Expanding HER Care: Now serving women in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia — with virtual appointments available to clients in VA, DC, Maryland, Florida, Delaware, Arizona, and Massachusetts.
👉Book your virtual consultation today and make HER health a priority.👈

DiscovHER Health

Menu

January 2024

Menopause Muscle Aches and Pains | DiscovHER Health | Complex GYN and Sexual Health Specialist serving Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. Virtual and In-person appointments available!
All, Menopause

Menopause Muscle Aches and Pains

/

The journey through menopause comes with a host of changes, and for many women, muscle aches and pains become an unexpected companion. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the nuances of menopause-related muscle discomfort, offering insights, differentiating factors, and empowering solutions tailored to your unique health needs. Understanding Menopause-Related Muscle Aches If you’re grappling with persistent muscle soreness, it might be another symptom of the menopause transition. Distinguishing between typical muscle pain and potential arthritis can be challenging but crucial for seeking the right guidance. During menopause, women are more susceptible to conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. These conditions necessitate medical attention and thorough investigations for a proper diagnosis. Root Causes of Muscle Aches Estrogen, a key player in menopausal changes, significantly influences muscles, cartilage, joint health, and bone replacement. Exploring hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can provide relief by addressing these areas effectively. Additionally, external factors like poor posture and stress can contribute to muscle tension and pain, adding complexity to the menopausal journey. Prevalence of Stages of Menopausal Muscle Aches Musculoskeletal pain, especially joint aches, is a common experience during menopause, affecting more than 70% of women in midlife. These aches can manifest at any stage, including the perimenopause phase. Managing Muscle Aches and Pains If you suspect menopause-related muscle discomfort, it’s essential to consult your provider for a thorough evaluation. However, several lifestyle adjustments and treatments can alleviate symptoms: Navigating menopause is a unique journey for every woman, and understanding and addressing muscle aches and pains is a crucial aspect. By seeking professional advice and incorporating lifestyle adjustments, you can empower yourself to embrace this stage of life with confidence and vitality. Remember, your well-being matters, and DiscovHER Health is here to provide shame-free healthcare, ensuring you receive the personalized care you deserve. About Us Jenna Perkins is a board certified Women’s Health and Gender Related Nurse Practitioner with extensive knowledge and experience in Urogynecology, Pelvic Pain, Sexual Health, and complex Gynecology. She is founder of DiscovHER Health, Northern Virginia’s premier destination for women’s healthcare and expertly curated products. DiscovHER Health Offers cutting edge treatments Pelvic Health + Wellness Skincare | Face + Body Body Toning + Tightening Weight Loss Program Where are we located? We are located in Alexandria, Virginia and serve patients from all over the Mid-Atlantic including Washington DC, Alexandria, Baltimore, and Chevy Chase Related Topics

Hormone Therapy | DiscovHER Health | Complex GYN and Sexual Health Specialist serving Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. Virtual and In-person appointments available!
All, Hormones

