Know Your Body

Science-backed articles about women's health, fertility, sex, periods, and more.

Women's health Painful Sex During Ovulation: Causes and How It Affects Fertility Painful sex is not normal but is experienced by most women at some point in their sexual lives. Three of four women have experienced painful sex. There could be various reasons for this. Here, we discuss the link between ovulation and painful sex and consider how it might affect fertility. Symptoms of Ovulation Pain Ovulation pain is usually felt on one side of the abdomen. It may be very brief or last up to two days and may be accompanied by light spotting. However, it is not generally associated with bleeding or a range of other symptoms. The brief phase of ovulation, about five days in total in the middle of the menstrual cycle, is not often linked to further complications. The ovum is available for conception for less than 24 hours. Ovulation pain can be remedied by a mild painkiller and a hot compress and by taking a contraceptive pill if it becomes severe (which then eliminates fertility of the ovum). The following signs accompany ovulation: Clear, stretchy mucus (actually secreted by the cervix)The body's basal temperature becomes higher for a day or soMore energy, increased libido, heightened senses, and sensitive breastsSome pain, but this is not always experienced. Normal ovulation does not negatively affect fertility, but painful sex can affect fertility. Sex at ovulation is the best way to conceive. Painful intercourse affects fertility in different ways. Causes of Painful Intercourse During Ovulation The pain of ovulation experienced in the abdomen is not necessarily worsened by intercourse. Painful intercourse is not caused by ovulation pain, but a combination of painful intercourse while experiencing ovulation pain should be avoided. This is because the stress of pain may affect fertility. It makes sense to avoid painful intercourse when you are already experiencing ovulation pain. Painful intercourse during ovulation can have some of the following causes: Hitting the cervix during sex. This is less likely during ovulation as the cervix is retracted.Doggie style sex or another position that may also nudge the cervix uncomfortablyNot enough lubrication/foreplayPelvic inflammatory diseaseAn ovarian cystCramping after ovulation, caused by implantation of a fertilized eggEndometriosis Painful intercourse can also be accounted for by pre-existing conditions such as vulvodynia or vaginismus. These are unrelated to ovulation. Cramping after unprotected intercourse during ovulation may be due to the activity of the ovum being released from the fallopian tube or due to post-orgasmic tension. In other words, it is not a threat to conception. How Fertility Is Affected by Painful Intercourse Painful intercourse is stressful, stress releases cortisol, and this affects the pelvic floor muscles. Pelvic pain is triggered by physical or mental stress, and these hormones cause the pelvic floor muscles to contract. During ovulation, the cervix moves up, it becomes softer and more sensitive, and deeper penetration is possible without bumping it uncomfortably. However, the pain of ovulation might affect sexual pleasure. Different sexual positions may be painful, which is stressful. This may affect hormonal patterns, which, in turn, may affect the whole process of conception. Sex may also be painful because of an underlying health problem, such as endometriosis, fibroids, infection, or Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). This directly affects ovulation and conception, so get a gynecological checkup before trying to conceive. If you experience painful intercourse, you might want to avoid sex during ovulation, reducing your chances of conception. When Should You See a Doctor About Pain During Intercourse? If you experience pain during intercourse, check with your doctor to rule out any underlying illness or infection. It is important for the cause of the pain to be investigated. Seek medical help if: The pain is severeThe duration of the pain extends beyond the sexual activityThe pain is accompanied by bleeding, nausea, or vomiting The pain extends to other areas of your body In summary, painful intercourse may be related to sexual practices and positions that put stress on the cervix, or it may be due to health problems. It is best to avoid the stress of painful intercourse during ovulation, as stress hormones may interfere with conception. The sense of well-being felt during ovulation promotes conception. However, painful sex does not promote it.

