Real Women on Health!

We've Moved!

noreply@blogger.com (Kelley Connors) — Sat, 22 Aug 2009 21:06:00 +0000

Check out the new blog at

http://realwomenonhealth.wordpress.com

Baby, Body and Beyond: Mid-Life Mammas with Michelle Segar, PhD

noreply@blogger.com (Kelley Connors) — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 21:37:00 +0000

Pop Quiz!

What does Celine Dion have in common with a rising number of American women today?

(besides beauty and brains...)

More women are becoming moms later in life than ever before and the rate of women over 40 having children continues to rise. This show is designed just for mid-life mammas...to give you some perspective on how to address body image and weight challenges.

Join me Real Women on Health! in a new series, Mid-Life Mammas, which will take place on Thursday evenings at 7:30 pm - the first one will be on September 17th called "Baby, Body and Beyond".

This on-line health salon and radio show is for women over 40 who've just had their first or second baby and will be led by a top flight women's wellness coach, Michelle Segar, PhD.

During the on-line and live show, we'll focus on taking time for self-care and how it can relate to improved weight management. You'll also gain access to your own inner wellspring that holds the key to your well-being.

So, plop down on the couch with a glass of refreshing water with lemon or your favorite light wine, your cell phone and come prepared to ask questions and share your own successes as a mid-life mamma.

Tell us how you balance baby and body...and beyond! Or not!

Michelle, a health and fitness blogger at MORE.com, will provide her insights on how and why coaching works, who is most successful in achieving results and engage in conversation with you about how you can best insert your own needs into your life and manage your weight.

You won't be disappointed.

This top notch women's health researcher at the University of Michigan has interesting research results to share, and knows women's weight issues intimately, both as an academic researcher and women over 40 herself.

Michelle Segar is America's leading expert on exercise motivation for women over 40. She is the founder of the National Center for Women and Wellness and a Psychology Researcher at the Institute for Research on Women and Gender at the University of Michigan. She has a doctorate in Psychology and master's degrees in Health Behavior-Health Education and Kinesiology from The University of Michigan.

Her coaching service, EssentialSteps®, is sought after by women and companies nationwide.

To join our conversation and learn more about how you can balance baby, body and beyond as a mid-life mamma, please go to www.blogtalkradio.com/realwomenonhealth. We look forward to hearing your voice on September 17th at 7:30 pm EST.

noreply@blogger.com (Kelley Connors) — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 21:35:00 +0000

Sharon Blynne: Bald is Beautiful

noreply@blogger.com (Kelley Connors) — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 22:10:00 +0000

Check out this interview with Sharon Blynne -- just as good and inspiring today as it was three years ago.

Sometimes I go for the "oldies but goodies" because women like Sharon represent a "real woman on health". Her fresh view point and beautiful way opens up a new perspective you might really appreciate.

First, view her commercial reel, with the Bristol Myers Squibb "Prevail" commercial, and her beautifully sweet plug for the advocacy group she founded -- “Bald is Beautiful”.

“I started Bald Is Beautiful in 2003 after what, at the time, I hoped was my final surgery.

I was inspired by my cancer journey and the people I met along the way/throughout to start Bald Is Beautiful, which is a women’s wholeness/cancer awareness organization through which I do spokesperson/advocacy work and as an actor/writer am dedicated to activating the media industry to expand and redefine notions of beauty and femininity -- especially for those women whose appearances may drastically change as part of a health journey, and promoting the idea that our femininity is undiminished by the effects of cancer.

As such (an actor and cancer survivor), I auditioned for the BMS commercial last summer and booked the job based on what they found interesting or inspiring about my particular journey and what I told them about my Bald Is Beautiful work in the initial audition interview. The words in those spots are derived from that initial interview which was the basis on which they created my specific commercial copy.

What is so beautiful about the spots is that we (the actor/survivors) are not “pitching” for BMS. We never had to say Bristol-Myers Squibb or name the drugs that were part of our treatment regimen. They (BMS) made the bold and beautiful decision to create very simple, powerful, touching, inspiring vignettes from real survivors that stand alone as messages of hope, positivity, support, and encouragement.

That’s why I was so excited to be considered and ultimately participate in this campaign; because it’s not a pharmaceutical pitching more drugs and making people feel bad about themselves or that their lives are incomplete without their products. It’s the opposite and very much in tune with my Bald Is Beautiful work to support, encourage, and share joy with others. I had the opportunity, as did all of us in the 4 spots, to express our personal journeys in ways that, as far as I’ve seen on TV, hadn’t really been done.

They don’t focus on illness or medicine or treatment – the commercials are really made to speak to people’s hearts and spirits and to uplift them.”

Read more on the Bristol Myers Web Site to learn more about Sharon.

