globe-winning actress has a gentler, more compassionate approach when it comes to helping teens in crisis, especially those dealing with alcohol problems.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Jane Seymour Pioneers Natural Flu Remedies
Jane Seymour may live in an era of high-tech health care, but her secret to staying well is actually more similar to pioneer treatments her character on Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman prescribed.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
January is Mental Wellness Month
January is Mental Wellness Month--a time to focus on our own mental wellness, those with mental illness, and the care-givers of those with mental illness. Emmy-award winning actress Linda Dano describes her experience caring for her late father, who had Alzheimer’s.
(Radio Transcript)
January is National Eye Care Month -- When was the last time you went to the eye doctor?
Did it seem as though your vision started to decline after you hit 40? While there are many possible causes, this is the time to become aware of age-related macular degeneration or AMD. What is AMD?
(Radio Transcript)
Jared Takes Steps To Help Kids Fight Fat
Jared is an unlikely addition to the pantheon of single-name celebrities like Madonna, Cher and Sting. But the now-famous Subway spokesman is using his fame to help kids avoid the pain and anguish of obesity that he endured growing up.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Jean Smart Has Designs On Curing Alzheimer’s
Losing a loved one to Alzheimer’s disease is never easy. But for former Designing Women actress Jean Smart the loss of her father last year to the devastating neurological disease was particularly painful.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Jeanette Lee Shoots At Scoliosis
As the #1 ranked female pool player in the world from 1994-1996, Jeanette Lee can make a pool ball slam, bend, spin, and curve magically into pockets. But another kind of curve nearly scratched her career – scoliosis, often called curvature of the spine.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Jeff Nygaard On Skin Cancer Prevention
(Celebrity Speak Out)
John Madden Coaches The Public About Vascular Disease
Vascular diseases are life-threatening, potential killers that can strike anyone at any age at any time. As they age, women become particularly vulnerable to vascular illnesses. In fact, one in two women over age 55 dies from vascular illness - one in two!
(Celebrity Speak Out)
John Schneider Promotes Asperger’s Syndrome Awareness
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Julianne Moore Calls For Tuberous Sclerosis Awareness
“I think the most important thing we need to do right now is raise awareness about tuberous sclerosis,” says Julianne Moore, who starred in the hit sequel Hannibal. “It’s a genetic disorder and it’s more common than people might realize. The hope is that it can be identified and treated earlier rather than later.”
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Katie Couric Reports On Colorectal Cancer
As co-anchor of Today, Katie Couric keeps America informed every morning. Since colorectal cancer claimed the life of her husband, Jay Monahan, Couric has dedicated her life to making sure people stay informed about this very preventable cancer.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Kenny Rogers Doesn't Gamble With Heartburn
After selling over 100 million albums, packing concert halls and winning four Grammys, it wasn’t boredom or retirement that nearly kept Kenny Rogers from performing. It was heartburn!
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Kidney Infection or Ovarian Cancer
I'm 27 years old. I have been having pain in my back on my right side. About two weeks ago, it got so bad I had to go to the hospital and they said I had a really bad kidney infection. I have also been bleeding in between periods. I have been so tired and don't have the energy to do anything anymore. I get so bloated that my clothes don't fit right. Could these be the symptoms of ovarian cancer?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Kidney Stones: Preventing a Recurrence
few months back, I suffered from an excruciatingly painful kidney stone attack. My doctor told me that once you have one, there’s a good possibility that at some point you’ll have another. Is there anything I can do to prevent another agonizing episode?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Knitting and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
A few years ago, I took up knitting and it’s become my favorite way to unwind at night. The only trouble is that I’ve started waking up in the middle of the night with a tingling sensation in the fingers of my left hand. If I shake my hand for a few moments, it usually goes away, but the sleep disturbances are starting to leave me exhausted and they seem to be happening more often. Could this be a sign of something serious?
(Frequently Asked Question)
LA Style Editor Erasing Stigma Of Birthmarks
Joie Davidow co-founded one of America’s biggest weekly papers and was the editor-in-chief of L.A. Style magazine. But beneath the fashion and glamour, Davidow was hiding a painful secret – a hand-sized birthmark, called a port wine stain, which covered much of her face.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Labor Day--Something About Pregnancy
Practicing stress management sounds like an easy and obvious tip, but when the process of making a baby goes slowly, it can be frustrating and stressful. While stress itself does not cause infertility, it can interfere with conception.
(Radio Transcript)
Lack Of Energy
I have an
(Frequently Asked Question)
Ladies First: eHealthcareWorld Prescribed a Forum to Help Save Women's Lives
A number of influential women have chosen eHealthcareWorld as the venue to address many outlets attempting to utilize the Internet to maximize women's health.
(Press Release)
LAP-BAND, A Hit With Heart’s Ann Wilson
For rock star Ann Wilson, controlling her weight had been a lifelong, often disheartening challenge. But now Heart’s lead singer is thrilled by her weight loss, changing figure, and increased energy after undergoing a new laparoscopic surgical procedure called LAP-BAND Adjustable Gastric Banding System.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Larry King’s Magic Heals Hearts
CNN legend Larry King makes his living talking. When it comes to the Larry King Cardiac Foundation, he focuses acutely on making magic and miracles happen.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Lee National Denim Day
Do you know what actress Lucy Liu will be wearing tomorrow? Jeans—and so am I. This is to support the 2001 Lee National Denim Day®, the world’s largest single-day fundraiser for breast cancer.
(Radio Transcript)
Leg Cramps and Nerve Root Pressure
I spend my days chasing after two toddlers, so occasional muscle pain is just par for the course. But about a month ago I began experiencing frequent and painful cramping in the backs of my legs, especially when I'm sitting. It's getting so bad that I can't even sit down to enjoy dinner with my family! What could this be, and what can I do about it?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Leg Swelling
I have a problem with my legs swelling. I won’t even put on a pair of shorts anymore they swell so much. I don’t know what to do about them. Could you please help me?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Leg Swelling
I have a problem with my legs swelling. I won’t even put on a pair of shorts anymore they swell so much. I don’t know what to do about them. Could you please help me?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Lichen Planus
After being diagnosed with a urinary tract infection about four months ago, my doctor prescribed antibiotics to clear it up. It worked well, but I’ve now developed these patches of little white lines and dots on my tongue and the insides of my cheeks. What is it, and what can I do about it?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Lipid Disorders and Your Heart, by Alfred O. Berg, M.D., M.P.H.
Most people associate cholesterol and heart disease. But this is only one of several lipid disorders that can place you at increased risk for developing heart disease.
(Guest Expert)
Liposuction, by Alan Matarasso, M.D.
Liposuction surgery is the removal of excess fat below the skin by a suction mechanism to create harmony with disproportionate body sites and enhance the overall body contour. It now represents the most common plastic surgery procedure performed.
(Guest Expert)
Lisa Gay Hamilton Acts To End Violence Against Women
Lisa Gay Hamilton played an attorney dedicated to defending people’s rights. As a woman, Hamilton is fighting to defend fellow women from becoming victims of physical and sexual violence.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Lisa Ling ‘Views’ New Birth Control Method
As the youngest co-host on ABC's The View, Lisa Ling is not afraid to mix it up and challenge the status quo. But when it comes to birth control, she's playing it safe.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Living with Diabetes
As the first Miss America with type one, or
(Radio Transcript)
Lorraine Bracco Treats Depression On Sopranos And Off The Air
Lorraine Bracco who plays a psychiatrist on the hit HBO series “The Sopranos” has partnered with pharmaceutical giant Pfizer to launch an educational campaign called “Why Live with Depression?”™ This campaign is designed to encourage people with depression to seek treatment and provide them with information about depression.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Loss of Sexual Desire After Hysterectomy
I had to undergo a complete hysterectomy when I was only 34, and since then I've lost all sexual desire. I've heard there are things women can do when they experience loss of libido during natural menopause. Is there any help for women like me who go through premature menopause due to surgery?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Low Dose Birth Control Pills
Who manufactures ultra low dose birth control pills? More than one company? I need specifics and can't find them.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Low Dose HRT and Cholesterol
It has long been known that hormone replacement therapy--HRT--can raise the good cholesterol and lower the bad cholesterol levels in menopausal women. Now researchers from Columbia University have shown in a large-scale clinical trial that low-dose HRT is also effective at managing cholesterol levels.
(Radio Transcript)
Low Dose HRT Works
According to the journal Fertility and Sterility (June 2001), women considering estrogen replacement therapy should know that a new low dose combination of estrogen and progestin worked just as well as higher doses did, with fewer side effects.
(Radio Transcript)
Lower Leg Tingling at Night
I often have an uncomfortable tingling sensation between my knee and ankle that gets worse when I'm trying to fall asleep. Sometimes it's so overwhelming that I'm up half the night fidgeting! I haven't done anything to injure my leg, and I'm so tired of waking up exhausted. Is there anything I can do to make it through the night pain-free?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Lower Your Cholesterol and Triglycerides
Dietary Tips to Lower Your Cholesterol and Triglycerides.
(Tip)
Lung Cancer: Still the Most Lethal
Lung cancer, caused primarily by cigarette smoking, continues to be the number one cause of cancer death, according to a recent report from the Journal of the National Cancer Institute (6/01). Lung cancer now accounts for more than 28% of all cancer deaths--and most of these are preventable.
(Radio Transcript)
Lupus and Menopause
I am wondering if I could be experiencing premature menopause. I will be 31 years old this November. I have been experiencing hot flashes, insomnia (which I never had before), heart palpitations, and headaches. Could this be menopause?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Lynda Carter Fights For IBS
Lynda Carter gained fame playing Wonder Woman, America’s ultimate female superhero. Today she’s vanquishing a more insidious villain -- irritable bowel syndrome.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Maintaining Mental Function
I am worried about the effects aging will have on my abilities to think independently and maintain a clear head. Are there any steps I can take as I age to keep dealing with a full deck?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Mammogram: What to Expect
What should I expect when I have a Mammogram?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Mammography For Women 40 And Over, by Janet D. Allan, Ph.D., R.N., C.S.
Guest expert, Janet . Allan, Ph.D., R.N., C.S., addresses the effectiveness of mammmograms in early detection of breast cancer relating to survival rates.
(Guest Expert)
Mammography Reliability
Is mammography reliable?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Management of Thyroid Diseases
8 tips for managing thyroid diseases.
(Tip)
Managing Heartburn
Dr. Donnica's tips for managing heartburn.
(Tip)
Managing Heartburn
What can I do for heartburn?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Managing Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Abundant medical research has shown the connection between mind and matter: in many cases, depression can make conditions worse. Irritable bowel syndrome— or “IBS”—is a good example.
(Radio Transcript)
Managing Morning Sickness
Top Ten Tips for Managing Morning Sickness.
(Tip)
Managing Perimenopause
I have been to two doctors now and they do not find that my hormone levels have changed. I have most of the symptoms of menopause, but not the hormone change. Is it true that I can be in a pre-menopause stage?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Managing Your Medicine Cabinet
Did you know that there are now more than 300,000 over-the-counter medicines available in the United States? It’s probably a good idea to give your medicine cabinet a long overdue makeover!
(Tip)
March is Poison Prevention Month
Shakespeare first warned to beware the ides of March. . .Now, the Council on Family Health has issued a warning to beware of unintentional poisoning accidents during the month of March.
(Radio Transcript)
Mariette Hartley Triumphs Over Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is a serious, chronic illness accompanied by disabling mood swings from high (manic) to low (depressed). While the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill reports that bipolar disorder afflicts over three million Americans, a new study estimates this number could be around seven million.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Marilu Henner Driven By Healthy Holiday Foods
Actress and author Marilu Henner played a cab driver in the hit television series Taxi, but in real life it’s Henner who is driven – to stop holiday weight gain with healthier, tastier food
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Marilu Henner Teaches Healthy Resolutions
Former Taxi-alum turned health author Marilu Henner knows change can be difficult to embrace. With New Year’s health resolutions being made by the millions, Henner has several tips for success so you can enjoy better health.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Mark Spitz Defeats Acid Reflux Disease
Instead of worrying that Michael Phelps might break his Olympic record of seven gold medals, you might be surprised to learn that Mark Spitz has been rooting for Phelps to re-energize the sport of swimming. What really gives Spitz heartburn is acid reflux.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Marlo Thomas Crusades For Kids With Cancer
“St. Jude is the patron saint of hopeless causes. Many parents come to us having been given a death sentence for their child. But our doctors have at excelled at fulfilling our promise of hope -- so many of these parents ultimately end up saying, ‘You saved my child,’” says Marlo Thomas.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Mary Lou Retton Vaults to "Life Beyond the Bathroom"
It was her size that led Mary Lou Retton to ignore a serious medical condition for decades. “I used to have to go to the bathroom constantly, sometimes more than 25 times a day,” she says now. “Unfortunately, I believed the myth that ‘little people have little bladders’ and just accepted it.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
May is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Awareness Month
Once known as “the yuppie flu”, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is now well recognized as a serious, often disabling, chronic illness. It is marked by exhaustion, muscle pain,
(Radio Transcript)
Media Management Of Women’s Health
While the internet boasts phenomenal search engines and high speed information exchange capabilities which created the “information superhighway”, it has also developed into the “too much information highway”.
(Article)
Medication Safety
Medication safety links and resources.
(Women's Health Resources)
Medicine Cabinet Makeover, Part II
There are now more than 300,000 over-the-counter medicines: which ones do you really need?
(Radio Transcript)
Medicine Cabinet Management
13 tips to manage your medicine cabinet.