A woman touching her chest where she is feeling pain

Menstruation Heartburn Before Your Period: What It Means and What You Can Do Most women experience a wide range of PMS side effects the week before and during their periods (or even longer beforehand). Often, these difficult symptoms can be even worse to experience than the period itself and seem to truly interfere in the functioning of women's daily lives. In this article, our team of experts has compiled a guide to identifying and addressing one of the really unpleasant symptoms of PMS: heartburn. Remember that this is a general guide and that you are an individual case. Consult your general practitioner or gynecologist if you notice anything unusual or feel worried about your symptoms or treatment. Common Side Effects of PMS Some of the common side effects of PMS include: Migraines and headachesBloating, constipation, diarrhea, and excessive gasWater retentionDepression and anxiety Irritability Food cravings Loss of appetiteJoint pain Pain in the pelvic areaFatigueInsomniaDry throatHeartburn Make sure to take a look at our guide to alleviating PMS symptoms with birth control. What Exactly Is Heartburn? When stomach acid travels up the esophagus (the tube carrying food to your stomach from your mouth), an uncomfortable burning sensation may be experienced in the chest and neck. Sometimes, this gets worse after eating or lying down. While several things can cause heartburn, including overeating, tight clothing, alcohol, and spicy food, this problem can also be created by a change in hormones throughout your menstrual cycle. Why You Might Experience Heartburn Before and During Your Period The esophageal sphincter, located between the stomach and the esophagus, is sometimes relaxed by fluctuating hormones (progesterone, estrogen, FSH, etc.), which is exactly what occurs during PMS and periods. It functions as a stop valve, so acid from the stomach moves up the esophagus when it relaxes. The result is PMS heartburn, usually a burning sensation in the stomach, chest, and throat. When Heartburn Might Be Dangerous If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should see a doctor as soon as possible: Change in stool colorBloody vomitSevere chest painUnexpected weight lossTrouble swallowing If you notice heartburn two times a week or more, you may have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This is a chronic condition where the esophagus is damaged from frequent exposure to stomach acid. This will require prescribed medication and lifestyle changes. How to Lessen the Effect of Heartburn Heartburn as a result of hormonal changes can usually be dealt with in the same way as regular heartburn. We advise taking a three-prong approach to combatting heartburn, including preventative measures, supplements, and home remedies. Here are some of our recommendations for curbing heartburn: Supplements Take an antacid Incorporate a calcium supplement into your daily routine Lifestyle Quit smoking Manage your weight and utilize a healthy amount of exercise Manage your stress levelsEat slowly, making sure to chew properlyAvoid eating right before exercising Avoid greasy or fatty foodsAvoid caffeine, carbonated drinks, chocolate, alcohol, and citrus fruits or drinksDon't eat too late in the eveningLie in a slightly elevated position to prevent acid from flowing upwardsDrink plenty of water during the day Home Remedies Include bananas in your diet, preferably daily Chew gum for 30 minutes at some point in the evening Try a licorice supplement Try a home remedy of apple cider vinegar in water Add ginger to your tea and food Heartburn as a Sign of Pregnancy Heartburn may also be an early sign of pregnancy. If you haven't experienced heartburn before or it isn't a normal PMS symptom for you, consider taking a pregnancy test. It is also often accompanied by a small amount of spotting, and you may experience some other signs of pregnancy, such as breast tenderness, nausea, headaches, and more. Remember that every woman and every pregnancy is different, so you might not be pregnant.