Lessons from Hillary: co-existing with modern medicine

noreply@blogger.com (Kelley Connors) — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 21:49:00 +0000

In my work as a women's heath advocate, I meet men and women from all walks of life who handle chronic disease, like diabetes and fibromyalgia for example, as "best they can". This leaves me with a feeling that there are great compromises made. On the other hand, it could mean "acceptance" on a much deeper level that helps in creating a more positive mindset.

Many times, though, I sense a feeling a helplessness, futility and depression - and I have much empathy for this situation, one I can only imagine.

Now, I really hope I am not coming across as a Pollyanna here - but I am surprised by how a person with a serious chronic condition is capable of re-framing their entire life. Turning their life on its head, finding the crown jewel in the feet. That's how it was with Hillary..

Here's an excerpt from her Huffington Post blog:

Each day I am still amazed to see that my diagnosis of MS has offered me numerous gifts, teachings and blessings in every area of my life. Back in the doctor's office, where my life shifted when I roared NO, I learned a powerful teaching that I always have a choice. My choice to be involved with my process of healing was going to take more than doctors, medicine and relying on the world outside of me. What brought me even closer to myself were teachers that showed up in many forms -- self-help books, healers, yoga teachers, meditation and life itself being the greatest of them all.

I found my home in this "new" world that co-existed with modern medicine. And it never made much sense to me then why they functioned more like parallel universes. It was powerful for me to learn that our thoughts are food and that they have a direct effect on the state of our health. For me Health means more than the food we eat, it contains everything including our thoughts, environment, lifestyle, and relationships.

The list keeps growing and ultimately brings us back to the question, What are you working on? And the answer is still -- ME!

Hillary Rubin Speaks Out

noreply@blogger.com (Kelley Connors) — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 01:25:00 +0000

Have you met Hillary Rubin yet? She is our featured "real woman" who has committed her professional and personal life to empowering others to be their own best health and wellness advocate.

It all started in in 1996, when she was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis while working in the fashion industry.

Despite the odds, today she is symptom-free, medication-free and inspiring people around the world with her uplifting personal story and a progressive paradigm for wellness empowerment. Hillary changed her life by repositioning her diagnosis as a platform for transformation and growth.

She even has one of the top yoga podcasts -- and leads a movement teaching others how to turn their deepest challenges into opportunities to achieve optimal health and happiness.

Here is an excerpt from her recent blog that will give you a sneak preview as to her context.

The tingling started in her left foot. Then it continued to her left arm and left breastplate. This was followed by weakness in the legs and numbness in both feet. These physical symptoms turned the simple act of walking into a trial, the discomfort akin to moving on pins and needles. At the time, Hillary Rubin didn’t know what was happening to her.

Being diagnosed in 1996 with multiple sclerosis (MS) initially left Rubin feeling angry, as if she’d been “given a sentence.” But she had two choices—either to be proactive or let her illness control her life. She embraced the former.

Rubin says she “took the invitation” and made a choice to learn more about her diagnosis, explore treatment options and live healthier. She began frequenting health food stores and talking to the vitamin specialists there; they recommended books on nutritional healing. Rubin says this led to a more internal journey: “I organically listened and [decided], OK, now I get to dive in and educate myself.”

To read more, click here.

In More.com: Reinventing Myself After 40

noreply@blogger.com (Kelley Connors) — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 00:42:00 +0000

My 5 foot ten inch frame and long legs have always seemed more naturally "built" for basketball, yoga and running but I found a sport two years ago that is absolutely perfect for me at this point in my life.

I'm not saying that I'm headed for the Olympics by any means, but the sport of sculling, or rowing is one which grabs you by surprise and has triggered a competitive streak I didn't know I had - ever!

Just to share something here, that may help you get engaged in a new activity and stick with it, I believe my interest in rowing is accelerating, row by row for these reasons:

1) I'm going to be turning the big five-oh 50 in October, and I started preparing for "IT" two years ago by getting into the sport of sculling. While enrolled in a learn to row program at Craftsbury Rowing Center in Vermont that summer, my husband and I started to enjoy this sport together, one that he has loved and enjoyed regularly since competing in college. We learned to row a "double" together, in the silence of the Vermont lake mornings.

Finding a new activity that we could both enjoy is still really fun for us both. We have even competed in Masters races together in a double, and found it exhilirating! Our first race together was in Derby Connecticut in June 2008, a hot steamy June day. We competed against top athletes and just really enjoyed the thrill of it all.

An added bonus, I also found out that my husband is a great coach! Unless we tried this sport together, I'm not sure I would have recognized that quality.

2) I lost 30 pounds my first year rowing by joining a nearby river club ( in Norwalk Connecticut) and learned to row with other women in my community, practicing two to four early mornings each week.