(Tip)
Mel Gibson’s ‘Passion’ For Ocean Safety
Whether you know Mel Gibson as the Sexiest Man Alive, Hollywood’s top leading man or as the Academy Award-winning director of Braveheart, there’s no doubt about his passion for everything he pursues. That includes his love of the water and his commitment to promoting ocean safety.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Melanoma, by Babar Rao, MD and Komal Pandya, RPh
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer. Other common skin cancers include basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Melanoma is the deadliest of the three skin cancers and occurs when there is an uncontrolled growth of melanocytes.
(Guest Expert)
Melina Kanakaredes Prescribes Breast Cancer Awareness
“I believe that breast cancer in most people is a preventable disease and a big part of it, but not the whole thing, is hormone balance,” says Dr. Rebecca Glaser, breast cancer surgeon, Dayton Alliance Cancer Center Ohio. “
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Melody Thomas Scott Speaks All About IC
For 26 years, she’s played one of the ultimate survivors of daytime television – Nikki Newman on The Young and the Restless. In real life, actress Melody Thomas Scott has endured her own personal drama, dealing with the painful bladder condition, interstitial cystitis or IC.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Memorial Day
After testing 40 allergy sufferers in a driving simulator, researchers found that the standard dose of the antihistamine in Benadryl and similar medicines had a greater effect than a few drinks on driving
(Radio Transcript)
Memory Lapses
This is why I have everyone wear name-tags whenever I host a party!
(Frequently Asked Question)
Meniere's Disease
Dizziness is fairly common. It may be called lightheadedness, feeling faint, being unsteady, losing balance, or feeling that you or the room is spinning (vertigo). The good news is that most causes of dizziness are not serious.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Menopause
Menopause Health Links and Resources
(Women's Health Resources)
Menopause 101
The average age for menopause in American women is 51. However, when menopause begins and the length of time it lasts varies for every woman. Menopause means more than just losing your periods.
(Article)
Menopause and Contraception
I am a 51 year old woman who has not had a period in over a year. I am not on HRT. Is it necessary for my husband and I to use birth control to be sure that I don't get pregnant? If not now, will there be a time when it is not necessary?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Menopause and Heart Disease
What was once only whispered about in ladies rooms is now cover story material in news rooms: hot flashes are news flashes as 4,000 American women enter menopause each day. But doesn’t it seem that every week there’s a new study on hormone replacement therapy—often with confusing results?
(Radio Transcript)
Menopause And Sex
While menopause marks the end of a woman's reproductive cycle, it does not signal the end of her sexuality. The once popular phrase “finished at fifty” is history.
(Article)
Menopause and Sexuality
While menopause marks the end of a woman's reproductive life, it does not mean the end of her sex life. Studies show that women on estrogen replacement notice the least change in their sexual interest and in their sexual satisfaction.
(Radio Transcript)
Menopause and Sexuality
While menopause marks the end of a woman's reproductive life, it does not mean the end of her sex life.
(Radio Transcript)
Menopause and Sexuality
One survey of 1,000 women over 50 found that a majority of menopausal women claim their sexual desire and interest in sex is just as robust as before menopause.
(Radio Transcript)
Menopause at 43
Early menopause is defined as menopause for any reason before age 40. Sleep disturbances are one of the most common symptoms of menopause.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Menopause Decisionnaire
If you think you are menopausal, see your physician sooner, rather than later. Your symptomatic and long-term treatment may be much more successful if begun early.
(Decisionnaire)
Menopause Myths
Read about common misconceptions of menopause. Learn that symptoms of menopause, like any other disease or disorder, can be treated.
(Debunking Myths)
Menopause with Patti LaBelle
What was once only whispered about in ladies’ rooms is now cover story material in news rooms: hot flashes have become news flashes!
(Radio Transcript)
Menopause, Depression & HRT
I recently visited my health care provider who checked my hormone levels. The results showed that I am menopausal. I have hot flashes, night sweats, etc. Sometimes these symptoms don't bother me much. The real disturbance for me is depression. I am seriously debating whether or not to take HRT but when I read about HRT on the net I get more depressed because a lot of it seems to be negative.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Menopause: What If Estrogen Is Not For You?
With record numbers of baby boomers now reaching mid-life, menopause has become the news hot flash of the 1990’s. Yet much of what we hear or read about menopause is alarmist, misleading or downright confusing, and focuses on estrogen replacement therapy.
(Article)
Menstrual Allergies and Urticaria
During my PMS cycle, I break out in hives, sometimes badly enough to send me to the hospital. Are you aware of any other woman with this problem?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Menstrual Migraine
Each month, just before my period, I get these horrible migraines that put me out of commission for days. Nothing I do seems to make a dent in the pain. What do you suggest?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Menstrual Migraine is a Distinct and Treatable Condition
(Guest Expert)
Menstrual Odor
Dr. Donnica Moore discusses menstrual odor and what treatment options are available.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Menstruation, Dizziness and Headaches
I am a 32-year-old woman. For my past 3 periods I have been experiencing severe dizziness, headaches, and nausea. This has interfered with my work and home life greatly. What can this be and what can I do to feel better?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Mercury in Tuna and Sardines
I eat tuna fish and sardines for lunch at least 4 times per week. Am I at risk for mercury poisoning, and if so, what will happen? How much fish is safe to eat?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Meridia
What is Meridia? Is it for me? Dr. Donnica gives you the scoop on this common weight loss medication.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Metabolic Disorders
My aunt was diagnosed with a metabolic disorder. I recall reading of a possible cure or breakthrough medicine. Have you heard of any of these cures?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Microbicides
Microbicides are agents that inhibit the transmission of certain viruses. The microbicides of greatest interest now are vaginal agents to inhibit the sexual transmission of HIV, the virus that leads to AIDS.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Migraine
Why do more women suffer from migraines? I seem to get one a few days before my period almost every month.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Migraine and Menopause
How does menopause impact women who have migraines?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Migraine Decisionnaire
Any person—adult or child—who has “the worst headache of my life”, that does not resolve with standard over-the-counter therapy, should contact their physician immediately.
(Decisionnaire)
Migraine Headache
Migraine Headache Pain Links and Resources.
(Women's Health Resources)
Migraine Headaches and Flashing Lights?
I have had problems with these headaches for many years now but last night while driving home the car behind us flashed its bright lights three times and I had one of the worst I have experienced in a long time. Why is it that the light hurt me so badly while my husband was not affected?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Migraine Myths
Just because migraine is common doesn’t mean that it’s normal. Despite the out-dated myths that migraine is “all in your head”, it is a real, legitimate, biologic syndrome that can be prevented, treated, and managed.
(Debunking Myths)
Migraines and Menopause
I have had a lifetime of migraines on a monthly basis. Now that I’ve gone into menopause, the migraines happen more and more frequently. I am 53 years of age, happily married, children living on their own and simply want to be healthy and full of life.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Mimi Rogers Won’t Gamble On Vision
During her recent guest appearances on Vegas and Celebrity Poker Challenge, actress Mimi Rogers learned all about gambling. So when it came to correcting her near-sightedness, Rogers went ‘all in’ for a revolutionary new LASIK procedure.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Mindy Sterling’s ‘Mojo’ Beats Breast Cancer
Actress Mindy Sterling is best known for her hilarious turn as Frau in the Austin Powers movies. But it was Sterling’s healthy sense of humor that she says made all the difference in beating an even worse super villain – breast cancer.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Ming-Na Prescribes Breast Cancer Awareness
On the hit NBC series ER, complete strangers rely on actress Ming-Na’s medical expertise to save their lives. But Ming-Na never imagined that a real health crisis – breast cancer – would strike so close to home.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Minimally Invasive Surgery for Stress Urinary Incontinence: Is TVT for Me?, by Vincent Lucente, MD, F.A.C.O.G
If you suffer from stress urinary incontinence (SUI) you are not alone. This condition affects more than 16.5 million women in the United States and these numbers are growing each year.
(Guest Expert)
Minimally Invasive Surgery for SUI: Laparoscopic Burch Colposuspension, by Vincent Lucente, MD, F.A.C.O.G.
If you suffer from stress urinary incontinence (SUI) you are not alone. This condition affects more than 16.5 million women in the United States and these numbers are increasing annually.
(Guest Expert)
Minimizing Sagging Breasts
I have fairly large breasts. I wear a size 38D bra but since I nursed my two children I've noticed that my breasts are really beginning to sag. Is this hereditary, and is there anything I can do, like exercises, vitamins, special bras, to prevent it?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Miss Universe Promotes World AIDS Day
Amelia Vega is the most beautiful woman in the world. But the reigning Miss Universe is less concerned with her striking looks than with striking a blow against the ugliness of the international AIDS epidemic.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Miss USA Supports Ovarian Cancer Awareness
“Breast and ovarian cancer awareness are the official causes of Miss USA,” Castillo says. “I am the fifth title holder to promote this cause. I’m working with the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund to help raise money and awareness.”
(Celebrity Speak Out)
MomMD.com Selects DrDonnica.com As First Ever Site Of The Month!
MomMD®, the online community for women in medicine, has selected DrDonnica.com as the first recipient of its
(Press Release)
Monica Seles Serves Up Migraine Relief
Tennis champion Monica Seles has won nine Grand Slams and 53 singles titles during her career. But the sweetest victory has been beating migraine pain.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Moore keeping busy with new book, TV appearances
(Press Release)
Moore Medicine
Dr. Donnica Moore | Dr. Donnica Moore
(Press Release)
Morbid Obesity
I am 47 years old and I weigh over 600 LBS. I need help. I have two children that I want to live for. Please help before it is to late for me
(Frequently Asked Question)
More Good News About Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is one of the most feared diseases of all women. However, there is a lot of good news about breast cancer! When diagnosed and treated in its earliest stage, 97% of breast cancers can be cured.
(Radio Transcript)
Moreno And Tilly Team Up Against AIDS
“The most important and immediate message is that HIV/AIDS can kill you,” says Rita Moreno, who won an Oscar for her role in West Side Story. “And if it doesn’t kill you, it can kill someone else. If you’re having sex, you need to protect yourself and others.”
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Morning Sickness
Severe, persistent vomiting during pregnancy is generally not morning sickness: this is a condition called hyperemesis gravidarum, which occurs in about one in 200 pregnancies.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Multi Vitamins and Nausea
Many women are also taking multi-vitamins with iron, which can be upsetting to an empty stomach.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Muscular Dystrophy Telethon Raises New Hope, with Mattie Stepanek and Jerry Lewis
For 38 years Jerry Lewis has been single-mindedly focused on perfecting the art of compassion as the driving force behind the Muscular Dystrophy Association telethon. And his “kids” are enjoying ever-healthier and longer lives because of it.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Mycoplasma Hominis
Do you have any info on pelvic inflammatory disease from m. hominis infection?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Myths About Fibroids
There are several myths about fibroids. The first is a great relief to debunk- the myth that fibroids lead to cancer. In fact, 999 out of 1000 fibroids are not cancerous.
(Debunking Myths)
Myths About Menopause
Read a radio transcript about the myths, misinformation, and misconception of menopause.
(Radio Transcript)
Myths About Postpartum Depression
What is sound scientific fact, and what is a medical myth? Dr. Donnica helps you see the difference between the two as she debunks the myths about postpartum depression.
(Debunking Myths)
Nancy Lopez Needs Her Knees
If professional golfer Nancy Lopez seems to have more of a spring in her step lately, it’s because the grinding knee pain of osteoarthritis that threatened to sideline her career is gone.
(Radio Transcript)
Naomi Judd Helps Heal People With Hepatitis C
After winning Grammy’s and accolades galore, Naomi Judd is adored by millions of country music fans. But one ‘fan’ appreciates Judd more than most. Julia Spears credits the country superstar for being instrumental in her being cured of hepatitis C virus (HCV).
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Nasal Allergy
What's a good remedy for nasal allergy?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Nasal Blockage
For as long as I can remember, I've had trouble breathing through my nose. It feels blocked, but when I blow it no mucus comes out. My doctor ruled out allergies. Any idea what this could be and what can I do about it?
(Frequently Asked Question)
National Women's Health Expert Launches Daily Radio Report To Educate Women about Health Issues
Noted women's health expert and gynecologist Donnica Moore, MD, will take her vital information and advice to the airwaves with the launch of DrDonnica.com
(Press Release)
Nausea & Vomiting in Pregnancy, by Michael P. Carson, M.D.
Persistent vomiting can lead to dehydration, weight loss, electrolyte imbalances, and esophagus or stomach inflammation. Prevention of these complications will keep the mother healthy so the fetus will have the best possible conditions in which to develop.
(Guest Expert)
Nausea in the Morning as a Sign of Pregnancy
I'm having morning sickness, feeling tired all the time, running to the bathroom a lot and the smell of things are making me sick. Is that a sign of being pregnant?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Neck Pain with Hypothyroidism and Menstruation
Two years ago, I was diagnosed with an under-active thyroid and around the same time I began experiencing a dull pain in the back of my neck that coincided with my period. Sometimes it's so overwhelming I have to call in sick, but as soon as my period ends, so does the pain. Could my thyroid be causing this, and what can I do about it?
(Frequently Asked Question)
New Cervical Cancer Testing
Cervical cancer is preventable, treatable and curable if detected in its earliest stages. Cervical cancer is also generally a very slow growing cancer. Prevention, detection and treatment are essential.
(Frequently Asked Question)
New Chlamydia Screening Guidelines
Routine screening for chlamydia--the most common sexually transmitted bacterial infection--is now recommended for all women under age 25 as well as all pregnant women.
(Radio Transcript)
New Cholesterol Screening Guidelines
Heart disease is the number one killer of men and women...and high cholesterol is a major risk factor. Yet many cases of heart disease occur in people who never had their cholesterol checked.