Navigating Hormone Therapy: A Comprehensive Guide for Women

/

Navigating Hormone Therapy can be a transformative journey for individuals seeking to address various health conditions or achieve specific goals. Whether it’s managing hormonal imbalances, transitioning gender, or addressing fertility concerns, hormone therapy plays a crucial role in shaping one’s well-being. Learn more about hormone therapy options in Alexandria, Virginia. Deciding About Hormone Therapy Use Many women experience various symptoms during menopause, such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness. While lifestyle changes and nonprescription remedies may suffice for some, others may seek prescription therapies. Hormone therapy (HT), which involves estrogen and, if necessary, progestogen, is a common option. Your healthcare provider plays a crucial role in helping you make an informed decision based on your symptoms, health history, and beliefs about menopause treatments. Navigating Hormone Therapy Potential Benefits Finding Relief from Bothersome Symptoms Hormone therapy stands out as one of the most effective treatments for bothersome hot flashes and night sweats. Beyond symptom relief, HT addresses vaginal dryness, painful sex, and contributes to bone health by preserving density and reducing the risk of osteoporosis. Understanding the potential benefits empowers women to make informed decisions about their health. Navigating Hormone Therapy Potential Risks Weighing the Pros and Cons While hormone therapy offers significant benefits, it’s important to acknowledge potential risks. Cardiovascular risks, cognitive health considerations, and breast cancer risk are factors to consider. However, for healthy women under 60 with bothersome hot flashes, the benefits of HT generally outweigh the risks. Collaboration with a healthcare provider ensures an individualized approach that minimizes potential drawbacks. Navigating Hormone Therapy Potential Side Effects Navigating Common Side Effects Hormone therapy may cause breast tenderness, nausea, or irregular bleeding. These side effects are typically not serious but can be bothersome. Adjusting the dose or trying non-pill forms of HT can often mitigate side effects. Importantly, HT is not associated with weight gain and may even lower the risk of developing diabetes. Hormone Therapy Options in Alexandria, Virginia A personalized Approach to Treatment Choosing HT involves considering various options with your healthcare provider. Whether it’s a pill, skin patch, gel, cream, spray, or vaginal ring, finding the best dose and route tailored to your needs is crucial. Understanding the nuances of estrogen alone or with progestogen, as well as the dose of estrogen, allows for a personalized and effective approach to hormone therapy in Alexandria, Virginia. Stopping Hormone Therapy Transitioning Away from HT There’s no predefined “right” time to stop hormone therapy. Some women choose to stop after 4 to 5 years due to breast cancer concerns, while others may adjust doses or switch to non-pill forms. The return of hot flashes upon stopping HT may prompt a reassessment of individual risks and benefits. Collaborative decision-making with your healthcare provider ensures the best course of action. Your Journey, Your Choice: Empowering Women’s Health DiscovHER Health is committed to supporting women through every stage of their health journey. If you have questions, concerns, or wish to explore your hormone therapy options in Alexandria, Virginia, reach out to our dedicated healthcare team. Your journey, your choices – we’re here to empower you. *For personalized guidance and comprehensive women’s health services, contact DiscovHER Health in Alexandria, VA.* About Us Jenna Perkins is a board certified Women’s Health and Gender Related Nurse Practitioner with extensive knowledge and experience in Urogynecology, Pelvic Pain, Sexual Health, and complex Gynecology. She is founder of DiscovHER Health, Northern Virginia’s premier destination for women’s healthcare and expertly curated products. DiscovHER Health Offers cutting edge treatments Pelvic Health + Wellness Skincare | Face + Body Body Toning + Tightening Weight Loss Program Where are we located? We are located in Alexandria, Virginia and serve patients from all over the Mid-Atlantic including Washington DC, Alexandria, Baltimore, and Chevy Chase Related Topics

Empowering Cervical Cancer Screening | DiscovHER Health | Complex GYN and Sexual Health Specialist serving Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. Virtual and In-person appointments available!
All, Pelvic Pain

Why did my pap smear hurt?

/

For many women, the thought of a traditional Pap smear, especially if experiencing pelvic pain or conditions like Vulvodynia, can be daunting. At DiscovHER Health, we recognize the importance of cervical cancer screenings while understanding the discomfort it might cause for some. Learn more about a more gentle pap smear in Alexandria, Virginia. Blind Pap Test: A Comfortable Approach The pap smear should not hurt. Our clinic offers empowering alternatives to traditional Pap smears for women experiencing pelvic pain. One such method is the Blind Pap Test, a technique that obtains a sample without visual inspection of the cervix. This is approach minimizes discomfort, is a more gentle pap smear and empowers women who may not tolerate a speculum during screenings. Pain should not prevent you from getting necessary cervical cancer screening. Prioritizing Your Comfort: Topical Anesthetic and Breathing Techniques Additionally, our providers prioritize your comfort by offering topical anesthetic in some cases to manage any discomfort during the procedure. We understand the significance of creating a comfortable and supportive environment during these screenings. Empowerment through Active Consent During the exam, our providers emphasize diaphragmatic breathing techniques to help ease any discomfort and enhance relaxation. Our team is trained to prioritize your comfort and actively encourages active consent throughout the procedure. Remember, you are in control and have the right to stop the exam at any time you feel uncomfortable. Understanding Test Results – Gentle Pap Smear Cervical Cancer Screening in Alexandria and Virginia It’s important to note that while the Blind Pap Test demonstrates an ability to obtain adequate samples, there might be variations in the components reported compared to traditional Pap tests. A study demonstrated that fewer cells from the internal cervix are obtained during blind pap. However, your comfort and empowerment during the screening process are our primary goals. Comprehensive Care at DiscovHER Health At DiscovHER Health, our commitment is to provide comprehensive care that respects your needs and comfort, ensuring that crucial cervical cancer screenings are accessible and as comfortable as possible for all women. Taking Control of Your Health – Empowering Cervical Cancer Screening in Alexandria and Virginia Don’t let discomfort prevent you from prioritizing your health. Reach out to us at DiscovHER Health in Alexandria, Virginia, to learn more about empowering alternatives to traditional Pap smears tailored to your comfort and well-being. About Us Jenna Perkins is a board certified Women’s Health and Gender Related Nurse Practitioner with extensive knowledge and experience in Urogynecology, Pelvic Pain, Sexual Health, and complex Gynecology. She is founder of DiscovHER Health, Northern Virginia’s premier destination for women’s healthcare and expertly curated products. DiscovHER Health Offers cutting edge treatments Pelvic Health + Wellness Skincare | Face + Body Body Toning + Tightening Weight Loss Program Where are we located? We are located in Alexandria, Virginia and serve patients from all over the Mid-Atlantic including Washington DC, Alexandria, Baltimore, and Chevy Chase Related Topics