Part of the reason for weight loss is the fact that I row for at least a half hour at moderate intensity and my heart rate goes up to 150 -155-160 during that time. An hour of rowing might burn 400 - 600 calories. Compare this to yoga which burns from 150 to 400 calories an hour depending on level of intensity. While you may not participate in sports for weight loss, the "Happy Hormone" is increased and does help improve your mood. I find the effects last all day long, and improve my work productivity.

When I first started, I rowed in a "quad" where four women row together - each with two oars. With my long arms, I was frequently asked by our coach to be in the first seat which is the stroke seat. It's fun to be in the lead but it also means there is no one to follow! All the other rowers are following the stroke so you need to focus and concentrate. You also need to relax.

3) Speaking of relaxing, my yoga routine was soon replaced by rowing because in order to do well with rowing you must balance "drive" with "recovery". These two opposites work well with me, because I use yoga breathing on the recovery, and find that this breathing mechanism simply reduces the feeling of stress in my body. This is true during and after the row. I don't think you can appreciate how important recovery is in our lives today unless you start rowing. The recovery allows your body to relax and the boat "runs" underneath you, effortlessly.

At least that's the goal. Of course, all that depends on your rowing technique which I'm told is like perfecting a golf swing. But, learning to row at 48 was so much fun for me, I would recommend it to any one interested in making friends, weight management and stress management.

Doesn't that include just about anybody?

RealWomen on Health! On-line Community & Radio Show

noreply@blogger.com (Kelley Connors) — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 15:34:00 +0000

It's official...RealWomen on Health! on-line community is expanding!

Over the last few months, hundreds of women have enthusiastically joined RealWomen on Health! as our network expands through the top social media sites for women such as Divine Caroline, MORE.com, and Vibrant Nation.

Since the response to join our community has been so positive, we are expanding the community's offering by partnering with leading women's health advocacy organizations and health publishers to create an online radio show and health salon also called Real Women on Health!

This online radio show has already been produced with the assistance of advocacy groups such as The Women's Sexual Health Foundation, Red Hot Mamas, the Women's Health Foundation, and the National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women's Health. Soon, we will also include the National Association of Baby Boomer Women and the National Women's Health Resource Center to create high quality content that is credible, candid and conversational.

What makes our show unique is not only the conversational approach, but that it is on-line, credible and always respectful of womens time-constraints. We know that fun is important too, and as one of our first guests concluded "It was like the View...but without the fighting!".

The radio shows are 30 minutes on Saturday mornings at 9:30am EST. However, we also host frequent on-line health salons (a girls' night out!) on Thursday evenings for an hour, allowing for much more experience-sharing and interactions with other real women like us.

If you would like to know more about our past shows, how to participate and listen in as well as join our health salons, please review our past blog posts here on this site. You will meet the experts we have piloted the concept with in preparation for this official launch.

For information about the show and how to dial in this Saturday, July 11th, please go to www.blogtalkradio.com/realwomenonhealth

I hope I hear you on the show this Saturday with best-selling author, Janis Spring, Ph.D. for the show "Daughters Caring for Their Aging Dads".

Daughters Caring for Aging Dads: Join our On-Line Show

noreply@blogger.com (Kelley Connors) — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 15:56:00 +0000

Grab your morning coffee and join us live and on-line for our next Real Women on Health! on-line health salon and radio show, to hear the story of how one woman cared for her aging dad.

We often think of taking care of our aging moms, as they outlive dad by seven or more years. However, I have invited best selling author, Janis Spring, PHD, who is a nationally acclaimed expert on issues of trust, intimacy, and forgiveness to talk about her book called Life with Pop: Lessons on Caring for an Aging Parent (Avery Penguin).

Just released on April 30, 2009, her true story and lessons learned takes place in an independent living facility in West Hartford, CT.

This book reflects Janis' story as told through her professional eyes as a clinical psychologist and her personal experience as a daugher of an aging dad.

As yesterday’s Washington Post article explains, for years, economists warned that women entering the work force would become unavailable as unpaid caregivers for the elderly. Plausible -- but untrue. Family caregiving continues at high levels, though more than half of adult children who help elderly parents also work full time, and 10 percent part time. That can exact a steep toll. And more than 70% of caregivers are women, including daughters.

Find out what makes this book a breakthrough in caregiving, and discover one woman's story that may help you make sense of your own.

Just dial in on July 11th at 9:30 am to www.blogtalkradio.com/realwomenonhealth. If you have not registered yet, please do so and you'll receive a link that will allow you to listen through your computer. If you would rather use a phone to listen, just dial (646) 929-2625 and you'll be connected to our conversation. You can chose to listen or talk!