(Radio Transcript)
New Medicines In Development For Women
Read about advancements in development of medicines for women's health issues.
(Article)
New Survey Reveals Surprising Information About Bladder Health and Intimacy
Results of Harris Interactive Online Poll with findings about overactive bladder hindering intimacy.
(Press Release)
New Transdermal Options in Managing Menopause Allow for Better Individualization of Therapy, by Alan M. Altman, M.D.
Menopausal women have an increasing number of treatment options available to them, including transdermal estrogen therapies with different delivery systems.
(Guest Expert)
No More Lactose Intolerance?
It is possible that you may never have been lactose intolerant in the first place.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Noah Wyle Gives Urgent Care To Health Insurance
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Non-Contraceptive Benefits Of “The Pill”
Womens health article about the non-contraceptive benefits of the birth control pill
(Article)
Non-sexual HPV Transmission
After my pap smear showed abnormal cells, my doctor performed a colposcopy and found
(Frequently Asked Question)
Not Tonight Dear, I Have A Headache
Caterer, florist, bridesmaids, mother-in-law...it’s enough to tie you in knots before you tie the knot. Wedding planning is notoriously stressful, but few brides realize that this stress may trigger physical problems like migraines.
(Radio Transcript)
Not Tonight Dear, I Have A Headache
Caterer, florist, bridesmaids, mother-in-law...it’s enough to tie you in knots before you tie the knot. Wedding planning is notoriously stressful, but few brides realize that this stress may trigger physical problems like migraines.
(Radio Transcript)
Not Your Mother’s Menopause: Tips to Manage your Menopause Naturally
Dr. Donnica offers to manage your menopause naturally.
(Article)
Notalgia Paresthetica
A few weeks ago, I noticed a tan patch of skin developing on the upper left side of my back. At first the area was only slightly darker in color, but now it's really itchy and sometimes it burns. What is it and how can I clear it up?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Now Is the Time to Prevent Bone Loss
Twenty-two million American women have osteoporosis, but most don’t know it. The first sign of the disease--bone loss-- is painless; it causes no symptoms until a minor fall becomes a serious accident!
(Radio Transcript)
OC Star Helps Raise Awareness About Teen Pregnancy
As Theresa on the Fox hit The OC, Navi Rawat found her character unexpectedly pregnant. In real life, Rawat is far from the troubled teen she portrays and feels that kids need the correct information to make the right choices in life.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Occasionally Absent Period
I am 23 and for the past 3 months I have not had my period. I am not pregnant either. Is this normal?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Oily Skin
I have the world's most oily skin. Is there a medication available that will slow down my hyperactive sebaceous glands?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Olympic Swimmer Faces Upstream Battle With Infertility
Dara Torres has it all – talent, a bushel of Olympic swimming medals and stunning looks. But while Torres has smashed records and stood atop the pinnacle of competitive swimming, there is one event Torres hasn’t been able to win yet – getting pregnant.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Fish Allergies
Cardiovascular disease runs in my family, and since I keep hearing that omega-3 fats are good for the heart, I want to get more of them into my diet. The problem is, I'm allergic to fish. Does this mean I'm allergic to fish oil capsules too? Is there another, natural way to get omega-3s?
(Frequently Asked Question)
On Being a Physician: A day in the life, by Dr. Alan Greene
Guest Expert Dr. Alan Greene shares a day in the life of a physician, a pediatrician, and the rewards it brings.
(Guest Expert)
One On One Promotes Teen Pregnancy Prevention
One on One is UPN’s hit family show. But the show’s stars Kyla Pratt and Flex Alexander know that for many teens being ‘one on one’ can result in starting a family far too soon.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Ordering Medicine Over the Internet
Is it safe to order medicines and supplements over the Internet?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Osteoarthritis versus Rheumatoid Arthritis: What’s the difference?
Olympic gold isn’t the only thing that Bruce Jenner, Dorothy Hammill, and Bart Connor have in common: they also have osteoarthritis.
(Radio Transcript)
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis Health Links and Resources.
(Women's Health Resources)
Osteoporosis at the Age of 34
I am 34 years old. I have just been diagnosed with osteoporosis and have been put on Didrocal. My doctor told me that the bone density test result was very disturbing. Last year, my mother was diagnosed with osteoporosis and I had just asked for safety's sake to have my bone density tested. How does a 34-year-old woman, who is active and doesn't drink alcohol, get osteoporosis?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Osteoporosis Decisionnaire
We hear a lot about “risk factors” for osteoporosis. To find out if you are at risk, take Dr. Donnica’s Decisionnaire™ for Osteoporosis
(Decisionnaire)
Osteoporosis Diagnosis
Osteoporosis is called “the silent disease”--it rarely has symptoms. As a result, most patients go undiagnosed until they have advanced disease or a fracture. Advanced osteoporosis can cause tremendous pain and frequent fractures.
(Radio Transcript)
Osteoporosis Diagnosis
Osteoporosis is called “the silent disease”-- it rarely has symptoms. As a result, it often goes undetected and undiagnosed.
(Radio Transcript)
Osteoporosis in Women of Color
We know that fair-skinned, white women of eastern European background are at greatest risk for osteoporosis. While this is true, women of color often get the message that as a result, they are not at risk. . .which is simply not true.
(Radio Transcript)
Osteoporosis Myths
Common Myths, Misconceptions, and Misinformation About Osteoporosis
(Debunking Myths)
Osteoporosis Prevention
Osteoporosis is a disease of pediatrics manifested in geriatrics. The best way to way to prevent osteoporosis is to ensure that children, teenagers and young women get an adequate calcium intake.
(Radio Transcript)
Osteoporosis Prevention
Osteoporosis is a disease of pediatrics that shows up in geriatrics. The best way to prevent osteoporosis is to ensure that children, teenagers and young women get an adequate calcium intake. . .it’s like putting money in the bank.
(Radio Transcript)
Osteoporosis Treatment
For years the diagnosis of osteoporosis was overlooked because there weren’t many treatment options for women who couldn’t take estrogen. Estrogen replacement therapy remains the gold standard for osteoporosis prevention and treatment, although it’s not for everyone.
(Radio Transcript)
Osteoporosis Treatment
For years the diagnosis of osteoporosis was overlooked because there weren’t many treatment options for women who couldn’t take estrogen. Estrogen replacement therapy remains the gold standard for osteoporosis prevention and treatment, although it’s not for everyone.
(Radio Transcript)
Osteoporosis, Mrs. America 2002, Laurett Ellsworth Arenz
Laurett Ellsworth Arenz talks about osteoporosis prevention and what you can do to protect your bones now.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Osteoporosis: Should You Be Tested?
8 out of 10 of the 25 million Americans affected by osteoporosis are women, most of whom are over age 50. The word “osteoporosis” simply means “porous bones”. Should you be tested for osteoporosis?
(Article)
Osteoporotic Fractures
Even though osteoporosis causes one fracture every 20 seconds, few people recognize how fractures can affect them. Many still don’t realize that breaking a bone as an adult could be a sign of osteoporosis.
(Radio Transcript)
Out of Breath and Dizzy
I'm 38 years old and in fairly good shape, but recently I've been having major trouble catching my breath. It gets so bad that I have dizzy spells, and the only way I can really fill my lungs is by yawning repeatedly until the spinning stops. I go through this several times a day! I thought maybe I was hyperventilating and tried breathing into a paper bag, but it only made things worse. What could be wrong?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer is the most serious cancer affecting women’s reproductive organs. Ovarian cancer ranks fifth as a cause of cancer deaths among women, and causes more deaths than any other cancer of the female reproductive system.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian Cancer Links and Resources
(Women's Health Resources)
Ovarian Cancer
How is ovarian cancer diagnosed?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer death among American women, but new treatments are available and working well. What was once a death sentence is now often pardoned.
(Radio Transcript)
Ovarian Cancer Blood Test
I received an email warning about a blood test all women should have to screen for ovarian cancer. Is this true?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Ovarian Cysts and the Pill
Low dose birth control pills are considered
(Frequently Asked Question)
Overactive Bladder
Overactive bladder defined, explaining symptoms of urge incontinence and when to seek medical help.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Overactive Bladder? There's Help For You
Too often, physicians forget to ask patients about bladder symptoms, such as bladder leakage, overactive bladder, urinary frequency, urgency, burning, pain or bleeding. The good news is that overactive bladder is treatable without diapers or surgery.
(Press Release)
Painful Nipple Erection
Like most women, exposure to cold air makes my nipples erect. But mine also become excruciatingly painful. The stinging, searing sensation is unbearable and can last up to an hour. Even air conditioning blasts will do it, so I don't get a break during the warmer weather. What can I do about this embarrassing and uncomfortable problem?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Panic Attack
I was enjoying a casual dinner the other night, when all of a sudden my heart started racing. I broke out in a cold sweat and I was shaking, dizzy and short of breath. It was really scary - I thought I was having a heart attack!
(Frequently Asked Question)
Pap Smear Myths and Misconceptions
Do you need a Pap smear if you've had a hysterectomy? How about past menopause? Dr. Donnica debunks common myths about Pap smears.
(Debunking Myths)
Partial Breast Irradiation: The Latest in Breast Cancer Treatment
(Guest Expert)
Paying For Fibroid Surgery
Do you know where I can have my fibroid removed free or for a nominal charge?
(Frequently Asked Question)
PCOS, Fibromyalgia, Stress, And Weight Management
I was diagnosed with pseudo tumor cerebri, B-12 deficiency, fybromyalgia, sleep apnea (have had surgery for this--LP3 with a tonsillectomy) and polycystic ovarian syndrome (by my current doctor's referral to an OBGYN. I hope maybe you could help me by showing me a route to follow so that I can get well and be
(Frequently Asked Question)
Pediatric and Adolescent Health
Pediatric and Adolescent Health Links and Resources
(Women's Health Resources)
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease and Infertility
My doctor said that my infertility problems may be related to my having PID without knowing it in the past. What is PID?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Perimenopausal Spotting in a Heavy Smoker
I have had a problem for a while with my period. It lasts for 5 days, then lingers around spotting for 3 to 5 days more. What is going on?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Perimenopause at 31
I am a 31-year-old whose mother began menopause at the age of 32. I had my period two weeks ago and am having it again. My mood swings are so crazy I thought I was going insane. How do I find a physician that works with young menopausal women?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Perimenopause or Pregnancy
About 15 to 20 years ago, I had my tubes tied. I am 40 years old now and experience problems sleeping as well as hot flashes from time to time. Is it possible for me to get pregnant after all this time?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Persistent Body Odor
Many women who go through menopause have new or increased body odor problems, often related to increased or excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis).
(Frequently Asked Question)
Persistent Stiff Neck and Shoulders
About a month ago, I injured my neck and shoulders lifting heavy bundles at my job. Now, I'm constantly stiff and have been experiencing headaches on a daily basis. I've seen a chiropractor, but he hasn't helped. I don't want to have to go on disability. Is there anything else I can do?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Personal Relationships with Doctors While They are Treating You or a Close Family Member
Do the doctors ever become involved with patients families for reasons other than for the purpose of keeping in touch regarding patient care in the home? I had a relationship that was more than just
(Frequently Asked Question)
PGD Eliminates Threat of Hemophilia in Newborn Babies
(Guest Expert)
Pharmacogenomics
Dr. Donnica Moore discusses and the exciting future of genetics and how it will make a difference in women's health.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Phylicia Rashad Takes Diabetes To Heart
As Clair Huxtable on The Cosby Show, Phylicia Rashad was the imperturbable center of the Huxtable universe. But her father’s death, in 1983, unsettled her world, bringing home to her the harsh reality of diabetes-related heart disease.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Phylicia Rashad: A Campaign Close to My Heart
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Physicians Neglect Discussions With Women About Heart Disease
With so much about women and heart disease in the news, can you believe that still only 4 out of 10 physicians even discuss heart disease with their female patients?! This finding was revealed in a recent survey from the American Heart Association (AHA).
(Radio Transcript)
Pica Ice Craving
Lately I’ve developed this strange craving for ice. I make iced drinks constantly, not because I’m thirsty but because I want to crunch on the cubes. I didn’t realize just how often I was doing it until my husband made a comment. Now I feel self-conscious whenever I chew on a few cubes, but it’s almost as if I can’t help myself. Why is this happening?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Pilonidal Cyst
A few days ago I noticed a large, painful red bump at the end of my tailbone while I was showering. At first, it was slightly tender to the touch, but now it's becoming more painful when I sit. It's too big to be a pimple, and I haven't done anything to cause an injury. Any idea what this could be and how to get rid of it?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Planning A Pregnancy: What You Should Do First
Before conceiving a child, you should discuss the topics included in this article with your obstetrician.
(Article)
Planning Pregnancy and Discontinuing Birth Control Pills
Planning a pregnancy can be an exciting time. Dr. Donnica discusses when to try to get pregnant after discontinuing birth control pills.
(Frequently Asked Question)
PMDD
PMS has become a household word and the brunt of many jokes. According to a recent survey, many women remain unaware of its more severe form, premenstrual dysphoric disorder or PMDD.
(Article)
PMDD
PMDD stands for Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder. It is the acronym for the more severe form of PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome). Like PMS, PMDD occurs the week before the onset of menstruation and disappears a few days after.
(Frequently Asked Question)
PMDD and PMS
Is it possible to alternate back and forth between PMS and PMDD from one month to the next depending on the intensity of the cycle? I think PMDD may be part of what I'm experiencing.
(Frequently Asked Question)
PMDD and Suicide
If your doctor is not available, ask who’s on call for emergencies. Thoughts of killing yourself (or others) should always be treated as urgent medical problems.
