# HealthyWomen - Complete Content > HealthyWomen: complete content export for LLMs - 92 sections and the 100 most recent articles. Navigation index: https://www.healthywomen.org/llms.txt **Site Overview:** - Domain: https://www.healthywomen.org - Total Sections: 92 - Recent Posts Included: 100 - Content Word Count: ~36655 words - Last Updated: 2026-09-27 - Generated: September 27, 2026 20:27:31 **Important Information:** - Site ID: 19288782 - Markdown version: append .md to any URL - Total sections: 92 ## Site Structure - [Real Women, Real Stories](https://www.healthywomen.org/real-women-real-stories/index.md): Your experience, your journey – your truth (861 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/real-women-real-stories; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/real-women-real-stories.rss) - [Programs](https://www.healthywomen.org/programs/index.md): Get more information about HealthyWomen's programs. (155 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/programs; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/programs.rss) - [HealthyWomen in the News](https://www.healthywomen.org/news-media/index.md): Read about HealthyWomen's partnerships, news headlines and press releases. (176 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/news-media; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/news-media.rss) - [Media Coverage](https://www.healthywomen.org/news-media/media-coverage/index.md): HealthyWomen in the news and media (21 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/news-media/media-coverage; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/news-media/media-coverage.rss) - [Your Health](https://www.healthywomen.org/your-health/index.md): Get expert information around menopause, aging well, sexual health, pregnancy, fertility and much more. (2746 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/your-health; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/your-health.rss) - [Menopause & Aging Well](https://www.healthywomen.org/your-health/menopause-aging-well/index.md): Find in-depth menopause information and how to age well. (822 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/your-health/menopause-aging-well; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/your-health/menopause-aging-well.rss) - [Sexual Health](https://www.healthywomen.org/your-health/sexual-health/index.md): Find in-depth articles on sexual health information for a happier and healthier sex life. (468 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/your-health/sexual-health; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/your-health/sexual-health.rss) - [Pregnancy & Postpartum](https://www.healthywomen.org/your-health/pregnancy--postpartum/index.md): From trying to conceive to the first trimester to labor and everything after, learn what to expect during your pregnancy and postpartum. (590 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/your-health/pregnancy--postpartum; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/your-health/pregnancy--postpartum.rss) - [Fertility](https://www.healthywomen.org/your-health/fertility/index.md): Everything you need to know about contraception, pregnancy, family planning, infertility issues and much more. (127 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/your-health/fertility; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/your-health/fertility.rss) - [Prevention & Screenings](https://www.healthywomen.org/your-health/prevention--screenings/index.md): Get expert insights on how to stay healthy with preventive care and what screenings you need. (547 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/your-health/prevention--screenings; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/your-health/prevention--screenings.rss) - [Your Body](https://www.healthywomen.org/your-health/your-body/index.md): Get expert information on topics concerning you and your body. (532 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/your-health/your-body; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/your-health/your-body.rss) - [Your Wellness](https://www.healthywomen.org/your-wellness/index.md): Get expert information on self-care, mental health, nutrition, lifestyle and much more. (1968 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/your-wellness; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/your-wellness.rss) - [Self-Care & Mental Health](https://www.healthywomen.org/your-wellness/self-care--mental-health/index.md): Get expert information on how to take care of you and your mental health. (876 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/your-wellness/self-care--mental-health; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/your-wellness/self-care--mental-health.rss) - [Nutrition & Movement](https://www.healthywomen.org/your-wellness/nutrition--movement/index.md): Get expert insights on healthy eating, recipes, supplements, work outs and much more. (1203 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/your-wellness/nutrition--movement; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/your-wellness/nutrition--movement.rss) - [Family & Caregiving](https://www.healthywomen.org/your-wellness/family--caregiving/index.md): Get expert insights on taking care of your family from babies to your parents. (601 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/your-wellness/family--caregiving; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/your-wellness/family--caregiving.rss) - [Lifestyle](https://www.healthywomen.org/your-wellness/lifestyle/index.md): Expert insights on style, beauty, travel, hair and more. (326 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/your-wellness/lifestyle; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/your-wellness/lifestyle.rss) - [Work & Money](https://www.healthywomen.org/your-wellness/work--money/index.md): Get information about your career and financial health. (85 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/your-wellness/work--money; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/your-wellness/work--money.rss) - [Your Care](https://www.healthywomen.org/your-care/index.md): Get expert information on expert perspectives, chronic care issues, medication safety and much more. (1101 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/your-care; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/your-care.rss) - [Access & Affordability](https://www.healthywomen.org/your-care/access-affordability/index.md): Get expert information about access to health care, health insurance and more. (477 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/your-care/access-affordability; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/your-care/access-affordability.rss) - [Expert Perspectives](https://www.healthywomen.org/your-care/expert-perspectives/index.md): Get perspectives from health experts. (162 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/your-care/expert-perspectives; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/your-care/expert-perspectives.rss) - [Chronic Care Issues](https://www.healthywomen.org/your-care/chronic-care-issues/index.md): Get expert insights about chronic care issues. (544 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/your-care/chronic-care-issues; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/your-care/chronic-care-issues.rss) - [Medication Safety](https://www.healthywomen.org/your-care/medication-safety/index.md): Get more inforamation about medication safety, perscription drugs, substance abuse and more. (185 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/your-care/medication-safety; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/your-care/medication-safety.rss) - [Science and Technology](https://www.healthywomen.org/your-care/science-and-technology/index.md): Get expert insights about the latest in health science and technology. (247 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/your-care/science-and-technology; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/your-care/science-and-technology.rss) - [Conditions & Treatments](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/index.md): Get expert information on sexual health, progesterone, menstrual disorders, pelvic pain and much more. (1614 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition.rss) - [Allergies](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/allergies-hub/index.md): Find in-depth information about allergies, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (37 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/allergies-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/allergies-hub.rss) - [Alzheimer's Disease](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/alzheimers-disease-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about Alzheimer's Disease, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (59 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/alzheimers-disease-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/alzheimers-disease-hub.rss) - [Anxiety Disorders](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/anxiety-disorders-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about anxiety disorders, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments. (437 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/anxiety-disorders-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/anxiety-disorders-hub.rss) - [Arthritis](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/arthritis-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about arthritis, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (27 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/arthritis-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/arthritis-hub.rss) - [Asthma](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/asthma-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about asthma, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (23 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/asthma-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/asthma-hub.rss) - [Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (11 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd-hub.rss) - [Bacterial Vaginosis](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/bacterial-vaginosis-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about bacterial vaginosis, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (41 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/bacterial-vaginosis-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/bacterial-vaginosis-hub.rss) - [Bipolar Disorder](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/bipolar-disorder-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about bipolar disorder, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (3 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/bipolar-disorder-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/bipolar-disorder-hub.rss) - [Breast Cancer](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/breast-cancer-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about breast cancer, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (228 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/breast-cancer-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/breast-cancer-hub.rss) - [Cardiovascular Diseases](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/cardiovascular-diseases-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about Cardiovascular Diseases, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (180 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/cardiovascular-diseases-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/cardiovascular-diseases-hub.rss) - [Cervical Cancer](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/cervical-cancer-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about cervical cancer, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (97 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/cervical-cancer-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/cervical-cancer-hub.rss) - [Chronic Fatigue Syndrome](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/chronic-fatigue-syndrome-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (54 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/chronic-fatigue-syndrome-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/chronic-fatigue-syndrome-hub.rss) - [Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/chronic-obstructive-pulmonary-disease-copd-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (34 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/chronic-obstructive-pulmonary-disease-copd-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/chronic-obstructive-pulmonary-disease-copd-hub.rss) - [Colon Cancer](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/colon-cancer-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about colon cancer, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (54 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/colon-cancer-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/colon-cancer-hub.rss) - [Crohn's Disease](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/crohns-disease-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about crohn's disease, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (57 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/crohns-disease-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/crohns-disease-hub.rss) - [Depression](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/depression-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about depression, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (136 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/depression-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/depression-hub.rss) - [Diabetes](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/diabetes-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about diabetes, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (93 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/diabetes-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/diabetes-hub.rss) - [Eating Disorders](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/eating-disorders-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about eating disorders, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (17 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/eating-disorders-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/eating-disorders-hub.rss) - [Endometriosis](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/endometriosis-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about endometriosis, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (43 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/endometriosis-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/endometriosis-hub.rss) - [Epilepsy](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/epilepsy-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about epilepsy, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (28 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/epilepsy-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/epilepsy-hub.rss) - [Eye Conditions & Disorders](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/eye-conditions-disorders-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about eye conditions, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (70 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/eye-conditions-disorders-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/eye-conditions-disorders-hub.rss) - [Fibroids](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/fibroids-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about fibroids, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (63 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/fibroids-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/fibroids-hub.rss) - [Fibromyalgia](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/fibromyalgia-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about fibromyalgia, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (146 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/fibromyalgia-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/fibromyalgia-hub.rss) - [Flu/Colds](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/flucolds-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about flu and colds, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (39 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/flucolds-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/flucolds-hub.rss) - [Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/gastroesophageal-reflux-disease-gerd-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (49 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/gastroesophageal-reflux-disease-gerd-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/gastroesophageal-reflux-disease-gerd-hub.rss) - [Hepatitis](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/hepatitis-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about hepatitis, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (44 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/hepatitis-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/hepatitis-hub.rss) - [Infertility](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/infertility-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about infertility, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (33 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/infertility-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/infertility-hub.rss) - [Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/irritable-bowel-syndrome-ibs-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (54 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/irritable-bowel-syndrome-ibs-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/irritable-bowel-syndrome-ibs-hub.rss) - [Lung Cancer](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/lung-cancer-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about lung cancer, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (46 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/lung-cancer-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/lung-cancer-hub.rss) - [Lupus](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/lupus-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about lupus, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (300 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/lupus-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/lupus-hub.rss) - [Menstrual Disorders](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/menstrual-disorders-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about menstrual disorders, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (152 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/menstrual-disorders-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/menstrual-disorders-hub.rss) - [Metabolic Syndrome](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/metabolic-syndrome-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about Metabolic Syndrome, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (108 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/metabolic-syndrome-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/metabolic-syndrome-hub.rss) - [Migraine](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/migraine-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about migraine, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (88 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/migraine-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/migraine-hub.rss) - [Multiple Sclerosis](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/multiple-sclerosis-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about Multiple Sclerosis, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (47 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/multiple-sclerosis-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/multiple-sclerosis-hub.rss) - [Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/nonalcoholic-fatty-liver-disease-and-nonalcoholic-steatohepatitis-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (42 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/nonalcoholic-fatty-liver-disease-and-nonalcoholic-steatohepatitis-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/nonalcoholic-fatty-liver-disease-and-nonalcoholic-steatohepatitis-hub.rss) - [Obesity](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/obesity-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about obesity, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (160 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/obesity-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/obesity-hub.rss) - [Osteoporosis](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/osteoporosis-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about osteoporosis, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (91 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/osteoporosis-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/osteoporosis-hub.rss) - [Ovarian Cancer](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/ovarian-cancer-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about ovarian cancer, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (82 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/ovarian-cancer-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/ovarian-cancer-hub.rss) - [Pain](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/pain-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about pain, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (142 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/pain-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/pain-hub.rss) - [Pelvic Organ Prolapse](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/pelvic-organ-prolapse-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about pelvic organ prolapse, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (117 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/pelvic-organ-prolapse-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/pelvic-organ-prolapse-hub.rss) - [Pelvic Pain](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/pelvic-pain-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about pelvic pain, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (142 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/pelvic-pain-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/pelvic-pain-hub.rss) - [Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/polycystic-ovary-syndrome-pcos-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (11 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/polycystic-ovary-syndrome-pcos-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/polycystic-ovary-syndrome-pcos-hub.rss) - [Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/premenstrual-syndrome-pms-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS), including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (61 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/premenstrual-syndrome-pms-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/premenstrual-syndrome-pms-hub.rss) - [Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC)](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/primary-biliary-cholangitis-pbc-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC), including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (48 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/primary-biliary-cholangitis-pbc-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/primary-biliary-cholangitis-pbc-hub.rss) - [Schizophrenia](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/schizophrenia-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about schizophrenia, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (18 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/schizophrenia-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/schizophrenia-hub.rss) - [Scleroderma](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/scleroderma-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about scleroderma, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (71 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/scleroderma-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/scleroderma-hub.rss) - [Sexual Dysfunction](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/sexual-dysfunction-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about sexual dysfunction, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (278 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/sexual-dysfunction-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/sexual-dysfunction-hub.rss) - [Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/sexually-transmitted-diseases-stds-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs), including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (112 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/sexually-transmitted-diseases-stds-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/sexually-transmitted-diseases-stds-hub.rss) - [Sinusitis](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/sinusitis-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about sinusitis, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (40 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/sinusitis-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/sinusitis-hub.rss) - [Sjögren's](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/sjogrens-syndrome-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about Sjögren's, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (90 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/sjogrens-syndrome-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/sjogrens-syndrome-hub.rss) - [Skin Cancer](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/skin-cancer-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about skin cancer, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (188 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/skin-cancer-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/skin-cancer-hub.rss) - [Sleep Disorders](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/sleep-disorders-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about sleep disorders, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (122 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/sleep-disorders-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/sleep-disorders-hub.rss) - [Stress](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/stress-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about stress, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (490 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/stress-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/stress-hub.rss) - [Substance Abuse](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/substance-abuse-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about substance abuse, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (44 posts; HTML: https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/substance-abuse-hub; RSS: https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/condition/substance-abuse-hub.rss) - [Thyroid Disorders](https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/thyroid-disorders-hub/index.md): Here you will find in-depth information about thyroid disorders, including diagnosis, symptoms and treatments (26 posts; 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Aproximadamente 1 de cada 3 personas con psoriasis también tiene APs. Si bien los hombres tienen más probabilidades de que les diagnostiquen ese trastorno, las mujeres tienen más dificultades con dolor, discapacidad y una peor calidad de vida en general por este trastorno. Comprender la APs, incluyendo su apariencia y cómo se trata, podría ser útil para que vivas más cómodamente con ese trastorno. Este recurso educativo se preparó con el apoyo de Merck. --- ### After Prostate Cancer: What Women Should Know About Sex, Intimacy and Their Partner’s Recovery **Published:** September 24, 2026 | **Author:** Allison Norlian | **Section:** Sexual Health **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/your-health/sexual-health/sex-intimacy-after-a-partners-prostate-cancer.md When RoseMary’s* husband was diagnosed with prostate cancer 22 years ago, the couple faced a lot of uncertainty, and they knew the diagnosis could change their lives. What they couldn’t fully anticipate was how much treatment might change their sex life, or how they would eventually learn to redefine intimacy together. Her husband, first went to the doctor because he was urinating more frequently. Testing eventually led to a biopsy and a prostate cancer diagnosis. After considering his treatment options, he chose surgery — a full removal of his prostate. RoseMary said they went into the procedure knowing there was a possibility of side effects, including urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction. Her husband experienced both. More than two decades later, he still has urinary incontinence, and his erectile function never returned. But he remains cancer-free and has no regrets about his decision. “The dignity and grace of this man despite what he went through,” she said. “This is a Marine who never complained once.” For RoseMary, however, being the partner of someone going through prostate cancer meant learning that surviving cancer is only one part of the story. Couples may also have to figure out what comes next, including how to navigate changes in sex, intimacy and their relationship. *Last name withheld for privacy. This educational resource was created with support from Bayer. --- ### How EoE Affects Your Daily Life **Published:** September 24, 2026 | **Author:** Nicole Pajer | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/how-eoe-affects-your-daily-life.md + Video transcript Video/Image Voiceover/Audio HERO: What Is Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE)? Animation: Show the outline of a body and zoom in on the esophagus. Show white spots on the esophagus and show it narrowing. Hero: Triggered by food and environmental factors Icons: Milk, wheat, egg, soy, fish, nuts, pollen Arrows pointing toward esophagus Eosinophilic esophagitis, known as EoE, is a chronic immune condition where eosinophils, a type of white blood cells, build up in the esophagus. It can occur as an immune reaction to food or allergens, like pollen, mold, dust or animal hair. Animation: Show a person going through their daily lives and stopping while eating to signify they are in pain in their esophageal area EoE can be painful and causes inflammation that damages the esophagus over time. This can take a toll on your daily life. HERO: Physical symptoms of EoE Pop up list: Trouble swallowing Food getting stuck Nausea & pain Poor appetite Difficulty sleeping Show a person in bed having a hard time sleeping, restless, shifting in bed, sitting up slightly uncomfortable Food can get stuck in your throat, and you may have trouble swallowing, nausea, poor appetite, abdominal pain, chest pain, reflux that doesn’t improve with medication and difficulty sleeping because of discomfort. HERO: Emotional symptoms of EoE Pop up list: Anxiety around eating Fear of choking Avoidance of social situations Show a person turning down plans and staying at home EoE can also affect your mental health. You may have anxiety about eating, fear of choking and feel hampered by following a strict diet — all of which may make it hard to enjoy eating out, socializing and traveling. Show a person sitting on a couch next to others at game night, keeping to themselves and turning away as a bowl of chips are passed EoE can also affect self-esteem and relationships. You may avoid spending time with other people and worry that no one understands your condition. Show a person looking tired at work Your symptoms may even affect your performance at work or school due to fatigue and stress. HERO: Getting a diagnosis is key Show the person sitting in their doctor’s office Show an endoscopy icon or animation Show a patient talking to an allergist who is handing them a list of foods to avoid Show medication icons Hero: Staying on treatment matters Show a person ordering food from a menu and a circle with a line through certain foods like wheat or soy to indicate that is not what they are ordering EoE is diagnosed by a gastroenterologist who performs an upper endoscopy and biopsy of the esophagus. When managing EoE, GI doctors, allergists and dieticians work together to identify food or environmental triggers. Treatment can include dietary changes to avoid food triggers, medications to reduce inflammation and, sometimes, procedures to stretch the esophagus. Continued treatment is key to managing symptoms, preventing long-term complications like narrowing of the esophagus, and reducing discomfort. Woman goes back in for endoscopy It’s important to keep having follow-up endoscopies and biopsies because symptoms alone can’t tell you if you’re responding to treatment. HERO: Listen to your body Show a patient talking to their doctor, then smiling and out to dinner with friends looking happy If you have trouble eating and swallowing, talk to your healthcare provider. With proper treatment throughout your life, EoE can be managed — and your quality of life can improve. For more information, please visit HealthyWomen.org/EoE This resource was created with support from Sanofi and Regeneron. --- ### Sepsis 101 **Published:** September 24, 2026 | **Author:** Marijke Vroomen Durning, R.N. | **Section:** Your Health **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/your-health/what-is-sepsis.md September is Sepsis Awareness Month. Many people first hear about sepsis when someone they know is diagnosed with it or it’s mentioned on a medical TV drama. But hearing the word and knowing what it means are two different things. Sepsis is a