Detox to Dog Walks: Sharing Well Care Tips with Real Women!

noreply@blogger.com (Kelley Connors) — Tue, 12 May 2009 16:12:00 +0000

Last night's RealWomen on Health! Show was a veritable bonanza of well care tips for women of all life stages. It all started when Jasmine, the wellness coach, shared how she cured herself of her migraines with the help of a naturopath and a single allergy test .

"After doing a scan, my naturopath found that gluten was my primary trigger, secondarily it was soy and third it was dairy. She advised me to rid it out of my diet. Desperate for relief, I went cold turkey and thus began my journey for inner healing. I found complete relief in six weeks. In fact, if I eat gluten, I will get a migraine within 24 hours. I am no longer fatigued, fall asleep at the wheel or an hour after I eat breakfast," explains Jasmine.

Migraines are a women's health issue. Women outnumber men 3 to 1 suffering from migraine headaches. Jasmine was one of them, however, thanks to her resolve and determination to deal with the pain and fatigue, she no longer suffers.

By the way, there are many reasons why women suffer more than men from migraines. While ovulation and menstruation may be one reason, pharmacologic triggers and dietary triggers are others to consider. Stress can be the final "straw" but usually not the only factor.

"Mainstream medicine failed to help me, I took charge of my health and as a woman, that feels good. I learned in Chinese medicine, the stomach and head are on the same chi line. The fact that whatever I was eating gave me acid reflux, then triggered my migraine was fascinating to me"explained Jasmine.

Once Jasmine told her story, several women on the show revealed their own fabulous well care tips:

1. My PR partner, Deborah, a high achieving exec in Fairfield County Connecticut, told us about her 15 year regimen of regular elimination detoxing that has kept her energy levels high. She said that it's best to do any detox in partnership with a doctor or naturopath who knows your clinical status. Since Deb rarely passes up a new biz pitch or a chance to competitive golf...the proof is in the pudding. She has more energy than a twenty year old!

2. Margo is a entrepreneur with a passion for helping patients become empowered, and savvy, working with their healthcare professionals. Her well care tip was two-fold: cook from scratch with natural ingredients and 2) learn how to partner with your doctor. In fact, to help you, she has written a book and tool kit on how to be a savvy patient.

3. My friend, Ann, couldn't say enough about her love for the girls' weekend away as a well care tip. On a monthly basis, she plans weekends with her girlfriends - shopping, eating and the occasional well-deserved glass(es) of wine - the boost of mental and psychic energy that allows her to tackle the pressing business issues she's confronted with daily. In addition, it's been proven that social support is a necessity for women's health and wellness. And, it has nothing to do with the red wine:)) Did I mention Artemis Woman? She's the co-founder of this five year old women's wellness company, one of 2009's Inc 500 fastest growing companies.

4. My spunky sister, Kara, jumped on the line from San Francisco with a really fun tip: get a dog. She recently buckled under the weight of her young daughter's demands for a yellow retriever, and...well, the rest is history. She's in love! The dog, Sandy, requires daily walks or runs, for 20 minutes to an hour or more. Kara says that caring for a dog helps her stay fit, and brings her in touch with people and places you might not otherwise ever meet or see! Going on a bike ride with the dog is demanding, too - I've been with her when the dog has chosen a swampy bird reserve over the well-travelled and dry bike paths!

Finally, I've taken to the sport of rowing or sculling.

I just started to learn the sport two years ago, and I'm addicted. The upper body and stomach work out is great, but what I most enjoy is getting my heart rate up to 60% - 70% target zone without high impact!

For me that means 155-165 beats a minute for 20 min daily. I measure the beats a minute with a heart monitor and, if I can't get to the rowing club on any given day, I substitute on-the-water time with a run, with intermittent walking. You'd be surprised how fast your heart rate can get in the zone...but, if you don't have the stamina to sustain that level for 20 min, you can try interval training. The important point is to sustain target heart zone for 20 min daily, whether you walk or run.

With Women's Health Week in full swing, our RealWomen on Health! show community created a sense that no matter what our age, lifestyle or health, we need to support each other with wellness practices that give us a sense of well-being, and vitality through what's most important to us - whether as a mom, a working woman or a caregiver.

Join us in September with the National Women's Health Resource Center as we discuss healthcare reform and what it means for women. I'll keep you up to date on the timing, just follow us here or subscribe through the feed on the right!

What's Your Well Care Plan? Give Us Your 3 tips!

noreply@blogger.com (Kelley Connors) — Sat, 09 May 2009 19:29:00 +0000

In recognition of National Women's Health Week, take a deep breath...and get connected to your own health and well-being. Join Kelley Connors, Host of RealWomen on Health! and Jasmine Jafferali, MPH and other wellness professionals in a candid conversation packed with strategies and tips to help you take charge of your own well-being!