(Frequently Asked Question)
PMDD and Violent Behavior
Please help my daughter. She seems to have PMDD. She becomes incredibly violent one week before her period. She hits me and is extremely angry and violent. She'll be 15 in August and she had her first period at the age of 9 3/4.
(Frequently Asked Question)
PMDD VS Bipolar Disorder
I'm a raging lunatic before my period -- crying hysterically and fits of rage within minutes of each other. My suicidal and homicidal thoughts are what's most frightening. My doctor today mentioned I may have Bipolar, which just doesn't ring true with me. Your site has made me think it’s PMDD.Where can I go for the best treatment and evaluation for this disorder?
(Frequently Asked Question)
PMDD vs. PMS
Is it PMS or a more severe condition known as PMDD? Dr. Donnica explains the difference between the two.
(Frequently Asked Question)
PMS
While four of ten women have PMS, few are affected by its more severe cousin, premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
(Radio Transcript)
PMS & PMDD
Four of ten women have PMS. Some women are affected by its more severe cousin, premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
(Radio Transcript)
PMS and Young Women
I would like to know if PMS affects young women between the ages of 18 and 25 years. If so, what are the tests to check stress levels a week prior to menstruation?
(Frequently Asked Question)
PMS Decisionnaire
If you think you may have PMS, start keeping a PMS Symptom Diary. Dr. Donnica discusses possible symptoms of this very common disease.
(Decisionnaire)
PMS Management
Dr. Donnica's 10 tips for PMS management!
(Tip)
PMS Wrangler
Did you know that taking a daily, non-prescription multi-vitamin can help minimize PMS?
(Tip)
PMS: Often Joked About, But Not A Laughing Matter
PMS is a chronic, cyclic mood disorder distinguished by a set of physical, psychological and emotional symptoms that affects approximately four out of 10 women
(Article)
Possible Causes of Chronic Genital Itching
I stumbled across your website in search of answers to our 4 year-old daughter's chronic genital itching. We notice that the symptoms are at their worst after she's been swimming in a pool. Is it possible to be internally allergic to chlorine?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Post-Holiday De-Stressing
Dr.Donnica talks about de-stressing after the holidays.
(Tip)
Postpartum Bleeding After Intercourse
Ever since I gave birth to my third child, I bleed after my husband and I have sex. Should I be worried?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Postpartum Depression
Is it any wonder that 7 of 10 new moms get “the baby blues” after 9 months of pregnancy, hours of labor, childbirth, sleep deprivation, nursing, and radical lifestyle changes?
(Radio Transcript)
Postpartum Depression
Is it any wonder that 7 of 10 new moms get “the baby blues” after 9 months of pregnancy, hours of labor, childbirth, sleep deprivation, nursing, and radical lifestyle changes?
(Radio Transcript)
Postpartum Depression
Is it any wonder that after 9 months of pregnancy, several hours (or days!) of labor and childbirth, sleep deprivation, nursing, and numerous life changes that maternity or
(Article)
Postpartum Depression
Postpartum Depression Health Links and Resources.
(Women's Health Resources)
Postpartum Depression Decisionnaire
What are the symptoms of post-partum depression?
(Decisionnaire)
Postpartum Depression Management
How do I know if I have post-partum depression?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Pregnancy
Pregnancy Health Links and Resources.
(Women's Health Resources)
Pregnancy 101: The Beginning And The End
There has never been better news for pregnancy planning: maternal and fetal complications of pregnancy and childbirth are at an all time low, prenatal diagnostics and interventions have continued to improve, and the “information age” has offered unprecedented access to medically related input.
(Article)
Pregnancy After Bulimia
I was bulimic during my early twenties. It was so bad that I completely stopped menstruating for a year. Today I'm 29 years old, I'm no longer bulimic, and I get my period regularly. Will I be able to conceive?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Pregnancy And Flying
How pregnant can one be and still be able to fly in an airplane? Are there health concerns? Are there airline standards?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Pregnancy and the Pill
A negative home pregnancy test can be frustrating for someone trying to concieve. This article addresses birth control pills, ovulation and when to take a home pregnancy test.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Pregnant and Afraid to Fly
I will have to fly when I am 11 weeks pregnant. I am terrified of flying - I stress before, during and after - could this be harmful to my baby? Should I cancel?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Premarin (conjugated estrogen)
I have been on Premarin (conjugated estrogen) for ten years and would now like to stop taking it. Is this a good idea?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Premature Menopause
Premature ovarian failure (POF) is also known as premature menopause: it is defined as menopause for any reason before age 40.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Premature Menopause Decisionnaire
How Do You Know If You Are Experiencing Premature Menopause?
(Decisionnaire)
Premature Menopause Myths
The most common misperception is that POF (premature ovarian failure) just isn’t a big deal. Upon hearing of this condition, many who are not affected react with nonchalance saying, “I wish I could get out of having my periods 10 years earlier!”
(Debunking Myths)
Premature Ovarian Failure
Better called “premature ovarian failure” (a term many patients with this condition prefer) or “POF”, this is menopause which occurs for any reason before the age of 40 as a result of lost ovarian function.
(Article)
Premature Ovarian Failure and Hormone Levels
I've learned from your website that I'm considered as having premature ovarian failure (POF). My symptoms began when I was 25-26 years old. My doctor tested my prolactin levels and not my FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) or LH (luteinizing hormone) levels. Could you tell me why? Should I request that FSH and LH levels be taken?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Premature Ovarian Failure and HRT
Dr. Donnica answers a question about premature ovarian failure and whether to continue taking HRT.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, by Jean Endicott, Ph.D.
PMDD is a severe form of PMS, which affects about five percent of menstruating women. A new survey shows many women may suffer needlessly because of low awareness of PMDD.
(Guest Expert)
Premenstrual Syndrome
How do I know if I have PMS? Is it just all in my head?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Premenstrual Voice Syndrome
As a kindergarten teacher, talking (and sometimes shouting) is part of my job. Problem is, the week before my period I get incredibly hoarse, so much so that getting through each day is a real struggle. Could it really be related to my menstrual cycle?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Prempro and a Doctor’s Opinion
Concerned about the latest findings regarding prempro? Dr Donnica Moore explains to a reader what she should do.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Preston and Travolta Spotlight Candle Safety
During this holiday season Preston and her co-star in life – John Travolta-- are illuminating some health issues that will keep our homes bright and safe.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Preventing Hair Loss
12 tips for preventing hair loss!
(Tip)
Preventing Melanoma
Moles are suspicious if they are A asymmetrical, if they have B Border irregularity, if they vary in C Color, or if they increase in D Diameter.
(Radio Transcript)
Preventing Osteoporosis
My Mother has osteoporosis and I’ve heard it’s hereditary. Is there anything I can do to prevent osteoporosis?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Preventing the Flu
Flu season is on its way. Is there anything I can do to lower my risk of getting sick?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Preventive Health Issues
Read health guidelines for women. Know when certain baseline tests should be performed and when certain screenings for things such as colon cancer and diabetes are needed.
(Article)
Quick Weight Loss
I have been hearing about a
(Frequently Asked Question)
Quitting Smoking; What Works?
Did you resolve to quit smoking only 6 weeks ago and are still lighting up? You might need a little more support. A review in the Journal of the American Medical Association (8/9/00) reports that combining 2 general types of treatment has the best chance of success: drug therapy combined with behavioral counseling.
(Radio Transcript)
Radio Frequency Bladder Neck Suspension: A Treatment for Genuine Stress Incontinence, by Vincent Lucente, MD, F.A.C.O.G.
If you suffer from stress urinary incontinence (SUI) you are not alone. This condition affects more than 16.5 million women in the United States and these numbers are growing each year.
(Guest Expert)
Raynaud's of the Nipples
Two weeks ago, I gave birth to my first child and she took to breastfeeding almost right away. The only problem is that after she’s done feeding, my nipples are practically white in color, plus they hurt so bad it brings tears to my eyes.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Raynaud's Syndrome
My hands always get really cold in winter, but lately, they feel icy even when I’m indoors, especially at work where they keep the temperature toasty warm. When I put gloves on or rub them together to warm them up, I get a pins and needles sensation. What’s going on?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Rectal Bleeding
My very best friend in the whole world is experiencing a large amount of bleeding in her stool and a large amount of bleeding from her rectum after she has used the restroom. She's only passing little pebbles though. I want to help her, but she doesn't want to talk about it.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections and Chlamydia
I am 32 years old. I have two children, 13 and 7. I started my period while on the Pill. I always seem to have a lot of UTIs, since I started having sex with my fiancé, (we have been together for 2 years) and it seems like I get one every other month or so. I talked to the gynecologist about this when I had my physical. She said to drink more water, and always use the bathroom after intercourse, which I ALWAYS do. I don't understand why I keep getting them, and could it have something to do with
(Frequently Asked Question)
Recurring Bacterial Vaginosis
I've been diagnosed with bacterial vaginosis numerous times, but no matter how many pills or creams my doctor prescribes, nothing seems to clear it up for good.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Red Patches
About 2 1/2 months ago my husband got sick with a bad sinus infection. I've also noticed some red patches that are on his body. I'm concerned about him and wonder if these are signs of cancer.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Red Rash Returns After Course of Antibiotics
I'm 50 years old and last year I began noticing little red bumps around my groin and on my buttocks. At first they stayed below the belt, but now they've crept up to my breasts and underarms.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Red Spider Veins
(Frequently Asked Question)
Red Spots All Over
For about 10 years, tiny, red, pin prick-sized dots have been slowly appearing on my body. The dots seem to be showing up overnight. I find a new one almost every morning, and they're everywhere: my legs, torso, arms and even one on my lip. How can I stop this from spreading?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Reddish-Brown Bumpy Rash
Over the past few weeks, I have noticed several small, reddish-brown bumps developing on the back of my leg. It's not razor burn. The bumps are bigger and firmer to the touch but they are starting to get itchy, but not painful like a rash. Should I be worried?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Reducing Breast Augmentation Surgery Side Effects
I am planning to have breast augmentation surgery in a few months, which I've been looking forward to for years. I am aware that the surgery has many potential side effects. Is there anything I can do to reduce them?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Reducing Holiday Headaches
As the holidays approach, people across the country are looking forward to the twinkling lights, festive music, sweet treats and extra dose of family. But for many, these favorite holiday traditions can also bring on an unwelcome threat of headaches and for some, a debilitating migraine headache attack.
(Tip)
Reducing Your Risk of Gallbladder Disease
gallstones do run in families. The good news is that there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Reducing Your Risk of Heart Disease
Dr.Donnica talks about ways to reduce your risk of heart disease.
(Tip)
Reducing Your Waist and Other Risk Factors for Heart Disease
Hearing about risk factors for heart disease can be scary and frustrating. What should we do with this information? Here with some good news about risk factor reduction is Dr. Rose Marie Robertson, President of the American Health Association:
(Radio Transcript)
Relationships, Pregnancy, and PMDD
How would you suggest convincing someone to get help if they don't think they have a problem? My brother and his wife have been married for 1 1/2 years, and are 5 months pregnant. His wife is showing signs of PMS or PMDD.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Removing an Ovarian Cyst
I was just diagnosed with an ovarian cyst on my left ovary. I had a hysterectomy 8 months ago, but kept my ovaries. I'm only 31 years old. I have had pain for the last 8 months on my left side. I want the doctor to take my ovary out since I have had nothing but problems. Is that a wise decision?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Researcher Blasts USDA Food Pyramid
A new food pyramid, based on the latest research, has been proposed to replace the United States Department of Agriculture Model. It comes out of the Harvard School of Public Health, where Dr. Walter Willett says the USDA pyramid’s first mistake is to restrict all fats.
(Radio Transcript)
Resources for Mom
Resources and Links for Moms
(Women's Health Resources)
Respiratory Health
Resources and Links on Respiratory Health
(Women's Health Resources)
Reversing a Tubal Ligation
I had a tubal ligation a few years ago. I recently remarried and my husband and I want to have a baby. Can the procedure be reversed? Is it safe?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Rheumatoid Arthritis  (RA)
Rheumatoid arthritis--a systemic disease in which immune cells attack and inflame the coverings around various joints. Like all autoimmune diseases, it is usually chronic and it affects up to four times as many women as men.
(Radio Transcript)
Risk Factors for Heart Attack & Heart Disease, Part I
Half of all heart attacks are linked to known risk factors that can be reduced or eliminated.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Risk Factors for Heart Attack & Heart Disease, Part II
What are the additional risk factors to consider for heart attack and heart disease?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Risk of Ectopic (Tubal) Pregnancy
I had a tubular pregnancy a few years ago, and I was told I have a 70% chance of having another. Is that true? And if it is, is there any way for me to prevent it?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Roma Downey Works Miracles With Operation Smile
After a nine-year run as the beautiful angel Monica on Touched by an Angel, Roma Downey has witnessed her share of made-for-TV miracles. But her work with Operation Smile is as close to real heavenly intervention as you’ll ever get.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Rosacea and Desonide Cream
You are not alone in your struggle with rosacea! It affects approximately 14 million adult Americans, many of whom aren't even aware that this common skin disorder has a name.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Rosalynn Carter Campaigns For Mental Health
As first lady, Carter served as the honorary chair of the President’s Commission on Mental Health that ultimately spearheaded the passage of the 1980 Mental Health Systems Act which dramatically increased funding for mental illnesses.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Rosalynn Carter Upbeat About Treating Depression
Former first lady Rosalynn Carter knows that mental illness has long thrived in the shadows of stigma and shame. That’s why as part of her ongoing commitment to improving mental health, Carter is helping illuminate the truth about depression.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Running Out of Treatments for PMDD
This PMDD is driving me crazy. The Prozac I am taking is not working anymore. It is very hard for me to control my anger and outbursts. Last week, I had to leave work early because I wasn't feeling good -- tired, short fuse, and hostile inside of myself. Not good when you work in the Emergency Room!