life-threatening medical emergency and requires immediate care. Although more than 1.7 million people in the U.S. develop sepsis each year, and 350,000 people die from it, most people don’t know about all the symptoms or risk factors of sepsis. Here’s a primer on what sepsis is, what causes it, and why early identification and treatment matter. --- ### My Severe Asthma Made Me Afraid to Live **Published:** September 23, 2026 | **Author:** Dennisse Reyes | **Section:** Real Women, Real Stories **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/real-women-real-stories/my-severe-asthma-made-me-afraid-to-live.md Español As told to Erica Rimlinger I was 19 years old when my first asthma symptoms appeared, but I didn’t know that’s what they were. I thought I just couldn’t get rid of a bad cold. I had a cough that kept me from laughing during the day and sleeping during the night. I felt tightness in my chest and shortness of breath, and I was wheezing. I was a healthy kid growing up, but my dad and my brother both had asthma. As children, we didn’t find it scary because we didn’t know how dangerous asthma was. As an adult, I knew what was going on, and I panicked because I couldn’t breathe. I would end up in the ER a few times per year and was admitted to the hospital for symptoms at least once a year. Each time, I was prescribed a steroid called prednisone. I took it and thought it was great. I could breathe. I’d take it for a while, then stop when I was supposed to. The problem was my symptoms never stayed away for long. I found an allergist, only to have them give me prednisone again. I tried half a dozen inhalers, at least, and any new treatment I was offered. I was always willing to try anything that would help. Sometimes the medications would hold back my symptoms for a short time, but I always ended up back on prednisone, which is supposed to be a short-term medication. I didn’t know it at the time, but I’d be on prednisone nearly continuously for almost 20 years. Prednisone has a lot of side effects, and I experienced a bunch of them. I was always hungry, I gained weight, I had mood swings, I’d get jittery and I had so many sleepless nights. And then there was the fear from knowing my meds weren’t really controlling my condition. I knew my asthma could return at any time, and it did. I’m a person who loves to laugh, and I was afraid to laugh too hard because it could result in coughing and bring on an asthma attack. A proud Puerto Rican, I love to salsa dance, and I couldn’t. It was just too scary with asthma. I even hated walking. I manage a residency program, and part of my job is giving hospital tours to the new doctors. I’m a people person, but I dreaded walking and talking. I bonded with one of the doctors at work over our shared asthma diagnoses. She told me she could always tell when my asthma was bad, just from my voice and my energy level. Dennisse and her husband, Simon During one of my hospital admissions, I met an asthma specialist who was well respected and happened to be working in the hospital. I asked him if I could be his patient. I had the best relationship with him I’ve had with any doctor. He really listened to me. We tried treatment after new treatment. I was patient: I’d give a medication three to six months to work. My asthma specialist, whom I saw far more than my general practitioner, was the type of doctor who trusted my lived experience and listened when I told him a medication wasn’t working. He didn’t doubt me or try to convince me it was. Some medications worked for a little while, but they’d become less effective after a few months, and I’d end up back on a higher dose of prednisone, frustrated that nothing worked for me. One time, after an especially disappointing medication tryout, I even asked if I could get a lung transplant. Then, about seven years ago, I saw one of those “ask your doctor” commercials about a new medicine given by injection. The next week I was in my specialty doctor’s office, wheezing and coughing as usual, and asked if I could try it. I needed bloodwork to see if I could take it, and once I cleared that hurdle, I cleared the insurance hurdle. After the first couple of shots, I knew it was working. I knew because I could talk without coughing and walk without wheezing, and I had been able to slowly wean off the prednisone. After about five months, I felt better than I had in years. I didn’t want to get my hopes up too high. I’d been on prednisone so long at this point that the mere thought of staying off of it was a dream. After seven years, the new medicine is still keeping me symptom-free and full of life. I haven’t needed prednisone since. I’m older now, but I feel like my younger self. I’m salsa dancing again, and I’m not afraid to go out, even without my inhaler. I’m able to enjoy the walking and talking I do at work. I have a big, fun family and friends I can now laugh with — wholeheartedly, not holding back in fear of an asthma attack. Asthma is scary — I have uncles and aunts who’ve died from asthma attacks in recent years — but I know hope can sometimes feel scary too. I want other women to know my story so they can lose their fear of hoping for an asthma treatment that works for them. I’m living proof that even with severe asthma, people can have a life free from symptoms and fear, and dance like they haven’t in years. This educational resource was created with support from Sanofi and Regeneron. Have your own Real Women, Real Stories you want to share? Let us know. Our Real Women, Real Stories are the authentic experiences of real-life women. The views, opinions and experiences shared in these stories are not endorsed by HealthyWomen and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of HealthyWomen. --- ### HealthyWomen's 10th Annual Educational Event **Published:** September 23, 2026 | **Author:** HealthyWomen Editors | **Section:** General **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/events/hw-10th-annual-educational-event.md Her Brain. Her Body. Her Future. For our milestone 10th Annual Event, we’ll take it from the top. We’ll spotlight the powerful connection between the brain and the body and what it means for the future of head-to-toe women’s health. The evening will bring together leaders in healthcare, research, advocacy, policy, technology and industry to explore how women’s cognitive, cardiovascular, hormonal and metabolic health are interconnected throughout every stage of life. Together, we’ll examine the latest science and emerging innovations in prevention and care, and how greater education and earlier intervention can help women protect their health and age well. With thanks to the partners whose support makes this evening possible. --- ### Bye, Bye, Itch! Managing Chronic Hives at Home **Published:** September 23, 2026 | **Author:** Nicole Pajer | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/chronic-hives-treatment.md + Video transcriptVideo/Image Voiceover/Audio GRAPHIC: A group of diverse people touching their arms or legs, which have some hives on them. Add a soft glow to highlight areas that are affected by hives. SUPER: These words come up to match the timing of the VO: Chronic = lasts more than 6 weeks Spontaneous = has no obvious reason Urticaria = hives Hives are a common skin condition that affect 1 in 5 people at some point in their lives. But when these itchy, red bumps last more than 6 weeks and have no obvious cause, they’re known as chronic spontaneous urticaria or CSU. GRAPHIC: A woman looking at the hives on her arm as a calendar jumps forward to show it’s been longer than 6 weeks It can be uncomfortable, frustrating and even painful when these flare-ups keep happening. But there are some things you can do at home to make yourself more comfortable. GRAPHIC: A woman applying cream on her arm and a look of relief on her face, she also applies lotion GRAPHIC: A woman turning her shower temperature to cold and hopping in, you see her get out and wrap herself in a towel with a smile on her face. Then she turns up her air conditioning. Applying an over-the-counter anti-itch cream can help you feel less itchy. Follow that with fragrance-free lotion to keep your skin moisturized and prevent dryness. You can also soothe irritation by staying cool. Try placing a cold compress on your hives throughout the day, running your air conditioner, or taking a cool shower or bath. Avoid these steps, though, if colder temperatures trigger your hives. GRAPHIC: The woman is journaling. Her paper says “Monday: After eating spaghetti” GRAPHIC: Shows pages of the journal flip that reveal a few things written down on them. Stop at: “Friday: After a strenuous workout.” Speaking of triggers, paying attention to what may be causing your hives and avoiding those things can help to ease symptoms. In most people with CSU, there are no known triggers and the cause is never identified. But it’s still a good idea to try keeping a journal of when you get hives. This may be able to help you notice patterns like “I get hives within an hour of eating certain foods, when I feel stressed, or from heat.” If you do find patterns, that can help you take precautions to limit future outbreaks. GRAPHIC: The woman is getting dressed in front of the mirror and puts on loose fitting pajamas and then climbs into bed and curls up in soft sheets to relax. Soft lighting to convey comfort. Paying attention to your clothing and bedding can help, too. Wear loose-fitting, cotton attire and sleep on soft sheets to prevent irritation from friction and pressure. GRAPHIC: The woman is opening a cabinet and pulls out her detergent and is reading the label SUPER: Fragrance-Free/Dye-Free It’s also important to check your detergents, soaps and deodorants to make sure you’re using products without scents or dyes. GRAPHIC: A woman looking stressed and then she sits down to close her eyes to meditate and feels much better And remember, stress can trigger hives, and it’s easy to feel anxious when an outbreak happens. Taking some time to relax, whether that’s engaging in mindful meditation or a yoga session, can help your body and skin calm down. GRAPHIC: The same group of people from the beginning of the video are hive-free and waving and smiling. One of them is holding a sign that says, “Bye, bye, itch!” Chronic hives can be unpredictable, but these steps may be able to help you manage your symptoms during flare-ups — and an allergist can suggest treatments to help you control your CSU. For more information, please visit HealthyWomen.org/CSU This resource was created with support from Regeneron and Sanofi. --- ### Mi asma hizo que me dé miedo de vivir **Published:** September 23, 2026 | **Author:** Dennisse Reyes | **Section:** Real Women, Real Stories **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/real-women-real-stories/mi-asma-hizo-que-me-de-miedo-de-vivir.md English Tal como se relató a Erica Rimlinger Tenía 19 años cuando se manifestaron por primera vez mis síntomas de asma, pero no sabía lo que pasaba. Pensé que simplemente tenía un resfriado grave que no sanaba. Tenía una tos que no me permitía reír durante el día ni dormir durante la noche. Sentía opresión en mi pecho, dificultad para respirar y tenía sibilancia. En mi infancia era saludable, pero mi papá y mi hermano tenían asma. Cuando éramos niños, eso no nos daba miedo porque no sabíamos cuán peligrosa puede ser el asma. Siendo adulta, sabía lo que pasaba y tenía pánico porque no podía respirar. Iba a la sala de emergencias varias veces al año y me hospitalizaban por esos síntomas al menos una vez al año. Cada vez, me recetaban un corticoesteroide llamado prednisona. Lo tomaba y me parecía maravilloso. Me permitía respirar. Lo tomaba por un tiempo y luego dejaba de hacerlo según las indicaciones que me daban. El problema era que mis síntomas no desaparecían por mucho tiempo. Encontré un alergólogo, pero él también me recetó prednisona. Probé al menos media docena de inhaladores y cualquier tratamiento nuevo que me recomendaban. Estaba dispuesta a probar cualquier cosa que pudiese ser útil. A veces los medicamentos aliviaban mis síntomas por periodos cortos de tiempo, pero siempre terminaba usando prednisona otra vez que se supone que debe usarse solo a corto plazo. En esos momentos no lo sabía, pero usaría prednisona casi en forma continua por casi 20 años. La prednisona tiene muchos efectos colaterales y experimenté varios de ellos. Siempre tenía hambre, aumenté de peso, tenía inestabilidad emocional, me ponía nerviosa y hubieron muchas noches que no pude dormir. Y también tenía miedo porque sabía que mis medicamentos no estaban controlando realmente mi trastorno. Sabía que mi asma podía manifestarse nuevamente en cualquier momento y de hecho lo hacía. Me encanta reír y temía reír demasiado porque eso podría hacer que tosa y que vuelva a tener una crisis asmática. Tengo orgullo de ser portorriqueña y me encanta la salsa pero no podía bailarla. Simplemente tenía mucho miedo por el asma. Incluso odiaba caminar. Administro un programa de residencias y parte de mi trabajo es dar tours del hospital a doctores nuevos. Soy muy social, pero me daba pánico caminar y hablar. Empecé a tener una buena relación con una doctora en mi lugar de trabajo porque ambas somos asmáticas. Me dijo que ella siempre sabía cuándo mi asma era grave por mi voz y niveles de energía. Dennisse y su esposo, Simon Durante una de mis hospitalizaciones, conocí a un especialista en asma muy reconocido y que trabajaba en el hospital. Le pregunté si podía ser su paciente. Esa fue la mejor relación que he tenido con un doctor. Realmente me escuchó. Probamos varios tratamientos nuevos. Yo tenía paciencia: Esperaba de 3 a 6 meses para que los medicamentos funcionen. Mi especialista en asma, con quien tenía muchas más consultas que con mi profesional clínico de cabecera, era un doctor que confiaba en lo que yo había experimentado y que me escuchaba cuando le decía que un medicamento no funcionaba. Nunca dudaba de lo que le decía ni trataba de convencerme de que si funcionaba. Algunos medicamentos funcionaban por periodos cortos de tiempo, pero se volvían menos efectivos después de unos meses, y terminaba usando dosis mayores de prednisona, y me frustraba que nada funcionara para mí. Una vez, después de una decepción enorme por un medicamento que no funcionó, incluso pregunté si me podían hacer un trasplante pulmonar. Luego, aproximadamente hace siete años, vi uno de esos comerciales que indican que "hables con tu doctor" de un medicamento nuevo que se administra mediante inyecciones. La semana siguiente estaba en el consultorio de mi especialista con sibilancia y tosiendo y le pregunté si podía probarlo. Tenía que hacerme pruebas de sangre para ver si podía tomarlo y una vez que se demostró que sí, obtuve la aprobación del seguro. Después de las primeras dos inyecciones, sabía que estaba funcionando. Lo sabía porque podía hablar sin toser y caminar sin sibilancia y me estaba librando gradualmente de la prednisona. Después de aproximadamente cinco meses, me sentía mejor de lo que me había sentido en años. No quería emocionarme demasiado. Había usado prednisona tanto tiempo que la mera idea de no usarla era como un sueño. Después de siete años, ese medicamento nuevo todavía me mantiene sin ningún síntoma y disfruto mi vida al máximo. No he vuelto a usar prednisona desde entonces. Ahora soy de mayor edad, pero me siento como cuando era más joven. Ahora bailo salsa otra vez y no tengo miedo de salir, incluso sin mi inhalador. Disfruto cuando camino y hablo en el trabajo. Tengo muchos familiares y amigos alegres y ahora puedo reír plenamente sin restricciones por el temor de una crisis asmática El asma es algo tenebroso, tengo tíos que murieron de crisis asmáticas en años recientes, pero sé que a veces también puede dar miedo tener esperanza. Quiero que otras mujeres sepan lo que me pasó para que no teman tener esperanza de que un tratamiento para el asma funcione para ellas. Soy la prueba viviente de que incluso con una asma grave, las personas pueden tener una vida sin síntomas y sin miedo y que pueden bailar como no lo habían hecho en años. Este recurso educativo se preparó con el apoyo de Sanofi y Regeneron. ¿Eres una mujer con historias reales que te gustaría compartir? Avísanos. Nuestras historias son experiencias auténticas de mujeres reales. HealthyWomen no avala los puntos de vista, opiniones y experiencias expresados en estas historias y estos no reflejan necesariamente las políticas o posiciones oficiales de HealthyWomen. --- ### Asthma 101 **Published:** September 22, 2026 | **Author:** Marijke Vroomen Durning, R.N. | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/asthma-101.md Español Imagine breathing through a straw. Now imagine you’re running or very stressed and trying to breathe through that straw. This is what millions of people with asthma experience when they have an asthma “attack,” or flare-up. But what exactly is asthma? Asthma is a chronic illness that affects your airways as they narrow and swell, sometimes filling with mucus. The word “asthma” comes from the Greek aazein, which means to pant with your mouth open — a good fit given how the disease affects your breathing. This educational resource was created with support from Sanofi and Regeneron. --- ### Biologics for Treating Asthma **Published:** September 22, 2026 | **Author:** Alex Fulton | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/biologics-for-asthma.md Español Asthma is one of most common diseases in the United States, affecting around 11 in 100 women. It’s a chronic (long-lasting) condition that causes swelling in your airway, making it hard to breathe. Asthma can be controlled when it’s treated but may be deadly if it’s not. In 2023, asthma was linked to more than 3,700 deaths in the U.S. While the disease affects people of all ages, genders and ethnicities, Black Americans are more likely to have asthma than people of other races — and three times more likely to die from the disease. The good news? Many effective treatments for asthma exist, and researchers are always working on developing new and better ones. Biologics are one type of medication that can help people with asthma manage their disease. This educational resource was created with support from GSK, Sanofi and Regeneron. --- ### Información básica del asma **Published:** September 22, 2026 | **Author:** Marijke Vroomen Durning, R.N. | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/informacion-basica-del-asma.md English Imagina que respiras a través de un popote. Ahora imagina que corres o que tienes mucho estrés y que tratas de respirar a través de ese popote. Eso es lo que millones de personas con asma experimentan cuando tienen una "crisis" o episodio de asma. Pero, ¿qué es exactamente el asma? El asma es una enfermedad crónica que afecta tus vías respiratorias que se estrechan, se inflaman y a veces se llenan de mucosidad. La palabra "asma" se deriva de la palabra griega aazein que significa jadear con la boca abierta, una buena descripción en vista de cómo este trastorno afecta tu respiración. Este recurso educativo se preparó con el apoyo de Sanofi y Regeneron. --- ### Biofármacos para el tratamiento del asma **Published:** September 22, 2026 | **Author:** Alex Fulton | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/biofarmacos-para-el-tratamiento-del-asma.md English El asma es una de las enfermedades más comunes en Estados Unidos y afecta a aproximadamente 11 de cada 100 mujeres. Es un trastorno crónico (a largo plazo) que causa la inflamación de tus vías respiratorias, lo cual dificulta la respiración. El asma puede controlarse si se trata, pero si no se trata podría ser mortal. En 2023, el asma se asoció a más de 3,700 muertes en EE.UU. Si bien este trastorno afecta a personas de todas las edades, géneros y etnias, los estadounidenses de raza negra son más propensos a tener asma que personas de otras razas y son tres veces más propensos a morir de esa enfermedad. ¿Las buenas noticias? Hay muchos tratamientos efectivos para el asma y los investigadores trabajan siempre en el desarrollo de nuevos y mejores tratamientos Los biofármacos son medicamentos que pueden ser útiles para que personas con asma controlen su enfermedad. Este recurso educativo se preparó con el apoyo de GSK, Sanofi y Regeneron. --- ### I Want to Be the First Survivor of Alzheimer’s Disease **Published:** September 21, 2026 | **Author:** Robin McIntyre | **Section:** Real Women, Real Stories **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/real-women-real-stories/first-survivor-of-alzheimers-disease.md As told to Jacquelyne Froeber September 21, 2026, is World Alzheimer's Day. I kept thinking maybe I’d get lucky. That’s why I put off getting tested for the mutation many of my family members have for years. If I had it, I was basically guaranteed to have early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. The presenilin mutation is rare, but 16 people on my mother’s side — including my mother — had tested positive for the mutation, and there was a 50/50 chance that I had it, too. But I was holding out hope that my test results would be negative. After all, my two sisters didn’t have it. Unfortunately, I didn’t get lucky. My older sister and I were together when the doctor told me that I did, in fact, have the mutation. My whole body went into shock, and my stomach churned. I couldn’t find my words, so my sister asked the tough questions as tears streamed down my face. The questions that had loomed in the back of mind for so long played on a loop in my brain. But there was no more, “What if I can’t remember dad?” Or “What if I can’t take care of myself?” It was when. Robin, with her sisters, Chelsey (front right) and Jess McIntyre (rear left). I was horribly nauseated for days after I found out. It was like my body was rebelling against me — furious with the knowledge. But I knew in my heart that I had made the right decision. I was 29 years old and I wanted to know if I should be thinking about having kids. I’d always pictured having children at some point, but once I knew my status, I had to make the decision not to — to give up on being a mom. And that broke my heart. If I wasn’t going to be a mother, I wanted to honor my family and continue my family’s legacy of research. My mother and uncles were strong role models. They’d dedicated their lives to Alzheimer’s research. The studies they were part of in the early 2000s helped answer questions about Alzheimer’s disease, a form of dementia, that had baffled scientists for years. Knowing how rare it is to have the presenilin mutation, I wanted to do my part to help find a cure. Not long after finding out my status, I enrolled in an ongoing trial called the Dominantly Inherited Alzheimer Network (DIAN) to help researchers learn more about how to diagnose, treat and prevent dementia. Over the next decade, I went through countless scans, procedures, infusions and injections, all with the hope that the medications could stop Alzheimer’s disease from forming. I was in my late 30s when I learned that, based on my mothers age when she started showing symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, my estimated age of onset was 45 years old. I was shocked. I’d never been told that I had an estimated age that symptoms would start. I didn’t even know one existed. I also wasn’t sure that I wanted to know that information. But I couldn’t unhear it. Robin, with her grandparents, Rutherford and Jack McIntyre. The panic was swift. I felt like a ticking time bomb. There were so many things I wanted to do. I wanted to swim and ride bikes and soak up the sun, so that’s what I did. My (now) husband and I moved from Wyoming to the desert and we bought a house with a pool. Around this time, I made a vow to myself to become more of a “yes” person and not to let the fear of the estimated age hold me back from living my life to the fullest. I started doing more public speaking events and advocacy efforts to help raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease. Most recently, I started my own nonprofit with my husband called the White Flower Foundation. The White Flower represents the first Alzheimer's survivor. The foundation is dedicated to my 15 family members — including my mother — with the mutation who have passed away from Alzheimer’s under the age of 60. Their bravery allowed me the opportunity to be proactive instead of reactive — and not everyone gets that chance. Today, I’m happy to say that I don't have any symptoms of early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. I’ve been on amyloid removal treatment for 11 years, and I’m currently one of only 80 people in the world on a drug that researchers are hoping will prevent the onset of the disease before symptoms begin. Most days, it’s hard to wrap my head around the fact that these clinical trials and medications could change the lives of millions of people around the globe. But I’ve been thinking a lot more about it lately. I turn 44 in March 2027. Time is ticking but I still could be the first survivor of Alzheimer's disease. Maybe I’m luckier than I thought. Resources Alzheimer’s Association HealthyWomen Brain Health Hub This is Alz Have your own Real Women, Real Stories you want to share? Let us know. Our Real Women, Real Stories are the authentic experiences of real-life women. The views, opinions and experiences shared in these stories are not endorsed by HealthyWomen and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of HealthyWomen. --- ### Busted! 5 Myths About Alzheimer’s Disease **Published:** September 17, 2026 | **Author:** Jacquelyne Froeber | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/5-myths-about-alzheimers-disease.md Visit our Brain Health Hub. September is World Alzheimer’s Month. Nearly 2 out of 3 people living with Alzheimer’s disease are women. We know — it’s a scary stat. But we’re sharing because knowledge is power. And we want you to share with your friends and family and all the women you know because when we talk about Alzheimer’s disease, we can get past the scary stuff and focus on what women can do to help reduce the risk for the progressive brain disorder. Alzheimer’s slowly destroys cognitive skills, such as learning, thinking, paying attention and remembering, over time and eventually leads to the inability to do simple, everyday tasks. But the key here is over time. Studies show being proactive about your brain health can help lower the risk for Alzheimer’s disease. And knowing the risk factors, signs and symptoms can help you catch Alzheimer’s in the earlier stages when the most treatment options are available. Research is ongoing as to why the disease affects more women than men and what exactly causes Alzheimer’s in the first place. It’s no surprise that the internet has theories. Heck, you might too. Either way, there’s a lot of misinformation about Alzheimer’s disease out there. So, in honor of World Alzheimer’s Day — and women’s brains everywhere — we’re busting some of the most common myths about Alzheimer’s disease with cold, hard facts. --- ### Got Questions About COPD? We’ve Got Answers. **Published:** September 17, 2026 | **Author:** Risa Kerslake, R.N. | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/learn-about-copd.md Español Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has long been thought of as a condition that men have — particularly men who smoke. Right now, you might be picturing an old-time photo of a coal miner or a man in his 70s who’s been a lifelong heavy smoker. In reality, women and people assigned female at birth are not only more likely to develop COPD, but are at an increased risk of death from COPD compared to men. According to the American Lung Association, millions of people are living with COPD and don’t know they have it. Here’s what you need to know about COPD, including why and how it affects women differently, factors that increase the risk for COPD and how this lung condition can be managed. This educational resource was created with support from Sanofi and Regeneron. --- ### ¿Tienes preguntas sobre la EPOC? Nosotros tenemos respuestas. **Published:** September 17, 2026 | **Author:** Risa Kerslake, R.N. | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/informacion-sobre-la-epoc.md English Se ha considerado durante mucho tiempo que la enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica (EPOC, por sus siglas en inglés) es un trastorno que desarrollan los hombres, particularmente los que fuman. Actualmente, podrías pensar en una foto vieja de un minero de carbón o un hombre de más de 70 años que fumó mucho toda su vida. En realidad, no solo que las mujeres y las personas con asignación femenina cuando nacieron tienen más posibilidades de desarrollar EPOC, sino que también tienen un mayor riesgo de morir de EPOC en comparación con los hombres. Según la American Lung Association, millones de personas viven con EPOC y no saben que la tienen. Aquí encontrarás lo que debes saber sobre la EPOC, incluyendo por qué afecta ese trastorno pulmonar a las mujeres de otra forma, los factores que incrementan su riesgo y cómo puede controlarse. Este recurso educativo se preparó con el apoyo de Sanofi y Regeneron. --- ### Ask the Expert: Questions and Answers About Uncontrolled COPD **Published:** September 15, 2026 | **Author:** Erica Rimlinger | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/qa-uncontrolled-copd.md Español Rates of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are rising among women, with the disease being more common among people who live in rural areas. We spoke with pulmonologist Raymond Wade, M.D., assistant professor of pulmonary, allergy and critical care medicine at University of Alabama at Birmingham, about the importance of prompt diagnosis, good symptom management and reducing flare-ups. Wade told us earlier diagnosis and treatment reduces the severity of flare-ups, making them not just less frequent but also less deadly. “Flare-ups pose a huge risk to people’s lives,” said Wade. “Each flare-up is a roll of the dice.” This educational resource was created with support from Sanofi and Regeneron. --- ### Psoriatic Arthritis 101 **Published:** September 15, 2026 | **Author:** Alex Fulton | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/facts-about-psoriatic-arthritis.md Español September 28, 2026, is Psoriatic Arthritis Awareness Day. If you’ve heard of psoriasis, you probably know it as a skin disease that causes a red, itchy rash. But the inflammation linked to psoriasis can also affect your joints, leading to a disease called psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Roughly 1 in 3 people with psoriasis also has PsA. Although men are as likely as women to be diagnosed with the disease, women have a harder time with pain, disability and overall quality of life as a result. Understanding PsA, including what it looks like and how it’s treated, may help you live more comfortably with the condition. This educational resource was created with support from Merck and Takeda. --- ### 4 TikTok Health Trends: Heart or Hype? **Published:** September 15, 2026 | **Author:** Jacquelyne Froeber | **Section:** Your Health **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/your-health/4-tiktok-trends.md Salutations, scrollers! We’re back with another round of “Heart or Hype” where we look at some of the viral health trends popping up in your feed. To get to the bottom of what’s true and what’s bananas, we went to the experts. And you should too: It’s always a good idea to talk to your clinician before trying anything you see on social media. Here’s everything you need to know about these health trends. --- ### Pregúntale a un experto: Preguntas y respuestas sobre EPOC no controladas **Published:** September 15, 2026 | **Author:** Erica Rimlinger | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/preguntas-y-respuestas-sobre-epoc-no-controladas.md English Las tasas de la enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica (EPOC) están aumentando para las mujeres y esta enfermedad es más frecuente para personas que viven en áreas rurales. Hablamos con el neumólogo Raymond Wade, M.D., profesor adjunto de neumología, alergología y medicina intensiva de la Universidad de Alabama en Birmingham, sobre la importancia de un diagnóstico oportuno, de un buen control de síntomas y de la reducción de crisis. Wade nos dijo que un diagnóstico y tratamiento tempranos reducen la gravedad de las crisis, lo cual no solo las hacen menos frecuentes, sino que también menos letales. "Las crisis son un riesgo enorme para las vidas de las personas", dijo Wade. "Cada crisis implica la posibilidad de desenlaces clínicos graves". Este recurso educativo se preparó con el apoyo de Sanofi y Regeneron. --- ### Good Sex with Emily Jamea: Reclaiming Sexual Intimacy After Prostate Cancer **Published:** September 10, 2026 | **Author:** Emily Jamea, Ph.D. | **Section:** GOOD SEX WITH EMILY JAMEA **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/good-sex-with-emily-jamea/sexual-intimacy-after-prostate-cancer.md Español Emily Jamea, Ph.D., is a sex therapist, best-selling author and keynote speaker. You can also find her here, sharing her latest thoughts about sex. September is Sexual Health Awareness Month. When your partner is faced with prostate cancer, the conversation understandably centers on survival, but often, getting to the other side is when another challenge begins — reclaiming sexual intimacy. Prostate cancer treatment can have a profound effect on sexuality. Depending on the type of treatment, men may experience erectile dysfunction, diminished sexual desire, changes in orgasm, loss of ejaculation, changes in penile sensation or length, and urinary leakage during sexual activity. These changes are physical but often have a major emotional and relational impact. Sexual recovery after prostate cancer often requires more than restoring erections. It requires redefining intimacy. I once worked with a couple — Nolan and Jenna — who came to me after Nolan had been treated for prostate cancer. Before cancer, they'd had a satisfying sex life, but everything felt different after treatment. Despite being cancer-free, he struggled to get and maintain an erection and simply