Menopause Hormone Test | DiscovHER Health | Complex GYN and Sexual Health Specialist serving Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. Virtual and In-person appointments available!
All, Hormones, Menopause

Understanding Menopause, Hormone Tests, and Personalized Treatment in Alexandria and Virginia

/

Understanding Menopause Symptoms Are you experiencing menopause symptoms like severe hot flashes, weight gain, or insomnia? Wondering if hormone testing is the solution for better relief? Hormone tests for menopause can be an expensive barrier to care. At DiscovHER Health in Alexandria, Virginia, we understand the complexities of menopause and the quest for effective treatment, offering Personalized Treatment for better understanding of menopause in Alexandria and all of Virginia. Insights from NAMS on Hormone Tests for Menopause The North American Menopause Society (NAMS) recently released a comprehensive 2022 position statement regarding Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT). According to their findings, while hormone therapy can be highly effective in alleviating bothersome symptoms, there’s no specific recommendation for routine hormone testing. TR’s Hormone Therapy Journey Take the case of TR, a 51-year-old experiencing severe vasomotor symptoms (VMS) for a year now. Initially finding relief with a .05 mg estradiol patch and 100 mg micronized progesterone, TR noticed her hot flashes returning.  Seeking a solution, she asked our nurse practitioner to check her hormones for potential dosing adjustments. Importance of Individualized Dosing NAMS’ latest statement emphasizes that dosing adjustments for MHT should primarily focus on individual symptom resolution, not solely based on lab results. Our approach at DiscovHER Health aligns with this, aiming for personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique symptoms and needs, providing Personalized Treatment in Alexandria and Virginia. The Challenge of “Normal Range” It is important to understand that the hormone therapy doses typically prescribed often cause blood concentration levels to fall within the “normal range”. Though labs may be normal, individual variations in responses highlight the importance of individualized dosing for symptom relief. For TR, increasing her estradiol patch to .075 mg or  was effective as reported at her follow up visit. Progesterone and Uterine Protection It’s essential to note that the 100 mg progesterone orally serves as uterine protection for varying estrogen doses and thus did not require immediate adjustment. The client and provider also opted to not send for expensive lab testing.  DiscovHER Health’s Personalized Treatment in Alexandria and Virginia At DiscovHER Health, our focus remains on personalized care, tailored to your symptoms and preferences. If you’re experiencing menopause symptoms like TR and are seeking relief, our team is here to discuss personalized treatment options that prioritize your well-being and symptom relief. Don’t let expensive hormone tests be a barrier to quality care and understanding menopause. Embarking on Personalized Menopause Relief – Understanding Menopause Experience relief from menopausal symptoms tailored to your needs at DiscovHER Health in Alexandria, Virginia. Contact us to schedule a consultation and begin your journey toward understanding menopause and personalized relief today. About Us Jenna Perkins is a board certified Women’s Health and Gender Related Nurse Practitioner with extensive knowledge and experience in Urogynecology, Pelvic Pain, Sexual Health, and complex Gynecology. She is founder of DiscovHER Health, Northern Virginia’s premier destination for women’s healthcare and expertly curated products. DiscovHER Health Offers cutting edge treatments Pelvic Health + Wellness Skincare | Face + Body Body Toning + Tightening Weight Loss Program Where are we located? We are located in Alexandria, Virginia and serve patients from all over the Mid-Atlantic including Washington DC, Alexandria, Baltimore, and Chevy Chase Related Topics

Shopping Cart
Scroll to Top