A young woman sitting on the couch holding her abdominal area

Women's health Is Ovulation Pain a Sign That It’s Too Late to Conceive?Not all women experience ovulation cramps, but it's good to know how to identify them and their role in conception. During ovulation, when the luteinizing hormone peaks (LH peaks), you may experience pain on one side of the body, which can last for a few seconds or up to 12 hours. The pain is thought to be related to the egg breaking through the ovary wall, and some water or a little blood may also be released, causing spotting. Symptoms of Ovulation Cramps The intensity of ovulation cramps may be severe and sharp. However, they are usually brief and on one side of the abdomen. The pain flares in the middle of the menstrual cycle, and you may experience ovulation cramps before or after an egg is released. Some bloating may also be triggered by the LH peaks, which can cause water retention. The ovulation cramps may be sharper than period cramps. Can You Still Conceive if Experiencing Ovulation Cramps? Ovulation cramps are not a sign that there is a problem; they occur before, during, or after the egg is released. So, they are good news for conception because they can be a positive sign that the ovum is becoming available for conception. It is possible to conceive immediately after the ovum is released if sperm is already present in the uterus waiting for it. Any sexual activity leading to sperm being present in the uterus over the 48-hour lifespan of the ovum can lead to conception. The Difference Between Ovulation Cramps and Implantation Cramps Ovulation cramps might not feel very different from implantation cramps, but they occur at different times. Some women experience cramps after sex during ovulation. Cramps may occur or be worsened by sex during ovulation, but this is due to the pressure on the cervix during sexual activity and not related to ovulation. Implantation cramps occur when the fertilized egg implants itself in the soft tissue of the uterus, and they may occur between 10-14 days after conception. These cramps are caused by the hormones progesterone and estrogen that feed the growth of the endometrium, a bed of tissue to receive the egg. Some brownish spotting, which is implantation bleeding, may occur at this time and looks different from a regular period. Again, this is a positive sign of conception, not a problem. Easing Ovulation Pain and Increasing Fertility Here are some tips to ease ovulation pain: Take a painkiller like ibuprofenApply a hot cloth or hot water bottle to the painful areaMove around if you can Some tips to increase your chance of conception are: Have sex often—before, during, and after ovulation—to maximize your opportunity for fertilization.Keep track of your basal body temperature during the phase of ovulation. The temperature rise, caused by progesterone and estrogen, indicates ovulation and lets you know you have a good chance of conceiving. When Should You See a Doctor? If your cramping persists beyond 24 hours, or there are other symptoms accompanying it, consult your doctor. These additional symptoms indicate that you need help: Unusual vaginal bleedingReferred pain (e.g., from your groin down to your leg)Cramping and frequent painful urination Vomiting or diarrheaA missed period If you have these symptoms, there may be a possibility that the cramping is related to acute appendicitis, endometriosis, or uterine fibroids, not ovulation. To understand the effects of different hormones at different stages of the menstrual cycle, it may be helpful to look at a visual source showing the phases of your menstrual cycle. It is also a guide to understanding how tracking ovulation and your period can help you conceive.

A young married couple holding their newborn lovingly

Trying to conceive A Beginners Guide to Pre-Seed Fertility Lubricant Pre-Seed Fertility Lubricant is a specially formulated lubricant that is specially designed to aid with fertility. While it is typically used by women who experience vaginal dryness, there is absolutely no harm in using it if you do not experience this dryness—there just wouldn't be much of a point. Pre-Seed is designed to mimic vaginal fluid—down to the pH—allowing for sperm to travel more easily up the vaginal canal to the egg. For all of its merits, you need to be sure that what you put into your body will not have any harmful side effects. You should also be entirely sure of how to use a new intimate product. This post will explain how and when to use Pre-Seed Fertility Lubricant, as well as any potential side effects you may experience. When Should You Use Pre-Seed Lubricant? There are two "whens" to consider. In terms of your cycle, you should use this lubricant during your fertile period. This begins when the egg is released from your ovaries during ovulation. On a "normal" 28-day cycle, ovulation should occur on day 14 of your cycle (day one referring to the first day you bleed on your period). In terms of sex, around 15 minutes beforehand is the recommended time. How to Use and Apply Pre-Seed You will receive a tube and an applicator tube. As per the instructions within the package: Open the tube and attach the applicator with the plunger pushed all the way down. You will have to twist it onto the product (which is shaped like a toothpaste tube).Squeeze the tube from the bottom, allowing the applicator to fill up. The plunger will rise all the way to the top. Do not use the plunger to draw out the product.Close the product in the tube, and do not let the product sit inside the applicator for any longer than 30 minutes. Insert about half of the applicator into the vagina, in whichever way is comfortable for you. If it is your first time, sitting on the toilet is an easy way to get the right angle.Holding firmly in place, push the plunger up to release all of the product. This method is similar to inserting a tampon with an applicator. Discard the applicator, as they are single-use only. What Side Effects Can Pre-Seed Have? Pree-Seed is clinically safe and even FDA approved. There are no known reported side effects to this product. If you are still uncertain, however, it is always best to speak to your doctor or obstetrician. Should You Use Pre-Seed? We think that Pre-Seed is a great product for anyone experiencing vaginal dryness, as it mimics both the pH and texture of vaginal fluid and mucus to a T. Not only is this great for the experience of intercourse, but it also aids with fertility if the sperm is struggling to get to where it needs to go. All in all, this is a safe, effective product which we definitely suggest you try.