didn't experience desire for sex the way he had before. Jenna assumed he wasn't initiating because he was embarrassed about his erections. But it was more than that for him. He still loved her and found her attractive, but the internal sexual “pull” he'd always taken for granted just wasn't there in the same way. On an intellectual level, she empathized with his experience. She knew he’d been through a lot. But on an emotional level, she couldn’t help but take things personally. When they did try to have sex, every encounter felt like a test. Would he get hard? Would the erection last? Would intercourse work this time? Would he actually want it once they got started? He was monitoring his body instead of experiencing pleasure within it. She was monitoring his response for evidence that he still desired her. Neither could relax enough to enjoy what was actually happening between them. On top of that, he became obsessed with the preparation required to get an erection. Erectile rehabilitation is an important part of recovery, and Nolan had done it all – tadalafil, vacuum pumps and injections. He’d had a consultation for a penile implant. He could become semi-erect but couldn’t reliably get hard enough to have penetrative intercourse for very long. He intuited that medical treatment was only one part of sexual rehabilitation. He knew he needed guidance on addressing the psychological component and help navigating a new sexual landscape. While both Nolan and Jenna were open to Nolan getting an implant, he wanted to check all the boxes before having another surgery. I explained that when an erection becomes the goal of every intimate encounter, sex can start to feel like a performance. And performance is almost always the enemy of pleasure. As a therapist, that’s where I come in. We tend to organize heterosexual sex around a predictable script: desire leads to arousal, arousal leads to erection, erection leads to penetration and penetration leads to orgasm. Prostate cancer can disrupt virtually every step in that sequence. The mistake is assuming that when the old script stops working, sex itself is over. It isn't. Read: Prostate Cancer Taught My Husband and Me What Real Intimacy Is >> One of the most important distinctions I help couples make after prostate cancer is the separation of erection from intimacy and penetration from sex. Pleasure can include kissing, touching, massage, oral sex, mutual stimulation, vibrators and other forms of erotic play. Orgasm for men may still be possible without a fully rigid erection. Couples can also discover forms of pleasure they rarely explored when intercourse was easy and predictable. It isn't about pretending the loss of a familiar sexual experience doesn't matter. There can be real grief associated with changes in both sexual function and desire. Men may mourn the spontaneity they once had. Partners may miss feeling pursued. Both people may miss the effortless way sex used to unfold. Giving that loss room to exist is part of healing. I reminded Jenna and Nolan that grieving their old sex life and becoming curious about a new one can happen at the same time. I encouraged them to temporarily take intercourse off the table. Instead, I encouraged them to spend time touching each other without trying to produce an erection or reach orgasm. They agreed that either partner could initiate an intimate experience and that Nolan’s job wasn't to manufacture desire or an erection. It was simply to notice: Does this feel good? Do I want more? At first, this felt strange for both of them. They had become so accustomed to evaluating whether his body was “working” that simply experiencing sensation felt almost purposeless. But over time, they felt a shift. Touch became pleasurable again rather than diagnostic. Nolan stopped monitoring his erection. Jenna stopped using his erection (or his initiation) as the primary measure of whether he desired her. They laughed more. They experimented. Most importantly, they began to feel like lovers again instead of a patient and a caregiver. It’s important to note that sexual recovery after prostate cancer isn't only about the person who had cancer. Partners often carry their own fears and losses. Some worry that initiating sex will create pressure. Others are afraid of hurting their partner. Some experience diminished desire themselves after being in a caregiving role. I encouraged both Nolan and Jenna to talk about what they missed, about what scared them and about what still felt good. I worked with them to determine what kind of touch felt comforting versus erotic, and whether they wanted one, the other or both. Cancer has a way of making the body feel medicalized. Suddenly, a part of the body associated with sexuality and pleasure becomes the focus of exams, procedures, medications and fear. Reclaiming sexuality can therefore be deeply emotional. It can be a way of saying, My body is still capable of pleasure and can remind a couple, We are more than what happened to us. Sometimes, the sex that emerges after cancer looks different from the sex that came before it. It may require more planning and flexibility about what it unfolds. Erections may come and go. Medication or devices may become part of the experience. Pleasure may take new forms. But different doesn't necessarily mean worse. Nolan and Jenna eventually incorporated some intercourse back into their relationship, but by then it mattered much less whether it happened every time. They had developed a broader sexual repertoire and a new understanding of desire. More importantly, they'd stopped using Nolan’s libido and erection as a report card on the health of their relationship. Sexual healing after prostate cancer isn't typically about getting your old sex life back. It's about discovering that desire, intimacy, pleasure and erotic connection can look and feel different, and in many ways, better. This educational resource was created with support from Bayer. --- ### Good Sex with Emily Jamea [Buen sexo con Emily Jamea]: Recuperar la intimidad sexual después del cáncer de próstata **Published:** September 10, 2026 | **Author:** Emily Jamea, Ph.D. | **Section:** GOOD SEX WITH EMILY JAMEA **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/good-sex-with-emily-jamea/recuperar-la-intimidad-sexual-despues-del-cancer-de-prostata.md English Emily Jamea, Ph.D., es una terapeuta sexual, autora reconocida y oradora especial. También la puedes encontrar aquí, compartiendo sus opiniones más recientes sobre el sexo. Septiembre es el Mes de la Concientización de la Salud Sexual. Si tu pareja desarrolla cáncer de próstata, la conversación se enfoca comprensiblemente en la supervivencia, pero frecuentemente, cuando esto se logra empieza otro desafío, recuperar la intimidad sexual. El tratamiento del cáncer de próstata puede tener un efecto importante en la sexualidad. Dependiendo del tipo de tratamiento, los hombres podrían experimentar disfunción eréctil, menos libido, cambios del orgasmo, pérdida de eyaculación, cambios de la longitud y la sensación del pene y filtraciones urinarias durante actividades sexuales. Estos cambios son físicos, pero frecuentemente tienen un impacto emocional y relacional importante. La recuperación sexual después del cáncer de próstata a menudo requiere más que restaurar las erecciones. Requiere replantear la intimidad. Hace algún tiempo, trabajé con una pareja, Nolan y Jenna, quienes tuvieron consultas conmigo después del tratamiento de cáncer de próstata de Nolan. Antes de ese cáncer, tenían una vida sexual satisfactoria, pero todo se sentía diferente después del tratamiento. A pesar de que ya no tenía cáncer, él tenía dificultades para tener y mantener erecciones y simplemente no tenía la misma libido que antes. Jenna asumió que él no estaba dando el primer paso porque le daba vergüenza lo que pasaba con sus erecciones. Pero ocurría algo más. Él todavía la amaba y le parecía atractiva, pero el "empuje" sexual interno que siempre tuvo antes ya no era el mismo. A nivel intelectual, ella entendía su situación. Ella sabía que a él le habían pasado muchas cosas. Pero a nivel emocional, ella no podía evitar que esto afecte su autoestima. Cuando trataban de tener relaciones sexuales, cada instancia se sentía como una prueba. ¿Podrá tener una erección? ¿Cuánto tiempo durará la erección? ¿Será exitoso el coito esta vez? ¿Será algo que él realmente desea una vez que empiecen? Él monitoreaba a su cuerpo en vez de experimentar placer. Ella monitoreaba las reacciones de él para ver si todavía la deseaba. Ninguno de los dos podía relajarse suficientemente para disfrutar lo que pasaba realmente entre ellos. Además de eso, él se obsesionaba con la preparación que se requería para que haya una erección. La rehabilitación para obtener erecciones es una parte importante de la recuperación y Nolan lo probó todo, incluyendo tadalafilo, bombas de vacío e inyecciones. Tuvo una consulta para un implante de pene. Podía lograr una erección parcial, pero no tenía suficiente rigidez en una forma continua para tener relaciones sexuales con penetración por mucho tiempo. Intuía que un tratamiento médico era solo una parte de la rehabilitación sexual. Sabía que necesitaba orientación para abordar el componente psicológico y asistencia para manejar esta situación sexual nueva. Si bien Nolan y Jenna estaban dispuestos a que le coloquen un implante a Nolan, él quería evaluar todas las opciones antes de someterse a otra cirugía. Les expliqué que cuando una erección se vuelve la meta de cada encuentro íntimo, el sexo puede empezar a sentirse como una tarea. Y las tareas casi siempre son enemigas del placer. Ahí es cuando mi conocimiento terapéutico se vuelve relevante. Tendemos a plantear los coitos heterosexuales en función de un guión predecible: el deseo causa excitación, la excitación causa erecciones, con una erección puede haber penetración y la penetración causa un orgasmo. El cáncer de próstata puede alterar virtualmente todos los pasos de esa secuencia. El error es asumir que cuando ese guión viejo deja de funcionar, la vida sexual se acaba. Eso no es así. Lee: El cáncer de próstata nos enseñó a mi esposo y a mí lo que es realmente la intimidad >> Una de las cosas más importantes que ayudo a las parejas a distinguir después del cáncer de próstata es la diferencia entre las erecciones y la intimidad y entre la penetración y el sexo. El placer puede incluir besarse, tocarse, masajearse, sexo oral, estimulación mutua, vibradores y otros tipos de juegos eróticos. El orgasmo de los hombres puede alcanzarse sin una erección completamente rígida. Las parejas pueden descubrir formas de placer que probablemente no consideraron cuando era fácil y predecible tener relaciones sexuales. No es pretender que la pérdida de una experiencia sexual conocida no importa. Podría haber un duelo real que se asocia a los cambios de la función sexual y de la libido. A los hombres les duele no tener la espontaneidad que tenían antes. Sus parejas podrían extrañar sentirse deseadas. Ambas personas podrían extrañar la facilidad con la que tenían relaciones sexuales. Reconocer esa pérdida es parte del proceso de sanación. Les recordé a Jenna y Nolan que tener duelo por su vida sexual anterior y tener curiosidad sobre su nueva vida sexual puede ocurrir simultáneamente. Les invité a que no piensen en tener relaciones sexuales por un tiempo. En vez de eso, les alenté a que pasen tiempo tocándose sin tratar de generar una erección o un orgasmo. Estuvieron de acuerdo en que cualquiera de ellos podría iniciar una experiencia íntima y que no era responsabilidad de Nolan tener deseo sexual o una erección. Simplemente era notar: ¿Se siente bien esto? ¿Quiero más? Inicialmente, esto se sintió raro para ambos. Estaban tan acostumbrados a evaluar si su cuerpo "funcionaba" que simplemente experimentar las sensaciones era casi ilógico. Pero después de un tiempo, sintieron un cambio. El contacto físico se volvió placentero nuevamente en vez de algo para propósitos diagnósticos. Nolan dejó de monitorear sus erecciones. Jenna dejó de usar sus erecciones (o sus propuestas sexuales) como la medida principal de cuanto él la deseaba. Empezaron a reír más y a experimentar más. Lo más importante, empezaron a sentirse como amantes nuevamente en vez de como un paciente y una cuidadora. Es importante indicar que la recuperación sexual después del cáncer de próstata no solo es para el paciente que tuvo cáncer. Sus parejas a menudo tienen sus propios miedos y pérdidas. Algunas se preocupan de la presión que pueden causar por tratar de tener relaciones sexuales. Otras tienen miedo de lastimar a su pareja. Algunas tienen menos libido por su papel de cuidadoras. Alenté a Nolan y Jenna a que hablen sobre lo que extrañaban, lo que les daba miedo y lo que todavía se sentía bien. Trabajé con ellos para que identifiquen qué tipo de contacto físico se sentía reconfortante versus erótico, y si deseaban tener el uno, el otro o ambos. El cáncer puede hacer que el cuerpo empiece a considerarse desde un punto de vista exclusivamente clínico. Repentinamente, una parte del cuerpo asociada a la sexualidad y el placer se vuelve el centro de pruebas, procedimientos, medicamentos y miedo. Recuperar la sexualidad puede ser, consecuentemente, algo muy emocional. Es como decir, mi cuerpo todavía puede sentir placer y recuerdo a parejas que somos más de lo que nos ocurrió. A veces, el sexo que emerge después del cáncer es diferente que el sexo que había antes. Podría requerir más planificación y su resultado más flexibilidad. Las erecciones podrían manifestarse y terminar repentinamente. Medicamentos o dispositivos podrían volverse parte de esa experiencia. El placer podría asumir formas nuevas. Pero que algo sea diferente no significa que sea peor. Nolan y Jenna con el tiempo pudieron tener nuevamente relaciones sexuales, pero para cuando eso ocurrió fue mucho menos importante que antes. Desarrollaron un repertorio sexual mucho más amplio y una nueva comprensión del deseo sexual. Lo más importante fue que dejaron de usar la libido y las erecciones de Nolan como un medidor del estado de su relación. La sanación sexual después del cáncer de próstata no implica comúnmente recuperar la vida sexual que solías tener. Implica descubrir que el deseo, la intimidad, el placer y la conexión erótica podrían verse y sentirse diferentes, y de muchas formas, podrían incluso mejorar. Este recurso educativo se preparó con el apoyo de Bayer. --- ### The Importance of Mental Health While Living with COPD **Published:** September 8, 2026 | **Author:** Shannon Shelton Miller | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/mental-health-while-living-with-copd.md Español In 2015, Phyliss DiLorenzo was prepared for the worst after a multi-day hospital stay for severe breathing issues. She suspected lung cancer because of her family history with the disease and was relieved when her clinician told her she had chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD. Then DiLorenzo thought about her grandmother, who’d been diagnosed with emphysema, a type of COPD, years earlier, and how much the disease changed her. “I watched my grandmother change from an out-and-about, on-the-go woman to someone who never left her home,” DiLorenzo said. “She even stopped walking her dog.” It wasn’t long after her diagnosis that DiLorenzo experienced the connections between anxiety, depression and other mental health challenges and life with COPD. Her fight to breathe increased her anxiety and she grew depressed when fatigue left her unable to complete her daily tasks at work. Her healthcare team back then could address her physical needs, DiLorenzo said, but didn't know how to respond when she mentioned she was depressed. This educational resource was created with support from Sanofi and Regeneron. --- ### Understanding Menopause Stages and Terms **Published:** September 8, 2026 | **Author:** Alex Fulton | **Section:** Your Health **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/your-health/understanding-menopause-stages-and-terms.md Español + Infographic textAlthough the word “menopause” often serves as shorthand for the whole process, the menopausal transition actually happens in stages — and menopause is only one of them. Perimenopause is the time leading up to menopause when a woman has symptoms (like hot flashes and irregular periods) linked to hormone changes. May begin as early as your mid 30s or as late as your mid 50s Average length is 4 years but can last 8 years or more You can still get pregnant during perimenopause, even if you’re not having regular periods Menopause technically only lasts a single day — the one marking 12 consecutive months without a period. Usually happens at age 51 or 52 in the U.S. Is a moment in time, not a stage Marks the end of your reproductive years Postmenopause starts the day after you’ve gone 12 months without a period (menopause) and lasts the rest of your life. Perimenopause symptoms may ease up or go away completely Postmenopausal women are at greater risk of osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease Any bleeding after menopause should be checked by a clinician Early menopause is when menopause (12 months without a period) happens before age 45. Affects 1 in 20 women Can happen due to certain health conditions or medical treatments Happens without a direct cause up to half the time May be more likely to affect you if your mother or grandmother went through menopause early, or if you started your period before age 11 Premature menopause is when menopause happens before age 40. Affects about 1 in 100 women Can happen due to certain health conditions or medical treatments Happens without a direct cause up to half the time Period changes are usually the first sign Medically induced menopause is menopause caused by a medical treatment like chemotherapy, radiation or surgery. Happens very fast (overnight or within weeks) Symptoms are the same but may be more intense because they come on so suddenly Your care team can go over options (including hormone therapy) to help you manage your symptoms Note: While it’s not a technical term, some people use the word “ premenopause ” to refer to the timespan between when you start your period and when you reach menopause. Questions about the stages and terminology of menopause? Talk to your clinician or visit healthywomen.org to learn more. This educational resource was created with support from Astellas. --- ### Información de los plazos y etapas de la menopausia **Published:** September 8, 2026 | **Author:** Alex Fulton | **Section:** Your Health **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/your-health/informacion-de-los-plazos-y-etapas-de-la-menopausia.md English + Texto de infografíaSi bien la palabra "menopausia" sirve frecuentemente para referirse rápidamente a todo el proceso, la transición menopáusica de hecho ocurre en etapas y la menopausia es solo una de ellas. La perimenopausia es el tiempo justo antes de la menopausia cuando una mujer tiene síntomas (tales como bochornos y periodos menstruales irregulares) asociados a cambios hormonales. Podría empezar tan temprano como aproximadamente a los 35 años o tan tarde como aproximadamente a los 55 años La duración promedio es de 4 años pero puede durar 8 años o más Todavía puedes embarazarte durante la perimenopausia, incluso si no tienes períodos menstruales regulares La menopausia técnicamente dura solo un día, el día que marca 12 meses consecutivos sin un período menstrual. Usualmente ocurre en promedio a los 51 o 52 años en EE.UU. Es un momento, no una etapa Marca el final de tus años reproductivos La posmenopausia empieza el día después de que has tenido 12 meses sin un período menstrual (la menopausia) y dura el resto de tu vida. Los síntomas de la perimenopausia podrían aliviarse o desaparecer completamente Las mujeres posmenopáusicas tienen un mayor riesgo de osteoporosis y enfermedades cardiovasculares Un profesional clínico debería evaluar cualquier sangrado después de la menopausia La menopausia precoz es cuando la menopausia (12 meses sin un período menstrual) ocurre antes de los 45 años. Afecta a 1 de cada 20 mujeres Puede ocurrir debido a ciertos trastornos o tratamientos médicos Hasta la mitad de las veces ocurre sin una causa directa Es más posible que la tengas si tu madre o abuela tuvieron la menopausia temprano o si empezaste a tener períodos menstruales antes de los 11 años La menopausia prematura es cuando la menopausia ocurre antes de los 40 años. Afecta a aproximadamente 1 de cada 100 mujeres Puede ocurrir debido a ciertos trastornos o tratamientos médicos Hasta la mitad de las veces ocurre sin una causa directa Cambios del período menstrual son usualmente la primera señal La menopausia inducida médicamente es una menopausia causada por un tratamiento médico tal como quimioterapia, radioterapia o cirugías. Ocurre muy rápido (de un día para otro o en unas semanas) Los síntomas son los mismos pero podrían ser más intensos debido a la velocidad con la que se manifiestan Tu equipo de atención podría revisar las opciones (incluyendo terapia hormonal) para ayudarte a controlar tus síntomas Nota: Si bien no es un término técnico, algunas personas usan la palabra " premenopausia " para referirse al período de tiempo entre el momento en que empieza tu primer período menstrual y la menopausia. ¿Tienes preguntas sobre las etapas y la terminología de la menopausia? Habla con tu profesional clínico o visita el sitio web healthywomen.org para obtener más información. Este recurso educativo se preparó con el apoyo de Astellas. --- ### Puzzled About Peptides? **Published:** September 8, 2026 | **Author:** Jacquelyne Froeber | **Section:** Your Health **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/your-health/what-are-peptides.md Remember the 90s cult classic Death Becomes Her where Meryl Streep and Goldie Hawn take a magic potion that makes them look and feel younger? Peptides seem to be today’s version of that magic potion — or at least that’s what a growing number of influencers online want you to think. A quick scroll through social media shows people raving about “wellness” peptides with robot names like BPC-157 as the fountain of youth. The injectable concoctions, also known as synthetic peptides, are said to heal injuries, slow aging, boost lean muscle, clear brain fog and more. Of course, you can’t believe everything you read on the internet. And hopefully the thought of injecting anything into your body gives you proper pause. But it’s not just social media buzz. Peptides have been in the spotlight recently after an FDA-advisory panel recommended loosening restrictions on six peptides to help treat different health conditions. So what are peptides, anyway? And can they put more pep in your step? Here’s what you need to know. --- ### La importancia de la salud mental si vives con EPOC **Published:** September 8, 2026 | **Author:** Shannon Shelton Miller | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/la-salud-mental-si-vives-con-epoc.md English En 2015, Phyliss DiLorenzo se preparaba para las peores noticias después de pasar varios días en el hospital debido a problemas respiratorios graves. Sospechaba que era cáncer pulmonar debido a sus antecedentes familiares de ese trastorno y sintió alivio cuando su profesional clínico le dijo que tenía una enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica o EPOC. Entonces DiLorenzo pensó en su abuela, a quien le diagnosticaron enfisema, una EPOC, años atrás, y en cómo esa enfermedad la transformó. "Vi como mi abuela se transformó de una mujer muy activa y espontánea a alguien que nunca salía de su casa", dijo DiLorenzo. "Incluso dejó de pasear a su perro". No fue hasta que recibió su diagnóstico que DiLorenzo experimentó las conexiones entre la ansiedad, la depresión, otras dificultades de la salud mental y su vida con EPOC. Su dificultad para respirar aumentó su ansiedad y se deprimía cuando la fatiga no le permitía realizar sus tareas laborales cotidianas. Su equipo de atención médica en ese entonces podía abordar sus necesidades físicas, dijo DiLorenzo, pero no supieron qué hacer cuando mencionó su depresión. Este recurso educativo se preparó con el apoyo de Sanofi y Regeneron. --- ### What Happens in the Body During a Hot Flash **Published:** September 3, 2026 | **Author:** Alex Fulton | **Section:** Your Health **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/your-health/what-happens-during-hot-flash.md + Infographic textAbout 3 out of 4 women deal with hot flashes related to menopause. What is a hot flash? As your ovaries produce less estrogen, cells in your hypothalamus, the part of your brain that controls temperature, are thrown off balance. These cells send a false signal that your body is too warm. When your body tries to lower your temperature, blood vessels near your skin widen in an attempt to cool you down. This causes flushing and sweating, also known as a hot flash. When hot flashes happen when you sleep, they are called night sweats. During a hot flash Skin may turn red, flushed and blotchy Your face, neck and chest may feel hot and sweaty Your heart may race or flutter You may feel anxious You may get the chills or shiver How long does a hot flash last? A typical hot flash lasts just a few minutes. Women experience hot flashes for 7 years on average. Do all women get hot flashes? Some women don’t get hot flashes at all, or barely notice them. For others, hot flashes are extreme and disrupt normal life. Putting a damper on hot flashes There are lifestyle changes and treatments that can help with hot flashes: Reduce caffeine Avoid spicy food Limit alcohol Don’t smoke Hormone therapy Non-hormonal medicine Cognitive behavioral therapy Talk to your clinician to learn your options. This educational resource was created with support from Astellas. --- ### The Policy Bench Newsletter Sign Up **Published:** September 3, 2026 | **Author:** HealthyWomen Editors | **Section:** General **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/policy-newsletter-sign-up.md Your monthly read for women’s midlife health policy updates. Subscribe * indicates required Email Address * First Name Last Name Org/Office State Zip Code (function($) {window.fnames = new Array(); window.ftypes = new Array();fnames='EMAIL';ftypes='email';fnames='FNAME';ftypes='text';fnames='LNAME';ftypes='text';fnames='MMERGE5';ftypes='text';fnames='MMERGE6';ftypes='text';fnames='MMERGE7';ftypes='zip';fnames='ADDRESS';ftypes='address';fnames='PHONE';ftypes='phone';}(jQuery));var $mcj = jQuery.noConflict(true); // SMS Phone Multi-Country Functionality if(!window.MC) { window.MC = {}; } window.MC.smsPhoneData = { defaultCountryCode: 'US', programs: [], smsProgramDataCountryNames: [] }; function getCountryUnicodeFlag(countryCode) { return countryCode.toUpperCase().replace(/./g, (char) => String.fromCodePoint(char.charCodeAt(0) + 127397)) }; // HTML sanitization function to prevent XSS function sanitizeHtml(str) { if (typeof str !== 'string') return ''; return str .replace(/&/g, '&') .replace(//g, '>') .replace(/"/g, '"') .replace(/'/g, ''') .replace(/\//g, '/'); } // URL sanitization function to prevent javascript: and data: URLs function sanitizeUrl(url) { if (typeof url !== 'string') return ''; const trimmedUrl = url.trim().toLowerCase(); if (trimmedUrl.startsWith('javascript:') || trimmedUrl.startsWith('data:') || trimmedUrl.startsWith('vbscript:')) { return '#'; } return url; } const getBrowserLanguage = () => { if (!window?.navigator?.language?.split('-')) { return window?.navigator?.language?.toUpperCase(); } return window?.navigator?.language?.split('-'); }; // getBrowserLanguageCode() and getSmsProgramForCountryAndLanguage() are provided globally // by the external mc-sms-phone.js script loaded alongside this inline form script. function getDefaultCountryProgram(defaultCountryCode, smsProgramData) { if (!smsProgramData || smsProgramData.length === 0) { return null; } var browserCountryCode = getBrowserLanguage(); var browserLangCode = getBrowserLanguageCode(); if (browserCountryCode) { var match = getSmsProgramForCountryAndLanguage(smsProgramData, browserCountryCode, browserLangCode); if (match) { return match; } } if (defaultCountryCode) { var match = getSmsProgramForCountryAndLanguage(smsProgramData, defaultCountryCode, browserLangCode); if (match) { return match; } } return smsProgramData; } function updateSmsLegalText(countryCode, fieldName) { if (!countryCode || !fieldName) { return; } var programs = window?.MC?.smsPhoneData?.programs; if (!programs || !Array.isArray(programs)) { return; } var browserLangCode = getBrowserLanguageCode(); var program = getSmsProgramForCountryAndLanguage(programs, countryCode, browserLangCode); if (!program || !program.requiredTemplate) { return; } var smsConsentHtmlRenderingFixEnabled = true; const legalTextElement = document.querySelector('#legal-text-' + fieldName); if (!legalTextElement) { return; } const divRegex = new RegExp(']*>', 'gi'); const blockWrapperRegex = new RegExp(']*>', 'gi'); const fullAnchorRegex = new RegExp('', 'g'); const anchorRegex = new RegExp('(.*?)'); const template = smsConsentHtmlRenderingFixEnabled ? program.requiredTemplate .replace(/\s*]*>/gi, ' ') .replace(blockWrapperRegex, '') : program.requiredTemplate.replace(divRegex, ''); legalTextElement.textContent = ''; const parts = template.split(/(.*?)/g); parts.forEach(function(part) { if (!part) { return; } const anchorMatch = part.match(/(.+?)