Be sure to bring your own tips with you to share with us in this on-line, telephone health salon! It's free, fun, and worth 30-min of your time to share with others and learn what others are doing to stay well and be their best.

Jasmine Jafferali, MPH is a wellness consultant with her own column in the Chicago Examiner focused on women’s health. Through her writing and coaching, she helps women, moms, children and families achieve healthier lifestyles.

Suffering from bi-weekly migraines and digestive issues, Jasmine took charge of her health after conventional medicine failed her.

She follows a gluten-free, dairy-free and soy-free diet and has freed herself from migraines, fatigue and pain. In her spare time, she loves being outdoors with her family and enjoys experimenting in the kitchen.

When: Monday May 11 th, @ 7 :30 pm EST - 8 pm EST

Join the conversation with Jasmine and Kelley on the Live Show.

You can ask your questions directly by registering in at http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?t=vb85e8cab.0.0.hmki94bab.0&p=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogtalkradio.com&id=preview first. Your user name and password will be emailed to you. You can then log in to the show, by going to http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?t=vb85e8cab.0.0.hmki94bab.0&p=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogtalkradio.com%2Frealwomenonhealth&id=preview. When you would like to participate live, you must also dial (646) 929-2625. Please note, this is a New York number. Local/long distance charges from your phone company will apply**.

No computer available or internet just died? Just dial-in for Audio: (646) 929-2625.

A Women's Health Conversation with Lisa Martinez

noreply@blogger.com (Kelley Connors) — Tue, 05 May 2009 11:26:00 +0000

"We are all breast cancer survivors" says Lisa Martinez, Executive Director of The Women's Sexual Health Foundation. One in eight women alive today will be diagnosed with breast cancer - that's my mom, your girlfriend, my nieces, your daughter...the chain of survivorship is a tightly linked net. Surely, breast cancer does or will touch someone we love.

With medical advancements in treatment and funding supporting access for more women, today, there are over 2.1 million U.S. women who are living with breast cancer as survivors. Yet, despite many advances, cancer still has a profound impact on a woman’s physical, cognitive and sexual function. Sexual dysfunction has been said to impact 21% – 39% of breast cancer survivors and may be higher for those on hormone treatments, and even higher for women diagnosed with gynecological cancers.

Combinations of the cancer treatments are dependent upon multiple factors like the tumor size and type of cancer but all cancer treatments have side effects and the possibility of impacting the sexual esteem and function of a woman. The impact of cancer and its treatments on a
woman’s sexuality are significant. Side effects like pain and fatigue often impact a woman’s sexual function, sexual identify and feelings of attractiveness.

Estrogen antagonist treatments (i.e. Tamoxifen) for women who are estrogen receptor and progesterone receptor positive complicate sexual function and a woman’s sexual esteem due to the medically induced menopause. Many of these physical side effects impact a woman’s sexuality both covertly and overtly, as seen in the expression of the sexual self. Lowered immunities, lack of energy, appetite changes, bone and muscle ache and changes in physical appearance can lead to changes in intimate relationships.

Women report feelings of guilt for not being able to maintain their many roles as mother, wife,
partner and employee. Partners are often timid about initiating sexual contact out of fear of hurting her or being perceived as selfish.

If you're a breast cancer survivor, you'll want to listen to our blogtalkradio show this Saturday, May 9th at 9:30 am EST.

This is a 30-minute radio show with on-line chatting feature that is on the internet and available by first registering on the blogtalkradio home page. You will be emailed a username and password. From there follow the instructions which will take you to the show page. You can either listen through your computer (audio) or you can just simply dial in to the phone number. The phone number is (646) 929-6265. The show will be available as a downloadable podcast immediately afterwards.

Please join us!

Nurse Practitioners Support Women in Healthcare Decision Making

noreply@blogger.com (Kelley Connors) — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 17:02:00 +0000

When in doubt about any women’s health issue, consult a professional. Want to ask a probing question about healthy sex and sexuality? Do you know the best way to approach weight loss and nutrition? Have an embarrassing bowel control problem? No matter how sensitive your questions and issues are, a nurse practitioner can help.

Nurse practitioners can often provide the same health care services as doctors. Because NPs are focused on prevention and education, they can provide insight to help you become an advocate of your own health and wellness.

The National Association for Nurse Practitioners in Women's Health is a great place to start. Recognizing women as the primary health care decision makers, NPWH is a credible source of information for any woman regarding her physical, emotional and spiritual needs.

Join Susan Wysocki, RN, NP, FAANP, and CEO of the National Association for Nurse Practitioners in Women's Health on the April 11th RealWomen on Health! internet radio show and ask your questions so we can support you in becoming your own best health and wellness advocate.