A young woman laying in bed, with her arms wrapped around her abdomen and a pained expression on her face.

Endometriosis Nausea Due to Endometriosis Endometriosis is well known amongst women as the evil monster from which they cannot escape. Instead of the annoying cramping many women experience during their periods, women with endometriosis often experience severe pain that can be difficult to manage and can prevent them from going about their normal day. Symptoms While pelvic pain is the most common symptom, other symptoms of endometriosis include heavy menstruation, endo belly, painful bowel movements and urination, lower back pain, and sometimes even infertility. Endometriosis can also cause gastrointestinal symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, bloating, abdominal pain, and changes in bowel habits. Nausea is the “sick” uneasy feeling experienced in the stomach that often leads to vomiting. Many women report nausea as a symptom of their endometriosis, especially during their period or after meals. Cause of Nausea With Existing Endometriosis Medical experts unsure how endometriosis may lead to nausea, however, several factors may contribute to its onset. Pain is at the forefront of bringing about nausea due to the immense strain it puts on the body. The location of endometriosis and lesions in the lower abdomen can also cause nausea, especially if they're found near or in the woman's bowels, then nausea and vomiting are almost inevitable. Hormone imbalances—such as high estrogen levels—also play a role, therefore nausea is usually worse during the menstrual period. Additionally, endometriosis lesions can swell and bleed during your period, resulting in a build-up of blood in an area that cannot be released with normal period blood. This causes pain, discomfort, and nausea. Increased levels of prostaglandins (compounds made of fats that have hormone-like effects in your body) during your period can play a role as well. They can cause your uterus to contract (tighten), causing intense and painful menstrual cramps which can directly contribute to feelings of nausea. Triggers for Nausea Your diet is one of the biggest triggers for nausea. Nausea after eating is incredibly common, therefore specific foods can be isolated as triggers due to their ability to influence inflammation and high estrogen levels which can cause nausea or make it worse. Due to endometriosis being associated with other digestive symptoms, the same symptoms and causes of endo belly can be applied here. Estrogen is a key hormone in women, and we need it for normal functioning. But too much estrogen can aggravate endometriosis symptoms like cramping, pain, and nausea. Food plays an important role in balancing estrogen levels and reducing inflammation. It's advisable to avoid foods such as alcohol, high levels of caffeine, processed foods, and sugary drinks. Stress is also a big trigger for nausea as it can increase inflammation in the body and make endometriosis symptoms worse. Proactive Prevention of Endometriosis-Induced Nausea Yes, you read right! Nausea associated with endometriosis can be prevented in the following ways: Changes in diet: Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, omega-3 fatty acid-rich foods, and whole grains. Change how you eat: Consume smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day, don't eat too quickly, and avoid foods that may bring about nausea such as greasy, spicy foods. Posture and clothing: If you often feel bloated or nauseous after a meal, consider avoiding things that may place strain on your abdomen such as eating bent over, lying down while eating, and wearing tight-fitting clothing. Stress less: Easier said than done, but focus on reducing stress by meditating, listening to calm music, taking a warm bath, or engaging in a hobby you enjoy. Remedies for Nausea Here are some easy remedies to relieve nausea: Eat bland foods: This includes white rice, bananas, and unseasoned skinless chicken. Continue with this until your nausea disappears.Anti-nausea medications: These can be bought over the counter and taken as instructed. Stay upright: This can aid in digestion and may help nausea to pass. Ginger tea: One of the best home remedies for treating nausea. Peppermint: Also well known for treating nausea. Consider trying peppermint aromatherapy or drinking peppermint tea.Get fresh air: Breathing in some fresh air may also help ease feelings of nausea. Try opening a window or going outside until you start to feel better.Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS): Use Ovira or Livia to relieve your endometriosis symptoms. Conclusion Endometriosis can be debilitating and while there’s no cure, available treatment and remedy options can help make symptoms more manageable. Also consider reaching out to other women with endometriosis to share experiences and remedies, and provide support to one another, as things in life always seem less unbearable when we're not alone.