/); if (anchorMatch) { const linkElement = document.createElement('a'); linkElement.href = sanitizeUrl(anchorMatch); linkElement.target = anchorMatch ? sanitizeHtml(anchorMatch) : '_blank'; linkElement.rel = 'noopener noreferrer'; linkElement.textContent = sanitizeHtml(anchorMatch); legalTextElement.appendChild(linkElement); } else { legalTextElement.appendChild(document.createTextNode(part)); } }); } function generateDropdownOptions(smsProgramData) { if (!smsProgramData || smsProgramData.length === 0) { return ''; } var programs = true ? smsProgramData.filter(function(p, i, arr) { return arr.findIndex(function(q) { return q.countryCode === p.countryCode; }) === i; }) : smsProgramData; return programs.map(program => { const flag = getCountryUnicodeFlag(program.countryCode); const countryName = getCountryName(program.countryCode); const callingCode = program.countryCallingCode || ''; // Sanitize all values to prevent XSS const sanitizedCountryCode = sanitizeHtml(program.countryCode || ''); const sanitizedCountryName = sanitizeHtml(countryName || ''); const sanitizedCallingCode = sanitizeHtml(callingCode || ''); return '' + sanitizedCountryName + ' ' + sanitizedCallingCode + ''; }).join(''); } function getCountryName(countryCode) { if (window.MC?.smsPhoneData?.smsProgramDataCountryNames && Array.isArray(window.MC.smsPhoneData.smsProgramDataCountryNames)) { for (let i = 0; i --- ### Lo que ocurre en el cuerpo durante un bochorno **Published:** September 3, 2026 | **Author:** Alex Fulton | **Section:** Your Health **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/your-health/lo-que-ocurre-en-el-cuerpo-durante-un-bochorno.md English + Texto de infografíaAproximadamente 3 de cada 4 mujeres lidian con bochornos relacionados con la menopausia. ¿Qué es un bochorno? A medida que tus ovarios producen menos estrógeno, las células de tu hipotálamo, la parte de tu cerebro que controla la temperatura, se desequilibran. Estas células envían una señal falsa a tu cuerpo indicando que está demasiado caliente. Cuando tu cuerpo trata de reducir su temperatura, los vasos sanguíneos cerca de tu piel se dilatan tratando de enfriarte. Esto causa rubor y sudoración, lo que también se conoce como un bochorno. Si ocurren bochornos cuando duermes, esto se denomina sudoración nocturna. Durante un bochorno La piel podría ponerse roja, ruborizada y tener manchas Tu rostro, cuello y pecho podrían sentirse calientes y sudorosos Tu corazón podría latir aceleradamente o tener aleteos Podrías sentir ansiedad Es posible que tengas escalofríos o que tiembles ¿Cuál es la duración de un bochorno? Un bochorno común dura solo unos minutos. Las mujeres experimentan bochornos durante 7 años en promedio. ¿Experimentan bochornos todas las mujeres? Algunas mujeres nunca tienen bochornos o apenas los notan. Para otras, los bochornos son extremos y alteran sus vidas. Reducción de los bochornos Hay cambios de estilo de vida y tratamientos que pueden ser útiles para los bochornos: Reduce la cafeína Evita comida picante Restringe el alcohol No fumes Terapia hormonal Medicamentos no hormonales Terapia conductual cognitiva Habla con tu profesional clínico para que comprendas tus opciones. Este recurso educativo se preparó con el apoyo de Astellas. --- ### Heart Valve Disease: Symptoms, Treatment and What Patients Should Know **Published:** September 3, 2026 | **Author:** Allison Norlian | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/heart-valve-disease-symptoms-treatment.md Rena Rubin comes from a family with a history of heart disease, so despite having no symptoms at the age of 30, she was encouraged to get checked. That check resulted in the diagnosis of mitral valve prolapse, a common heart condition where the valve flaps become floppy and bulge backward into the heart. She had no symptoms, so the doctor cleared her but encouraged her to continue getting checked. Years later, Rubin, then in her 40s and still without symptoms, took her doctor’s advice. Only this time, she was diagnosed with a congenital bicuspid aortic valve, meaning she was born with two valve leaflets instead of the usual three. Her cardiologist reassured her that she was healthy and told her she might need a valve replacement someday — perhaps when she was 80. For decades, that prediction stayed in the back of her mind. "I felt completely fine," Rubin recalled. "I was active. I had no shortness of breath. No chest pain. Nothing." Nearly 30 years later, regular echocardiograms — a type of ultrasound that shows how well the heart and its valves are functioning — showed her valve had become dangerously narrowed by calcium build-up. Her cardiologist’s decades-old prediction came true: It was time to replace her aortic valve. Rubin's story highlights one of the biggest challenges of heart valve disease: It often progresses silently until significant damage has already occurred. Fortunately, advances in diagnosis, minimally invasive procedures and multidisciplinary heart care have transformed treatment, allowing many patients to return to healthy, active lives. This educational resource was created with support from Edwards Lifesciences, a HealthyWomen Corporate Advisory Council member. --- ### How Menopause Affects the Body **Published:** September 3, 2026 | **Author:** Alex Fulton | **Section:** Your Health **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/your-health/how-does-menopause-affect-the-body.md Español + Infographic textThe loss of estrogen from menopause can affect your whole body. Bones, joints and muscles Bone loss Joint pain and stiffness Loss of muscle mass and strength Menopause is the most common cause of osteoporosis . About 7 out of 10 peri/menopausal women deal with: Musculoskeletal syndrome of menopause Joint and muscle pain Lower bone density Stiffness and fatigue that come from falling estrogen levels. Thyroid Thyroid issues, such as hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism NOTE: Some menopause symptoms overlap with symptoms of thyroid conditions, such as: Sweating Anxiety Fatigue Brain fog Body composition Shifting of weight from the hips and thighs to the belly. Weight gain, which may be a result of: Slowing metabolism Menopause symptoms, such as poor sleep and mood changes, affecting how we eat and exercise Vagina Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), which includes: Dryness and thinness of the lining of your vagina Burning, itching, pain during sex or urinary tract infections Did you know: At least half of menopausal women have GSM. Skin Skin that sags and wrinkles due to loss of collagen Dry irritated skin from less oil production Flare-ups of acne and other skin conditions Mental health Trouble with concentration and memory Mood swings and anxiety Depression Women are 2x as vulnerable to depression during peri/menopause — particularly if they’ve dealt with it in the past. The good news? You don’t have to suffer through menopause symptoms. Talk to your clinician about how lifestyle changes or treatment can help you feel like yourself again. This educational resource was created with support from Astellas. --- ### It Took 15 Years and Dozens of Doctors to Find the Cause of My Pain **Published:** September 3, 2026 | **Author:** Veena Crownholm | **Section:** Real Women, Real Stories **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/real-women-real-stories/took-15-years-for-endometriosis-diagnosis.md As told to Nicole Pajer My periods were painful right from the beginning. When I was a teenager, my mom used to let me skip one day of school every month because the pain was so bad. But when you’re young, you don’t really know how your period compares to anyone else’s. You only know what you experience. So when people said, “Oh, it’s just your period,” I believed them. Every 28 days, the pain would come, and I learned to compartmentalize it. I told myself, I just had to get through it. The really intense pain started after I had my appendix removed when I was 17 weeks pregnant with my first son, Eddie. I also had a difficult C-section when he was born. About a year later, I started telling doctors that something was wrong with my stomach. I couldn’t stretch it. I couldn’t do a cobra pose or lean backward without feeling like my stomach was being pulled apart. Doctors thought it might be a complication from my appendix surgery. An MRI showed a surgical clip in my abdomen and tissue connecting my uterus, bladder and abdominal wall. I had laparoscopic surgery to investigate, but afterward the doctor told me the MRI had been wrong. Nothing was wrong with me. Except I knew something was. I kept going to doctors. Many told me I should have my gallbladder removed. That didn’t make sense to me, so I didn’t do it. Meanwhile, I was living with terrible IBS-like symptoms, bloating and excruciating pain. About two years ago, things got so bad that I ended up in the hospital. My joints were swollen and I felt like my body was shutting down. I went through test after test and saw specialist after specialist, but I still didn’t have an explanation that accounted for everything I was experiencing. This went on for 15 years. The fertility piece of my life was complicated too. Getting pregnant with Eddie had been easy. We decided we wanted a baby, tried once and I was pregnant. Trying for our second child was completely different. It took four years, and during that time, I had a miscarriage. The emotional pain of losing a pregnancy while already dealing with unexplained infertility was incredibly difficult. I had a natural miscarriage before I could schedule a procedure, and going through that at home by myself was scary and intense. Three months later, I became pregnant with my son Max. Years later, I had a second miscarriage. That one sent me into an extremely deep depression because we were done having kids but it awoke a new desire to try to have another baby. Strangely, the physical pain of the miscarriage wasn’t particularly bad compared with the pain I was already accustomed to living with. The mental toll, however, was enormous and completely debilitating. About a year later, when I was 43, my husband and I decided to explore in vitro fertilization (IVF) to see whether having another baby might still be possible. That decision ultimately led me to an answer I’d been searching for for years. During the IVF process, my doctor spotted a cyst on one of my ovaries and told me I needed to get it checked out regardless of what happened with IVF. The IVF didn’t work out, so I went to an OB-GYN to investigate the cyst. An ultrasound appeared to show what’s sometimes called a “chocolate cyst,” or endometrioma, a type of ovarian cyst associated with endometriosis. My doctor said I wasn’t understanding the ultrasound report correctly so I went to get a second opinion. But I still couldn’t get a clear answer. I kept saying, “I have a lot of pain. Pain with intercourse, pain with everything.” I was told it was fine and that I could go on birth control. Finally, I sought another opinion. By that point, I was adamant: I have so much pain. This can’t be normal. This doctor listened. She performed laparoscopic surgery to see what was actually happening inside my body. She removed three cysts, including a large endometrioma, and even found the surgical clip that had shown up on the MRI years earlier. She also found severe endometriosis and adenomyosis. The endometriosis was extensive. My organs weren’t sitting where they were supposed to be. One of my ovaries was fused to a fallopian tube, which was bent backward and fused to my colon. Both ovaries were behind my uterus. There were lesions involving my bowel and bladder. After 15 years of doctors telling me nothing was wrong, I finally had proof that something was. I was so grateful my doctor took pictures during the surgery. I told my husband that without those pictures, I don’t know if I would have believed the diagnosis myself. That’s what years of being dismissed can do to you. When you live with pain for that long, it changes you. Compartmentalizing became my superpower. After the C-section with my second son, I walked out of the hospital after 24 hours thinking, I can do it all. For years, I thought being able to push through anything was a strength. Now I’m not sure it always was. I’m still processing what my diagnosis means for my future. I’m preparing for another surgery that’s expected to include a hysterectomy and more extensive removal of the endometriosis. A year ago, I was sitting in an IVF office wondering whether I could have another baby. Now, I’m preparing to have my reproductive organs removed. Every time a doctor asks, “Are you sure you’re done having kids?” I have to say yes — not necessarily because I want to be done but because I now understand how complicated another pregnancy could be for me. I’m nervous about the surgery but what scares me most isn’t the procedure itself. This will be my sixth abdominal surgery. What scares me is going through all of it and still living with the pain. At the same time, for the first time in years, I can imagine a different version of my life — one where debilitating pain isn’t something I automatically compartmentalize and push through. Since sharing my story online, I’ve heard from hundreds of women who’ve told me that they finally feel heard or that my experience reminded them they’re allowed to get another opinion. That’s why I keep talking about it. If you feel like something is seriously wrong with your body, keep looking for answers. Find another clinician. Ask more questions. Talk to other women. Keep going until you find someone who takes you seriously. After everything I’ve been through, that’s the biggest lesson I’ve learned: Share your story, advocate for yourself and don’t take no for an answer when you intuitively feel like something is wrong. Have your own Real Women, Real Stories you want to share? Let us know. Our Real Women, Real Stories are the authentic experiences of real-life women. The views, opinions and experiences shared in these stories are not endorsed by HealthyWomen and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of HealthyWomen. --- ### Cómo afecta la menopausia al cuerpo **Published:** September 3, 2026 | **Author:** Alex Fulton | **Section:** Your Health **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/your-health/como-afecta-la-menopausia-al-cuerpo.md English + Texto de infografíaLa pérdida de estrógeno por la menopausia puede afectar a todo tu cuerpo. Los huesos, las articulaciones y los músculos Pérdida ósea Dolor y rigidez articular Pérdida de fuerza y masa muscular La menopausia es la causa más común de osteoporosis . Aproximadamente 7 de cada 10 mujeres menopáusicas y perimenopáusicas lidian con: El síndrome musculoesquelético de la menopausia Dolor articular y muscular Menor densidad ósea Rigidez y fatiga causados por la disminución de los niveles de estrógeno. La glándula tiroidea Problemas tiroideos, tales como hipo- e hipertiroidismo NOTA: Algunos síntomas de la menopausia coinciden con algunos síntomas de trastornos tiroideos, tales como: Sudoración Ansiedad Fatiga Dificultad para concentrarse La composición corporal Cambio de masa de las caderas y muslos al estómago. Aumento de peso, el cual podría ser un resultado de: Un metabolismo que se está haciendo lento Síntomas de la menopausia , tales como mal sueño y cambios de humor, que afectan nuestros hábitos alimenticios y de ejercicio La vagina El síndrome genitourinario de la menopausia (SGM), el cual incluye: Sequedad y finura de tu mucosa vaginal Ardor, comezón y dolor durante relaciones sexuales o infecciones urinarias Sabías lo siguiente: Al menos la mitad de mujeres menopáusicas tienen SGM. La piel Piel que se afloja y se arruga debido a la pérdida de colágeno Piel irritada y seca por una menor producción de aceite Brotes de acné y de otros trastornos de la piel La salud mental Problemas de concentración y de la memoria Cambios de humor y ansiedad Depresión Las mujeres son 2 veces más vulnerables en lo que se refiere a la depresión durante la menopausia y la perimenopausia, particularmente si tuvieron problemas con eso antes. ¿Las buenas noticias? No tienes que soportar los síntomas de la menopausia. Habla con tu profesional clínico sobre cambios de tu estilo de vida o tratamientos que podrían ser útiles para que te sientas bien otra vez. Este recurso educativo se preparó con el apoyo de Astellas. --- ### Ask the Expert: Questions and Answers About Uncontrolled Asthma **Published:** September 2, 2026 | **Author:** Erica Rimlinger | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/questions-and-answers-about-uncontrolled-asthma.md Español Even if you live thousands of miles away from a wildfire this summer, there’s a good chance wildfire smoke will impact, or has already impacted, your air quality. Air quality plays a role in everyone’s lung health, but it’s especially important for people with asthma to pay attention. We spoke with Nora Barrett, M.D., associate professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School, about how women can recognize the signs of uncontrolled asthma and regain control of their condition. This educational resource was created with support from GSK, Sanofi and Regeneron. --- ### Caring for Someone with COPD **Published:** September 2, 2026 | **Author:** Annie Mueller | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/caring-for-someone-with-copd.md Español + Flipbook textCOPD Caregivers Matter COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) is a progressive disease of the lungs that causes inflammation in the airways and difficulty breathing. There’s no cure for COPD, but the disease and symptoms can be managed effectively. Caregivers make a huge difference. They: Help with medication Encourage healthy activities Notice warning signs of declining health Struggling to breathe Increased fatigue Disease worsening Make it easier to get needed care Managing Medications Is Critical For people with COPD, there can be a lot of medications to juggle. Each may have different schedules and ways you take them. You can help by: Keeping track of medicine schedules Managing doses Helping with inhaler techniques and inhalations Giving injections (after being trained) Encouraging Rehab Pulmonary rehab is one of the best ways to improve breathing, endurance and quality of life. But patients may get discouraged, forget or not have transportation. Caregivers can encourage rehab by: Arranging or providing rides Setting up telerehabilitation Doing rehab exercises at home with their loved ones Protecting through Prevention For someone with COPD, a respiratory infection is a serious danger. Prevention is the best protection. Encourage masking Keep sick people away Keep the home clean and well-ventilated Make sure vaccines are up to date (for you and the person you’re caring for) Balancing Independence Sometimes, support means stepping back. Regular physical activity helps the lungs work better. And, being independent helps people feel better. But too much exertion can be a problem, so aim for balance. Encourage your loved one to do what they can, and be there to help when they can’t. Dealing with Disparities For some, COPD is a bigger challenge. People of color have less access to pulmonary rehabilitation. Telehealth isn’t as accessible for Black, Latinx, older, female and lower income patients, though they’re willing to use it. Caregivers can advocate, ask for resources and options, and speak up for better care. Watching for Signs of Worsening COPD The first sign of worsening COPD is an increase in symptoms, called a flare-up or attack. People with COPD often underestimate how bad they are and why it is important to seek care quickly. Part of caregiving is watching out for signs of a COPD flare-up/attack: Increased shortness of breath, coughing or mucus Unusual fatigue Confusion or disorientation If you see these signs, seek care right away. Processing Emotions When you care for someone who is struggling to breathe, it affects you. Many caregivers have intense emotions. You may feel: Helpless Afraid Uncertain Anxious Depressed Be sure you have a clear action plan for managing COPD flare-ups. You also need support, so you can share what you’re going through, too. Avoiding Burnout Caregiving for someone with COPD takes a lot from you. Burnout is a real risk. Self-care isn’t optional. Join a support group Prioritize good sleep, exercise and regular medical care for yourself Ask for help Take breaks Use resources that provide relief, because caregivers need care, too Resources American Lung Association - My COPD Action Plan COPD Foundation - My COPD Action Plan This educational resource was created with support from Chiesi, Sanofi and Regeneron. --- ### Pregúntale a un experto: Preguntas y respuestas sobre asmas no controladas **Published:** September 2, 2026 | **Author:** Erica Rimlinger | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/preguntas-y-respuestas-sobre-asmas-no-controladas.md English Incluso si vives a miles de millas de un incendio forestal este verano, hay muchas probabilidades de que humo de incendios forestales afecte, o ya haya afectado, la calidad de tu aire. La calidad del aire juega un papel crítico en la salud pulmonar de todos, pero es especialmente importante que personas con asma presten atención a eso. Hablamos con Nora Barrett, M.D., profesora titular de medicina de la facultad de medicina de Harvard, sobre cómo las mujeres podrían reconocer las señales de asmas no controladas y qué pueden hacer al respecto para controlar ese trastorno. Este recurso educativo se preparó con el apoyo de GSK, Sanofi y Regeneron. --- ### Cuidar a alguien con EPOC **Published:** September 2, 2026 | **Author:** Annie Mueller | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/cuidar-a-alguien-con-epoc.md English + Texto de cuadernillo animadoLos cuidadores de personas con EPOC son importantes La EPOC (enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica) es un trastorno progresivo de los pulmones que causa inflamación de las vías respiratorias y dificultad para respirar. No hay cura para la EPOC, pero ese trastorno y sus síntomas pueden controlarse con eficacia. Los cuidadores marcan una diferencia enorme. Ellos: Ayudan con los medicamentos Promueven actividades saludables Notan señales de alerta relacionadas con el deterioro de la salud Dificultad para respirar Mayor fatiga Empeoramiento del trastorno Hacen que obtener la atención requerida sea más fácil. Administrar los medicamentos es crítico Las personas con EPOC podrían tener que hacer malabares con muchos medicamentos. Cada uno podría tener diferentes cronogramas y modalidades de administración. Podrías ayudar: Monitoreando los cronogramas de los medicamentos Administrando las dosis Colaborando con las inhalaciones y las técnicas de los inhaladores Poniendo inyecciones (después de que te capaciten) Promover la rehabilitación La rehabilitación pulmonar es uno de los mejores métodos para mejorar la respiración, la resistencia y la calidad de vida. Pero los pacientes podrían desmotivarse, olvidarla o no tener acceso a transporte. Los cuidadores pueden promover la rehabilitación: Programando o proporcionando el transporte Estableciendo sesiones de telerehabilitación Haciendo ejercicios de rehabilitación en casa con sus seres queridos Protección mediante la prevención Para alguien con EPOC, una infección respiratoria es un peligro grave. La prevención es la mejor protección. Promueve el uso de mascarillas Mantén a personas enfermas lejos Mantén la casa limpia y bien ventilada Asegúrate de que las vacunaciones estén al día (de ti y de la persona que cuidas) Equilibrio de la independencia A veces, apoyar implica alejarse un poco. Participar en actividades físicas en forma regular es útil para que los pulmones funcionen mejor. Y ser independiente es útil para que las personas se sientan mejor. Pero demasiado esfuerzo puede ser un problema, así que trata de mantener un equilibrio. Motiva a tu ser querido a que haga lo que pueda y mantente cerca para ayudarle si no puede hacer algo. Lidiar con disparidades Para algunas personas, la EPOC es una dificultad incluso mayor. Las personas de color tienen menos acceso a rehabilitación pulmonar. La telemedicina no es tan accesible para pacientes de raza negra, latinos, de edad avanzada, mujeres y de bajos ingresos, incluso si desean usarla. Los cuidadores pueden concientizar, pedir recursos y opciones y defender los derechos de las personas que cuidan para que reciban mejor atención. Monitorear señales de empeoramiento de la EPOC La primera señal de empeoramiento de la EPOC es un incremento de los síntomas, lo cual se denomina una crisis o acceso. Las personas con EPOC frecuentemente subestiman su situación y por eso es importante tratar de obtener atención rápidamente. Parte del cuidado implica mantenerte pendiente de señales de una crisis o acceso de EPOC. Más dificultad para respirar, tos o mucosidad Fatiga inusual Confusión o desorientación Si ves estas señales, trata de obtener atención inmediatamente. Procesar las emociones Si cuidas a alguien que tiene dificultad para respirar, eso te afecta. Muchos cuidadores tienen emociones intensas. Podrías sentir: Impotencia Miedo Incertidumbre Ansiedad Depresión Asegúrate de tener un plan de acción claro para controlar las crisis de EPOC. También necesitas apoyo para que puedas decirle a alguien lo que te pasa. Evitar el agotamiento Cuidar a alguien con EPOC requiere mucho de ti. El agotamiento es un riesgo real. Cuidarte no es opcional. Únete a un grupo de apoyo Da prioridad a dormir bien, a hacer ejercicio y a obtener atención médica en forma regular para ti Pide ayuda Toma descansos Usa recursos que proporcionen alivio porque los cuidadores también necesitan cuidado Recursos American Lung Association: Mi plan de acción para la EPOC COPD Foundation: Mi plan de acción para la EPOC Este recurso educativo se preparó con el apoyo de Chiesi, Sanofi y Regeneron. --- ### The Cost of Saying No: When Insurers Deny Critical Imaging Tests, Cancer Treatment Is Delayed **Published:** August 31, 2026 | **Author:** Misha Valencia | **Section:** Your Care **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/your-care/cancer-disability-insurance-claim-denial.md September is Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month. After Kay Hsu was diagnosed with advanced, stage 4 breast cancer in 2018, she had a PET scan — an imaging test that can detect and analyze tumors — every four months. For six years, these scans were a routine part of her care and were covered by her health insurance. But in September 2024, things changed. Hsu’s insurer denied her PET scan, claiming it was “not medically necessary.” “I was so upset that I could hardly see straight,” Hsu recalled. “I had never been denied a PET scan. I have stage 4 breast cancer, which is incurable, and scans every four months are the standard recommendation from my specialist.” Hsu, an advertising creative director in New York City, said that despite paying her premium and copays — everything she is supposed to do to maintain her coverage — she was still denied essential care. Hsu’s doctor submitted an appeal to Hsu's insurer, Cigna Healthcare, but they upheld the denial. Despite Hsu's advanced cancer diagnosis, both denial letters stated that "the service requested is not medically necessary." “The realization that this private company can have so much power over whether you live or die — it’s a huge burden, on top of having cancer,” said Hsu, who filed a complaint against her insurer over the denial. Ultimately, Hsu's employer ended up paying for the PET scan out of pocket. That scan saved her life. It showed that the cancer had spread to her liver. “If I had not had the PET scan, I would not have known my cancer had spread. I could have died,” Hsu said. Hsu had surgery to remove the tumor in her liver and continues to be monitored closely by her doctor. In 2025, Hsu’s employer switched to a new insurance company. Hsu’s experience is not an anomaly — it’s a part of a growing problem where cancer patients are being denied medically necessary testing. In 2026, there will be an estimated 2.1 million new cancer cases. Getting the right diagnostic testing is crucial to creating a comprehensive treatment plan specific to each patient’s needs, and denying these tests causes harm to people whose health depends on early tumor detection and access to specialized care. Yet, denial rates for imaging continue to rise. A study published in JAMA Network found that 22% of cancer patients did not receive the care recommended by their healthcare team as the result of insurance denials and delays. Another study, published in the Journal of Surgical Research, found that 13.1% of cancer patients received initial denials for imaging, more than half of which were eventually overturned. --- ### HIIT or Miss? **Published:** August 27, 2026 | **Author:** Jacquelyne Froeber | **Section:** Your Wellness **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/your-wellness/facts-about-hiit.md When was the last time you felt like an Olympian during your workout? That’s a hard “nope” for us, too. But if you’re doing high-intensity interval training (HIIT) — you’re practically Simone Biles. After all, the exercise routine was created in the 1950s to help elite athletes improve their performance. Admittedly, the workout for Olympians was a bit more intense than the HIIT routines most people do today — but it’s still giving Biles vibes. And it turns out HIIT may be able to do more than just improve performance. Some health benefits associated with HIIT include decreased risk for cardiovascular disease (the number one killer of women in the U.S.), lower blood pressure levels and mental health perks. But is “high intensity” too intense? Here’s what science says and everything you need to know about high-intensity interval training. --- ### Liver Cancer 101 **Published:** August 24, 2026 | **Author:** Darcy Lewis | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/facts-about-liver-cancer.md Español Each year, there are about 42,000 cases of liver cancer in the United States. According to the National Cancer Institute, liver cancer cases in the country have more than tripled since 1980. And deaths from liver cancer have nearly doubled in the same time. Researchers don’t fully understand why cases are on the rise, but the increase could be linked to liver damage associated with two common aspects of modern life: alcohol consumption and high-fat, high-sodium diets. This educational resource was created with support from Merck. --- ### The Condition Formerly Known as Fatty Liver Disease: What Is MASLD? **Published:** August 24, 2026 | **Author:** Alex Fulton | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/what-is-masld.md Español As of 2020, roughly 34% of people in the United States were living with metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). And that number is expected to jump to over 40% (2 in 5 Americans) by 2050 due to increasing rates of obesity. Understanding MASLD, including symptoms and possible causes, can help you know if you might be at risk. This educational resource was created with support from Merck. --- ### Información básica del cáncer hepático **Published:** August 24, 2026 | **Author:** Darcy Lewis | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/informacion-comprobada-del-cancer-hepatico.md English Cada año, hay aproximadamente 42,000 casos de cáncer hepático en Estados Unidos. Según el Instituto nacional del cáncer, los casos de cáncer hepático en este país se han triplicado desde 1980. Y las muertes de cáncer hepático casi se han duplicado en ese mismo período de tiempo. Los investigadores no comprenden completamente por qué están aumentando los casos, pero este incremento podría deberse a lesiones hepáticas asociadas a dos aspectos comunes de la vida moderna: el consumo de alcohol y dietas con altos niveles de grasa y sodio. Este recurso educativo se preparó con el apoyo de Merck. --- ### Navigating COPD in Rural America **Published:** August 24, 2026 | **Author:** Deb Gordon | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/copd-in-rural-america.md Español + Infographic text1 in 5 Americans live in a rural area. Rural Americans face more health challenges than people living in cities and difficulties getting healthcare because of: Clinician shortages Hospital closings Long distances to get to hospitals, specialists and pharmacies Lack of public transportation These factors make it harder to live with COPD. What Is COPD? COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is a progressive lung condition that causes inflammation of the airways, making it hard to breathe. COPD is the 5th leading cause of death in the U.S. COPD in Rural Areas 1 in 12 of people in rural areas have COPD compared to 1 in 20 in urban areas. Compared to people who live in cities, people in rural areas are: 2x as likely to have COPD More likely to go to the hospital for COPD More likely to die from COPD Why COPD Is Worse in Rural Areas People in rural areas: Are more likely to smoke Have fewer stop-smoking programs Are more likely to work in industries that expose them to pollutants Live with more indoor pollution from burning wood or coal for heating or cooking Have more medical problems that can make COPD worse Have less money to afford medications to treat COPD Are more likely to not have health insurance Have less access to healthcare, including specialists who treat COPD May have more trouble getting diagnosed and treated for COPD How to Manage COPD in Rural America Track disease progression and symptoms to know if they’re getting worse Use that information as an early warning and get to care Use telehealth for: Remote monitoring to track symptoms, trends and triggers Digital pulmonary rehab to learn strategies Routine and time-sensitive care Line up transportation in advance Insurance may cover transportation or local nonprofits may help Medicaid is required to pay for non-emergency medical transportation Make a COPD Action Plan with: Your medicines How to know it’s time to seek care How to reach your clinician Transportation options Make lifestyle choices that keep COPD from getting worse Quit smoking Exercise for strength and stamina Eat nutritious foods Avoid irritants like dust and pollen Get good sleep Get vaccinated to prevent infections that make COPD worse Advocate for yourself You may have to look harder or travel farther for a lung specialist. Most health insurance (including the VA and Medicaid) have to offer specialists within a certain travel time or distance. If they don’t, you can get an exception to see someone out of the insurance network (but you have to request it). Find free or lower-cost care from rural and federally qualified health centers. Remember: You ALWAYS have the right to emergency care. Resources American Lung Association – My COPD Action Plan COPD Action Alliance – Veterans and COPD COPD Foundation – My COPD Action Plan This educational resource was created with support from Chiesi, Sanofi and Regeneron. --- ### Control de la EPOC en áreas rurales de Estados Unidos **Published:** August 24, 2026 | **Author:** Deb Gordon | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/la-epoc-en-areas-rurales-de-estados-unidos.md English + Texto de infografía1 de cada 5 estadounidenses viven en un área rural. Los estadounidenses que viven en áreas rurales enfrentan más problemas de la salud y dificultades para obtener atención médica que personas que viven en ciudades debido a: Poca oferta de profesionales clínicos Cierres de hospitales Distancias largas hasta los hospitales, especialistas y farmacias Escasez de transporte público Estos factores podrían dificultar la vida con EPOC. ¿Qué es la EPOC? La EPOC o la enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica, es un trastorno pulmonar progresivo que causa la inflamación de las vías respiratorias, lo cual dificulta la respiración. La EPOC es la 5ª causa principal de muertes en EE.UU. La EPOC en áreas rurales 1 de cada 12 personas en áreas rurales tiene EPOC en comparación con 1 de cada 20 en áreas urbanas. En comparación con las personas que viven en ciudades, las personas en áreas rurales son: 2 veces más propensas a tener EPOC. Más propensas a ir al hospital por EPOC. Más propensas a morir de EPOC. Por qué es peor la EPOC en áreas rurales Las personas en áreas rurales: Tienen más posibilidades de fumar Tienen menos programas para dejar de fumar Son más propensas a trabajar en industrias que las exponen a contaminantes Viven con más contaminación en interiores debido a la quema de madera o carbón para calefacción o para cocinar Tienen más problemas médicos que pueden empeorar la EPOC Tienen menos dinero para comprar medicamentos para el tratamiento de la EPOC Son más propensas a no tener un seguro médico Tienen menos acceso a atención médica, incluyendo a especialistas que tratan la EPOC Podrían tener más dificultades para recibir un diagnóstico y tratamiento para la EPOC Cómo controlar la EPOC en áreas rurales de Estados Unidos Monitorea el progreso y los síntomas de esa enfermedad para saber si están empeorando Usa esa información como una alerta temprana y obtén atención Usa telemedicina para: Monitoreo remoto para dar seguimiento a los síntomas, tendencias y desencadenantes Rehabilitación pulmonar digital para aprender estrategias Atención de rutina y oportuna Programa el transporte con antelación El seguro podría cubrir el transporte u organizaciones sin fines de lucro podrían ayudar Se requiere Medicaid para pagar transporte médico que no sea de emergencia Prepara un plan de acción para la EPOC con: Tus medicamentos Cómo saber si es hora de obtener atención Cómo comunicarte con tu profesional clínico Opciones de transporte Toma decisiones de tu estilo de vida que eviten que la EPOC empeore Deja de fumar Haz ejercicio para incrementar tu fuerza y resistencia Come alimentos nutritivos Evita irritantes tales como el polvo y el polen Duerme bien Vacúnate para evitar infecciones que empeoren la EPOC Cuídate y defiende tus derechos Podrías tener que buscar más o viajar más lejos para encontrar un neumólogo. La mayoría de seguros médicos (incluyendo el VA [ Departamento de asuntos de militares jubilados ] y Medicaid) deben ofrecer acceso a especialistas que se encuentren a cierta distancia o tiempo de viaje. Si no lo hacen, podrían hacer una excepción para que tengas consultas con alguien fuera de la red del seguro (pero debes solicitarla). Encuentra atención gratuita o de bajo costo de centros médicos rurales y certificados por el gobierno federal. Recuerda: SIEMPRE tienes derecho a atención de emergencia. Recursos American Lung Association: Mi plan de acción para la EPOC COPD Action Alliance: Militares jubilados y la EPOC COPD Foundation: Mi plan de acción para la EPOC Este recurso educativo se preparó con el apoyo de Chiesi, Sanofi y Regeneron. --- ### 15 Minutes With: Rachel Rubin Talks Women's Sexual Health and Why Finding the Right Specialist Matters **Published:** August 24, 2026 | **Author:** Nicole