Hot Hints from Women's Health Advocates and Educators

noreply@blogger.com (Kelley Connors) — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 16:52:00 +0000

Speaking of increased sex drive, there are many factors that affect sexual desire during midlife and beyond. Since libido is greatly influenced by hormones, it’s no wonder that many of us complain of higher or lower than usual sex drive during perimenopause and menopause. Karen Giblin of Red Hot Mamas has some powerful advice for your sexual character. (Don’t know what that means exactly? Tune in to our April 11th internet-based radio show to find out.)

The key to a healthy sex life as we age is understanding what to expect and know that many sexual problems are very treatable. And as we age, stress increases. We experience decreased energy, weight gain and sleeping problems. Little things that never seemed to bother us all of a sudden take a toll on our mental health. In our modern world of constant anxiety, doesn’t it make you feel better to know that sex is a very powerful stress reliever?

So you’re not a spring chicken anymore? You can still sizzle at any age. It’s all about attitude … and knowledge! Karen Giblin knows all about menopause and sexuality—the why’s, the how’s and the can do’s. After all, she’s the founder and President of Red Hot Mamas!

To dig deeper into the issues that affect your life, join Susan Wysocki, CEO, NPWH together with Karen Giblin and Missy Lavender, and gain the knowledge yand support you need to be your own best health and wellness advocate , join us on April 11th at 9:30 am Eastern Standard Time

Join Our April 11th On-line Radio Show: Feeling Sexy at any Age (yes, mid-life!)

noreply@blogger.com (Kelley Connors) — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 16:01:00 +0000

Want a flatter tummy, control over your bladder and increased sex drive?

It sounds too good to be true but it really is possible!. Think power center...it’s all related to your pelvis. According to Missy Lavender, founder of the Women’s Health Foundation, the pelvis is “the very core of your body.” The intricate system of muscles, tissues and nerves keeps your pelvic organs in place, bears the weight of childbirth and includes the primary muscles engaged during sex. With that kind of workload, your pelvis needs to be strong and healthy. Heard of kegels? That’s just the tip of the pyramid.

Women’s Health Foundation focuses on bladder issues that keep women from enjoying life. Have you ever scheduled your day around toilet location? Incontinence can affect your self-esteem and, as a result, your sex life and your self-esteem (after all, they’re connected!).

Thankfully, incontinence can be prevented in approximately 80% of people who suffer. Let Missy Lavender introduce you to your levator ani muscles to get fit, get sexy and stay in control! No matter what your age, if you have bladder control problems, the Women’s Health Foundation can help.

Join our health salon, and on-line radio show on Saturday, April 11th at 9:30 am EST and hear how Missy Lavender and the Women's Health Foundation can help you get fit, sexy and in control!

Join Our Live Talk Show and Chat Live with Us!

noreply@blogger.com (Kelley Connors) — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 20:53:00 +0000

Welcome to RealWomen on Health! This blog reflects a growing community of women on the web who want to take an empowered approach towards their healthcare, reduce healthcare costs and live life like it's the only one they have.

Our original community began as one organized on LinkedIn. Today, we have over 500 members including our Facebook group, Wellsphere, as well as Linked In.

Real Women on Health! is all about supporting and encouraging women to be their own best health and wellness advocate. 85% of healthcare decisions are made by women, for themselves, their families and their loved ones. Not only do women consume health products for themselves, but they are also working women, community leaders and agents of change who advocate for women's health.

We are currently creating a RealWomen on Health! radio show which is an internet-based radio platform that hosts over 4,000 on-line radio shows including celebrity shows and news programs found on network TV. Our next show, with Dr. Marlene Reid, Women's Foot Health Care specialist and Podiatric Physician and Surgeon is on Saturday, March 28th at 9:30 am EST.

Please follow us here and tell us what topics most interest you in the area of health and wellness. We'll spark the conversation with top experts, book authors and researchers, including physicians and other healthcare professionals...and yes, real women!

What a Pain in The.....Heel!

noreply@blogger.com (Kelley Connors) — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 14:30:00 +0000

Get the inside scoop and become your own best wellness advocate!

Grab your morning coffee or tea, and dial in to join us at the virtual roundtable with Kelley Connors, host of RealWomen on Health! radio show and Dr. Marlene Reid, Women's Foot Health Care specialist to talk about

what a pain in the....heel!
( find out what the pain is...and what it's not!)

When: Saturday, March 28 @ 9:30 am EST - 10 am EST

How to participate in the live chat and radio show on the internet:
1. Go to http://blogtalkradio.com and register yourself prior to the show.
2. After you are registered, and prior to the start of the show, go to the show page found at http://www.blogtalkradio/realwomenonhealth.