A woman, seated on a couch, with her hand pressed tightly against her chest.

Menstruation Everything You Need to Know About Cyclical Breast Pain Breast pain or mastalgia is very common in women of all ages and most experience it at some point in their lives. Unfortunately, this pain or tenderness in the breasts can cause a lot of anxiety, but remember that breast pain on its own isn't necessarily a sign of an underlying condition. There are 3 main types of breast pain: Cyclical breast pain: The pain is linked to your menstrual cycle because you experience sore, tender breasts during your period. Noncyclic breast pain: Pain is experienced outside of the period window. Chest wall pain: It feels like the pain is in your breast but it's actually coming from somewhere else, such as a pulled muscle in the chest. Breast pain is different for every woman and can range from minor discomfort to severely disabling pain that inhibits daily activities. It's important to know the difference between the types and levels of breast pain as it may be giving red-flag indicators that there's an issue that needs further investigation. 1. Symptoms of Cyclical Breast Pain Many women experience mild breast tenderness, however, the pain can be severe or long-lasting for others. The 3-5 days leading up to a period are usually the worst, while some women experience pain up to two weeks before a period which then eases soon after the period starts. The severity of the pain and discomfort typically differs from month to month. Pain can affect both breasts. It's usually worse in the upper and outer parts of the breasts and may travel to the inside of the upper arm. Your breasts may also feel lumpy and more swollen. This lumpiness is generalized, therefore not leading to a single, definite lump forming. These symptoms can significantly affect everyday activities. Physical activity, such as jogging, as well as hugging friends and loved ones, and sexual activity can be painful. The pain may also interfere with sleep. 2. Relation Between Menstruation and Breast Pain Breast pain is often linked to the menstrual cycle and can become sore 3-5 days before your period starts, while pain can stop after it starts. Breast pain is caused by hormone imbalances—a rise in estrogen and progesterone levels—right before your period. These hormones make your breasts swell and can lead to tenderness and discomfort. Additionally, some women begin to have pain when they ovulate. The pain continues until the start of their menstrual cycle. The pain may be barely noticeable, or it may be so severe that you can’t wear tight-fitted clothing or handle close contact of any kind. It may be felt in only one breast or as a radiating feeling under your arm. Being aware of your menstrual cycle phases will help you prepare for the possible oncoming breast pain by having those remedy strategies ready! 3. Remedies for Soothing Cyclical Breast Pain While cyclical breast pain can be incredibly frustrating and uncomfortable, there are some suggested methods to alleviate the symptoms: Bras Bras are the houses for our breasts—no one likes an uncomfortable house that doesn't treat its occupants well. During the daytime, wear a well-fitting bra that provides the necessary support but at the same time is comfortable and not squashing your breasts. When you sleep, wear a soft-support bra and during exercise, wear a good sports bra that prevents the breasts from bouncing around too much. Herbs and Oils Many women swear by using evening primrose oil because it eases their PMS symptoms, such as breast tenderness, feelings of depression, irritability, swelling, and bloating from fluid retention. Pregnant women, those planning to become pregnant, and people with epilepsy should not take evening primrose oil without checking with their doctor first. Dietary Changes Your diet can drastically affect your body and how you feel. Eating the best foods for pain relief can help ease cyclical breast pain. This includes avoiding large amounts of caffeine and alcohol, eating a low-fat diet that's high in fiber, avoiding tobacco, taking vitamin E and magnesium supplements (magnesium supplements can also relieve symptoms associated with menstrual headaches), and drinking plenty of water. Your diet may also be causing heartburn before your period. Heat For many women, a warm bath or shower is their main choice of relaxation. The heat helps to relieve period cramps, relieve lower-back pain during PMS, and can ease breast pain, leaving you feeling better. If none of these remedies help ease the pain and tenderness, you can always try over-the-counter pain medication from your local pharmacy. Conclusion Although understanding more about your breast pain won’t cure it, it may help you to get back some control over your life. It's often also reassuring to know that many other women are dealing with the same thing and that it's part of your body’s normal pattern of changes over its cycle.