Pajer | **Section:** Your Health **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/your-health/rachel-rubin-talks-womens-sexual-health.md “Sexual health is health.” That’s the mantra of Rachel Rubin, M.D., a board-certified urologist and sexual medicine specialist on a mission to change the way women think about their bodies and their healthcare. Whether through social media, her YouTube channel or podcast appearances, Rubin seizes any opportunity to push conversations that have long been ignored into the mainstream. Rubin’s ready for society to start openly discussing everything from vulvas to orgasms and wants women to enter their doctors’ offices prepared to advocate for themselves like never before. It’s important to her that women know where to go for pelvic floor pain, that testosterone is far from just a male hormone, and that our understanding of hormone therapy research has evolved far beyond the findings of the 2002 Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) study. We spoke with Rubin about how to overcome medical gaslighting, why women's sexual health has been overlooked for so long and how women can better advocate for themselves. This interview has been lightly edited for clarity and length. HealthyWomen: You've spoken openly about medical gaslighting in women's healthcare. How do women get around this? Rachel Rubin: We've all been in that situation where we go to someone with an agenda, and then they’re not hearing us; they're not interested in our agenda. They have their own agenda, and the interaction doesn't feel very satisfying. I think it's important for everyone to step back and not think about this as good guys and bad guys. There are a few challenges that we have in these situations. Number one, medical appointments right now with insurance are 10 minutes long, and it’s really hard to get everything that you want in your agenda in 10 minutes with your legs up in stirrups. Number two, I think too often we go to the doctor expecting them to be all-knowing about our history and the topic that we want to talk about. But unfortunately, what we know from data is that your doctor wasn't taught anything about pelvic pain, menopause and hormone therapy — perimenopause for that matter — and even basic examinations of certain female anatomical parts. Even the word clitoris doesn't exist in what an OB-GYN has to know in medical training. We’re entering these rooms thinking we're seeing an electrician, but the person in front of us is a plumber. If you go to the plumber expecting electrical work, even if it's the smartest plumber in the area, they're not going to do a great job on your electrical work. The doctors that we’re seeing, they're not dumb, they're not uncaring. They're overworked, they don't have enough time with you, and likely they’re the wrong specialist to take care of you. That's not your fault as the patient, and sometimes my colleagues don't have the greatest humility to acknowledge any of those challenges. Before you even go to the appointment, you can look online or call the office and say, "Is this something that this doctor knows a lot about or enjoys taking care of? Do my problems fit within the scope of what this doctor likes to do? Have they done extra training on this topic?" Many times patients think that if they save all their problems for one annual visit, the doctor will appreciate it, and we've done bad marketing on that. Your annual visit has a set amount of things that are to be done. You have to go in and say, "Hey, I'm here for this one issue. Can we make another appointment to talk about another issue?" Sometimes you have to go more than once to get all your needs met because how is someone going to know everything in a 10-minute visit? HW: Women's sexual health has historically received far less attention and research than many other areas of medicine. Are you starting to see that change? Rubin: We've been calling these things “private parts” for as long as time. In fact, the nerve that innervates the penis and the clitoris is called the pudendal nerve, which means “shame” in Latin. So this is not anything new. We do not teach these things. Our anatomy textbooks don't have the full anatomy of genitals, and nor do we teach anything about sexual medicine in medical schools, residency training or other curriculums. So why would we expect our doctors to know anything about our sexual health? And yet, sex is biology. Sex is how we reproduce as a species. Sex is really why many of us are here today, and so we have a lot of work to do to increase not just the research but the education around the research. It is getting better. Social media and many things have created this grassroots momentum of people caring about women’s sexual health. But most people can't even say the words. Most people don't know the word “vulva.” They can't say “clitoris” out loud. The word sex feels like, "Oh, I can't talk about this," or it gets banned on social media. Orgasm is this word that can't be said out loud confidently in public spaces, and the question is why? Orgasm is something everybody has or wants to have, and we can't even discuss it. So we’ve got a lot of work to do in this space to even be able to have the language to talk about it. HW: Testosterone for women has been getting a lot of attention lately. What do you wish more women understood about it? Rubin: The fact that women make testosterone is a huge, innovative idea. We had been historically taught girls make estrogen, boys make testosterone, and that was never reality. The ovaries and the adrenal glands make androgens. They make testosterone, and we know that those human hormones help with sexual health, libido, genital health and maybe potentially other things as well. It’s important that we even acknowledge that the basics are true. Now, we don't have an FDA-approved testosterone product for women, despite it being approved in Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and the U.K. It is safe enough for their regulatory bodies, and so that's why we're doing a lot of advocacy work around making it available to women. Right now, we prescribe it off-label, like we do many other things off-label. But many clinicians do not know how to write prescriptions or how to counsel patients on it, and so it feels a little bit like the Wild West right now. HW: Perimenopause and menopause have become much bigger parts of the public conversation. What's something we’re finally getting right? Rubin: It’s so wonderful to see so many people talking about this, having conversations with their girlfriends, their mothers, their aunts, their sisters. It’s the talk of the town, and it’s so delightful to be a part of that national conversation, to see the news media pick it up, to see social media algorithms go crazy for it, to see Melinda Gates talk about it loudly and proudly and publish in The New York Times about it and put her money where her mouth is. The challenges are the clinicians. The doctors out there have a lot of work to do to catch up. We’re falling behind because we do not teach this in medical school, residency training or after the fact, and it's not easy to learn. We have to actually teach people how to write prescriptions, how to counsel patients and how to take care of women’s health. We have a lot of work to do in this space, but it’s really wonderful to see women standing up and saying, "Hey, I don't feel like myself, and I would like to know what my toolbox looks like to help me feel the best that I possibly can." I love people demanding quality of life, and I love people advocating for themselves and really trying to figure out, "What do I want to put in my body to make me feel the most like me?" I'm so happy that women are getting it right that there was misinterpretation of old data from the WHI, bad marketing that happened that made women afraid of many of the treatments surrounding menopause and perimenopause. They're starting to stand up and say, "Wait a minute, the data didn't even say that. Why are we so afraid of something that we weren't supposed to be afraid of?" And they're asking questions. Where are we still getting it wrong? I think women think that they only need one doctor, and that one doctor is there to help for every single problem that they have. We don't have a doctor for men that takes care of all of men's problems. I'm a urologist. No man comes to see me for his heart health or his brain health or his bone health. They come to see me for their genitals, their prostates, their bladders, their kidneys. And so this concept of women's health, that we’re not as worthy as a man is of just as many specialists and doctors and people to really look at all of us — I think we have a lot of work to do in this space. HW: Social media has become a major source of health information. How has that helped women, and where can it also create confusion? Rubin: Social media is incredible, what it's been able to do, to be this great equalizer to getting people information from different sources. That being the case, there's just as much good information as there is bad, and arguably more bad information. It's also challenging because nobody controls it. I think that is both a good thing and a challenging thing that we have to work with because we have free speech, and we cannot control what everybody says and how they say it. And in medicine, we have never all agreed on things. We’ve never agreed on the details. That's why we collaborate. We do things like consensus statements, and we try to form collaboration among many people who disagree. That is the way science has always worked, but we've never been in a place where we're watching it happen minute to minute, live and in real time. Patients have access to information like never before, which I think is a good thing ultimately, and they can advocate for themselves because not every person wants the same thing. We cannot control people, but we have to provide information so they get to decide what’s right for them, and we do the best that we can. We should call out wrong things when we see them, but we also have to understand that the horse has left the barn, and we’re not going to have full control over this experience. HW: We often hear about pelvic health only after symptoms develop. What can women do to take a more proactive approach? Rubin: First, know that you have a pelvis and don't just call it a vagina and know what the body parts' names are. Also know that body parts change with hormone changes, with age, with childbirth. There are so many things that can affect your pelvic health, and it's not all one thing. I think this is a good analogy. If you have face pain, there are 10 different doctors you have to figure out. Where in your face? What's going on? What body part is it? So when we talk about pelvic health, it's also kind of like saying face pain. Do you need a musculoskeletal person who helps with the bones and the muscles and a rehab specialist? Do you need someone who helps with your sexual organs like your clitoris or your vulva? Do you need someone who helps with your uterus, with your cervix, with your reproductive organs? Do you need help with the hormonal aspect of it, the nerves, the muscles, the arteries? We all have so many intricate parts of our pelvises, and to just say, "I need pelvic health," well, who's the specialist that you need to see, and what part is having the issue? If you go to a physical therapist when you need a hormone specialist, you're not going to get your questions answered. The more we become educated about our bodies, we can show up to the right specialist, and we can do our own research before we go into the wrong room for the wrong question and get gaslighted. HW: Are there racial, geographic or socioeconomic disparities in access to sexual healthcare, menopause care or pelvic health treatment that concern you the most? Rubin: It's a dumpster fire. Even the rich people are getting garbage care here. Oprah had to see five doctors for her heart palpitations before they figured out it was perimenopause. Melinda Gates just said she saw three doctors before she got a proper hormone prescription for her menopause problems. Halle Berry came out publicly and said she got diagnosed with genital herpes when she had the genitourinary syndrome of menopause. That's menopause and hormonal care. Sexual medicine is way worse than that. So the thought that you're going to get any good care, no matter how much money you have, is almost near impossible. In a way, this is the most equitable situation we have because the richest of the rich are not getting good sexual health care and are not getting access to the right people. We don’t have enough fellowships. We don't have enough funding. We don't have enough training programs. We don’t have enough people who do this work. So you really think of sexual health almost like a rare cancer that you have to seek out a super specialist, and it may not even be in your state, let alone in your town. And so you have to advocate. If you have a sexual health problem, which is very common, by the way, you have to seek out someone who cares about that as much as you do. And we exist, but there are not many of us. HW: If every woman woke up tomorrow knowing one thing about her body that she doesn't know today, what would you want it to be? Rubin: That the clitoris is the pathway to orgasm and pleasure, and it is almost never penetration — and that if you activate the clitoris through vibration and other joyful ways, you can build a buildup and release of pleasure. Women are capable of multiple orgasms, and joy is possible, but it is not what Hollywood tells us is the pathway to pleasure. --- ### El trastorno que se conocía anteriormente como hígado graso: ¿Qué es la EADM? **Published:** August 24, 2026 | **Author:** Alex Fulton | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/que-es-la-eadm.md English En 2020, aproximadamente el 34% de personas en Estados Unidos vivían con esteatohepatitis asociada a disfunción metabólica (EADM). Y se espera que esa cifra llegue al 40% (2 de cada 5 estadounidenses) hasta 2050 debido a las tasas cada vez mayores de obesidad. Entender la EADM, incluyendo sus síntomas y posibles causas, podría ser útil para saber si tienes riesgo de desarrollarla. Este recurso educativo se preparó con el apoyo de Merck. --- ### Prostate Cancer Taught My Husband and Me What Real Intimacy Is **Published:** August 20, 2026 | **Author:** Christine Ledbetter | **Section:** Real Women, Real Stories **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/real-women-real-stories/prostate-cancer-intimacy.md Español My husband, Dean Skylar, bought me lingerie after his prostate cancer diagnosis. It was a hopeful act that indicated he wanted to preserve our sex life through what he knew would be challenging times ahead. After skin cancer, prostate is the most common cancer for American men. The disease is found through a blood test to determine prostate-specific antigen level (PSA). Found early, treatment may simply be active surveillance. If the cancer is contained in the prostate, a prostatectomy might be recommended to remove the prostate and surrounding tissue. In Dean’s case, the cancer had spread, and he was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic cancer. His treatment was chemical castration, and his life expectancy was five years. All of a sudden, our lives changed dramatically. We had to deal with a death notice as well as a potential end to our sex life. A prostate cancer diagnosis affects a couple’s lives in profound ways. Information about the disease’s effect on loss of sexuality related to hormone therapy isn’t widely discussed. Your oncologist will prescribe information on drugs and treatments to fight the disease, but discussion about sex is uncomfortably sparse. While you’re both fighting for his life, he’s losing what he’s likely considered essential to it — his sexuality. It’s not only that he loses the ability to have an erection; he loses his sex drive. And his partner may need more than a black silk nightgown to feel sexy again. When Dean was diagnosed four years ago, it was essential to his well-being that we preserve our intimacy. We tried to plan for both physical and emotional changes. The drugs he was on eliminated his testosterone, which fuels the cancer. The androgen deprivation therapy also reduced his muscle tone and caused weight gain, hot flashes, mental fog and fatigue. My confident, weight-lifting, tennis-playing, sex-loving man felt emasculated. The psychological distress this caused was debilitating in the beginning. We researched the disease. We changed our exercise, diet and intimacy patterns to accommodate physical limitations. Dean and Christine, on their anniversary, 2025 We found help through prostate support groups, cancer help organizations and therapists. We discovered online Facebook groups as well as in-person group therapy, which offered useful tips. We already knew that intercourse wasn’t the only path to intimacy. Genitals are not the only way to have erotic experiences. Some people in our groups found success through vacuum erection devices or penis pumps, which use suction to draw blood into the penis. This can be used with drugs such as Viagra. We ended up giggling over our failure when we tried, and I accused Dean of buying a cheap one. Others suggested penile implants, a surgical option that can be expensive and not necessarily covered by insurance. There is also injectable penile therapy, where medications are injected into the penis with a syringe. Several of those options seemed daunting and kind of ouchy to us. We were already dealing with drug injections for his treatment, and surgery seemed excessive considering his life-threatening diagnosis. We chose touch. We held hands, kissed, caressed and massaged. While he napped, I read next to him. I watched his favorite television programs with him and ate what he was hungry for. I synced with him. He kept track of our intimate moments. Because he no longer felt sexual urges, he monitored a wall calendar where I would pencil in a heart when he made love to me. I signaled desire by lighting candles, putting “our” songs on Sonos or running a bath. Always a generous lover, he responded to my invitations with a smile. As we navigated through the steps of his illness, I wanted to make sure he would never feel alone and hoped we would grow closer than ever. We talked through everything. When he weakened, I performed physical tasks for him I had never done before. As soon as he had trouble reaching his toes, I clipped his nails. Once he tired of shaving, I trimmed his beard. I groomed his eyebrows and clipped his nose hairs. I stood next to the shower while he washed; I towel-dried him when he got out. His skin remained smooth because I massaged lotion on him every day. His doctors and nurses always commented on it. We decided on home hospice because I wanted to take care of him to the end. I slept on the couch next to his hospital bed. Sometimes I would bring my pillow with me and ask him to slide over so I could spoon next to him. He kept telling me how sorry he was to put me through this. I insisted I was the lucky one to have experienced a lifetime of being his friend, lover and wife. I repeatedly told him I would miss him every second of the rest of my life, and I know that will be true. He died on July 20. We were prepared for his last breaths. I am forever grateful that I held him in my arms through his final moments. I whispered I loved him. In the weeks since, I keep reminders close. I wear his wedding ring around my neck and don his red terry-cloth robe before bed. My electronic calendar flashes photos of him, and I sometimes look at messages from him on my phone. His ashes are in a silver urn on the coffee table inscribed with initials DS & CL. It awaits mine to join his. Our children are instructed to drop them from the Ponte Vecchio bridge in Florence, where we had a romantic vacation nearly 20 years ago. Yet that trip decades ago is not what I remember most these days. It’s the many small moments we spent together during the past four years, steering our way through a devastating illness. Our intimacy never ended; it grew just like our love. This educational resource was created with support from Bayer. Have your own Real Women, Real Stories you want to share? Let us know. Our Real Women, Real Stories are the authentic experiences of real-life women. The views, opinions and experiences shared in these stories are not endorsed by HealthyWomen and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of HealthyWomen. --- ### El cáncer de próstata nos enseñó a mi esposo y a mí lo que es realmente la intimidad **Published:** August 20, 2026 | **Author:** Christine Ledbetter | **Section:** Real Women, Real Stories **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/real-women-real-stories/el-cancer-de-prostata-la-intimidad.md English Mi esposo, Dean Skylar, me compró ropa interior después de su diagnóstico de cáncer de próstata. Fue un acto de esperanza que indicaba que deseaba preservar nuestra vida sexual durante lo que sabíamos que serían épocas difíciles. Después del cáncer de la piel, el cáncer de próstata es el tipo más frecuente para hombres estadounidenses. Ese trastorno se detecta mediante una prueba de sangre para determinar el nivel de antígenos prostáticos específicos (APE). Si se detecta en forma temprana, el tratamiento podría ser simplemente un monitoreo activo. Si el cáncer se encuentra exclusivamente en la próstata, podría recomendarse una prostatectomía para remover la próstata y el tejido adyacente. En el caso de Dean, el cáncer se había propagado y le diagnosticaron cáncer metastásico de etapa 4. Su tratamiento fue una castración química y su esperanza de vida era de cinco años. De repente, nuestras vidas cambiaron dramáticamente. Tuvimos que lidiar con una nota necrológica así como con el posible fin de nuestra vida sexual. Un diagnóstico de cáncer de próstata afecta la vida de una pareja en formas significativas. No se habla ampliamente de cómo ese trastorno causa la pérdida de sexualidad relacionada con terapias hormonales. Tu oncólogo proporcionará información sobre fármacos y tratamientos para combatir ese trastorno, pero las conversaciones sobre las relaciones sexuales son incómodas y escasas. Mientras ambos pelean por su vida, él está perdiendo lo que probablemente consideraba esencial, su sexualidad. No solo que pierde la capacidad para tener una erección; también pierde su libido. Y posiblemente su pareja necesite más que un camisón de seda negro para sentirse sexi otra vez. Si bien Dean recibió ese diagnóstico hace cuatro años, fue esencial para su bienestar que preservemos nuestra intimidad. Tratamos de prepararnos para los cambios físicos y emocionales. Los fármacos que le dieron eliminaron su testosterona, la cual estimula ese cáncer. La terapia de privación androgénica también redujo su tono muscular y causó aumento de peso, bochornos, dificultad para concentrarse y fatiga. Mi hombre seguro que jugaba tenis, que levantaba pesas y que amaba el sexo sintió que le castraron. El malestar psicológico que esto causó fue debilitante al inicio. Hicimos investigaciones sobre este trastorno. Cambiamos nuestros patrones de ejercicio, dieta e intimidad para adaptarnos a las limitaciones físicas. Dean y Christine, en su aniversario, 2025 Encontramos ayuda de grupos de apoyo prostático, organizaciones de asistencia oncológica y terapeutas. Descubrimos grupos virtuales en Facebook así como terapias grupales presenciales que proporcionaron consejos útiles. Ya sabíamos que las relaciones sexuales no eran la única forma de intimidad. Los genitales no son el único método para tener experiencias eróticas. Algunas personas de nuestros grupos tuvieron éxito con el uso de dispositivos de vacío para problemas de erección o bombas para pene, que usan succión para trasladar sangre al pene. Pueden usarse con fármacos tales como viagra. Terminamos riéndonos de cómo fracasamos cuando lo intentamos y acusé a Dean de comprar uno barato. Otras personas sugirieron implantes de pene, una opción quirúrgica que puede ser cara y que no necesariamente la cubren los seguros. También hay terapias inyectables para el pene, mediante las cuales se inyectan fármacos en el pene con una jeringa. Varias de estas opciones nos parecieron intimidantes y dolorosas. Ya estábamos lidiando con inyecciones de fármacos para su tratamiento y cirugías parecían demasiado considerando su diagnóstico potencialmente mortal. Escogimos tocarnos. Nos cogíamos de la mano, nos besábamos, nos acariciábamos y nos dábamos masajes. Cuando tomaba siestas, leía a su lado. Veía sus programas favoritos de televisión con él y comía lo que él tenía ganas de comer. Me sincronicé con él. Él monitoreaba nuestros momentos íntimos. Puesto que ya no tenía impulsos sexuales, daba seguimiento a un calendario en la pared en el que yo registraba con un lápiz un corazón cuando él me hacía el amor. Le indique mi deseo de encender velas, de reproducir "nuestras" canciones en Sonos o de bañarnos juntos. Siempre un amante generoso, respondía a mis invitaciones con una sonrisa. A medida que lidiábamos con las varias etapas de su enfermedad, quería asegurarme de que nunca se sienta solo y esperaba que nuestra relación se volviera cada vez más estrecha. Hablábamos de todo. Cuando se sentía débil, yo realizaba tareas físicas para él que nunca había hecho antes. En cuanto tuvo problemas para alcanzar los dedos de sus pies, empecé a cortar sus uñas. Cuando se cansó de afeitarse, yo le recortaba la barba. Arreglaba sus cejas y removía pelos de su nariz. Me mantenía de pie al lado de la ducha cuando se aseaba; le secaba con una toalla cuando salía. Su piel seguía siendo suave porque le daba masajes con una loción todos los días. Sus doctores y enfermeras siempre hablaban de eso. Optamos por atención domiciliaria de cuidados paliativos porque quería cuidarle hasta el final. Dormía en el sofá al lado de su cama en el hospital A veces traía mi almohada conmigo y le pedía que se mueva un poco para poder acurrucarme con él. Siempre me decía que le daba mucha pena que yo atravesara esto por él. Yo insistía en que era afortunada por haber compartido mi vida con él como amiga, amante y esposa. Le decía repetitivamente que le extrañaría cada segundo del resto de mi vida y sé que eso es verdad. Él murió el 20 de julio. Estuvimos preparados para sus últimos respiros. Siempre estaré agradecida de haberlo sostenido en mis brazos durante sus últimos momentos. Susurré que le amaba. Desde que eso ocurrió, mantuve recordatorios cerca de mí. Usó su anillo de matrimonio como un pendiente y usó su bata de felpa roja antes de ir a la cama. Mi calendario electrónico despliega sus fotos y a veces leo los mensajes que me enviaba en mi teléfono. Sus cenizas están en una urna plateada sobre la mesa de centro con una inscripción de las iniciales DS y CL. Mi cenizas estarán con las de él algún día. Nuestros hijos tienen las instrucciones de dejarlas caer desde el puente Ponte Vecchio en Florencia, donde tuvimos una vacación romántica hace casi 20 años. Sin embargo, ese viaje que tomamos hace décadas no es lo que más recuerdo estos días. Son todos los momentos pequeños que pasamos juntos durante los últimos cuatro años, lidiando con un trastorno devastador. Nuestra intimidad nunca terminó; solo aumentó tal como lo hizo nuestro amor. Este recurso educativo se preparó con el apoyo de Bayer. ¿Eres una mujer con historias reales que te gustaría compartir? Avísanos. Nuestras historias son experiencias auténticas de mujeres reales. HealthyWomen no avala los puntos de vista, opiniones y experiencias expresados en estas historias y estos no reflejan necesariamente las políticas o posiciones oficiales de HealthyWomen. --- ### True or False: Sexually Transmitted Infections **Published:** August 20, 2026 | **Author:** Jacquelyne Froeber | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/facts-about-stis.md Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are so cringe. Why does something so awesome like sex have to be so … un-sexy? We know no one wants to think about STIs, but the reality is that they’ve been around forever and can happen to anyone. In fact, about 1 in 5 people in the U.S. have an STI. The happy ending here is you can have nice things like orgasms on a Sunday morning and vacation sex whenever — wherever — your inner Shakira wants to. You just have to be proactive about screening and protecting yourself. Take our quiz to test your STI smarts and learn what women need to know about sexually transmitted infections. 1. Women are at greater risk for STIs than men. 2. Being monogamous means zero risk for STIs. 3. The most common STI is chlamydia. 4. You can get an STI from oral sex. 5. Douching helps protect against STIs. 6. You can’t get an STI in perimenopause or menopause. 7. You can get STIs from towels or clothing. 8. STI tests and Pap tests are the same thing. 9. Having an STI increases the risk of getting HIV. 10. Most STIs go away if you pray hard enough. If you’re having sex, talk to your clinician about getting tested for STIs. Many STIs can be cured with prescription medications. --- ### Busted! 