3. To call in and listen: dial (646) 929-2625. However, this is a New York number. Local/long distance charges from your phone company will apply.**

4. If you live outside of NY, select the "Click to Listen" button on the show page, during any live show. This is free. When you want to talk to the guest or host, you select "Click to Talk". For this, you need a headset plugged in your computer. Otherwise, just text chat with the others online!

5. To ask a question via text chat, simply type in your question or comment!6. Should you decide not to use text chat, that's OK too. Just listen in.

How to obtain the show if you can't join live:

1. Go to http://www.blogtalkradio.com and register yourself into blogtalkradio.

2. After the show has finished live, go to http://www.blogtalkradio.com/realwomenonhealth

3. You can download the show to iTunes to listen to it, and then to your mp3 player.

The beauty of Podcasting with BlogTalkRadio, is that we give you options. If you can't listen live via the computer, you can listen via the telephone.

If you can't listen live at all, then you can download it to your computer, your iTunes, or you can just stream it from the Show Page of the episode you want to listen to.

Do you have questions you want us to know in advance? Submit your questions to kelley@kc-health.com. No computer available or internet just died?

Just dial-in for Audio: (646) 929-2625.

What is RealWomen on Health! About?
RealWomen on Health! is the only talk radio show on the internet that creates a network of support for women around such areas such as sexual health, pelvic health, the change before the change, menopause transitions, caregiving, working women and stress, women's heart disease, weight management, evidence-based complementary medicine, mid-life transition and navigating the healthcare system. Interesting, informative and entertaining guests of the show include women who have written research-based books, women's health leaders from around the world, women's health film producers, and female health entrepreneurs who are in service to help women a proactive and knowledgeable approach to health and wellness.So join us this Saturday, March 28th at 9:30 am EST to chat with us at our virtual roundtable.

Valentine's Day and Your Sexual Health Wake Up Call

noreply@blogger.com (Kelley Connors) — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 20:21:00 +0000

It wouldn't surprise women to know that staying sexually active through the years provides a host of health benefits including an immune system boost. And, a Scottish study completed in 1999 found that people who enjoy sex every other day looked about seven to 12 years younger than their peers.

But with all the focus on Viagra and the little blue pill, you might be taking a back seat yourself to your sexual health and wellness.

Why not use Valentine's Day as a great excuse to put sexual health on your radar screen and integrated into your wellness plan. Here's some interesting information that might help you:

1. Did you know that anti-depressants can get in the way of your sex life? According to The Women's Sexual Health Foundation (TWSHF), more than half of women who participated in a research study were never informed of the potential side effects of taking antidepressants. Yes, 75% of those surveyed said they've had a decrease in sexual desire since starting the drug.

2. If you are taking an antidepressant, talk to your doctor about the side effects. You will need to take the lead here since most doctors do not bring up the subject with women. In another research study, TWSHF found that less than 9% of women ages 21 to over 80 are always asked by their healthcare provider if they are having sexual health difficulties. With the average time length of an office visit at 2.5 minutes, likely you'll need to have your question ready to be asked! However, doctors aren't the only resource for you. Consider talking to a nurse pracitioner or ask your provider for a referral to someone you can talk to who focuses on women's health. Be your own best advocate here and contact The Women's Sexual Health Foundation for more information.

3. You're not alone! Occassional problems are quite common. According to TWSHF, up to 43% of women in general experience sexual difficulties. This may be due to lack of awareness and discussion about post-menopausal effects of loss of estrogen and other conditions such as cancer, diabetes, and stress urinary incontinence. The term "female sexual dysfunction" has been often used in the medical and lay press to discuss the problems such as lack of desire, inability to become aroused, lack of orgasm and painful intercourse.

But, whatever you do, don't pin your hopes on the little blue pill for women or "Fem-agra". For most women this may not end up to the miracle pill it seems to be for men. "Women's sexual functioning is by and large above the neck", says Dr. Linda Smirz, a gynecologist with the Women's Health Alliance in Carmel, California.

To get the information you need to know about sexual health and wellness...and tell your girl friends, tune in to Real Women on Health! blogtalkradio by clicking here: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/realwomenonhealth on February 14th at 9:30 am or dial in on your phone at (646) 929-2625. I will be interviewing Lisa Martinez, Executive Director, The Women's Sexual Health Foundation and taking your questions live and on the chat forum.

Take Action to Protect Women's Health

noreply@blogger.com (Kelley Connors) — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 15:33:00 +0000

Whether or not you voted for Barak Obama, women's health advocates, and women everywhere will benefit from his leadership and policy decisions. From funding for planned parenthood to stem cell research and Hillary Clinton's appointment as Secretary of State, there is a sea change occuring that will impact women's health now, for our daughters and granddaughters, and as we age.