Women's health Can Uterine Fibroids Cause Bleeding?Fibroids are non-cancerous, tumorous growths of muscle and connective tissue, which may occur anywhere in your body without any harmful or painful effects. Uterine fibroids develop in the space inside the uterus or in its soft tissue walls. They may be as small as a pea or a cluster of them may become as big as a watermelon and are found in women mainly between the ages of 35 and 50. There is as yet no definite answer from medical researchers about what causes the growth of uterine fibroids in some women. Suggested causes are prolonged exposure to estrogen, genetics, cells developing in the wrong place since birth, an excess of micronutrients, or stress. Why Uterine Fibroids Cause Bleeding Uterine fibroids are affected by hormone imbalances. Therefore, they respond by growing larger during the menstrual cycle when a woman's hormone levels change constantly. The growth irritates the uterus cavity or uterine lining, which then begins to bleed. The soft tissue of the uterine lining will manifest as clots in a heavy bleed. This may be part of a regular menstrual bleed or can even occur in between periods. Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids Uterine fibroids affect the uterus's general well-being and normal functioning. If you experience the following symptoms, ask your doctor to check for the presence of uterine fibroids: pelvic painpainful period crampsheavy bleeding or prolonged bleeding during a period (the most common symptom)heavy bleeding between periodsmissed periodspain during sexlower back painfrequent urinationbloating and a distended abdomena mass that can be felt in the abdomencomplications during pregnancy, including the risk of a cesarean delivery You'll only be sure that these symptoms are caused by fibroids when you've had a pelvic examination by a doctor, and possibly other assessments via an MRI or scanner. A full investigation is necessary to identify fibroids. They may be a real obstacle to fertility, therefore affecting your likelihood of falling pregnant. How To Stop Fibroid Bleeding Conducting a complete hysterectomy—removing the uterus and ovaries—is no longer the only treatment available. The current trend is to be minimally invasive and not remove anything, but rather starve the fibroids of hormones or of blood flow. This method aims to shrink the fibroids and to diminish abnormal vaginal bleeding. This can be done through a variety of non-invasive surgical procedures, most commonly by uterine fibroid embolization (UFE), a process of injecting particles into the arteries that supply the fibroids. Once in the arteries, these particles swell up and block the blood flow to the fibroids, causing the fibroids to shrink dramatically and die. UFE is 95% effective and is considered one of the best treatments for fibroids. Other Treatment Options for Uterine Fibroids Are: tranexamic acid, a prescription medication taken during the menstrual cycleantifibrinolytics which decrease the clotting and the duration of the bleedinga progesterone IUD which acts as a contraceptive and minimizes bleedinga low-dose birth control pill, which provides counter-acting hormones which shrink the fibroids a prescription of Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists (GHA), which releases a hormone in such a way that it reduces estrogen in the body, precipitating a menopause-like state. This deprives the fibroids of estrogen, causing them to shrink and become less active. These treatments help to stop the bleeding caused by uterine fibroids. However, it remains important to receive specialist gynecological management of the uterine fibroids, because of the risk of diminished fertility. Treatment of Uterine Fibroids Improves Fertility After treatment, it is easier to get pregnant because fibroids are less likely to block the fallopian tubes and hinder ovulation. The sperm can then also move freely through a normally shaped cervix, uncluttered by fibroids, as well as in the uterus. Without fibroids preventing the sperm's movement, the likelihood of fertilization increases. Conclusion It's vital to get an expert medical assessment of your symptoms if you think you have uterine fibroids. There is help available to relieve all the difficult and painful symptoms as well as to support you when managing your fertility proactively.