5 Myths About Vaccines **Published:** August 17, 2026 | **Author:** Jacquelyne Froeber | **Section:** Your Health **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/your-health/facts-about-vaccines.md August is National Immunization Awareness Month. Remember the Great Polio Scare of 2025? Of course you don’t! Thanks to vaccines, the deadly poliovirus was eliminated in the U.S. in 1979. Vaccines are like the Superwoman of modern medicine: They prevent serious diseases and illnesses, protect society through herd immunity and save countless lives. But heavy is the vax that wears the crown. Like the deadly viruses vaccines protect us from, misinformation is contagious and myths about vaccines seem to have staying power. Between public mistrust in health and pharmaceutical companies and false information on social media — it can be hard to know who to trust and what facts are real. So, let’s set the record straight with science. Here are 5 common falsehoods about vaccines and the facts you need to know. --- ### Women's Health Technology Is Becoming More Accessible **Published:** August 13, 2026 | **Author:** Brittany Barreto, Ph.D. | **Section:** TechTalk **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/tech-talk-hp/accessibility-technology-for-womens-health.md Brittany Barreto, Ph.D., is a podcaster, an entrepreneur, and a molecular and human geneticist. (In other words, she’s really smart.) Read her column here each month to learn about what’s happening in the world of technology and innovation in women’s health. My sister works as an emergency veterinary technician, where every shift is filled with barking dogs, beeping medical equipment, ringing phones and anxious pet owners. She also has ADHD, and all that noise can quickly become overwhelming. The constant sounds make it harder for her to think clearly and can even trigger anxiety. Being the helpful sister that I am, I bought her a pair of Loop earplugs last year. Unlike traditional earplugs that block out sound completely, they lower background noise while still allowing her to hear conversations and alarms. Now she wears them at work and often at home with her energetic 5-year-old son. She says they help her stay calmer and more focused and feel less overstimulated throughout the day. Her experience made me realize how important accessibility technology is. Accessibility tech includes products designed for people with limited hand mobility, hearing loss, vision impairment, chronic pain, sensory sensitivities and other conditions that can make everyday tasks more difficult. For women, these challenges often show up in areas that many health products haven't been designed to address, like managing a period or softening the sensory overload that can come with parenting. Fortunately, a growing number of innovators are rethinking women's health products with accessibility in mind. Here are four technologies that are helping make women's health more independent, inclusive and easier to navigate for people of all abilities. --- ### Questions to Ask Your Clinician About Menopause **Published:** August 12, 2026 | **Author:** Alex Fulton | **Section:** Your Health **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/your-health/questions-to-ask-about-menopause.md Español Menopause is having a moment. People are finally, finally talking about this thing that happens to all women (AKA roughly half the population). But with all the information (and misinformation) about menopause suddenly everywhere, it can be hard to know what to believe. That’s why it’s a good idea to consider talking to your clinician about the changes you’re noticing in your body. Even with a clinician we know and trust, it’s not always easy to find the guidance we seek. Too often we go confidently into an appointment ready to learn, only to walk out with our heads spinning — and full of more questions than answers. The best way to avoid this frustrating experience? Be prepared. We’ve put together a guide to help you have a more productive conversation with your clinician about menopause. This educational resource was created with support from Astellas. --- ### Preguntas para tu profesional clínico sobre la menopausia **Published:** August 12, 2026 | **Author:** Alex Fulton | **Section:** Your Health **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/your-health/preguntas-para-tu-profesional-clinico-sobre-la-menopausia.md English Es el momento de la menopausia. Las personas finalmente hablan sobre esto que le sucede a todas las mujeres (es decir, aproximadamente la mitad de la población). Pero con toda la información (e información errónea) sobre la menopausia que de repente está en todas partes, podría ser difícil saber qué creer. Por eso es conveniente considerar hablar con tu profesional clínico sobre los cambios que notas en tu cuerpo. Incluso con un profesional clínico que conocemos y en quien confiamos, no siempre es fácil encontrar la orientación que buscamos. Muy frecuentemente vamos con confianza a una consulta dispuestas a aprender, solo para salir del consultorio confundidas y con mucho más preguntas que respuestas. ¿Cuál es el mejor método para evitar ese tipo de experiencias frustrantes? Preparándote. Redactamos una guía que será útil para que tengas una conversación más productiva con tu profesional clínico sobre la menopausia. Este recurso educativo se preparó con el apoyo de Astellas. --- ### How Do Lung Cancer Biomarkers Help Guide Treatment? **Published:** August 11, 2026 | **Author:** Darcy Lewis | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/lung-cancer-biomarkers-guide-treatment.md Español If you’ve been diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), one of the first conversations to have with your clinician should be about testing your tumor tissue for cancer biomarkers. Biomarkers can be gene changes or high levels of proteins that are known to cause cancer. They can give your clinician important information about your cancer, including how it might respond to treatment. “According to National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines, everyone with a stage 2 or higher lung cancer should undergo molecular testing,” said David Tom Cooke, M.D., chief of general thoracic surgery at UC Davis Health. “There are FDA-approved regimens that tackle the major genetic mutations involved in lung cancer and have been shown to improve disease-free survival.” Cooke noted that not all people with lung cancer receive initial biomarker testing as soon as they’re diagnosed, despite the guidelines being clear. “Don’t be afraid to ask your doctor for testing before any treatment begins,” he said. “Just politely say, ‘I would like to have my tumor undergo biomarker testing or next-generation sequencing.’” This educational resource was created with support from Daiichi. --- ### ¿Cómo se usan los biomarcadores de cáncer pulmonar para dirigir tratamientos? **Published:** August 11, 2026 | **Author:** Darcy Lewis | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/biomarcadores-de-cancer-pulmonar-para-dirigir-tratamientos.md English Si te diagnosticaron carcinoma pulmonar no microcítico (CPNM), una de las primeras conversaciones que deberías tener con tu profesional clínico es sobre pruebas para detectar biomarcadores tumorales en el tejido de tu tumor. Los biomarcadores podrían ser cambios genéticos o niveles altos de proteínas que se conoce que causan cáncer. Podrían proporcionar a tu profesional clínico información importante sobre tu cáncer, incluyendo sobre la eficacia del tratamiento. "Según las pautas de National Comprehensive Cancer Network, todos con un cáncer pulmonar de etapa 2 o más deberían someterse a pruebas moleculares", dijo David Tom Cooke, M.D., jefe del departamento de cirugía general torácica de UC Davis Health. "Hay tratamientos aprobados por la FDA que abordan las principales mutaciones genéticas involucradas en el cáncer pulmonar y se ha demostrado que mejoran la supervivencia sin cáncer". Cooke mencionó que no todas las personas con cáncer pulmonar se someten a pruebas iniciales de biomarcadores en cuanto reciben el diagnóstico, a pesar de lo que indican claramente las pautas. "No tengas miedo de pedir a tu doctor que se hagan pruebas antes de que empiece cualquier tratamiento", dijo. "Simplemente di educadamente, 'me gustaría que se analice mi tumor para detectar biomarcadores o que se haga una secuenciación de nueva generación'". Este recurso educativo se preparó con el apoyo de Daiichi. --- ### Women and Lung Cancer: A Deadly Combination **Published:** August 11, 2026 | **Author:** Darcy Lewis | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/women-and-lung-cancer.md Español Shira Kupperman Boehler, then just 43 years old, went for a full-body MRI for a baseline picture of her health. When a small spot appeared on her lung, she followed up with a low-dose CT scan, right after returning from a six-mile run. She thought the scan would rule out anything serious. Instead, it led to a diagnosis of aggressive early-stage lung cancer and surgery to remove half her right lung. “This whole journey was scary, and I felt physically terrible after the surgery, but I soon realized I was very lucky to get diagnosed at such an early stage,” Kupperman Boehler said. “But I’m not unique in my diagnosis. This is not a rare cancer.” Read: Even Though I Had No Symptoms, I Found My Lung Cancer Early Enough to Treat It >> As the leading cancer killer worldwide, lung cancer is anything but rare. In fact, in the United States, lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death, accounting for about 1 in 5 of all cancer deaths. Each year, more people die of lung cancer than of colon, breast and prostate cancers combined. The American Cancer Society (ACS) reports that lung cancer is the second most common cancer in both men and women in the United States. Only skin cancers occur more often overall. But lung cancer does not affect both sexes equally. The ACS estimates that clinicians will diagnose around 229,000 cases of lung cancer in the U.S. this year. Of those, about 118,000 will be in women. Just as smoking became popular for men decades before it caught on among women, lung cancer cases now reflect those trends, said Narjust Florez, M.D., of the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, who studies lung cancer and women. “The lung cancer rate has been dropping among men over the past few decades, but only for about the past decade in women,” she said. “There is this lag of women getting lung cancer because they started smoking 30 to 40 years later than men did.” Similarly, women whose husbands smoked are now increasingly vulnerable to lung cancer. “Women are almost three times more likely to have lung cancer due to secondhand smoke from their husbands,” Florez said. “I have seen many of these women in my clinic who may have never touched a cigarette, but their lungs looked like they smoked for 30 years.” This educational resource was created with support from Daiichi. --- ### Las mujeres y el cáncer pulmonar: Una combinación mortal **Published:** August 11, 2026 | **Author:** Darcy Lewis | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/las-mujeres-y-el-cancer-pulmonar.md English Shira Kupperman Boehler, en ese entonces de apenas 43 años, se sometió a una RM de cuerpo completo para tener una idea general de su salud. Cuando apareció una mancha blanca en su pulmón, hizo seguimiento con una TC de dosis baja, justo después de correr seis millas. Pensó que la tomografía descartaría cosas graves. En vez de eso, recibió el diagnóstico de cáncer pulmonar agresivo de etapa temprana y tuvo que someterse a una cirugía para remover la mitad de su pulmón derecho. "Todo esto fue espeluznante y me sentía terrible físicamente después de la cirugía, pero pronto comprendí que tuve mucha suerte de recibir el diagnóstico en una etapa temprana", dijo Kupperman Boehler. "Pero no soy la única con ese diagnóstico. Este no es un cáncer infrecuente". Lee: A pesar de no tener síntomas, detectaron mi cáncer pulmonar suficientemente temprano para tratarlo >> Puesto que este es el cáncer que mata a más personas a nivel mundial, el cáncer pulmonar es cualquier cosa excepto infrecuente. De hecho, en Estados Unidos, el cáncer pulmonar es la causa principal de muertes de cáncer, provocando aproximadamente 1 de cada 5 de todas las muertes de cáncer. Cada año, más personas mueren de cáncer pulmonar que el total combinado de muertes causadas por los cánceres de colon, de mama y de próstata. La Sociedad estadounidense contra el cáncer (ACS, por sus siglas en inglés) reporta que el cáncer pulmonar es el segundo cáncer más frecuente para hombres y mujeres en Estados Unidos. Solo los cánceres de piel, en forma global, ocurren más frecuentemente. Pero el cáncer pulmonar no afecta a ambos géneros de igual manera. La ACS estima que los profesionales clínicos diagnosticarán aproximadamente 229,000 casos de cáncer pulmonar en EE.UU. este año. De ellos, aproximadamente 118,000 serán de mujeres. De la misma forma que fumar se volvió común para los hombres décadas antes que para las mujeres, los casos de cáncer pulmonar ahora reflejan esas tendencias, dijo Narjust Florez, M.D., de Dana-Farber Cancer Institute en Boston, quien estudia el cáncer pulmonar y la salud de la mujer. "La tasa de cáncer pulmonar ha estado disminuyendo para los hombres en las últimas décadas, pero eso solo ha pasado en la última década para las mujeres", dijo. "Este retraso de las tasas de cáncer pulmonar de las mujeres se debe a que empezaron a fumar entre 30 y 40 años después que los hombres". Asimismo, mujeres con esposos que fumaban ahora son cada vez más propensas a cáncer pulmonar. “Las mujeres tienen casi tres veces más posibilidades de tener cáncer pulmonar debido al tabaquismo pasivo de sus esposos", dijo Florez. "He atendido a muchas mujeres que nunca han tocado un cigarrillo en mi clínica, pero sus pulmones parecían como si hubiesen fumado durante 30 años". Este recurso educativo se preparó con el apoyo de Daiichi. --- ### Are You Losing Sleep Over Hot Flashes and Night Sweats? **Published:** August 10, 2026 | **Author:** Aileen Weintraub | **Section:** Menopause & Aging Well **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/your-health/menopause-aging-well/vasomotor-symptoms-of-menopause-and-sleep.md Español I’m sitting at my desk trying to focus on my next project but I can’t keep my eyes open. It’s only 1:00 p.m., and I want to crash. Instead, I make myself another cup of coffee, grab a bag of chips and head back to my desk to muddle through the rest of the day. I haven’t had a good night’s sleep in months. I wake up halfway through the night drenched in sweat. Then I toss and turn until my hot flashes subside in the early morning hours. If I’m lucky, I get four solid hours of sleep. Most days, I’m running on caffeine and comfort food, which I know isn’t healthy. It’s a downward spiral that leaves me feeling foggy and cranky by mid-afternoon. According to Menopause: The Journal of the Menopause Society, hot flashes and night sweats, also known as vasomotor symptoms (VMS) of menopause, cause sleep disturbances for up to 3 out of 5 perimenopausal and postmenopausal women. Hot flashes are a sudden feeling of warmth in the face, neck and chest that occur when estrogen levels decline. They can cause intense sweating, flushed skin, feeling chilled when the hot flash subsides and feelings of anxiety. All of this can lead to difficulty sleeping. “This can include sleeping for shorter periods or having trouble falling or staying asleep,” said JoAnn Pinkerton, M.D., medical director of Midlife Health Center and member of HealthyWomen’s Women’s Health Advisory Council. But middle-of-the-night wakings from VMS don’t just ruin the next day. They can also have long-term consequences. Read: Once Hot Flashes Fade, Are There Lasting Health Impacts? >> This educational resource was created with support from Astellas. --- ### ¿No puedes dormir bien por bochornos y sudores nocturnos? **Published:** August 10, 2026 | **Author:** Aileen Weintraub | **Section:** Menopause & Aging Well **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/your-health/menopause-aging-well/los-sintomas-vasomotores-de-la-menopausia-y-el-sueno.md English Estoy sentada en mi escritorio tratando de enfocarme en mi próximo proyecto pero no puedo mantener abiertos mis ojos. Es apenas la 1:00 p.m. y solo quiero dormir. En vez de eso, me preparo otra taza de café, agarró una bolsa de papas fritas y regreso a mi escritorio para sobrellevar el resto del día. No he dormido bien algunos meses. Despierto en medio de la noche empapada en sudor. Luego doy vueltas en la cama hasta que los bochornos cesan en la madrugada. Si tengo suerte, logro dormir bien unas cuatro horas. La mayoría de días, consumo cafeína y comida reconfortante para hacer lo que tengo que hacer y sé que eso no es saludable. Es un círculo vicioso que me hace tener confusión y mal humor para cuando llega la mitad de la tarde. Según Menopause: The Journal of the Menopause Society, los bochornos y los sudores nocturnos, también conocidos como síntomas vasomotores (SVM) de la menopausia, pueden causar alteraciones para hasta 3 de cada 5 mujeres peri- y posmenopáusicas. Los bochornos son sensaciones repentinas de calor en el rostro, el cuello y el pecho que ocurren cuando los niveles de estrógeno disminuyen. Pueden causar sudoración intensa, piel ruborizada, sentir frescura cuando los bochornos paran y una sensación de ansiedad. Todo esto puede hacer que dormir sea difícil. "Esto podría incluir dormir por períodos más cortos o dificultad para conciliar o mantener el sueño", dijo JoAnn Pinkerton, M.D., directora médica de Midlife Health Center y miembro del Consejo de asesoría de la salud de la mujer de HealthyWomen. Pero despertar en el medio de la noche por SVM no solo arruina el día siguiente. Eso también podría tener consecuencias a largo plazo. Lee: ¿Hay afectaciones de larga duración de la salud una vez que paran los bochornos? >> Este recurso educativo se preparó con el apoyo de Astellas. --- ### When Is a Headache More Than Just a Headache? **Published:** August 10, 2026 | **Author:** Jacquelyne Froeber | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/when-is-a-headache-more-than-a-headache.md A dull, steady ache. Tightness or pressure on both sides of the head. If these symptoms sound familiar — you’re not alone. Tension headaches are the most common type of headache. About 3 out of 4 people in the U.S. experience tension headaches at some point in their lives. And women are more likely to get them than men. Although tension headaches are common and not life-threatening, symptoms can vary per person. So how do you know if what you’re experiencing is just a headache or something more serious? --- ### Nobody Believed My Pain Was Real Until Endometriosis Landed Me in a Coma **Published:** August 6, 2026 | **Author:** Allison Loloci | **Section:** Real Women, Real Stories **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/real-women-real-stories/endometriosis-landed-me-in-a-coma.md As told to Nicole Audrey Spector My very first period, which I got at 13, was, to put it very mildly, a real doozy. There was so much nausea, so much fatigue, so much pain. And so much blood. No menstrual pad was thick enough to absorb the flood spilling out of me, and my attempts at inserting a tampon were too excruciating. I wore diapers. Every period that followed the first was just as bad. My periods could last well over 10 days with no relief. It took a heavy toll on me. I had always been a sporty and joyful kid. That girl was gone. I was in bed more than I was in gym class, and when I could make it to school on my period, I was anxious and self-conscious because I often bled through my clothing. I wondered if something was wrong with my body and if my periods were abnormal. But everyone, including doctors, told me I was fine. By the time I was 19 and a sophomore in college, I was barely hanging on. By this point my periods would sometimes last not only weeks, but months. Everything I ate I threw up, and I was constipated to the point of seriously never being able to poop. I was wasting away. I went from being healthy, athletic 127 lbs. to sickly and frail. I’d been an A student, but now I was barely able to make it to class. My grades plummeted along with my weight. I was extremely proactive in advocating for myself and determined to get a diagnosis. But nobody else was. Over the span of five months, I saw about 25 doctors across three states, all of whom said I was physically fine while watching me writhe in agony on the exam table. One doctor took my mother into the hall and suggested she contact a psychiatric hospital, noting that I was at the age where mental illnesses often begin to present. My mom wanted to admit me but couldn’t because I posed no threat to myself or others. Clinicians, my family, even my best friend: They all thought my torment was something psychological or, worse, a masquerade to get attention. My health continued to nosedive. Later that year, my husband found me passed out on the floor. I was burning up, with a temperature of 104°. After trying to cool me down in the shower, he rushed me to the ER, where doctors diagnosed me with a kidney infection. They said it was caused by an ignored UTI. I was insulted and knew this was a misdiagnosis. As a competitive swimmer, I was all too familiar with UTIs. All these years of torment had nothing to do with a bladder infection. What would it take to get people to listen to me and to see that my body was being destroyed? Turns out I would have to die. After being thrown on antibiotics and discharged from the hospital, I was too weak to walk. My husband carried me to the car. My last memory is of picking up and then dropping my phone. I woke up two days later in a children’s ICU. I was told by doctors that I’d been brought into the emergency room DOA: dead on arrival. They managed to revive me, but then I coded two more times. My fever was so high that the doctors feared I would sustain brain damage. I was in septic shock and my kidneys were struggling to the point where I nearly needed dialysis. To have any chance of recovery, I was put in a medically induced coma. It took all that for me to get what I’d been begging for since I was 13 years old: the time of day — and a diagnosis. A doctor told me I had endometriosis. “Endo what now?” I said. I’d never heard that word. He went on to explain that the endometriosis had created lesions along my pelvic cavity. The lesions were growing so aggressively that they had ripped out tissue and formed new clusters of scar tissue called adhesions. Adhesions can be like cobwebs and attach to nearby organs. That’s what was happening inside me. They were strangling my ureters and my rectum. Surgery scars Endometriosis is a full-body disease for which there is no cure. But there are effective treatments including specialized excision surgery which aims to cut out endometriosis lesions from their roots. Getting the root out is crucial and very challenging for surgeons, because often the roots are deeply hidden. Over the more than 20 years since I was finally diagnosed, I’ve had six endometriosis-related surgeries. I’ve had organs removed including my cervix, my fallopian tubes and my uterus. Each of these procedures has been hard on me, but the hysterectomy was uniquely difficult to endure. I have strong maternal instincts and always imagined myself as a mother. I was incredibly angry to have lost the ability to bear children, an ability that might have been preserved had doctors believed me when I was younger. Allison and her husband Given how much endometriosis has hurt me, it would make sense for me to have nothing but hate for it. But hatred is a trap that keeps you from experiencing the beauty of being alive. This is why, when I think of what endometriosis has done to me, I choose to feel love. I can say honestly that I cherish the gifts endometriosis has given me. I’ve become more self-aware, more accepting, more compassionate and more free. This condition has inspired me to create art I never would have created without it. It pushed me to write and publish a book for girls about endometriosis, the very book I wish I had when I was a girl. I’ve learned how to channel my maternal instincts in ways I never thought would suffice. (I lean big into my cats!) To live with endometriosis — even if you’re in full remission as I thankfully am now — is to live with a black hole of grief inside of you. You may feel like you’re going to be sucked into its negative void. The trick isn’t to hide from the black hole, but to hug it. This doesn’t mean dismissing or burying your sorrow and rage. It means letting yourself feel the full extent of your feelings without resistance and trusting that none of that darkness can exist without light. I often think of how other creatures deal with fear and threat. Did you know that when bison see a storm coming, they collectively turn and walk through it? They instinctively know that trying to outrun disaster will only promise their death. And we’re really no different. To survive the storm, we must walk through it. Have your own Real Women, Real Stories you want to share? Let us know. Our Real Women, Real Stories are the authentic experiences of real-life women. The views, opinions and experiences shared in these stories are not endorsed by HealthyWomen and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of HealthyWomen. --- ### 5 Chronic Conditions That Can Worsen Overactive Bladder **Published:** August 5, 2026 | **Author:** Taneia Surles, MPH | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/conditions-that-can-worsen-overactive-bladder.md Español Do you find yourself running to the bathroom more often than usual during the day or waking up in the middle of the night to go? Frequent urination can be more than just annoying and disruptive. It could also signal an underlying medical condition. Overactive bladder (OAB) can cause a sudden, intense urge to urinate that’s difficult to control. You might feel the need to go even when your bladder isn’t full, leading to frequent trips to the bathroom. The exact cause of OAB isn’t always clear, and certain medical conditions or treatments can contribute to urinary urgency, frequency, nocturia or OAB-like symptoms. Although overactive bladder is more common in older adults, it isn’t considered a normal part of aging. Seeking treatment can help improve your symptoms and quality of life. Here are five medical conditions that can contribute to OAB-like symptoms or make symptoms of OAB worse. This educational resource was created with support from Sumitomo Pharma, Inc --- ### 5 trastornos crónicos que pueden empeorar la vejiga hiperactiva **Published:** August 5, 2026 | **Author:** Taneia Surles, MPH | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/trastornos-que-pueden-empeorar-la-vejiga-hiperactiva.md English ¿Tienes que correr al baño más frecuentemente de lo normal durante el día o despertar durante la noche para ir al baño? Orinar frecuentemente puede ser más que solo una molestia y un inconveniente. También puede ser una señal de un trastorno médico subyacente. Una vejiga hiperactiva (VHA) puede provocar una necesidad repentina e imperiosa de orinar que es difícil de controlar. Podrías sentir esa necesidad de ir al baño incluso si tu vejiga no está llena, haciendo que debas ir frecuentemente al baño. La causa exacta de la VHA no siempre se comprende claramente y ciertos trastornos médicos o tratamientos pueden empeorar la necesidad imperiosa de orinar, la frecuencia, la nicturia u otros síntomas parecidos a los de la VHA. Si bien la vejiga hiperactiva es más frecuente para adultos mayores, no se considera una parte normal de envejecer. Recibir tratamiento podría ser útil para aliviar tus síntomas y mejorar tu calidad de vida. Aquí encontrarás cinco trastornos médicos que pueden empeorar o agravar los síntomas de la VHA. Este recurso educativo se preparó con el apoyo de Sumitomo Pharma, Inc. --- ### Comic: Edna Gets an Endoscopy **Published:** August 5, 2026 | **Author:** Nicole Pajer | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/comic-edna-gets-an-endoscopy.md Español + Flipbook textImage Dialogue Edna is sitting on the examination table at her doctor’s office. Edna: It’s been happening a lot lately. At brunch yesterday, my granola bar this morning, the sandwich I ate in the car on the way over here … It hurts when I swallow, and it feels like food’s getting stuck. Edna’s doctor is nodding and responding to her. Doc: That sounds like it could be your esophagus. It may be inflamed or a condition like GERD or eosinophilic esophagitis, which we call EoE for short. You only have one esophagus, so let’s make sure we get that checked out. I’m going to order an upper endoscopy. Edna looks uncomfortable. Still talking to the doctor. Edna: That sounds a little scary. The doctor is explaining the procedure to Edna, using a model of the human throat. She could also pull up literature on her computer to illustrate the process. Doc: It may sound scary, but it’s a pretty simple procedure. GRAPHIC - ENDOSCOPY TUBE Doc: It’s performed with a long, flexible tube with a camera and a light on the end that allows us to take a look at your upper digestive system. Doc and Edna talking Edna: Will I be awake for this? Doc and Edna talking Doc: We’ll give you some medication through an IV to help you relax — it’s not general anesthesia. You’ll be sleepy and likely won’t remember the procedure. Edna looks at doctor and responds to her Edna: Okay. That doesn’t sound too bad. The doctor responds Doc: You’ll feel a little groggy from the medication afterward, so you’ll want to make sure you have someone to drive you home. Edna asks the doctor Edna: What happens if they find EoE? Doctor answers her and hands her an order to get the test performed Doc: There are a variety of things we can do, like medication or dietary changes. And you would need regular endoscopies and biopsies to monitor your esophagus to see how you’re responding to treatment. The most important thing is to get you feeling better so this doesn’t keep happening and possibly damage your esophagus. At the hospital … Edna is now at the hospital where a nurse is preparing her for the procedure and explaining what is going on. They are attaching some monitors to her chest. The nurse sprays some numbing spray in Edna’s throat. Nurse: This will help us monitor your heart rate, blood pressure and breathing. This is a little spray to help numb your throat before the procedure and make you more comfortable. The doctor performing the exam enters the room. Doc: Hi, Edna. Looks like you’re prepped. I’m going to use a flexible gastroscope with a light and lens to look into your throat to check for inflammation or narrowing. I might take a quick biopsy to send to the lab. The whole process should take around 15 to 30 minutes. In the operating room … The doctor is looking at the tissue of Edna’s esophagus on a TV monitor and is performing the exam. She’s talking to the nurse who is assisting the procedure. Doc: I see a little inflammation in here. The doctor, addressing colleagues, takes a quick biopsy. Doc: I’m going to take a quick biopsy. Hand me the forceps. An hour later … Edna wakes up in the recovery room. A nurse checks in on her and brings her a cup of water to sip from. Nurse: Hi, Edna. You did great. We’re all done. You might feel a little sleepy or lightheaded for a few hours. You may also experience a little bloating from the air and a mild sore throat, but you shouldn’t be feeling any pain. Give us a call if any other symptoms pop up. Edna replies. She is lying down on a recovery bed. Edna: Sounds good. Thank you. Nurse replies Nurse: You’ll want to take it easy the rest of the day. Curl up on the couch with some good TV. I may be biased, but I like Nurse Jackie! Optional - image of Edna curled up at home on couch watching TV (of course curled up with a cat), if that seems to work. For more information, please visit HealthyWomen.org/EoE This resource was created with support from Sanofi and Regeneron. --- ### Historieta: Edna se hace una endoscopía **Published:** August 5, 2026 | **Author:** Nicole Pajer | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/edna-se-hace-una-endoscopia.md English + Historieta texto Edna: Ha estado ocurriendo mucho últimamente. En el brunch de ayer, mi barra de granola esta mañana, el emparedado que comí en el carro cuando venía acá… Me duele cuando trago y siento que alimentos se quedan atorados. Doctor: Eso podría ser su esófago. Podría estar inflamado o podría ser un trastorno como ERGE o esofagitis eosinofílica, también conocida como EEo. Solo tienes un esófago, así que asegurémonos de revisarlo. Voy a solicitar una endoscopía superior. Edna: Eso me da un poco de miedo. Doctor: Podría sonar como algo tenebroso, pero es un procedimiento muy simple. Doctor: Se realiza con una sonda larga y flexible que tiene una cámara y una luz en uno de sus extremos y que nos permite examinar tu aparato digestivo superior. Edna: ¿Estaré despierta durante este procedimiento? Doctor: Te daremos un fármaco intravenosamente para ayudarte a relajarte, no es anestesia general. Te dará sueño y probablemente no recuerdes este procedimiento. Edna: Está bien. No parece ser algo muy malo. Doctor: Podrías sentirte un poco aturdida después por el medicamento, así que es conveniente que te asegures de que alguien te lleve a casa. Edna: ¿Qué pasa si detectan que tengo EEo? Doctor: Hay varias cosas que podemos hacer, tales como usar medicamentos o implementar cambios a tu dieta. Y necesitarías endoscopías y biopsias en forma regular para monitorear tu esófago y para ver como reaccionas al tratamiento. Lo más importante es hacer que te sientas mejor para que esto no siga ocurriendo y para que esto no cause lesiones a tu esófago. Enfermera: Esto será útil para monitorear tu frecuencia cardiaca, presión arterial y respiración. Este es un aerosol pequeño que servirá para entumecer tu garganta antes del procedimiento para que estés más cómoda. Doctor: Hola, Edna. Parece que estás lista. Voy a usar un gastroscopio con una luz y un lente para examinar tu garganta y tratar de detectar inflamaciones o estrechamientos. Es posible que realice una biopsia rápidamente para enviarla al laboratorio. Todo el proceso debería durar aproximadamente de 15 a 30 minutos. Doctor: Veo un poco de inflamación aquí. Doctor: Voy a hacer una biopsia rápidamente. Pásame las pinzas. Enfermera: Hola, Edna. Te fue muy bien. Ya acabamos. Es posible que te sientas somnolienta o mareada durante unas horas. También podrías tener un poco de gases por el aire y malestar moderado de la garganta, pero no deberías sentir ningún dolor. Llámanos si tienes cualquier otro síntoma. Edna: De acuerdo. Gracias. Enfermera: Es conveniente que descanses el resto del día. Acuéstate en el sofá a ver televisión. ¡Es posible que tenga un sesgo, pero a mí me gusta ver Anatomía de Gray! Este recurso se preparó con el apoyo de Sanofi y Regeneron. --- ### Reducing the Multiple Myeloma Mortality Gap **Published:** August 5, 2026 | **Author:** Shannon Shelton Miller | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/reducing-the-multiple-myeloma-mortality-gap.md In 2015, Valarie Traynham visited her primary care physician (PCP) after weeks of intense exhaustion, serious nosebleeds, back pain and flu-like infections. Her PCP noted high protein levels in Traynham’s bloodwork and referred her to a hematologist-oncologist, a doctor who treats cancers of the blood. Seeing a hematologist didn’t alarm Traynham, who’d suffered from anemia, but she didn’t grasp until later that the doctor was also an oncologist, and her condition might be more serious than she thought. Traynham, then 42, received more tests, including full body X-rays and a bone marrow biopsy that led to her being diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a disease she’d never heard of. She was told to start treatment immediately. After three sessions, Traynham became so sick she needed a wheelchair to take her from the car to the facility. She felt something wasn’t right, and her aunt, a breast cancer survivor, suggested she visit a specialist. “When I was diagnosed with myeloma at a local community center, I wasn't going to get a second opinion because I just wanted to start treatment and get rid of it,” Traynham said. “I remember the doctor saying, ‘You can go if that’s what you want to do, but they’re going to tell you the same thing I’m telling you.’” Traynham went anyway, a decision that might have saved her life. It also started her path to becoming an advocate for multiple myeloma awareness and education in the Black community. This educational resource was created with support from Bristol Myers Squibb, creators of the Standing in the Gaap program and a HealthyWomen Corporate Advisory Council member. --- ###
**Published:** August 4, 2026 | **Author:** Alex Fulton | **Section:** Your Health **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/your-health/holly-has-chronic-spontaneous-urticaria.md + Flipbook textImage Text/Dialogue Holly and her husband are in their bedroom, getting dressed for an evening out. Holly stands in front of the mirror in a dress, frowning. Her arms are covered in red blotches. Holly: I wish we didn’t have to go tonight. I feel so self conscious with these hives all over my body, and it’s getting harder to hide them. Husband: Maybe you should see a doctor. It’s been more than six weeks, and they don’t seem to be going away. You’re not sleeping well, you’re constantly itching … . Holly is turned toward her husband, talking Holly: You’re right, they’re really starting to get to me. I can’t focus at work and my self-esteem has never been lower. I’ll make an appointment with Dr. Chavez. Heloise in a doctor’s office, talking to her doctor (female, Latina) Holly: Thanks for seeing me, Dr. Chavez. These hives just came out of nowhere. I thought they’d go away on their own, but they’re really starting to affect my quality of life. Dr. Chavez: It sounds like you’re dealing with chronic spontaneous urticaria, also known as chronic hives. Dr. Chavez talking Graphic: Chronic = lasts more than 6 weeks Spontaneous = has no clear cause Urticaria = medical term for hives With CSU, hives seem to come out of nowhere, last six weeks or longer and come back again and again. They can be intensely itchy, cause painful facial swelling, and generally make a person miserable. Holly and Dr. Chavez talking Holly: That’s for sure! What causes them? Dr. Chavez: We don’t know for sure, but it’s linked to type 2 inflammation, an overactive immune response that causes swelling. Dr. Chavez talking The good news is that both CSU and type 2 inflammation are treatable. Holly and Dr. Chavez talking Heloise: That is good news. What are the treatment options? Dr. Chavez: We’ll start by trying medicines like antihistamines to help with the itching and swelling. Close up of Dr. Chavez talking Dr. Chavez: If those don’t work, I may refer you to an allergist. They may suggest drugs called biologics or immunosuppressants to help keep your body from attacking itself. Holly and doctor talking Holly: How long before I start to