(Frequently Asked Question)
Sagging Skin After Weight Loss
I have lost a total of 65 pounds over the last 2 years and now I have loose, saggy skin, especially on my inner thighs and the undersides of my upper arms. Is there anything I can do to tone up?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Sally Field Talks about Osteoporosis
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Save Time:  Stay Healthy!
It takes very little time per day to do the top 10 things all women should do to stay healthy!
(Radio Transcript)
Scabies
Contrary to popular opinion, scabies is not a reflection of your personal hygiene; scabies can affect anyone.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Sciatica
I spend my days chasing after two toddlers, so occasional muscle pain is just par for the course. But about a month ago I began experiencing frequent and painful cramping in the backs of my legs, especially when I'm sitting.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Scott Hamilton’s Chemotherapy Ices Cancer
Olympic gold medalist Scott Hamilton has spent a lifetime skating circles around the competition. But testicular cancer almost put his career and his life on ice.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Seasonal Cholesterol Changes
High cholesterol runs in my family, so last year my doctor suggested I get my levels checked every six months, just to be safe. In August they were normal, but when I went back a few weeks ago my reading was several points higher. I haven’t changed my diet since then. Does that mean it’s time to go on cholesterol-lowering drugs?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Seasonal Migraines
Migraine is much more than just a headache. It’s a chronic and recurrent throbbing pain on one side of the head, with or without other symptoms like sensitivity to light or sound, visual changes, and nausea or vomiting.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Secondary Infertility Decisionnaire
How do you know if you have secondary infertility? If you think you do, see your physician sooner rather than later. Your chance for a healthy pregnancy may be much more successful if begun early.
(Decisionnaire)
Secondary Infertility Myths
Dr. Donnica debunks 9 myths about secondary infertility.
(Debunking Myths)
Secondary Infertility:
It seems as though infertility has been steadily increasing: and it is. Not just for first timers, either: secondary infertility refers to a couple in which one or both partners have previously conceived a child, but are unable to have another after a year of trying.
(Radio Transcript)
See Dr. Donnica on The Tyra Banks Show - DrDonnica.com - The First Name in Women's Health
On Monday November 5, Tyra asks the question “Why are we so afraid to talk about what’s up…down there?!” Dr. Donnica is one of three women’s health experts who answer Tyra’s and her guests questions
(Press Release)
Sensitive Teeth and Contact Dermatitis from Using Strontium Chloride
my teeth have been really sensitive to cold and to sugary foods. I switched to a toothpaste with strontium chloride, which I heard was good for sensitive teeth, but after just two days of using it, my lips have become chapped. What should I do, and will I ever eat ice cream again?
(Frequently Asked Question)
September is Menopause Awareness Month
For the past 5 decades, the American media have closely followed every new Baby Boomer trend. Now with 4,000 women entering menopause per day, this topic is a popular one. Sadly, however, most women are still confused about where to get reliable medical information about menopause.
(Radio Transcript)
September is Menopause Awareness Month
For the past 5 decades, the American media have closely followed every new Baby Boomer trend. Now with 4,000 women entering menopause per day, this topic is a popular one. Sadly, however, most women are still confused about where to get reliable medical information about menopause.
(Radio Transcript)
Sex and Relationships in Adolescence
I'm 15 and my boyfriend and I are talking about having sex but I am really worried about getting pregnant. What are the chances of getting pregnant your first time while using protection and possibly birth control? Is using two condoms more effective?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Sex Selection Before Conception
I have 2 beautiful little girls and would love to have a boy as my last child. My friends told me that there are tricks that would improve my chances but I'm skeptical. Could you recommend something?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Sexual Partners and the Human Papilloma Virus
I recently had abnormal pap results and a colposcopy done. The results are changes
(Frequently Asked Question)
Sharon Lawrence Dives Into Coral Calcium
NYPD Blue alum Sharon Lawrence portrayed a character that made a living determining right from wrong. Now Lawrence is helping people make a similar distinction when it comes to the health of the world’s coral reefs.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Sharon Osbourne ‘Unstoppable’ In Beating Colon Cancer
Sharon Osbourne is frequently described by her husband Ozzy as “unstoppable.” Never has that remark been more appropriate than when describing Osbourne’s passion for helping people with colon cancer.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Should You Be in a Clinical Trial?
Everyday we hear the results of new medical studies. Did you ever wonder “Who are all these people in these studies?” Did you ever wonder if YOU should be in a clinical trial?
(Radio Transcript)
Should You Be in a Clinical Trial?
Many people think that clinical trials are only for patients who are very ill or affected by a rare disease. But just about any one could be in a study--from healthy individuals to those in all stages of various illnesses.
(Radio Transcript)
Should You Have a Heart Scan?
Have you ever wondered if you could actually look inside your heart and coronary arteries to determine exactly what your risk is for a heart attack?
(Radio Transcript)
Shoulder Pain
Lately I’ve been experiencing almost daily soreness and shooting pain in my right shoulder. Some days I can’t even sling my purse over my shoulder without getting a twinge. I can’t figure out what causes it. I’m a law clerk, so it’s not like I’m doing any heavy lifting. What could be wrong?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Shoveling Snow and Heart Health
My husband often tries to get out of shoveling the snow by claiming that it's not good for his heart. Is this true?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Singer-Songwriter, Soraya, Offers Message Of Hope To Women With Breast Cancer
A voice of hope and survival for women with breast cancer, Latina singer-songwriter Soraya is using her powerful voice for more than just hit records.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Size and Shape Matter
For women who are overweight having an apple shape, or weight on your upper abdomen present much greater risk from any degree of overweight. In other words, two women, who are about the same amount overweight, the one with the fat on the abdomen is at greater risk.
(Radio Transcript)
Sjogren’s Should Be Treated Early
If your eyes or mouth become extremely dry and you have aches and pains in muscles and joints, schedule a visit to your doctor. Dr. Janine Smith of the National Eye Institute, says these symptoms may signal the onset of Sjogren’s Syndrome.
(Radio Transcript)
Skin Cancer Prevention
Make your summer motto “Slip, Slap, Slop”: Slip on a shirt, slap on a hat, and slop on plenty of sunscreen!
(Radio Transcript)
Sleep Bruxism
The symptoms include jaw muscle discomfort, a dull headache, earaches, and wear and-tear of the teeth.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Sleep Disorders
Resources and Links for Sleep Disorders.
(Women's Health Resources)
Sleep Disturbances
When was the last time you got a really good night’s sleep?
(Radio Transcript)
Sleep Disturbances in Women
I am woman-I am strong-I am invincible-I am tired!
(Radio Transcript)
Sleep Disturbances in Women
I am woman-I am strong-I am invincible-I am tired!
(Radio Transcript)
Sleep Myths
Dr. Donnica Debunks the Myths About Sleep
(Debunking Myths)
Slim Fast and Breastfeeding
Is it ok to drink Slim Fast while I'm nursing my baby?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Slip, Slap, Slop against Skin Cancer
This summer, give yourself protection with a slip, slap and slop: Slip on a shirt, slap on a hat, and slop on some sun screen with an SPF of 15 or higher.
(Radio Transcript)
Smoking Cessation
Smoking Cessation Links and Resources
(Women's Health Resources)
Social Anxiety Disorder
Social anxiety disorder is characterized by intense anxiety, fear and self-consciousness in social situations. Also known as social phobia, social anxiety disorder is one of the most under-diagnosed anxiety disorders.
(Decisionnaire)
Social Anxiety Disorder With Ricky Williams
Dr.Donnica talks to Ricky Williams about Social Anxiety Disorder.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Soft, Peeling Nails
Taking a daily multivitamin is a smart first move, but be sure that it has iron!
(Frequently Asked Question)
Some Infertility Problems Can Be Prevented -- Here's How, by David Adamson, M.D., F.R.C.S.C., F.A.C.O.G., F.A.C.S.
It is a known medical fact that a woman's fertility -- the ability to get pregnant and carry that pregnancy to full term -- decreases as she ages. While today's infertility treatments are very successful in helping women of all ages get pregnant, it is most likely that women in their twenties and early thirties will achieve pregnancy, with or without treatment.
(Guest Expert)
Sore, Aching Foot
High heels or any improperly fitting shoes are common contributing factors.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Soy And Acne
Can soy supplements or phytoestrogens improve acne? Can women taking birth control pills also take soy supplements or phytoestrogens?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Spermicides
Spermicides are non-prescription and easily available in many different preparations (creams, foams, jellies, suppositories). Ideally, spermicides should be used with another method, such as condoms or diaphragms.
(Article)
Spotting and Possible Pregnancy
I'm having symptoms of pregnancy -- morning sickness, vomiting, tender breasts, and spotting every once in a while. This morning I started bleeding. I was wondering if that was a sign that something could be wrong?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Spotting Between Periods
There are many factors that can influence the regularity of your menstrual cycle and cause mid-cycle spotting, or metrorrhagia. These causes range in severity.
(Frequently Asked Question)
STAR Trial
Dr. Donnica discusses the STAR Trial, an on-going study of tamoxifen and raloxifene and their effects on breast cancer.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Stomach Noises
Even the good kind—like being excited about chairing the meeting-- can stimulate the smooth muscles of your intestines, forcing air pockets to move noisily through your system.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Stopping the Pill Before Getting Pregnant
Why do most doctors recommend having one period after stopping the pill and before trying to get pregnant?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Stress
Stress is a normal part of life: it can increase your motivation, perception, and productivity. . .in small doses, and when managed properly.
(Radio Transcript)
Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI)
Stress urinary incontinence, the most common form of urinary incontinence, is defined. Causes of SUI are also included in this article.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Stressful Life Changes
I have no idea who to talk to. Within the last 30 days I have gained at least 30 pounds. I am taking Zyban for smoking (29 days of not smoking now) and it is making me crazy and over emotional. My husband thinks I am suffering from PMDD, which could be true. Read more about dealing with stressful life changes.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Stroke and Related Conditions
Women and Stroke Links and Resources
(Women's Health Resources)
Stubborn Yeast Infections
Last year my gynecologist gave me a prescription for ortho-tri-cyclen for PMS and an antibiotic for vaginitis. The yeast infection has been coming back over and over again. I was wondering if this could be happening because of the Ortho-Tri-Cyclen?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Study Confirms Existence of Ovarian Cancer Symptoms
Ovarian cancer is commonly referred to as “the silent killer”. But a recent study confirms what ovarian cancer survivors have long known: that ovarian cancer DOES have symptoms, but they are frequently overlooked, dismissed, or ignored.
(Radio Transcript)
Sudden Appearance Of Facial Hair
I have facial hair on and under my chin. They just came all at once. What is the reason for this and how can I get rid of them?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Sudden Chest Pain
While I was watching television last week, I hopped up during the commercial break to grab a snack and was stopped dead by a searing pain in my chest. But then, about 40 seconds later, the pain just subsided and hasn't returned. I don't think it was a heart attack, but what else could it be?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Superficial Phlebitis
Varicose veins run in my family, so when a few appeared on my legs I wasn’t exactly surprised. But then one of the veins started looking really swollen, plus it turned red and hurt to touch. Now it’s starting to burn, particularly when I get out of bed in the morning. Is this serious?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Surgery for Overactive Bladder
It seems clear that I've had OAB for many years and Detrol is providing very little, if any relief. Is surgery an option?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Surprise Belching
Abnormal belching may also be caused by GERD, gastroesophageal reflux disease or “heartburn,” a condition in which the LES is abnormally relaxed, allowing stomach air to be easily expelled upward.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Survivor Doc Writes Prescription For Emergencies
Have you ever dreamed about being on Survivor? Want to know how to increase your chances of winning? Read the new book Survivor First Aid.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Sweaty Palms
The first step is to identify and treat any possible underlying causes, such as stress, or underlying medical conditions, such as infections, thyroid problems,malignancies, obesity, or menopausal hot flashes.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Swollen Ankles and Feet
If skin quickly returns to its pre-touched state, the swelling may be caused by your recent period of forced inactivity.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Symptoms of Ectopic (Tubal) Pregnancy
Do you get the same symptoms, like nausea and swollen breasts, when you have a tubular pregnancy? Can you get pregnant after having a tubal ligation?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Synthroid
I was wondering if synthroid is safe to take if you have been told you can't take hormones when going through the change. I noticed that synthroid is a hormone replacement.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Taking Care Of Yourself When There's A New Baby In The House, by Dr. Alan Greene
Guest expert, Dr. Alan Greene, discusses ways a new mom can find time for herself after the birth of her newborn.
(Guest Expert)
Taking the Pill to Cause a Miscarriage Does Not Work
I'm 17 years old and I just found out that I'm pregnant. I'm really scared and not ready. One of my friends informed me that if I take the birth control pill it would cause me to have a miscarriage. I was wondering if this was true?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Talk To the Men In Your Life About Prostate Cancer
DrDonnica.com focuses on women’s health issues, so we haven’t discussed prostate cancer. . .yet. But as we celebrate Fathers’ Day, we realize that the health of the men in our lives is often as important to us as our own.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Talk to Your Doctor if You Have Bladder Symptoms
Learn how bladder problems are not normal. Read the different diagnoses and symptoms.
(Article)
Talking To Your Doctor About Relief From Painful Cramps, by Jeffrey Ellis M.D.
For women with dysmenorrhea, menstrual periods are often accompanied by a combination of migraines, heavy bleeding and cramps even more severe than labor pains.