Menstruation Hormonal Headaches: Location and Treatment Hormonal headaches are caused when a woman's hormone levels change. Most of these fluctuations occur during the menstrual cycle, menopause, pregnancy, or because contraceptive pills are being used. Hormonal headaches also include premenstrual syndrome (PMS) headaches, occurring about 10 days before menstruation, or menstrual migraines, occurring about two days before the period starts. This post further discusses the causes of hormonal headaches and when women are likely to be affected. Possible treatments and remedies are also recommended. What Causes a Hormonal Headache? Women experience hormonal headaches because of hormones that fluctuate—most especially when estrogen levels drop just before a period. This can be two days before a period starts or over the first three days. A migraine level headache may be triggered when the brain is stimulated (by bright light, stress, fatigue, or even foods like cheese or chocolate) so much that the blood vessels dilate a lot, setting up pain. This then triggers a rush of serotonin that tries to shut down the blood vessels—almost like squeezing them—and this sudden constriction worsens the pain. A less aggressive headache, not a migraine, but with severe and persistent pain in the head, can also be caused by hormonal changes. What Does a Hormonal Headache Feel Like? Hormonal headaches can feel like a throbbing pulse in the head, or a tight band of pressure gripping the skull across the front or back of the head or on one side only. The pain can also move across to the middle or the other side of the head, as the headache progresses. Additional menstrual migraine symptoms include sensitivity to light, nausea, fatigue, and dizziness. Who Do Hormonal Headaches Affect? Women with different hormonal profiles can experience hormonal headaches at different times: Contraceptive pill: Women who have stopped using their birth control pills may experience headaches. Birth control pills affect the menstrual cycle, therefore hormone levels are irregular and must take time to stabilize again.Menopause: Women who are experiencing menopause, which is a receding tide of hormones, may have frequent headaches due to the diminishing level of estrogen in their bodies.Pregnancy: Women in the first few weeks of pregnancy may also experience hormonal headaches. This is a time of hormonal adjustment as the body produces additional hormones to stabilize the new embryo. Additionally, women who are already affected by stress, have a genetic tendency to migraines, or perhaps need to take beta-blockers may tend to experience a higher number of migraines per month. Hormonal Headaches: Treatment and Remedies Hormonal headaches can be treated in different ways depending on their severity. Tryptamine-based drugs (triptans): This medication is longer-acting and can be taken on an ongoing basis.Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDS): NSAIDS can be taken on an ongoing basis for a short time, but their use must be medically managed because they are linked to severe side effects such as stroke, gastrointestinal bleeding, and ulcers. Oral contraceptives: Birth control can be used on a continuous basis (without allowing menstruation to occur) and can help keep menstrual migraines away. However, the body does require a break—maybe one month in every five—to bleed. Unfortunately, the hormonal imbalances that now occur because of stopping birth control may also trigger a migraine. This remedy is linked to side effects such as stroke or deep vein thrombosis.Beta-blockers: Using this medication daily is useful to reduce the incidence of migraine attacks. Self-care remedies: Exercise, such as aerobic exercise and yoga, and taking supplements, such as magnesium, can support and stabilize the migraine sufferer. A migraine sufferer who experiences migraine attacks frequently and severely should ideally take preventative remedies, such as the points discussed above, because it is difficult to stop a migraine once it has started. Conclusion Hormonal headaches should be taken seriously. A severe case can reduce a woman's time for work or play by up to 3 days a week. If unsure or if any symptoms escalate, consult a medical professional for further action.