feel better? Dr. Chavez: It can take time to find the right medicines and for them to start working. It may be only a few weeks, or a while longer. Doctor handing a prescription to a smiling Holly Dr. Chavez: You’ve already taken a big step by coming to see me. The sooner you start treatment, the sooner you can get back to your normal life. Holly: Thank you so much! Holly and her husband are out on a date, dancing. She’s wearing a sleeveless dress and her skin is clear. Holly: I finally feel comfortable in my skin again. I’m so glad I went to the doctor instead of toughing it out. Husband: Me too! Now let’s take another spin around the dance floor. For more information, please visit HealthyWomen.org/CSU This resource was created with support from Regeneron and Sanofi. --- ### Getting Ready to Talk to Your Clinician About Overactive Bladder **Published:** August 3, 2026 | **Author:** Annie Mueller | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/talk-to-your-clinician-about-overactive-bladder.md Español + Flipbook textTalk to your clinician 3 out of 10 women in the U.S. have overactive bladder (OAB). OAB causes issues with peeing, can worsen your quality of life and won't go away on its own. Without treatment, OAB symptoms may become more difficult to manage. Talking to your clinician is important. Start with symptoms Not everyone experiences OAB symptoms in the same way. Your clinician needs to know your experience so they can help. Make a list of your symptoms and how much they affect you before your appointment. Keep a diary Prepare for your appointment by keeping a bladder diary. Include: How much you drink How often you pee How much you pee If you experience the urgent need to pee If you leak pee You can use a notebook or print out a bladder diary you can find online. Log what you can Keep a bladder diary for three to seven typical days. The days don’t have to be in a row, and it’s OK if you miss some entries during the day. List your meds Make a list of: Medications you take Prescription drugs Over-the-counter medications Vitamins or supplements Your medical history Diagnoses Conditions Surgeries Family history Bring a friend It can feel uncomfortable to talk about OAB, but your clinician is there to help. Your appointment is the best place to start getting answers and treatment. You can bring a trusted friend or family member to support you and help you remember what to say and ask. Ask for options Some groups face more challenges than others with OAB. Some women, including those from underserved communities, may face additional challenges accessing care and treatment for OAB. When you talk to your clinician, ask about all the options: Medication Minimally invasive treatments Physical therapy Behavioral therapy Help accessing what you need Start the conversation Ready to bring it up? Here are some simple ways: I want to talk about bladder issues today. I want to discuss overactive bladder symptoms. Can we talk about OAB? I'm having some symptoms I want to talk about. I want to talk about bladder health. Get answers you need Here are some questions to ask your clinician: Can you help me with OAB? Do I need to have tests? What are my treatment options? What changes can I make to help my symptoms? Would physical therapy help? What's next? Speak up for yourself. Getting help for OAB starts here. Resources National Association For Continence - Symptom Screening Tool The Urology Foundation - Bladder Diary This educational resource was created with support from Sumitomo Pharma America, Inc. --- ### Prepárate para hablar con tu profesional clínico sobre tu vejiga hiperactiva **Published:** August 3, 2026 | **Author:** Annie Mueller | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/como-hablar-con-tu-profesional-clinico-sobre-tu-vejiga-hiperactiva.md English + Flipbook textHabla con tu profesional clínico 3 de cada 10 mujeres en EE.UU. tienen vejigas hiperactivas (VHA). La VHA causa problemas con la micción, puede empeorar tu calidad de vida y no desaparecerá por su propia cuenta. Sin tratamiento, los síntomas de VHA podrían volverse más difíciles de manejar. Hablar con tu profesional clínico es importante. Empieza con los síntomas No todos experimentan los síntomas de VHA de la misma forma. Tu profesional clínico debe saber lo que experimentas para que pueda ayudarte. Prepara una lista de tus síntomas indicando cuánto te afectan antes de tu consulta. Mantén un diario Prepárate para tu consulta manteniendo un diario de la vejiga. Registra: Cuánto bebes Con qué frecuencia orinas Cuánto orinas Si experimentas ganas urgentes de orinar Si tienes filtraciones de orina Puedes usar una libreta o imprimir un diario de la vejiga que encuentres en el internet. Registra lo que puedas Mantén un diario de la vejiga durante tres a siete días normales. Esos días no tienen que ser seguidos y es normal si no registras todo durante el día. Lista tus medicamentos Prepara una lista de: Los medicamentos que tomas Fármacos de venta con receta Fármacos de venta sin receta Vitaminas y suplementos Tus antecedentes médicos Diagnósticos Trastornos Cirugías Antecedentes familiares Asiste con un amigo Puede ser incómodo hablar sobre VHA, pero tu profesional clínico está ahí para ayudar. Tu consulta es el mejor momento para empezar a recibir respuestas y tratamientos. Puedes ir con un amigo de confianza o familiar para que te apoye y te ayude a recordar lo que debes decir y preguntar. Pide opciones Algunos grupos de personas enfrentan más dificultades que otros con VHA. Algunas mujeres, incluyendo las de comunidades vulnerables, podrían enfrentar dificultades adicionales para obtener acceso a atención y tratamientos de VHA. Cuando hables con tu profesional clínico, haz preguntas sobre todas las opciones: Medicamentos Tratamientos mínimamente invasivos Fisioterapia Terapia conductual Ayuda para obtener acceso a lo que necesitas Inicia la conversación ¿Lista para hablar de eso? Aquí encontrarás algunos métodos sencillos: Hoy quiero hablar sobre los problemas con mi vejiga. Quiero hablar sobre los síntomas de vejiga hiperactiva. ¿Podemos hablar sobre la VHA? Tengo algunos síntomas de los que quiero hablar. Quiero hablar sobre la salud vesical. Obtén las respuestas que necesitas Aquí encontrarás algunas preguntas que puedes hacer a tu profesional clínico: ¿Puede ayudarme con mi VHA? ¿Debo hacerme pruebas? ¿Cuáles son mis opciones terapéuticas? ¿Qué cambios puedo implementar para aliviar mis síntomas? ¿Sería útil hacer fisioterapia? ¿Qué sigue? Di lo que necesitas decir. Este es el primer paso para recibir ayuda para tu VHA. Recursos National Association For Continence: Herramienta de detección de síntomas The Urology Foundation: Diario de la vejiga Este recurso educativo se preparó con el apoyo de Sumitomo Pharma America, Inc. --- ### Analog Hobbies Are Having a Moment — and Our Nervous Systems Are Here For It **Published:** August 3, 2026 | **Author:** Marnie Goodfriend | **Section:** Your Wellness **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/your-wellness/analog-hobbies.md As Americans have reached an all-time high glued to their electronic devices (7 hours and 4 minutes per day, to be exact), many of us are exhausted from the never-ending online content in an AI-dependent world. Digital exhaustion has led to adopting something old that feels new again. Analog living is trending this year, and an interest in hands-on hobbies has reached an all-time high. From Los Angeles to Lyme, Connecticut, people are registering for cake painting, knitting and card-making workshops instead of doomscrolling or binge-watching the latest Netflix series. Junk journaling — a mixed-media, handmade book created with sentimental items such as ticket stubs, old photographs, notes and letters — has over 1 million posts on TikTok. These activities are popping up not just in local libraries but at retail stores, cafes and even breweries. Danei Edelen, a writer and executive director for the National Alliance on Mental Illness, Northern Kentucky (NAMI NKY), said she was exposed to these active hands-on activities early in life. Her mother crocheted washcloths, and her grandmother crafted quilts and crocheted doilies. She remembers them creating alone and during family gatherings. “When my family got together, the women in my family always had hand projects,” she said. --- ### Why Proactive Care Matters for EoE **Published:** July 28, 2026 | **Author:** Alex Fulton | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/proactive-care-for-eoe.md Español Once considered a rare condition, cases of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) are becoming more common. More than 470,000 people in the United States are living with EoE, a chronic inflammatory condition of the esophagus that causes symptoms that can disrupt daily life. A proactive approach to care can help you stay ahead of EoE, letting you live your life without being defined by your illness. This educational resource was created with support from Sanofi and Regeneron. --- ### Por qué una atención proactiva es importante para la EEo **Published:** July 28, 2026 | **Author:** Alex Fulton | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/proactiva-es-importante-para-la-eeo.md English La esofagitis eosinofílica (EEo) alguna vez se consideró un trastorno infrecuente pero ahora se está volviendo más común. Más de 470,000 personas en Estados Unidos viven con EEo, un trastorno inflamatorio crónico del esófago que causa síntomas que pueden alterar la vida cotidiana. Un método proactivo de atención puede ser útil para controlar la EEo para que puedas disfrutar tu vida sin que tu enfermedad te defina. Este recurso educativo se preparó con el apoyo de Sanofi y Regeneron. --- ### The Connection Between Burn Pits and Lung Cancer **Published:** July 28, 2026 | **Author:** Nicole Pajer | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/connection-between-burn-pits-and-lung-cancer.md + Video transcript Video/Image Voiceover/Audio The Connection Between Burn Pits and Lung Cancer Animation: An open-air burn pit with people tossing different things into it - a biohazard container, weapons, chemicals, supplies. Pan to a military base nearby showing where servicemen and women live. For decades, the U.S. military used burn pits to dispose of waste during deployments. These open-air fires burned everything from weapons and fuel to plastics, chemicals — and even human waste. Burn pits were often located close to where service members lived and worked. 3.5 million Represent 3.5 million servicemembers somehow, both men and women An estimated 3.5 million U.S. veterans and active-duty service members may have been exposed to toxic burn pit fumes during their service. Toxins depicted on screen Burn pits have been linked to respiratory illnesses: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) Chronic rhinitis Chronic sinusitis Constrictive bronchiolitis Burn pits are linked to lung cancer 2x the risk These fumes contain cancer-causing chemicals like benzene and dioxins and fine particulate matter, which has been linked to respiratory illnesses like COPD, chronic rhinitis, chronic sinusitis and constrictive bronchiolitis. Growing evidence suggests a concerning connection between these exposures and lung cancer. In fact, veterans have more than twice the national average risk of this disease. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death Symptoms include: Chronic coughing Coughing up blood Recurring respiratory infections Shortness of breath Chest pain Swelling in the neck or face Difficulty swallowing Unexplained weight loss When it comes to lung cancer, catching it early is key. Symptoms to watch out for can include: chronic coughing, coughing up blood, recurring respiratory infections, shortness of breath, chest pain, swelling in the neck or face, difficulty swallowing, and unexplained weight loss. A female servicemember talking to a healthcare provider A female servicemember going in for a CT scan If you suspect you’ve had burn pit exposure, ask your healthcare provider about lung cancer screening, which is typically performed through a low-dose CT scan. Animation: A robotic-assisted bronchoscopy in action looking for lung cancer nodules Newer technology, like robotic-assisted bronchoscopy, can help physicians more accurately diagnose lung cancer. Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT Act) Animation: A computer database with a list of names of military personnel being added to it with a person overseeing it Animation: A female servicemember at the VA office getting a health checkup The military and the VA have recognized the risks of burn pits and have taken action to assist service members and veterans who may have been exposed. In 2022, the Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics — also known as the PACT Act — significantly expanded VA healthcare and benefits for veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange and other toxins. If you were deployed to certain locations, you’ve been automatically added to the Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry. This helps the VA monitor your health over time and can make it easier to access screenings, care and benefits if health issues arise. Animation: A veteran living a happy life, going for a walk outside with a friend and laughing and smiling On-the-job exposures to toxins from burn pits can be scary — but staying aware of symptoms and prioritizing regular health screenings can help you take proactive steps toward protecting your long-term health. This resource was created with support from Intuitive. --- ### The Rise of Cirrhosis in Women **Published:** July 28, 2026 | **Author:** Vidya Rao | **Section:** Your Health **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/your-health/rising-rates-of-cirrhosis-in-women.md Español Here’s a common scenario: A woman in her late 30s starts having a glass or two of wine every evening. Ten years pass. She notices she's more tired than usual, her stomach seems bloated, and her skin looks a little yellow. She finally goes to her medical clinician expecting to hear that she's just overworked. Instead, she's diagnosed with cirrhosis, or permanent scarring of the liver. She didn't think she drank that much. She had no idea her liver was even in danger. In recent years, more women are being diagnosed with serious liver conditions, including cirrhosis, which can be life-threatening. Much of the increase is related to increased alcohol intake, which has resulted in rising rates of alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) (formerly called alcoholic liver disease). Rising rates of steatotic liver disease (formerly called fatty liver disease) also are increasing the number of women diagnosed with liver conditions, and these trends are expected to continue. This educational resource was created with support from Merck. --- ### Leukemia 101 **Published:** July 28, 2026 | **Author:** Lacey Muinos | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/facts-about-leukemia.md Español Getting older is a privilege, but aging isn’t necessarily easy. The more birthdays under your belt, the higher your risk for certain diseases. This is true for many types of cancer, including some types of leukemia. “Leukemia” is an umbrella term for cancers of the blood and blood-forming tissues. More specifically, leukemias affect blood cells, though they also affect blood marrow (the soft, fatty tissue inside your bones). Some types of leukemia are more common in children, but anyone can get the disease. While leukemia is the 10th most common cancer in the United States, it’s still considered somewhat rare compared to other cancers — making up about 3% of all cancer cases. Like most cancers, catching leukemia in the early stages can lead to better outcomes. Here’s what you need to know about leukemia risk factors, symptoms, types, treatments and more. This resource was created with support by an educational grant from Johnson & Johnson and Servier. --- ### What’s the Big Deal About Berberine? **Published:** July 28, 2026 | **Author:** Rachel MacPherson, CPT, CSCS | **Section:** Your Wellness **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/your-wellness/what-does-berberine-do.md If your social media feed has anything to say about it, berberine can do just about everything: stabilize blood sugar, lower cholesterol, help with weight loss, improve heart and gut health, lower your risk of Alzheimer’s and more. Some creators have even dubbed it “nature’s Ozempic,” which is quite the resume for a bitter yellow powder that comes from plant roots. Berberine has actually been around for a long time. It’s a natural compound found in the bark and roots of plants like barberry, goldenseal and goldthread, and it’s been a staple of traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. The supplement aisle is just now catching up. The buzz is loud, so we dug into the research to find out what berberine can actually do and what women in midlife should know before trying it. --- ### El aumento de cirrosis para las mujeres **Published:** July 28, 2026 | **Author:** Vidya Rao | **Section:** Your Health **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/your-health/el-aumento-de-cirrosis-para-las-mujeres.md English Aquí encontrarás un escenario común: Una mujer que pronto tendrá 40 años tomando una o dos copas de vino cada noche. Pasan diez años. Nota que está más cansada de lo normal, tiene distensión abdominal y su piel se ve un poco amarilla. Finalmente acude a su profesional clínico esperando escuchar que simplemente ha trabajado demasiado. En vez de eso, le diagnostican cirrosis o una cicatrización permanente del hígado. Ella no pensaba que bebía demasiado. No tenía idea siquiera que su hígado estaba en peligro. En años recientes, cada vez más mujeres reciben diagnósticos de trastornos hepáticos graves, incluyendo cirrosis, lo cual puede ser mortal. Mucho de este aumento se asocia a un mayor consumo de alcohol, lo cual ha resultado en tasas cada vez mayores de hepatopatía alcohólica (HPA) (conocida anteriormente como enfermedad alcohólica del hígado). Tasas cada vez más altas de esteatohepatitis (conocida anteriormente como hígado graso) también están aumentando el número de mujeres con diagnósticos de trastornos hepáticos y se espera que estas tendencias continúen. Este recurso educativo se preparó con el apoyo de Merck. --- ### Introducción a la leucemia **Published:** July 28, 2026 | **Author:** Lacey Muinos | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/informacion-comprobada-de-la-leucemia.md English Tener más edad es un privilegio, pero envejecer no es fácil necesariamente. A mayor edad, más elevado es el riesgo de ciertas enfermedades. Este es el caso para muchos tipos de cáncer, incluyendo para algunos tipos de leucemia. La "leucemia" es un término que incluye los cánceres de sangre y de los tejidos que producen la sangre. Más específicamente, las leucemias afectan a las células sanguíneas y a la médula ósea (el tejido suave y graso dentro de tus huesos). Algunos tipos de leucemia son más frecuentes en los niños, pero cualquier persona puede desarrollar ese trastorno. Si bien la leucemia es el 10º cáncer más frecuente en Estados Unidos, todavía se considera algo infrecuente en comparación con otros cánceres, contribuyendo con el 3% de todos los casos de cáncer. Al igual que la mayoría de cánceres, detectar la leucemia en etapas tempranas puede implicar mejores desenlaces clínicos. Aquí encontrarás lo que debes saber sobre los factores de riesgo, síntomas, tipos, tratamientos de la leucemia y más. Este recurso educativo se preparó con el apoyo de una subvención educativa de Johnson & Johnson y Servier. --- ### FAQs About COPD **Published:** July 27, 2026 | **Author:** Rachel MacPherson, CPT, CSCS | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/faqs-about-copd.md Español COPD affects millions of adults, but many people don’t know much about the disease until they or a loved one is diagnosed. Here are answers to common questions about what COPD is, who’s at risk and what actually helps. This educational resource was created with support from Chiesi. --- ### Preguntas frecuentes sobre la EPOC **Published:** July 27, 2026 | **Author:** Rachel MacPherson, CPT, CSCS | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/preguntas-frecuentes-sobre-la-epoc.md English La EPOC afecta a millones de adultos, pero muchas personas no saben mucho sobre esta enfermedad hasta que ellos o un ser querido recibe ese diagnóstico. Aquí encontrarás respuestas de preguntas frecuentes sobre la EPOC, quién tiene riesgo y qué es útil realmente. Este recurso educativo se preparó con el apoyo de Chiesi. --- ### Discussion Guide: Questions to Ask About Overactive Bladder **Published:** July 27, 2026 | **Author:** Helaine Bader | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/questions-to-ask-about-overactive-bladder.md Español We’ve all experienced the uncomfortable feeling of rushing to get to a bathroom. And many of us have laughed so hard that we’ve leaked a little pee — and hopefully the good belly laugh was worth it! But what if you find that you have the sudden and urgent feeling that you need to pee even when your bladder isn’t full? Or you have the need to pee and can’t stop it? That’s the reality for 2 out of 5 women who live with overactive bladder (OAB). OAB often occurs in people over age 65, but many women experience it earlier — in their 40s or 50s. Having OAB can affect your sleep, your daily schedule, your social and travel plans, and your sex life. The good news is that there are lifestyle changes and treatments that can help. The first step is talking to your clinician. Diagnosis usually involves your clinician reviewing your symptoms and medical history, and sometimes a urinalysis. We suggest preparing for your appointment by keeping a bladder diary that will help your clinician get a good idea of what symptoms you’re experiencing. You can use the diary to track when and what you drink and how often you have the urge to pee. When preparing to see your clinician, review the list of questions below, so you can get all the answers you need to find relief during your appointment. You can even download the guide and print it and take it with you or fill it out on your phone. Downloadable Resource: Questions to Ask About Overactive Bladder >> This educational resource was created with support from Sumitomo Pharma America, Inc. --- ### I Was Told I Was Shy — But I Had Social Anxiety Disorder **Published:** July 27, 2026 | **Author:** Zoë Cain | **Section:** Real Women, Real Stories **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/real-women-real-stories/im-living-with-social-anxiety-disorder.md July is Bebe Moore Campbell National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month. As told to Jacquelyne Froeber Social gatherings were a nightmare for me. Walking into any event, big or small, it felt like all eyes were on me. Focused. Like I was a specimen under a microscope and everyone was watching — judging — waiting for me to embarrass myself. The fear of rejection ruled my world. As a child, I never wanted to say the wrong thing, so I didn’t talk a lot. When I did, I’d run the conversation back over and over in my head until I’d convinced myself that I’d messed everything up and no one liked me. I was told I was shy and sensitive — both of which are true. But growing up in a Korean American household, we didn’t have open conversations about anxiety or trauma or emotional well-being. Mental health carried a lot of stigma in our culture, and any emotional struggles were minimized or kept private. So, that’s what I did. Art by Zoë As I got older, I tried to overcome my “shyness” and put myself out there and meet new people, but something as simple as striking up a conversation was an exhausting process. I’d become hyper focused on every word and every movement like I was an outsider critiquing my performance. I was never in the moment — never off the cuff and never truly myself. Afterward, the repetitive thoughts of how I didn’t fit in, didn’t make enough eye contact, didn’t say anything right, would go on for hours — sometimes days. As an artist, I had to dig deep to attend some industry and networking events, but otherwise I avoided social situations. I was often lonely, and at times, frustrated with myself. I couldn’t understand why everyone else seemed so confident, and I struggled with small talk. I knew I was missing out on connections and opportunities, but most days I was too overwhelmed. The silver lining was my art. Creating art was the only thing that helped get me out of my head. Although the relief was short-lived, it meant everything to me. And knowing that I could achieve a more positive head space sparked my curiosity for other things I could do to help redirect my thoughts. Zoë at a recent art show I started researching mental health conditions online and saw my experiences reflected in different diagnoses, including anxiety. I knew the next step would be to talk to a professional, so I signed up for therapy. It wasn’t long before I had a diagnosis: social anxiety disorder. Putting a name to everything I’d been experiencing — the intense scrutiny and fear — was beyond validating. For so long I’d thought my symptoms were just part of being shy and sensitive, but it was social anxiety disorder. And there were tools that could help me. My initial goal was to get rid of my anxiety completely. But I quickly realized that anxiety wasn’t something I could eliminate. It was something I needed to work with and understand. For me, avoidance made my anxiety worse, so I started challenging myself to do things that felt uncomfortable because I knew I’d come out of each situation with new tools in my toolkit. After my diagnosis, I started creating illustrations about my experience with anxiety and other mental-health related conditions and posting them on social media. The whole process helped me turn my difficult emotions into something tangible and allowed me to process my experiences rather than get stuck in them. Art by Zoë After a few posts, I started receiving messages from complete strangers that said, “I thought I was the only one who felt like this” and “I feel this way too.” Each message was life-changing for me. For so long, I thought I was the only one struggling. Now, the thing that was so isolating for me had become a bridge to other people. I realized that my personal art could create a sense of community and reduce the shame around mental health. Mental health advocacy is deeply personal to me. Being Korean American has shaped my understanding of the strengths and the challenges that can exist within our communities. Today, I see a lot more Asian American people working in mental health spaces than I did when I was growing up. And that’s inspired me to work with different organizations like National Asian American Pacific Islander Mental Health Association (NAPIMA), The Jed Foundation and Crisis Text Line because I've seen how powerful it can be when people feel safe enough to speak honestly about their experiences and how representation matters. For anyone struggling with social anxiety disorder, know you’re not alone. Social anxiety can come with a really harsh inner critic, and learning to change that conversation and speak to yourself with kindness can make a huge difference in your life. I know it’s not easy. Every day I care for my mental health through a combination of therapy, creativity, meaningful relationships, boundaries, movement and rest. One of the biggest lessons I've learned is that mental health is not something that you achieve once and never think about again. It's usually a series of small moments and experiences, like going to an event you’re afraid of or asking for help. Or showing up as yourself — fully present — even though it’s scary. Resources Crisis Text Line The Jed Foundation National Asian American Pacific Islander Mental Health Association (NAPIMA) Have your own Real Women, Real Stories you want to share? Let us know. Our Real Women, Real Stories are the authentic experiences of real-life women. The views, opinions and experiences shared in these stories are not endorsed by HealthyWomen and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of HealthyWomen. --- ### Guía de conversación: Preguntas sobre vejigas hiperactivas **Published:** July 27, 2026 | **Author:** Helaine Bader | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/preguntas-si-tienes-una-vejiga-hiperactiva.md English Todos hemos experimentado la sensación incómoda de ir urgentemente al baño. ¡Y todos hemos reído tanto que hemos tenido filtraciones pequeñas de orina, y con algo de suerte, esas carcajadas valieron la pena! Pero, ¿qué pasaría si descubres que tienes ganas repentinas y urgentes de orinar incluso cuando tu vejiga no está llena? ¿O si las ganas de orinar no paran? Esa es la realidad para 2 de cada 5 mujeres que viven con vejiga hiperactiva (VHA). La VHA ocurre a menudo a personas de más de 65 años, pero muchas mujeres la experimentan antes, entre los 40 y 60 años. Tener VHA puede afectar tu sueño, tu horario cotidiano, tus planes sociales y de viajes, y tu vida sexual. Las buenas noticias son que hay cambios de estilo de vida y tratamientos que pueden ser útiles. El primer paso es hablar con tu profesional clínico. El proceso de diagnóstico implica usualmente que tu profesional clínico evalúe tus síntomas y antecedentes médicos, y a veces un análisis de orina. Sugerimos que te prepares para la consulta manteniendo un diario de la vejiga que será útil para que tu profesional clínico conozca bien los síntomas que estás experimentando. Puedes usar el diario para monitorear lo que bebes, cuándo lo haces y con qué frecuencia tienes ganas de orinar. Cuando te estés preparando para una consulta con tu profesional clínico, revisa la siguiente lista de preguntas para que puedas recibir todas las respuestas que necesitas para tener alivio durante tu consulta. Incluso puedes descargar la guía, imprimirla y llevarla contigo o ingresar la información usando tu teléfono. Recurso descargable: Preguntas que puedes hacer sobre vejigas hiperactivas >> Este recurso educativo se preparó con el apoyo de Sumitomo Pharma America, Inc. --- ### What Is Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria?? **Published:** July 23, 2026 | **Author:** Alex Fulton | **Section:** Your Health **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/your-health/what-is-csu.md Español + Flipbook textHives are red, itchy raised welts or patches on the skin. The medical term for hives is urticaria. What is chronic spontaneous urticaria? Chronic = Lasts for longer than 6 weeks Spontaneous = Happens on its own, without an obvious trigger Urticaria = Hives Why do hives happen? Cells in your body store histamine, a chemical released by the immune system when it recognizes a threat. Histamine affects blood vessels Histamine released by your body opens up your blood vessels to allow for more blood flow. This can lead to skin symptoms like: Swelling Redness Itchiness What triggers hives? Some common triggers of hives are: Allergies Bacterial infections, including UTIs and strep Viral infections, including colds and mono Certain medicines, including antibiotics and ibuprofen Extreme hot or cold temperatures But with CSU, there are no identifiable triggers and the cause is usually unknown. CSU and inflammation CSU is often linked to type 2 inflammation , which is damaging inflammation caused by an overactive immune system that goes on the attack when there’s nothing to fight. What to do about CSU It can be tricky to figure out what exactly triggers CSU, making it hard to handle. If your hives are not going away or keep coming back, consider seeing an allergist. Allergists are doctors who specialize in treating allergy-related health issues. How an allergist can help An allergist will talk to you about your CSU symptoms, give you a physical exam and possibly do some lab work to help figure out what’s triggering your hives. Treating CSU In addition to helping identify your triggers, your allergist may suggest treatments to help control your CSU. These include: Antihistamines Biologics (Monoclonal antibodies that target the immune system) For more information To learn more about CSU, talk to your healthcare provider. This educational resource was created with support from Regeneron and Sanofi. --- ### ¿Qué es la urticaria crónica espontánea? **Published:** July 23, 2026 | **Author:** Alex Fulton | **Section:** Your Health **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/your-health/que-es-la-urticaria-cronica-espontanea.md English + Flipbook textLas ronchas son inflamaciones rojas y elevadas de la piel que causan comezón . El término médico para las ronchas es urticaria. ¿Qué es la urticaria crónica espontánea? Crónica = Dura más de 6 semanas Espontánea = Ocurre por sí sola, sin un desencadenante obvio Urticaria = Ronchas ¿Por qué se producen las ronchas? Las células de tu cuerpo almacenan histamina, un químico que el sistema inmunitario secreta si reconoce una amenaza. La histamina afecta los vasos sanguíneos La histamina que secreta tu cuerpo dilata tus vasos sanguíneos para permitir un mayor flujo de sangre. Esto puede causar síntomas de la piel tales como: Inflamación Enrojecimiento Comezón ¿Qué desencadena las ronchas? Algunos desencadenantes frecuentes de las ronchas son: Alergias Infecciones bacterianas, incluyendo IU y de estreptococo Infecciones virales, incluyendo resfriados y mononucleosis Ciertos medicamentos, incluyendo antibióticos e ibuprofeno Temperaturas extremadamente calientes o frías Pero con la UCE, la causa usualmente no se conoce. La UCE y la inflamación La UCE frecuentemente se asocia con inflamaciones tipo 2 , inflamaciones dañinas causadas por un sistema inmunitario hiperactivo que empieza a atacar cuando no hay ninguna amenaza. Qué puede hacerse si tienes UCE Puede ser difícil identificar qué causa exactamente la UCE, lo cual dificulta su control. Si tienes ronchas que no desaparecen o que siguen reapareciendo, considera visitar el consultorio de un alergólogo. Los alergólogos son doctores que se especializan en el tratamiento de problemas médicos