(Guest Expert)
Tamoxifen
What is tamoxifen? Learn more about the use of this medication.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Tara Lipinski Skates Past DVT
Figure skating diva Tara Lipinski accepted her Olympic gold medal with total elation. But her joyous smile hid the pain caused by a damaged hip that later would require surgery – and put her at risk for a little known but potentially deadly condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Temporary Tinnitus
Other possible causes may include ear infection, earwax compaction, certain medications or even high blood pressure or thyroid problems.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Ten Reasons to Eat More Fruits and Veggies
This year, don’t resolve just to lose weight, but to eat more: more fruits and veggies that is. Why? The American Institute for Cancer Research suggests ten good reasons.
(Radio Transcript)
Ten Reasons to Eat More Fruits and Veggies, Part II
Yesterday we discussed the top 5 reasons that the American Institute for Cancer Research suggests for eating more fruits and veggies. Today we'll start finish the top 10.
(Radio Transcript)
Teriparatide for Osteoporosis
I just read an article about teriparatide, the new drug approved by the FDA for treating osteoporosis. I am in a study for osteoporosis and am injecting myself daily with a parathyroid hormone. I was wondering if this new drug is similar to what I am taking and how I could get more information about it.
(Frequently Asked Question)
The AHA Revises Its HRT Guidelines
According to the AHA, women currently taking hormone replacement therapy or HRT for the non-cardiac benefits do not need to stop. But women should not start taking hormones just because of concerns about preventing heart trouble, especially if they already have heart disease.
(Radio Transcript)
The Cervical Cap
A cervical cap is a soft rubber cup with a round rim designed to cover the cervix more precisely than the diaphragm (it is thimble-shaped rather than dome-shaped), although it generally works the same way. How does it differ from the diaphragm?
(Article)
The Contraceptive Sponge
The sponge, a disk-shaped polyurethane foam device containing the spermicide nonoxynol-9, is inserted into the vagina to cover the cervix. It acts as a barrier but also holds spermicide (nonoxynol-9) up against the cervix.
(Article)
The Cost Savings of Biomedical Research
Medical research not only leads to discoveries that save lives and improve the quality of life, but that save money as well. For example, medical research led to the discovery that ulcers can be complicated by bacteria, a discovery that led to a simple cure with relatively inexpensive antibiotics. The cost savings? $600 million per year in treatment costs.
(Radio Transcript)
The Diagnosis of CFS
Do I—or Does My Child–Have CFS?
(Article)
The Diaphragm
Available by prescription only and sized by a health professional to achieve a proper fit, the diaphragm is a dome-shaped rubber disk with a flexible rim that works in two ways to prevent pregnancy.
(Article)
The Difference Between Osteoporosis and Osteoarthritis
What's the difference between osteoporosis and osteoarthritis?
(Frequently Asked Question)
The Enigmatic Symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Why CFS diagnosis is so confusing
(Article)
The Essential Pap Smear
The Pap Smear is the most important screening test to detect early evidence of cervical cancer.
(Article)
The Female Condom
The Reality Female Condom (FDA approved in 1993) consists of a lubricated polyurethane sheath with one closed end and one open end.
(Article)
The Flu and You: Prevention and Treatment Strategies
(Article)
The Good News About Breast Cancer
95% of women diagnosed with early stage breast cancer will survive at least 5 years—considered a “cure” in the eyes of cancer specialists.
(Radio Transcript)
The Good News About Breast Cancer
95% of all women diagnosed with early stage breast cancer will survive at least 5 years—considered a “cure” in the eyes of cancer specialists.
(Radio Transcript)
The Good News About Ovarian Cancer
There is good news about ovarian cancer. Testing is underway on a variety of new treatments including a vaccine.
(Radio Transcript)
The History of Hypertension: Not a Modern Day Phenomenon, by Dervilla M. McCann, M.D., F.A.C.C.
Recent research has shown a critical relationship between high blood pressure and strokes, heart attacks, congestive heart failure, and vascular disease. Guest Expert Dervilla M. McCann, M.D.,F.A.C.C. talks about high blood pressure (hypertension), it's causes and what you can do to prevent it.
(Guest Expert)
The HPV Vaccines and Cervical Screening
With the introduction of the first HPV vaccine, the first vaccine ever specifically to prevent a specific cancer, the dream of eliminating cervical cancer deaths is increasingly within reach.
(Article)
The Impact Of Incontinence
Discussion of urinary incontinence, the possible causes, and the impact it can have on a woman's everyday life.
(Article)
The Importance of Osteoporosis Testing
(Radio Transcript)
The Importance of Osteoporosis Testing
(Radio Transcript)
The Latest Facts About Premature Ovarian Failure, by Michael Heard, MD
Premature ovarian failure (POF) is defined as the cessation of ovarian function prior to the age of 40.
(Guest Expert)
The Male Condom
Except for abstinence, latex condoms are the most effective method to reduce the risk of infections causing AIDS, other HIV-related illnesses, and other STDs, although they do not provide protection against all STDs.
(Article)
The Mother of All Headaches
This year, give mom a Mother's Day gift that will last well beyond May 14, improve her health and allow her to spend more time doing the things she loves—helping her manage her migraines.
(Press Release)
The Mother-Daughter Connection
Under what circumstances do mothers and daughters decide to come together and communicate as friends?
(Women's Health Champions)
The NIH Calls for Cholesterol Treatment
Have you had your cholesterol checked lately? According to the National Institutes of Health, nearly three times as many Americans should be taking cholesterol-lowering drugs as they are now to reduce their risk of heart disease.
(Radio Transcript)
The Non-Contraception Benefits of Birth Control Pills
When we think of “the Pill”, many of us think of one medicine, designed simply to prevent pregnancy. But the Pill has undergone many changes in the past 40 years.
(Radio Transcript)
The Non-Contraceptive Benefits of Birth Control Pills
Barbie turned 40 this year, and so did birth control pills. “The pill” does far more than prevent pregnancy.
(Radio Transcript)
The Noncontraceptive Benefits of the Pill
Barbie turned 40 last year, and so did birth control pills. “The pill” does far more than prevent pregnancy.
(Radio Transcript)
The Pill & Bulimia
One of my friends is bulimic and has unprotected sex, but she is on the birth control pill, so she thinks that that is okay. If she is bulimic, how long does it take for the pill’s hormones to be fully absorbed? Is she safe from getting pregnant?
(Frequently Asked Question)
The Pill and Depression
I have recently heard that taking the birth control pill can help with depression and moodiness. Is there any truth to this?
(Frequently Asked Question)
The Pill and Miscarriages
Can using birth control pills cause a miscarriage? How? Is there anything to prevent this from happening?
(Frequently Asked Question)
The Pill and Missed Periods
My girlfriend and I have been seeing each other for over a year and she is taking Cyclessa (28-day cycle). We had sex 2 days before her scheduled period, and now she is a day late on her period. What is going on? Is it even possible that she's pregnant?
(Frequently Asked Question)
The Pill Schedule and Pregnancy
Altering the normal Pill-taking schedule can result in an unintended pregnancy.
(Frequently Asked Question)
The Reality Behind the Reality Star's Cancer Death
(Celebrity Speak Out)
The Risks Of Breast Implants
The fury whether silicone breast implants cause systemic disease has died down with abundant data showing no increase in systemic illness in women with silicone breast implants versus those without implants.
(Article)
The Transitional Woman/Women in Balance
Baby boomers, sandwich generation, perimenopausal, middle-aged...Now there’s a new term for women over 35: “the transitional woman”...what does it mean?
(Radio Transcript)
The Use of HRT in Women with Diabetes
Read a radio transcript discussing the effects of hormone replacement therapy in women diagnosed with diabetes.
(Radio Transcript)
Third Trimester Pregnancy Myths
Dr. Donnica debunks 9 myths about the third tri-mester of pregnancy.
(Debunking Myths)
Throat Discomfort Accompanied by Bad Breath
I had to drag it out of him, but he finally admitted that my breath stunk
(Frequently Asked Question)
Thrombophilia Tests
I recently had a pre-conception counseling session with my doctor. Everything looked good, she prescriped prenatals and the usual (I'm thinking of getting pregnant in the next year and I've never been pregnant before). Her nurse just called me and said that the doctor wants to do a thrombophilia panel of tests on me.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Thyroid Disease
What is thyroid disease? Dr. Donnica explains thyroid disease, prevention and disease management.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Thyroid Disease Prevention
There are no preventive methods, lifestyle changes, or vaccines for thyroid disease, but there are many strategies for effective management.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Thyroid Gland
What is the thyroid gland? Why is it important to our health?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Thyroid Gland Central Dysfunction
Nearly one in eight women will develop some type of thyroid disorder in their lifetime. Despite its frequency, however, thyroid disorders are too often missed, misdiagnosed, or mistreated.
(Article)
Thyroid Health
Thyroid health resources.
(Women's Health Resources)
Thyroid Health Decisionnaire
If you have fatigue, plus two or more of these symptoms, or a family history of thyroid problems, see your physician sooner rather than later and ask if you should be tested.
(Decisionnaire)
Tied Tubes and Ectopic Pregnancy
My wife just had a ultrasound to find out if she may be pregnant in her tubes. My question involves the fact that she had her tubes tied 6 years ago. What are the chances that she could be pregnant in her tubes compared to some other sort of illness?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Tim Allen Gives Gifts Of Fitness
Every holiday season we suggest some of the best health gifts you can give to the loved ones in your life. This year we got a little extra help from Santa himself -- or the next best thing -- Santa Clause 2 star Tim Allen.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Tinea Pedis
I live in my favorite pair of sneakers, but for the past few weeks they’ve made my feet extremely itchy and red.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Tinnitus and Sinus Infections
I’m prone to sinus infections (I usually get two or three a year), and a few months back I suffered from a particularly bad one that left me with a constant ringing in my ears.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Tipper Gore Honors Mental Health Achievements
“Mental illness is a biochemical disorder. It happens in the brain, a physical part of the body. The person can not help it when they have a mental illness or biochemical disorder. They need help, support and treatment from professionals in most cases.”
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Tips to Prevent Varicose Veins
Are varicose veins inevitable?
(Radio Transcript)
TiVo Alert: Dr. Donnica Returns to “The View” Thurs. July 16, 2009
(Press Release)
TLC Provides FYI On HIV
Over the past 12 years the group TLC has sold more than 27 million albums; more than any other female group in history. Now the group’s two remaining members, Tionne
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Today’s Birth Control Pills
In addition to pregnancy prevention, “ultra” low-dose pills provide many other health benefits including decreased risk of several cancers: cancer of the lining of the uterus [endometrium], ovarian cancer, and colorectal cancers.
(Radio Transcript)
Toilets and STDs
We want to know if one could catch any sexually transmitted infection from sharing toilets? Could you catch anything if any water from the toilet touches you?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Tongue Pimples
Within about five days, it will go away on its own, but until it does, resist the urge to check on it to see if it’s still there by rubbing your tongue against your teeth.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Too Fat, Too Thin:  Women Can’t Win!, by Nada Stotland, M.D., M.P.H.
Eating disorders include anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa; compulsive overeating is a problem as well. Dr. Nada Stotland talks about the physical effects of eating disorders and the importance of seeking treatment.
(Guest Expert)
Too Much To Do, Too Little Time
Too much to do, too little time...especially in the doctor’s office. The average doctor visit is only 7.5 minutes. Whatever you do to improve communication with your doctor will make better use of that time and improve your health care.
(Radio Transcript)
Too Tired to Eat Properly?
I am woman—I am strong—I am invincible—I AM TIRED!
(Radio Transcript)
Top Tips to Improve Communication with Your Primary Care Physician About Depression
Consistent and open communication about treatment for depression and antidepressant side effects simply does not occur often enough—or thoroughly enough--between patients and their primary care doctors.
(Radio Transcript)
Trans-vaginal Tape
When I have sex, a lot of urine comes out. What can I do? I'm so frustrated. This doctor said he thinks he can help me by giving me collagen implants. What do you think about that? Please help me!!!!!
(Frequently Asked Question)
Treating Significant Menopause Symptoms
I am a 51-year-old woman who is entering menopause. I am having severe sweating experiences, daytime and nighttime. I become very flushed and clammy and then become very cold.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Treating Uterine Fibroids
I have a 40-year-old friend who is having big problems with fibroids. Her doctor has given her 3 options: taking a drug that will imitate menopause and might reduce the fibroids, removing the fibroid that is causing the problem, or having a hysterectomy. Are there other options?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Treating Vaginal Dryness
I've been experiencing vaginal dryness for several months and I've used everything I can think of to stay lubricated during sex with my husband -- KY jelly, fatty acid supplements, even saliva. All of those tricks work but only for a little while before I become dry again. Now sex is almost always painful, and afterwards I¹ve been noticing small abrasions on my genitals. How can I enjoy sex again?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Treatment of CFS
While CFS research is being done on many fronts, much about this disease remains elusive
(Article)
Treatment Options for Stress Urinary Incontinence, by Jennifer Pollak, MD and G. Willy Davila, MD
Many women experience urinary incontinence for several years before they come forward and speak to their physicians. Some women consider it a part of aging but urinary incontinence is not considered normal at any age.
(Guest Expert)
Trichomoniasis
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) too often go undiagnosed and untreated, even though they can have a long-term impact on sexual and reproductive health. Trichomoniasis – often referred to as “trich” – is an example of an STD that sexually active women and men need to know more about.
(Guest Expert)
Type 2 Diabetes
Nearly 15 million Americans are affected by Type II or adult-onset diabetes. For many type 2 diabetics, however, the good news is that blood sugar control can be improved without medication if dietary and exercise recommendations are followed.