Pregnancy Taking Geritol While Pregnant: What to Know There are numerous supplements, vitamins for fertility, and curative health treatments available for women trying to conceive that claim to help them fall pregnant. Today, we look at a popular brand, Geritol, and examine its efficacy. What Is Geritol? Geritol is a multivitamin brand, which produces different formulas to apparently boost energy, assist fertility, provide micronutrients, and improve health conditions. It's been on the market for many years and, for a time, was believed to be effective in boosting the chances of pregnancy, mainly due to its high content of iron. Side Effects of Geritol Common Side Effects TirednessLoss of appetite, indigestion, or nauseaStaining of teethConstipation or diarrhea More Serious Side Effects Multivitamins should not cause any serious side effects, so if they do, there's something wrong. If you have any of the following symptoms, see a doctor immediately: Difficulty breathingSwelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throatHives or rashBlood in your stoolsPain in your chest or throat when swallowing a tablet Taking Geritol During Pregnancy Pregnant women have different vitamin and mineral needs when compared to other people, so they need to be careful when deciding which vitamins to take. It's always a good rule of thumb for pregnant women to run any new tablets or medication by their doctors before beginning treatment. Geritol is not clinically tested or proven as a functioning prenatal supplement. Good prenatal vitamins have higher doses of folic acid than Geritol does. Take one that your doctor suggests. Risks Associated With Taking Geritol While Pregnant There is little information available to answer this question. Some women may experience any of the side effects listed above, or interactions with other supplements or medications. Does Geritol Boost Fertility? There is no evidence that Geritol assists conception. There are notes from the manufacturer on their website that confirm this, letting users know that claims of this are false. Who Should Avoid Geritol? If you have any of the following conditions or symptoms already, you should avoid taking Geritol or discuss it first with your general practitioner. Conditions: Blood sickle cell anemiaanemia from pyruvate kinase and G6PD deficienciesa type of blood disorder where the red blood cells burst called hemolytic anemiadecreased blood clotting from low vitamin Kincreased risk of bleeding due to clotting disorder Iron iron metabolism disorder causing increased iron storagean overload of iron in the bloodexcess iron due to repeated blood transfusions Imbalance of Vitamins and Minerals a high amount of phosphate in the blooda high level of calcium in the bloodhigh or low levels of potassium in the blooda high amount of chloride in the bloodan excessive amount of vitamin D in the body Kidney decreased kidney functionkidney stones Stomach and Intestines an ulcer from too much stomach acida type of stomach irritation called gastritisinflammation of the stomach called atrophic gastritispast history of complete removal of the stomachulcerative colitis, an inflammatory condition of the intestinesstomach or intestinal ulcerstomach muscle paralysis and decreased functionblockage of the stomach or intestinediverticular diseasediarrhea Esophagus inflammation of the epiglottiscompression of the esophagusproblems with food passing through the esophagus Urine a high amount of oxalic acid in urinecessation of urine production Other Thomsen diseasecomplete or severe heart blockLeber's hereditary optic atrophysarcoidosisAddison's diseaseexcess body aciddehydrationfamilial hyperkalemic periodic paralysissevere burn When a woman or couple are wanting to conceive and are struggling to do so, they may be tempted to try anything that claims to boost their chances of falling pregnant. However, sometimes it's not even the producer of a medication that claims this, but ordinary people through hearsay, "old wives' tales" or rumors. Geritol is an example of this situation and can potentially harm the user. Make sure to research medication thoroughly, read the packaging inserts, and get the go-ahead from your doctor before taking it.