relacionados con alergias. Qué ayuda puede proporcionar un alergólogo Un alergólogo hablará contigo sobre los síntomas de tu UCE, te examinará físicamente y posiblemente solicitará pruebas de laboratorio para identificar lo que desencadena tus ronchas. Tratamiento de la UCE Además de ayudar a identificar tus desencadenantes, tu alergólogo podría sugerir tratamientos útiles para controlar tu UCE. Estos incluyen: Antihistamínicos Biofármacos (anticuerpos monoclonales que abordan específicamente el sistema inmunitario) Para más información Para saber más sobre la UCE, habla con tu proveedor de atención médica Este recurso educativo se preparó con el apoyo de Regeneron y Sanofi. --- ### Learn About Blood Cancers **Published:** July 23, 2026 | **Author:** Alex Fulton | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/learn-about-blood-cancers.md Español + Infographic textWhat are blood cancers? Blood cancers occur when abnormal blood cells begin to divide uncontrollably or lose normal function. When this happens, blood cells have less ability to do their normal jobs: Fight infections Deliver oxygen to the body Help blood flow and clot normally Blood cancers usually happen due to an acquired mutation or change in a cell’s DNA or chromosomes. Types of blood cancer Leukemia Usually starts in bone marrow when blood cells or stem cells begin to divide uncontrollably Can be acute and fast-growing Can occur in both adults and children Can be chronic and slow-growing Can occur in both adults and children, but is rare in children Most common acute subtypes: Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in adults; acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in children Most common chronic subtype: Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL); chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) Both AML and ALL can occur in adults or children. Lymphoma Usually starts in the lymphatic system in white blood cells called lymphocytes Two types: Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma Most common type: Non-Hodgkin lymphoma Myeloma Usually starts in bone marrow Affects a particular type of white blood cells, called plasma cells Often involves the bones as well as the bone marrow Can involve multiple sites at time of diagnosis When myeloma involves multiple sites, it’s called multiple myeloma. Other types of blood cancer Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) Affect bone marrow Are often chronic (long-lasting) but occasionally progress to leukemia Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) Caused by blood cells that don’t form or work the way they should Involve cells in the bone marrow Blood cancer symptoms Symptoms vary depending on the type, but some common symptoms are: Fatigue Shortness of breath Swollen lymph nodes Sore joints Frequent infections Infections that do not get better with standard treatment Unexplained fevers Night sweats Unexplained bruising or bleeding (including tiny red dots or purple patches on the skin) Bone pain How is blood cancer diagnosed? To check for blood cancer, a clinician will: Ask questions about your health Perform a physical exam They may also: Order bloodwork Order imaging tests, like an MRI or PET scan Perform a bone marrow biopsy (take a sample of your bone marrow) How are blood cancers treated? Treatments include: Chemotherapy (both IVs and chemotherapy pills) Targeted therapies designed to target specific mutations in a cell’s DNA Immunotherapy, which can include chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy or bone marrow transplant New treatments for blood cancers are being developed every year, and prognosis continues to improve. Worried about blood cancer? Talk to your Clinician ASAP. If you’re having blood cancer symptoms, reach out to a clinician about getting checked. The sooner you’re diagnosed, the better the outcome will be! This resource was created with support from an educational grant from Johnson & Johnson. --- ### Obtén información sobre los cánceres de sangre **Published:** July 23, 2026 | **Author:** Alex Fulton | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/obten-informacion-sobre-los-canceres-de-sangre.md English + Texto de infografía¿Qué son los cánceres de sangre? Los cánceres de sangre ocurren cuando células sanguíneas anormales empiezan a dividirse sin control o dejan de funcionar normalmente. Cuando eso ocurre, las células sanguíneas tienen menos capacidad para realizar sus funciones normales: Combatir infecciones Proporcionar oxígeno al cuerpo Promover el flujo sanguíneo y coagularse normalmente Los cánceres de sangre usualmente ocurren debido a un cambio o mutación adquirida del ADN o cromosomas de una célula. Tipos de cáncer de sangre Leucemia Usualmente empieza en la médula ósea cuando las células sanguíneas o las células madre empiezan a dividirse sin control Puede ser aguda y de progreso rápido Puede ocurrir en adultos y niños Puede ser crónica y de progreso lento Puede ocurrir en adultos y niños, pero es infrecuente en niños Los subtipos agudos más frecuentes: La leucemia mielógena aguda (LMA) en adultos; la leucemia linfocítica aguda (LLA) en los niños El subtipo crónico más frecuente: La leucemia linfática crónica (LLC); la leucemia mielógena crónica (LMC) La LMA y la LLA pueden ocurrir en adultos o niños. Linfoma Usualmente empieza en el sistema linfático en los glóbulos blancos denominados linfocitos Dos tipos: El linfoma de Hodgkin y el linfoma no hodgkiniano El tipo más frecuente: Linfoma no hodgkiniano Mieloma Usualmente empieza en la médula ósea Afecta un tipo específico de glóbulos blancos, denominados plasmocitos Frecuentemente afecta los huesos así como la médula ósea Puede afectar varios lugares cuando se hace el diagnóstico Cuando el mieloma afecta varios lugares, se denomina mieloma múltiple. Otros tipos de cáncer de sangre Neoplasias mieloproliferativas (NMP) Afectan la médula ósea A menudo son crónicas (de larga duración) pero ocasionalmente se convierten en leucemia Síndromes mielodisplasicos (SMD) Causados por células sanguíneas que no se forman o que no funcionan normalmente Afectan las células de la médula ósea Síntomas de cánceres de la sangre Los síntomas varían dependiendo del tipo, pero algunos síntomas frecuentes son: Fatiga Dificultad para respirar Ganglios linfáticos inflamados Dolor articular Infecciones frecuentes Infecciones que nos sanan con tratamientos estándar Fiebres sin causa aparente Sudores nocturnos Moretones o sangrado sin causa aparente (incluyendo puntos rojos diminutos o manchas púrpura en la piel) Dolor óseo ¿Cómo se diagnostica el cáncer de sangre? Para detectar cáncer de sangre, un proveedor de atención médica (HCP, por sus siglas en inglés): Hará preguntas sobre tu salud Realizará una examinación física También podría: Solicitar pruebas de sangre Solicitar pruebas de imagenología, tales como RM o TEP Realizar una biopsia de la médula ósea (tomar una muestra de tu médula ósea) ¿Cómo se tratan los cánceres de sangre? Los tratamientos son, entre otros: Quimioterapia (intravenosamente y con píldoras) Terapias dirigidas diseñadas para abordar mutaciones específicas del ADN de una célula. Inmunoterapia, la cual podría incluir terapias de linfocitos T con receptores de antígenos quiméricos (CAR) o trasplantes de médula ósea Cada año se desarrollan nuevos tratamientos para cánceres de sangre y la prognosis sigue mejorando. ¿Te preocupan los cánceres de sangre? Habla con tu proveedor de atención médica lo antes posible. Si tienes síntomas de cáncer de sangre, comunícate con tu proveedor de atención médica para que te hagan pruebas. ¡Entre más pronto recibas el diagnóstico, mejores serán los desenlaces clínicos! Este recurso se preparó con el apoyo de una subvención educativa de Johnson & Johnson. --- ### What Your Bladder Might Be Telling You About Your Heart **Published:** July 22, 2026 | **Author:** Rachel MacPherson, CPT, CSCS | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/connection-between-bladder-health-and-heart-health.md If you've ever leaked a little when you sneezed or laughed, you've probably been told it's just one of those things that comes with having babies or getting older. But, although UI is common, it’s not normal, and new research suggests urinary incontinence (UI) could also be a clue about your heart health. A University of Iowa study of more than 20,000 women found that current UI was linked to cardiovascular risk factors, including Type 2 diabetes and dyslipidemia (an unhealthy mix of cholesterol or other fats in the blood), stroke and a history of coronary bypass surgery. The connection held even after researchers adjusted for age, body weight, race and smoking. The study doesn't prove one causes the other, but rather just a connection between the two. The findings give women and their healthcare providers (HCPs) a reason to look at bladder symptoms as part of the bigger picture of women's health. --- ### Why Brain Health Matters **Published:** July 21, 2026 | **Author:** Jacquelyne Froeber | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/importance-of-brain-health.md June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month. Did you know the human brain weighs 3 pounds? If that seems a little light for everything your brain does — we feel you. Three pounds is a toaster or a bag of apples. But, every day, your 3-pound, zero-ounce brainy organ works to regulate senses, emotions, thoughts, memories, movement, behavior and more. Your brain is home to a mind-boggling 86 billion neurons that help make it all happen. These neurons also form connections with each other to increase storage in your brain, so you can learn and remember important things like the name of Taylor Swift’s cat and what days of the week Love Island is on. But damaged neurons or neurons that don’t work properly can lead to serious neurological conditions, such as dementia. And the risk for dementia increases with age. The good news? Science says being proactive about your brain health can help lower the risk for dementia and keep your brain sharp. This educational resource was created with support from Eli Lilly, a HealthyWomen Corporate Advisory Council member. --- ### Who Treats Liver Disease? **Published:** July 20, 2026 | **Author:** Alex Fulton | **Section:** Your Health **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/your-health/what-type-of-doctor-treats-liver-disease.md Español + Flipbook textIf you need treatment for liver disease, you might start with seeing a type of specialist called a gastroenterologist. Gastroenterologist = doctor who treats the entire digestive system Your gastroenterologist may suggest you see another specialist called a hepatologist. Hepatologist = gastroenterologist who focuses on liver problems Some of the conditions hepatologists treat are: Cirrhosis Hepatitis Liver cancer Liver failure Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), formerly known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) Your hepatologist may do tests to figure out what’s happening with your liver. These include: Blood tests, including tests that check liver function and enzymes Blood tests that check for viral infections, such as hepatitis Ultrasound or other imaging tests Liver biopsy Even if you’ve had blood tests to check your liver, your clinician may want to do more testing to look for symptoms like liver scarring. How do you know which doctor to see? Start with your primary care provider. If needed, they can connect you with a gastroenterologist and/or a hepatologist. The sooner liver disease is caught, the better your chances of a good outcome. This educational resource was created with support from Merck. --- ### We’ve Got You Covered: UV Protection Products **Published:** July 20, 2026 | **Author:** Jacquelyne Froeber | **Section:** Your Health **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/your-health/products-for-uv-protection-and-sunscreen.md July is UV Safety Awareness Month. Stars — they’re just like us! Take the sun, for example. The fiery ball in the sky is 4.6 billion years old — that’s middle age in star years. And the sun is responsible for keeping all the plants, comets and asteroids from spinning out of control. Sound familiar? While we tip our wide-brimmed hats to the sun for all it does for us, it’s also important to be aware of its harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Studies show UV rays cause 9 out of 10 cases of melanoma — the deadliest form of skin cancer — and rates of melanoma are on the rise for women 50 and older. --- ### ¿Quién trata las enfermedades hepáticas? **Published:** July 20, 2026 | **Author:** Alex Fulton | **Section:** Your Health **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/your-health/quien-trata-las-enfermedades-hepaticas.md English + Flipbook textSi necesitas tratamiento para una enfermedad hepática, podrías tener tus primeras consultas con un gastroenterólogo. Gastroenterólogo = doctor que trata todo el aparato digestivo Tu gastroenterólogo podría sugerir que tengas consultas con un hepatólogo. Hepatólogo = gastroenterólogo que se enfoca en problemas hepáticos Algunos de los trastornos que los hepatólogos tratan son: Cirrosis Hepatitis Cáncer hepático Insuficiencia hepática Esteatohepatitis asociada a disfunción metabólica (EADM), conocida anteriormente como enfermedad hepática grasa no alcohólica (EHGNA) Tu hepatólogo podría realizar algunas pruebas para identificar qué pasa con tu hígado. Estas incluyen: Pruebas de sangre, incluyendo análisis para verificar las enzimas y la función hepática Pruebas de sangre para detectar infecciones virales, tales como la hepatitis Ecografías u otras pruebas de imagenología Biopsia hepática Incluso si te hacen pruebas de sangre para evaluar tu hígado, tu profesional clínico podría sugerir que se hagan más pruebas para detectar síntomas tales como cirrosis hepática. ¿Cómo puedes saber a qué doctor acudir? Empieza con tu proveedor de atención primaria. Si fuese necesario, te podrá referir a un gastroenterólogo o a un hepatólogo. Cuanto antes se detecte una enfermedad hepática, mejores serán las probabilidades de un buen desenlace clínico. Este recurso educativo se preparó con el apoyo de Merck. --- ### Talking to Your Clinician About Overactive Bladder **Published:** July 15, 2026 | **Author:** Marijke Vroomen Durning, R.N. | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/talking-to-your-clinician-about-overactive-bladder.md Español Overactive bladder (OAB), the frequent, sudden urge to urinate, sometimes with leakage, is quite common. Over 3 out 10 women in the U.S. live with OAB, but the older you are, the higher the chances are that you’ll get it. In many cases, OAB is treatable. But you can’t be treated if you don’t speak up. Typically, you might first talk to your primary care provider (PCP) about your symptoms. PCPs often manage OAB, but you could also be treated by a gynecologist, urologist, urogynecologist or geriatrician. Regardless of who’s caring for you, being prepared for your office visits will make your appointments more helpful. Here are some simple ways to help you prepare and make the most of your visit. This educational resource was created with support from Sumitomo Pharma America, Inc. --- ### Habla con tu profesional clínico sobre vejigas hiperactivas **Published:** July 15, 2026 | **Author:** Marijke Vroomen Durning, R.N. | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/habla-con-tu-profesional-clinico-sobre-vejigas-hiperactivas.md English La vejiga hiperactiva (VHA), es decir, la necesidad imperiosa y frecuente de orinar, a veces con filtraciones, es muy común. Más de 3 de cada 10 mujeres en EE.UU. viven con VHA, pero mientras más años tengas, serás más propensa a desarrollarla. En muchos casos, la VHA puede tratarse. Pero no podrás recibir un tratamiento si no hablas de esto con alguien. Comúnmente, podrías hablar primero con tu proveedor de atención primaria (PAP) sobre tus síntomas. Los PAP frecuentemente controlan la VHA, pero también podrías recibir atención de un ginecólogo, urólogo, uroginecólogo o geriatra. Independientemente de quien te atienda, prepararte para tus consultas hará que estas sean más útiles. Aquí encontrarás métodos sencillos para que te prepares y para que aproveches tu consulta lo más posible. Este recurso educativo se preparó con el apoyo de Sumitomo Pharma America, Inc. --- ### Good Sex with Emily Jamea: How Much Sex Should You Be Having? **Published:** July 15, 2026 | **Author:** Emily Jamea, Ph.D. | **Section:** GOOD SEX WITH EMILY JAMEA **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/good-sex-with-emily-jamea/how-much-sex-should-you-be-having.md Emily Jamea, Ph.D., is a sex therapist, best-selling author and keynote speaker. You can also find her here, sharing her latest thoughts about sex. If you've ever wondered whether you're having "enough" sex, you're not alone. As a couples and sex therapist, one of the most common questions I hear is: How often should we be having sex? People want to feel normal, and having a “normal range” to stay within seems like a reasonable request. We have normal ranges for other metrics of health — blood pressure, cholesterol, steps per day — so why should sex be different? After years of working with couples, I've found that focusing on frequency is often the wrong place to start. Married for 14 years with two school-aged children, Melissa and David came to therapy worried that their sex life had dwindled. Between demanding jobs, soccer practices and aging parents, they were having sex about twice a month. Melissa felt guilty, citing an old Oprah episode about a couple who committed to having sex every day for a year claiming it had brought them closer than anything before. “That kind of frequency feels impossible,” she fretted. “Some days I barely have time for lunch. I love David very much — and I love having sex with him — but I honestly don’t know how to work it in more than we currently do.” Despite feeling pleasure and connection when they did find time to make love, David worried their declining frequency meant they were drifting apart. He adored Melissa, and sex was the ultimate expression of love to him. “I’ve told Mel I don’t expect sex daily. That is ridiculous, but a couple of times per week would be nice. It would really help if you could just tell us what’s average.” What neither realized was that they both described their sexual experiences as deeply satisfying. They felt connected, desired and emotionally close. Their concern wasn't coming from dissatisfaction; it was coming from comparison. And as the adage goes, comparison is the thief of joy. --- ### All About Myeloma **Published:** July 14, 2026 | **Author:** Alex Fulton | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/myeloma.md Español + Flipbook textWhat is myeloma? Myeloma is cancer that affects a specific type of white blood cell, called a plasma cell, found in bone marrow. Plasma cells help people fight infection. When a plasma cell has an abnormality, it can turn into a myeloma cell and multiply . Once they multiply, the myeloma cells crowd out normal cells. Myeloma can cause anemia and problems with your bones, immune system, kidneys and more. There are two pre-cancerous stages of myeloma that can be detected with routine blood tests. Stage 1: Monoclonal gammopathy of uncertain significance (MGUS) Stage 2: Smoldering myeloma (SMM), the stage between MGUS and active myeloma Neither MGUS nor SMM cause symptoms in their early stages, but they can be diagnosed with a simple blood test. The risk of MGUS progressing to myeloma is ~1% per year . The average risk of SMM progressing to active myeloma is ~10% per year. Some high-risk SMM cases are treated. But, in many cases, MGUS and SMM are watched with blood tests and not treated unless they turn into multiple myeloma. Ask your healthcare provider For more information about myeloma — and how blood tests can help find precancerous cells before they become cancerous — talk to your HCP. This resource was created with support fro m an educational grant from Johnson & Johnson. --- ### Todo sobre el mieloma **Published:** July 14, 2026 | **Author:** Alex Fulton | **Section:** Conditions & Treatments **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/condition/todo-sobre-el-mieloma.md English + Infographic text¿Qué es el mieloma? El mieloma es un cáncer que afecta a un tipo específico de glóbulo blanco, denominado plasmocito, que se encuentra en la médula ósea. Los plasmocitos son útiles para combatir infecciones. Cuando un plasmocito tiene una anormalidad, podría convertirse en una célula mielomatosa y proliferar . Una vez que proliferan, las células mielomatosas desplazan a las células normales. El mieloma puede causar anemia y problemas con tus huesos, tu sistema inmunitario, tus riñones y más. Hay dos etapas precancerosas del mieloma que pueden detectarse con pruebas de sangre de rutina. Etapa 1: Gammapatía monoclonal de significado incierto (GMSI) Etapa 2: Mieloma asintomático (SMM, por sus siglas en inglés), la etapa entre una GMSI y un mieloma activo Ni la GMSI ni el mieloma asintomático causan síntomas en sus primeras etapas, pero pueden diagnosticarse con una prueba de sangre sencilla. El riesgo de que una GMSI se convierta en mieloma es aproximadamente el 1% anual . El riesgo promedio de que un mieloma asintomático se convierta en mieloma activo es aproximadamente el 10% anual. Algunos casos de mielomas asintomáticos se tratan. Pero, en la mayoría de casos, las GMSI y los mielomas asintomáticos se monitorean con pruebas de sangre y no se tratan a menos que se conviertan en mielomas múltiples. Habla con tu proveedor de atención médica Para obtener más información sobre el mieloma y sobre cómo tus pruebas de sangre pueden ser útiles para detectar células precancerosas antes de que se vuelvan cancerosas habla con tu proveedor de atención médica. Este recurso se preparó con el apoyo de una subvención educativa de Johnson & Johnson. --- ### I Had a Stroke at Birth and Spent Years Trying to Hide My Cerebral Palsy. Sharing on Social Media Helped Set Me Free. **Published:** July 13, 2026 | **Author:** Rachel Gordon | **Section:** Real Women, Real Stories **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/real-women-real-stories/i-tried-to-hide-my-hemiparesis.md July is Disability Pride Month. As told to Jacquelyne Froeber I was born breech — feet first — on December 3, 1993. Of course, I don’t remember anything from that day. I don’t remember when the healthcare providers tried to turn me during delivery or when things escalated and I was delivered using forceps. I don’t remember how scared my parents were when they learned I’d had a stroke at birth that affected the right side of my brain and caused a lack of oxygen during delivery that impacted the left side of my body. I don’t remember being diagnosed with a type of cerebral palsy called hemiparesis or hearing that I may not be able to walk or use the left side of my body. All I remember is love. Growing up, my family did everything they could to normalize the fact that my entire left side — most noticeably my arm and hand — didn’t work like my right side. It wasn’t until I was 5 or 6 that I even realized that there were activities like the monkey bars that I probably couldn’t do. The realization didn’t make me sad. I just knew I’d have to find my own way of doing certain things. Rachel at 1 year old, 1994 I went to occupational therapy and physical therapy for years, which played a huge role in my life and helped me maintain the function I had for many years. But as I grew, the tightness in my left hand gradually increased despite therapy. Although I had a strong support network, the fear of being a burden was always in the back of my head, especially after I moved away from home. I was constantly worried that friends would think I was needy if I asked for help with “simple” tasks like putting my hair in a ponytail or opening a jar of sauce. All of the negative talk was in my head, but I convinced myself that asking for help was a sign of weakness. I did my best to avoid situations or conversations where I had to explain my left arm. I lived in self-deprecation mode, always trying to keep things light and avoid the awkwardness that followed “I had a stroke when I was born.” Dating was particularly difficult. Dating in New York City is hard no matter who you are, but it was really hard for me to put myself out there, partly because my cerebral palsy is an invisible disability — you wouldn’t necessarily know about my limitations until I had to do something with both hands. I intentionally avoided dinner on first dates because I didn't want to draw attention to eating with one hand or have to explain my arm. Rachel in Bend, Oregon, 2025 When the pandemic hit, I felt more alone than ever. Like so many people, I turned to social media to connect with friends and family. One night, I had a random thought: Are there online groups for people like me with hemiparesis? I typed the word into the search bar, and my whole world changed. The thought of an online support community had never occurred to me before that moment. I’d never met anyone else with hemiparesis — I’d just assumed my condition was rare. But there were support groups, and one had thousands of members from around the world. I immediately signed up and started talking to people in the community. For the first time in my life, I felt understood. I was free to talk about my struggles. Free to talk about the chronic pain I was in from the tight tendons in my left arm. Free to vent about adapting in a world that’s not made for people with limitations. The more I learned from other people in the group, the more I wanted to share my experiences to help others. Even though I was riddled with self-doubt, I started posting videos about hemiparesis. I figured if I could help one person who was living with cerebral palsy, it was worth being vulnerable and pushing myself outside my comfort zone. Through social media, I built an incredibly meaningful community of people who have hemiparesis and parents of children with hemiparesis or cerebral palsy. Being able to connect with the parents was full circle for me. I didn’t know anyone with hemiparesis when I was growing up, and being told I was a role model for kids with limitations meant everything to me. After a few years of posting, I started focusing more intentionally on sharing my life story and how I had a stroke at birth. The response I received online was overwhelming. Within a few months, I had millions of views and hundreds of people reaching out to thank me for spreading awareness about pediatric stroke and hemiparesis. Rachel and her boyfriend, 2025 Each comment and conversation reinforced to me just how powerful it is to feel understood and to feel seen. When I stopped hiding and started sharing, my entire life changed. Most recently, I fell in love, moved to North Carolina to be close to my love, and started a new career focusing on raising awareness about stroke and cerebral palsy. My hope is that everyone living with limitations — invisible or not — has a voice and an opportunity to live a full and fulfilling life. It took me a while to find my voice, but now that I have, I want to be part of the change. Have your own Real Women, Real Stories you want to share? Let us know. Our Real Women, Real Stories are the authentic experiences of real-life women. The views, opinions and experiences shared in these stories are not endorsed by HealthyWomen and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of HealthyWomen. --- ### HealthyWomen Launches Brain Health Coalition to Normalize Brain Health as Part of Midlife Care **Published:** July 13, 2026 | **Author:** HealthyWomen Editors | **Section:** General **URL:** https://www.healthywomen.org/healthywomen-launches-brain-health-coalition-to-normalize-brain-health-as-part-of-midlife-care.md Washington, DC, July 10, 2026 — HealthyWomen today announced the launch of the Brain Health Coalition, a cross-sector initiative bringing together employers, health systems, medical associations, research institutions, community organizations and patient voices to address one of the most urgent and underaddressed challenges in American health: the failure to treat Alzheimer’s disease as a routine part of midlife care. Alzheimer's-related brain changes can begin decades before a single symptom appears. Midlife is the most consequential window for intervention, yet it remains the most systematically ignored. This coalition is built to change that. "Brain health has been treated as something to worry about later in life, when the evidence is clear that the time to act is decades earlier," said Beth Battaglino, CEO of HealthyWomen. "We are convening this coalition because the relationships, the reach and the urgency all point to now. This is about building the infrastructure for change — across sectors, across communities and for every American." The Brain Health Coalition’s connective infrastructure is designed to align existing efforts, amplify reach and fill the coordination gap that has kept siloed progress from achieving scale. Its membership spans every stakeholder with real influence over outcomes: employers who shape workforce health decisions, clinicians who set screening norms, insurers who determine what gets covered, researchers who establish the evidence base and community organizations that reach the people most at risk. The coalition operates across three pillars simultaneously — perception, education and policy — because progress in one without the others does not hold. That integrated structure is what makes lasting, meaningful impact possible. The coalition is guided by a founding steering committee that includes the Alzheimer's Association, the National Health Council (NHC), the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), with support from founding strategic partners, including Eli Lilly & Company. "We know that Alzheimer's-related brain changes can begin decades before a single symptom appears, and midlife is a critical window for taking action," said Katie Evans, chief programs and mission engagement officer at the Alzheimer’s Association. "We're proud to stand alongside HealthyWomen and our fellow coalition members to build the cross-sector infrastructure that will help support a future where early screening is as routine as checking blood pressure or cholesterol." HealthyWomen brings nearly 40 years of trusted relationships with patients, clinicians, policymakers and the broader health ecosystem to this effort. Nearly two-thirds of Americans living with Alzheimer's are women, who also carry the majority of the caregiving burden. That reality shapes the coalition’s design, from biological risk factors to equity gaps to lived experiences, and makes HealthyWomen the right convener for a coalition built to serve all Americans. To learn more, visit BrainHealthCoalition.org. About HealthyWomen: HealthyWomen is the nation’s leading independent, nonprofit health information source for women. HealthyWomen.org was the first website to comprehensively address women’s health and wellness issues and continues to educate women to make informed health decisions by providing objective, fact-based information. For nearly 40 years, women have turned to HealthyWomen for answers to their most important healthcare questions. To learn more, please visit www.HealthyWomen.org. Follow HealthyWomen on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn. ## Contributors & Authors - [Dennisse Reyes](https://www.healthywomen.org/u/dennissereyes): Dennisse Reyes is a proud Puerto Rican who has called Rhode Island home since she was a toddler, whe... - [Robin McIntyre](https://www.healthywomen.org/u/robinmcintyre): Robin McIntyre-Johnson is a hairstylist, entrepreneur and passionate advocate for families affected ... - [Helen King](https://www.healthywomen.org/u/helenking) - [Susan Sutherland](https://www.healthywomen.org/u/susansutherland) - [April Noel](https://www.healthywomen.org/u/aprilnoel) - [Veena Crownholm](https://www.healthywomen.org/u/veenacrownholm): Veena Goel Crownholm is a Los Angeles-based lifestyle expert, content creator and former Miss Califo... - [Allison Loloci](https://www.healthywomen.org/u/allisonloloci): Allison is the oldest of three, which probably explains a lot about how she moves through the world,... - [Zoë Cain](https://www.healthywomen.org/u/zoecain): Zoë Cain is a queer, Korean-American illustrator, art teacher and mental health advocate. They are p... - [Rachel Gordon](https://www.healthywomen.org/u/rachelgordon): Rachel Gordon is a disability advocate and digital creator passionate about making everyday life mor... ## API Access & Integration - [Search](https://www.healthywomen.org/search): Site-wide content search - [Main RSS Feed](https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/feed.rss): Latest content in RSS format ## Optional - [Navigation index (llms.txt)](https://www.healthywomen.org/llms.txt): Compact section index with markdown links for every section - [Main RSS Feed](https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/feed.rss): Latest content in RSS format ## Content Discovery - **Search Interface:** https://www.healthywomen.org/search - **All Sections:** Each section available at `https://www.healthywomen.org/[section-path]/index.md` - **Individual Posts:** Each post available at its URL with `.md` extension - **RSS Feeds:** Main feed at `https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/feed.rss`, section feeds at `https://www.healthywomen.org/feeds/[section-path].rss` ## How to Use This Content 1. **For Site Overview:** Review the "Site Structure" section to understand content organization 2. **For Specific Topics:** Use section-specific RSS feeds or browse section markdown pages 3. **For Recent Updates:** Check the "Recent Content" section for latest articles 4. **For API Access:** Use the documented endpoints for programmatic access 5. **For Individual Articles:** Access any post by appending `.md` to its URL --- *This complete content index contains 100 recent posts and represents the current state of HealthyWomen as of September 27, 2026 20:27:31. 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