(Radio Transcript)
Uncontrollable Flatulence
Flatulence, or passing gas, is normal but uncontrollable flatulence isn't.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Understanding Summer Rashes
Think about your activities and how they might be related to the onset of the rash. Were you out in the woods? Are deer ticks common in your area? If so, you may want to be aware of the “bull’s eye” rash typical of Lyme disease. Were you picking weeds and getting into poison ivy instead?
(Radio Transcript)
Undiagnosed Abdominal Pain
I have been experiencing a tightness or fullness on the upper left side of my abdomen, right under my ribcage, and when I sometimes move, it feels liquidy, almost like I have a small water balloon in there, and other times it feels gassy and is better when I release gas. Nobody I talk to seems to have ever heard of my symptoms and I am at my wits end. Please help me.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Unexplained Abdominal Swelling
I am a thirty-year-old woman and have had lower abdominal swelling on my left side for three months. The swelling is increasing; it is noticeable because it protrudes over a scar I have from a kidney surgery I had when I was two. What further tests should I ask my doctor to conduct?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Unexplained Bruising
Unexplained bruising is very common in women. As you suspected, the most common causes are bumping into things without realizing it.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Unpleasant Vaginal Odor
I have a fishy vaginal odor that is so bad that people don't want to sit next to me! Please help!
(Frequently Asked Question)
Unusual Rash
Lately I've been experiencing boil-like bumps on both of my underarms that are spreading down my sides. What are they, and how can I get rid of them?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Unwanted Facial Hair
This “secret” is one you share with plenty of women.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Urge Incontinence Versus Stress Incontinence: What's the Difference and Why is it Important? by Dr. Margie Kahn
Many women have symptoms of both urge and stress incontinence at different times. They have mixed incontinence. For treatment, it is helpful to determine which symptom is the most bothersome.
(Guest Expert)
Urinary Frequency
Dr. Donnica Moore answers a question regarding overactive bladder and urinary frequency. She explains how to tell if you have symptoms of OAB.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Urinary Frequency and a Lump in the Groin
For the past 20 years, I have noticed that I have had to go to the bathroom FAR more than 8 times a day. I have been to urologists and regular doctors. They all told me that there is nothing
(Frequently Asked Question)
Urinary Incontinence: Figuring Out Why You Lose Urine, by Roger Dmochowski, M.D.
If you have unwanted and uncontrollable urine loss, your most pressing question is probably “What’s causing this?”
(Guest Expert)
Use It or Lose It
Most people can keep their mental capacities from declining just by doing simple things like reading the newspaper, playing chess, maintaining their social interactions, or attending lectures or performances. Physical exercise was also noted to improve blood supply to the brain and was important to maintain cognitive function.
(Radio Transcript)
Using a Fertility Monitor for Contraception
I am 34 years old and I am very interested in the Clear Plan Easy Fertility Monitor. Does it have to be used just before having sex or can it be used a couple of hours before?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Uterine Artery Embolization
Dr. Donnica Moore explains a relatively new procedure, uterine artery embolization, used to treat those women with large or numerous fibroids.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Uterine Cancer
Most women do not realize that uterine cancer is the most common gynecologic cancer in American women, affecting about 31,000 women each year.
(Radio Transcript)
Uterine Cancer
What is uterine cancer? Uterine cancer is a malignancy of any part of the uterus or womb.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Uterine Cancer
Most women do not realize that uterine cancer is the most common gynecologic cancer in American women, affecting about 31,000 women each year.
(Radio Transcript)
Uterine Prolapse
Uterine prolapse is not a condition that improves on its own; it can often get worse. Depending upon the extent of the prolapse and your symptoms, surgery may be the best option.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Vaginal Cancer
If you are a healthy woman, vaginal cancer is relatively rare. It is usually diagnosed in elderly women who notice abnormal bleeding (whether or not they have had a hysterectomy in the past).
(Frequently Asked Question)
Valentine’s Day is for Lovers
This year, heart disease will kill 10 times as many women as breast cancer, but relatively few women practice heart healthy behaviors. This year, give a Valentine’s Day gift to your heart—make small behavioral changes that can have a big impact. Not only will your loved ones thank you, but your heart will beat longer and healthier.
(Radio Transcript)
Valerie Bertinelli Gives Thanks For Walking
Valerie Bertinelli is hitting her stride again. After beginning a new life apart from Eddie Van Halen, she’s just finished a new television movie, and has a new fitness workout she absolutely loves.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Varicose Vein Prevention
What can I do to decrease my risk of developing varicose veins?
(Tip)
Vicki Iovine Authors 'Girlfriends' Guide' To Eczema
When it comes to advice for her ‘girlfriends,’ best-selling author Vicki Iovine’s millions of readers know she’s telling it like it is. Now Iovine has put her pen to paper to help children and parents dealing with the frustrations and discomfort of eczema.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
Virginity Reclaimed?
Is there any possibility for me to be a virgin again? I'm not a virgin any more but I would like to be again, if is it possible?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Vitamins & Constipation
Do all vitamins cause constipation? I eat prunes every day, and take an herbal laxative and psyllium husk pills, but I’m still constipated. What should I do?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Vitreous Floaters
I've never had vision problems in the past, but recently I've noticed these odd zigzag shapes in the corner of my left eye. What's really strange is that they seem to move with my eyes until they slide out of sight and disappear, only to reappear days later. What are they, and should I be concerned?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Vulvar Cancer
Vulvar cancer is a malignancy that appears as lesions on the surface of the vulva or labia. Any abnormal growth or discoloration in that area should be reported to your gynecologist.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Vulvar Health
Vulvar Health Links And Resources
(Women's Health Resources)
Water: A Magical Medium for Fitness
(Guest Expert)
Weight Loss
Weight Loss Health Links and Resources
(Women's Health Resources)
Weight Management
When planning your weight loss strategy, focus on small, easy goals; they do make a difference!
(Radio Transcript)
Weight Management with Dr. Arronne and Michael Badalucco
The battle of the bulge affects more than half of all Americans, and celebrities are no exception. What is exceptional about actor Michael Badalucco of the hit show “The Practice” is his willingness to talk about it. We asked Michael to share with us what motivated him to take a more active role in managing his weight.
(Radio Transcript)
Weight Management with Dr. Arronne and Michael Badalucco Part II
Sometimes you just need the right motivation in weight loss--not short term goals like fitting into a new outfit, but long-term goals like better health. Actor Michael Badalucco of the hit TV Show, “The Practice” shares what motivated him to take control of his weight challenges.
(Radio Transcript)
Weight Problems & Thyroid Disorders
most women with weight problems think that the cause is an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), which may cause weight gain and sluggishness among its many other symptoms.
(Frequently Asked Question)
What is Menopause?
Patti LaBelle went into menopause 10 years ago. Having launched a new CD, a national concert tour, a new book, and a new television show all within one year, she’s thrown the phrase “Finished At Fifty” out the window. This is not your mothers’ menopause! But what is menopause?
(Radio Transcript)
What are Autoimmune Diseases?
Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system turns on the self, producing antibodies. They include diseases like lupus, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, scleraderma, type one diabetes, and autoimmune liver disease.
(Radio Transcript)
What are Fibroids?
One in five women between the ages of 18 and 50 will develop fibroids. These are noncancerous tumors of the uterus or womb, but have been nicknamed “fireballs” by women with symptoms from heavy bleeding to severe pain requiring a hysterectomy.
(Radio Transcript)
What are the risk factors for colon cancer?
Like most cancers, the most important risk factors for colon cancer are those we can’t change: age and a family history of colon polyps, or colon or rectal cancer. Other risk factors are changeable and there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of colon cancer.
(Radio Transcript)
What Can You Do to Decrease your Risk for Heart Disease?
Heart disease is the number one killer of American men AND women. Yet, surveys show that most women don’t consider heart disease an important health problem for them. The good news is that many heart attacks could be prevented by modifying risky behavior.
(Radio Transcript)
What Can You Do to Decrease your Risk for Heart Disease?
Heart disease is the number one killer of American men AND women. Yet, surveys show that most women don’t consider heart disease an important health problem for them. The good news is that many heart attacks could be prevented by modifying risky behavior.
(Radio Transcript)
What Causes Varicose Veins?
Up to one third of women develop varicose veins—and this is not just a cosmetic problem. For some women, these distended veins in the legs can cause pain, swelling, cramps, and even skin ulcers.
(Radio Transcript)
What Does it Mean if I Have an Abnormal Pap Smear?
An abnormal pap smear? Any woman who has can relate to the immediate sense of fear—the natural reaction is to think the worst! Learn the facts about abnormal pap smears here.
(Radio Transcript)
What if the Pill is Not for You?  Reversible Contraceptive Choices
Birth control pills are the most commonly used form of contraceptive in the United States, closely followed by sterilization. But what is there for women who want reversible contraception but can’t or don’t want to take the Pill?
(Article)
What is a Clinical Trial?
What Is a Clinical Trial?
(Frequently Asked Question)
What Is Alopecia?
Nearly 2.5 million Americans have alopecia areata, a condition in which hair loss occurs in round patches about the size of a coin. . .or even completely. It can occur in the scalp alone or throughout the body. More than half of affected patients are under 20, although it can occur at any age.
(Radio Transcript)
What is Alzheimer’s disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is a form of dementia in which brain cells get destroyed causing impaired memory and progressively lost cognitive and functional abilities.
(Radio Transcript)
What Is an Overactive Bladder
Overactive Bladder symptoms, such as urinary frequency, are discussed, as well as treatment options.
(Radio Transcript)
What is Anti-Aging Medicine? by Allen S. Cohen, M.D.
Allen Cohen, M.D., explains a newer area of medical practice, Anti-Aging Medicine, and treatments to delay or reverse the effects of aging.
(Guest Expert)
What is Asthma?
Asthma is a lung disease with airway narrowing or blockage from spasm or inflammation that is at least partially reversible either on its own or with treatment. The death rate from asthma is significantly higher in women than in men.
(Radio Transcript)
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is the bane of every computer user: it is a syndrome of hand numbness or tingling, weakness, loss of grip strength, hand pain, and the sense of the hands “falling asleep” upon waking.
(Radio Transcript)
What is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical Cancer is the only gynecologic cancer that can be prevented by regular screening with Pap smears. Yet, despite this, nearly 4,400 women will die from cervical cancer in the United States during 2001. Of these, more than half will not have had a Pap smear in at least 5 years.
(Radio Transcript)
What is Chlamydia?
Chlamydia is the most widespread sexually transmitted infection in the United States, yet most people can’t even pronounce it. Each year more than 3 million new cases develop, racking up an annual bill of $2.7 billion!
(Radio Transcript)
What is Chlamydia?, by Janet D. Allan, Ph.D., R.Rn, C.S.
Chlamydia is often a silent disease -- most women show no symptoms for six months or longer. If it goes untreated, chlamydia can cause serious health problems such as pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, and if you’re pregnant, it may cause preterm delivery and other neonatal problems.
(Guest Expert)
What is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Brian’s Story & Making the Diagnosis
Could My Child have Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
(Article)
What Is Cystitis?
Cystitis is the most common form of bladder infection in women and is generally very uncomfortable. Classic signs of a bladder infection include burning with urination, a sense of urgency to void, and lower abdominal pressure. There may also be blood in the urine.
(Radio Transcript)
What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is common but also commonly misunderstood. It affects one in fifteen women, or 5 million Americans!
(Radio Transcript)
What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is common but also commonly misunderstood. It affects one in fifteen women, or 5 million Americans!
(Radio Transcript)
What Is Excessive Menstrual Bleeding?
Normal menstruation is familiar to most women: it is the monthly result of the shedding of the lining of the uterus (endometrium) which is accompanied by a fairly predictable amount of vaginal bleeding for 3 to 5 days. Some women experience excessive menstrual bleeding, also known as menorrhagia. This is technically defined as blood loss of more than 80mL during a menstrual cycle.
(Radio Transcript)
What is Fibromyalgia?
What is fibromyalgia? It’s a disease that’s not only difficult to say, it’s difficult to diagnose, and even more difficult to treat. But for the thousands of women living with this condition, it’s simply difficult to tolerate.
(Radio Transcript)
What is Gestational Diabetes?, by Michael Carson, M.D.
About 3% of women who become pregnant develop “temporary” or “gestational” diabetes because the pancreas (where insulin is produced) is unable to keep up with the increased demand. Dr. Michael Carson talks about gestational diabetes and what women with the condition can expect during pregnancy.
(Guest Expert)
What is Heartburn?
Heartburn is the most common symptom of acid reflux, often felt as a burning pain that starts behind the sternum or breastbone and travels upward toward the neck. Sound familiar?
(Radio Transcript)
What is Hepatitis B Virus?
Hepatitis B is a blood-borne or sexually transmitted disease which can cause serious health problems. Even though a person infected with this virus may not show any signs of infection, they can unknowingly pass it on to others.
(Radio Transcript)
What is HPV?
Most Americans are probably more familiar with HIV than HPV, or human papilloma virus, although HPV affects millions more people.
(Radio Transcript)
What is Leukemia?
Leukemia is a relatively common, but poorly understood group of cancers of the tissues that form blood cells. Leukemia may affect anyone from children to the elderly.
(Radio Transcript)
What is Lupus?
Systemic lupus erthematosus—or “lupus” for short is an autoimmune disease. . .a disease in which the body’s own immune system attacks itself.
(Radio Transcript)
What is Lyme Disease?
Lyme disease is a systemic infection from a deer-tick bite. It is increasingly common in the northeast, middle-Atlantic region, and upper mid-west. Anyone who passes through tick habitats such as meadows, woods and brushy areas is at risk.
(Radio Transcript)
What is Lymphoma?
Lymphoma and leukemia are often confused: they both start with L and they are both cancerous conditions. Lymphomas are cancers that arise in the lymphatic system or lymph nodes.
(Radio Transcript)
What is Melanoma?
Melanoma is the skin cancer that scares. It’s the type of skin cancer most likely to metastasize, and most likely to kill. The bad news is that it’s increasing: new cases have doubled in the past 20 years. Nearly 48,000 new cases are expected this year...And more than 7,000 people will die from it.
(Radio Transcript)
What is Menopause?
When you think of menopausal women, do you think of vital, active women like Tina Turner, Patti LaBelle or Lauren Hutton? This is no longer your mothers’ menopause. But what is menopause anyway?
(Radio Transcript)
What is Menopause?
Tina Turner turned 60 this year, throwing the phrase “Finished At Fifty” out the window. This is not your mothers’ menopause. . .But what is menopause?
(Radio Transcript)
What is Menopause?
The average age of menopause in America is 51, but women can start having symptoms in their 30’s or 40’s. If you have these symptoms, don’t dismiss them as just stress or fatigue; see your doctor.
(Radio Transcript)
What is Menopause?
Tina Turner turned 60 this year, throwing the phrase “Finished At Fifty” out the window. This is not your mother's menopause. But what is menopause?
(Radio Transcript)
What is Mitral Valve Prolapse?
Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is of particular interest to women because it is much more common in women. It occurs when the mitral valve leaflets don’t close completely, then get slightly pulled into the atrium of the heart.
(Radio Transcript)
What is Multiple Sclerosis?
Multiple sclerosis affects more than a quarter of a million people in the United States. Twice as many are women than men. About 200 new cases of MS are diagnosed in the US every week.
(Radio Transcript)
What is Multiple Sclerosis?
Researchers have found that the average time from the onset of multiple sclerosis to the occurrence of a slight limitation in the ability to walk was less than 1 year among patients in whom the disease was progressive from the start. But in patients who experienced the relapsing and remitting pattern of multiple sclerosis, the onset of significantly impaired walking took 11 years.
(Radio Transcript)
What is Osteoporosis?
Inadequate calcium intake is only part of the osteoporosis story. The greatest risk for osteoporosis is estrogen loss, particularly for women going through menopause.
(Radio Transcript)
What is Osteoporosis?
Got Milk? If you didn’t get enough as a youngster you may be at increased risk for osteoporosis, a debilitating disease where bone is lost and fracture risk increases.
(Radio Transcript)
What is Osteoporosis?
Got Milk? If you didn’t get enough as a youngster you may be at increased risk for osteoporosis, a debilitating disease where bone is lost and fracture risk increases.
(Radio Transcript)
What is Ovarian Cancer?
Ovarian cancer is one of the most difficult cancers to diagnose early and one of the most aggressive cancers. It will affect more than 25,000 women each year and kill more than half.
(Radio Transcript)
What is Parkinson’s Disease?
There is no cure for Parkinson’s disease . . .yet. But doctors and researchers are optimistic. In the meantime, medical and surgical treatments can help control symptoms such as severe movement difficulties.
(Radio Transcript)
What is Perimenopause?
Are you a woman over 35 having changes in the length, flow or frequency of your period? Have you experienced a momentary flush of intense heat on your face and upper body, lasting from one to 3 minutes? Have you experienced interrupted sleep by night sweats?
(Radio Transcript)
What is Pneumonia?
The hallmarks of pneumonia are fever, persistent cough, sore throat, congestion, chills, and shortness of breath, but not all symptoms present in all cases.
(Radio Transcript)
What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of those conditions that women generally don’t know about. . And those who do don’t talk about.
(Radio Transcript)
What is Rosacea?
Rosacea is a common skin disorder that affects one in 20 Americans—nearly 13 million people—but it is commonly mistaken for acne. This skin disorder is characterized by redness, flushing, swelling and blemishes around the face.
(Radio Transcript)
What is Scleroderma?
Have you ever heard of scleroderma? This is a rare condition that is increasing in frequency. In typical cases, patients first develop skin thickening on the fingers or elsewhere.
(Radio Transcript)
What is Scleroderma?
As with all autoimmune diseases, the body’s own immune system attacks itself. In scleroderma the site of attack is the body's connective tissue.
(Radio Transcript)
What is Scoliosis?
If scoliosis is allowed to progress untreated, it has the potential to cause deformities of the chest, lung abnormalities, and even difficulty breathing.
(Radio Transcript)
What Is Secondary Infertility?
Secondary infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after one year of unprotected, “well-timed” intercourse for couples in which one or both partners have previously conceived a child.
(Article)
What Is the Glycemic Index?
Are all carbohydrates created equal?
(Radio Transcript)
What is the Women’s Health Initiative?
The importance of the Women’s Health Initiative is that it should help us finally learn whether or not taking hormones for post menopausal women really increases the risk for having breast cancer or decreases the risk of death from cardiovascular disease.
(Radio Transcript)
What is Thyroid Disease?
The thyroid is our “Gland Central”...its function is critical to many life functions. Yet thyroid disease affects nearly 13 million Americans!--and women are affected up to eight times more often than men.
(Radio Transcript)
What is Vulvar Cancer?
Vulvar cancer has been referred to as the “Cinderella” of women’s cancers. Why? It just doesn’t get any attention until it shows up at the ball.
(Radio Transcript)
What is Vulvodynia?
Vulvodynia is a chronic vulvar discomfort or pain, often characterized by complaints of burning, stinging, irritation or rawness in the vulvar area, or external female genitalia.
(Radio Transcript)
What it Might Mean When Your Period Stops
My 22-year-old daughter stopped getting her period a year and a half ago. Her doctor says her ultrasound results are normal and that she needn't worry about it until she's ready to get pregnant. We're both still concerned. What could possibly be wrong?
(Frequently Asked Question)
What Should You Tell Your Child If They Were Conceived Using Donor Eggs?
Therapists who specialize in fertility issues urge parents to assess a child’s emotional and intellectual abilities before deciding when and how to disclose information about use of donor eggs.
(Article)
What Some Women Need To Know About Reproductive Health And Certain Medications, by Martha Morrell, M.D.
If you are prescribed AEDs for the treatment of epilepsy or for other reasons, make sure you and your physician are aware of potential concerns relating to the use of these medications in females.
(Guest Expert)
What to Do if You Have Trouble Swallowing Pills
I’ve never been able to swallow pills. Every time I try, I end up gagging. My doctor just gave me a new prescription and there is no chewable option.
(Frequently Asked Question)
What to Do When Weight Loss Stalls
With any weight loss plan, it's normal and expected to experience plateaus from time to time.
(Frequently Asked Question)
What Women Should Know About Migraine: Yes, You Can Have Relief
Migraine affects approximately 24 million Americans. 75% of these sufferers are women, many of whom are not aware that there are several medications for their painful, disruptive, and sometimes debilitating headaches.
(Article)
What You Should Know About Lasik, by Peter S. Hersh, M.D.
Guest expert, Peter S. Hersh, M.D., discusses LASIK, what you should consider when choosing a LASIK center, and who is a good candidate for the laser vision procedure.
(Guest Expert)
What’s Good About Morning Sickness?
While unpleasant and generally untreatable, there is good news about morning sickness: morning sickness is usually a positive indication that an early pregnancy is progressing just fine.
(Article)
When Compassion Can't Wait: One Mother's Story
Valerie Sobel, a refugee from Hungary’s Communist era, established the Andre Sobel River of Life Foundation to honor the memory of her 19-year old son who died of a brain tumor in 1995. Within the year following the tragic loss of her son, she lost her mother, and, a year to the day after Andre’s death, her beloved husband Erwin took his own life. Through the subsequent years of crushing grief, Sobel sought to redirect her life.
(Women's Health Champions)
When Weight Loss Is Not a Good Sign
When weight loss is unplanned and unexpected, it can actually be a warning sign that something serious is wrong.
(Radio Transcript)
White Bumps That Aren't Acne
These ingredients add moisture while dissolving the cellular glue that holds the keratin deposits together.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Who Should Diagnose PMDD
Who is best qualified to make a diagnosis of PMDD -- a gynecologist, a psychologist, or another physician?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Why is High Blood Pressure Such a Problem?
High blood pressure directly kills more than 41,000 Americans per year and contributes to more than 200,000 additional deaths. People with high blood pressure can have as high as ten times the risk of stroke and five times the risk of a heart attack!
(Radio Transcript)
Why Should I Read Medicine Labels?
Consumers have become very savvy about reading food labels, especially when it comes to calories. Surprisingly, however, most consumers are not taking the time to read the labels or package inserts for their prescription or over-the-counter medicines. Why is this important?
(Radio Transcript)
Women and Alcohol
Alcohol may be a great social lubricant, but it is also high in calories and saturated fats. If you’re looking for easy ways to trim holiday calories--and stress--start by trimming your alcohol consumption.
(Radio Transcript)
Women and Colon Cancer
Colon cancer affects men and women as often, but there is still a misperception that this is a “man’s disease”.
(Radio Transcript)
Women And Headache
Headache is one of the most common symptoms in adults- it ranks ninth among causes for physician visits. Yet we usually dismiss headaches as simply results of
(Article)
Women and Lung Cancer
While breast cancer is the cancer that most women fear the most, lung cancer is actually the number one cancer killer of American women and accounts for one out of every 5 cancer deaths in women.
(Radio Transcript)
Women and Obesity, by David Heber, M.D., Ph.D.
The prevalence of obesity among women has increased by almost 15 percent in the last decade. Guest Expert David Heber discusses effects of obesity in women and what women can do to prevent or treat obesity.
(Guest Expert)
Women and Pain: Why It Hurts and What You Can Do, by Mark Allen Young, M.D., F.A.C.P.
Do you suffer from constant, agonizing pain? Have you been to doctor after doctor, only to receive nothing that helps or be told
(Guest Expert)
Women and Smoking
According to the surgeon general's second report on women and smoking, one of the most pressing women’s health challenges of the 21st century is entirely preventable: smoking.
(Radio Transcript)
Women and Smoking
Tobacco is an equal opportunity killer: it is the number one cancer killer of all American women, yet teenage girls represent the only group in which smoking continues to rise.
(Radio Transcript)
Women and Smoking
Despite all of our anti-smoking education, one in 4 adult Americans continue to smoke. . .and teenage girls are doing so increasingly.
(Radio Transcript)
Women and Smoking II
Abstaining from smoking the first day is the toughest, but each day after the first will get easier!
(Radio Transcript)
Women and Tooth Loss
By age 65, one out of 3 women in the US will have NONE of their original teeth!
(Radio Transcript)
Women and Type I Diabetes
Men with diabetes double their risk of heart disease over men who don’t have diabetes. Women with diabetes quintuple their risk of heart disease over women who don’t have diabetes.
(Radio Transcript)
Women in Medicine
Have you ever considered starting a scholarship for women who wish to pursue this line of work?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Women in Medicine -- Tenacity's Reward
Dr. Donnica is featured on the cover of the Oct. 2000 Women in Medicine Magazine. In the cover story,
(Dr. Donnica In The News)
Women of Color and HRT
Women of color believe that they are not at risk for the consequences, such as osteoporosis and heart disease. But in fact, women of color after menopause have higher rates of heart disease, and if they do develop osteoporosis, they have more complications. Read more about Hormone Replacement Therapy in this article!
(Radio Transcript)
Women's Health And Counseling Center Honors Nationally Renown Dr. Donnica Moore At Gala
The Women's Health and Counseling Center (WHCC) has achieved new heights with their prestigious and irreplaceable choice of Dr. Donnica Moore as Honoree for the organization's 2002 Imperial Ball.
(Press Release)
Women, Aging and Vision
Did it seem as though your vision started to decline after you hit 40? Dr. Donnica discusses some possible reasons why this is common for women over 40.
(Radio Transcript)
Women’s Health and Clinical Trials
From hormones to heart disease, we’ve heard frequent reports of new women’s health research studies with promising results this year.
(Radio Transcript)
Women’s Wellness
It takes very little time per day to do the top 10 things all women should do to stay healthy.
(Tip)
Wrist Pain
Lately I’ve been experiencing a dull pain in my wrist that occasionally spreads up into my forearm.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Wynonna Judd Takes Action Against Asthma
Relying on emergency inhalers instead of following a comprehensive treatment plan can be dangerous. Lungs can remain chronically inflamed. “Everybody has a treatment plan that is specific and suitable for them,” notes Wynonna Judd.
(Celebrity Speak Out)
XMRV Sheds New Light on Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
(Article)
Yasmin
Can Yasmin be used to treat PMDD? Dr. Donnica Moore answers a reader's question with suggestions on treatment to control symptoms of PMDD.
(Frequently Asked Question)
Yeast Infections
Nowadays, we feel comfortable talking about almost everything but when was the last time you heard someone talking about yeast infections?!
(Radio Transcript)
Yeast Infections That Don't Respond to Treatment
Exactly 19 months ago, I got my first yeast infection. Nothing has worked. Is there anything you can do or anyone that you can lead me to, to help me solve this problem?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Yellow Vaginal Discharge
Over the past eight months I've noticed a creamy, yellow vaginal discharge. I don't really know how to bring it up with my doctor. It has a bad odor and it's embarrassing. What if it's serious? Should I be worried?
(Frequently Asked Question)
Zinc Lozenges and Cold Treatment
Do zinc lozenges help treat colds symptoms, or is it just an old wives tale?
(Frequently Asked Question)

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