Not everyone is aware that women's health is more than reproductive health. In fact, women's health encompasses heart health, depression, Alzheimer's, and other conditions that primarily affect women. Just to give you one perspective, there are 700 medicines in development that will impact women's quality of life.

However, closing the health care gap that leads to inadequate women's health services depends on effective leadership that can guide research, education and outreach to the areas of greatest need in women’s health. That is the role played by women’s health offices in our key federal health agencies:

Department of Health and Human Services
Food and Drug Administration
National Institutes of Health
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality
Health Resources and Services Administration
For years, these offices have done great work advancing women’s health, but they can do so much more. Right now, they operate in a climate of uncertainty and instability because their offices are not written into law. They could be eliminated or have their funding slashed at any time.

To bolster women’s health and give these offices the secure footing they need to do their job, the Society for Women's Health Research has introduced the bipartisan Women’s Health Office Act (HR 1072 and S 612), which provides the offices with permanent authorization. Enacting this law will demonstrate America’s commitment to women’s health. With your help, we can make it a reality.

Please use your voice to express support of HR 1072/S 612. Your voice, together with the voices of thousands of American women, will ensure that women’s health receives the careful, focused attention it deserves.

Sincerely,

The Honorable Olympia J. Snowe (R- ME)
U.S. Senate The Honorable Barbara Mikulski (D-MD)
U.S. Senate
The Honorable Carolyn B. Maloney (D-NY, 14th District)
U.S. House of Representatives The Honorable Deborah Pryce (R-OH, 15th District)
U.S. House of Representatives

Click here to send a letter to your own members of Congress, asking them to cosponsor the Women’s Health Office Act.

The Fat YOU Gotta Have

noreply@blogger.com (Kelley Connors) — Sat, 15 Nov 2008 19:43:00 +0000

The Fat That’s Good For You with Michael F. Roizen, MD

An excerpt from YOU: Staying Young.

Our basic premise is that your body is amazing: You get a do over: it doesn’t take that long, and isn’t that hard if you know what to do. In these blogs we hope to give you a short course in what to do so it becomes easy for you to do it and then to teach others.

We want you to know how much control you have over your quality and length of life. But many women make excuses for not making healthy choices. I’m too busy, the kid’s need more attention; yes we know you are busy, but taking time for yourself is showing love for those you love and who love you.

Yes, YOU have more control over the quality and the length of your life than you’ve ever imagined.

Stopping Inflammation
If you’re a regular reader of this blog, you know we’re always talking (at least we did in the first blog—I guess always fits as it is two for two) about “major agers” and how these affect your body, and the specific, practical things you can do to counteract them. Understanding aging gives you insights into the action steps for extending your own warranty.

When it comes to aging, we’re concerned with acute inflammation from immediate infections like colds or the flu, because they disturb and accentuate chronic inflammation. (Did you know that if you get the flu shot every year from age 55 on you increase your chance of surviving your 60’s by 100% compared to other women of equal risks who skipped those yearly flu shots? Your risk of dying is decreased by 50% as you do not make the chronic inflammation in your body worse. And you decrease your chance of even needing a hospital by 25% for that decade — but that is another blog). So, really we’re concerned most with chronic inflammation since that can trigger a negative response that ages your entire system.

Chronic inflammation occurs from an immune system that’s more overworked and stressed out than you are—leaving your body under equipped to deal with problems and making your system more vulnerable than a car stuck in the fast lane of a freeway. Voila – you’re more susceptible to aging processes including un-repaired nerves.

A Specific Fat to the Rescue!
There’s a fat that can decrease this inflammation and repair your nerves for you! Not the fat you get from drive throughs–that kind on croissants and hamburger and hamburger buns that can kill you. What can make you better is a fat that can prevent deterioration in your retinas by as much as 30% or more; boost the IQ of kids by 10 to 20 points (it’s present in breast milk and that’s why you’re finding this fat is almost all (99.7% in the USA) infant formulas now), prevent post-partum depression in up to 30% of post-partum women and – the real biggie – decrease deaths from heart attacks by more than 30%.

What is this amazing fat?

An Omega 3 fatty acid called DHA (docosahexanoic acid). Research in infants show that those formula fed with it in their formula score 10 to 20 points better at 6 months and 6 years. And studies of students and us grown folk from ages 4 to 80 shows it helps improve vocabulary scores (4 year olds to 6 graders) and decreases Alzheimer’s risk.

While we tend to think of fat is as troubling as a red light in the rear view mirrow, this one is like a red carpet escort. DHA is a fat that seems to be the key component of your cells’ membranes that lets it withstand the stress of inflammation and other bumps the way bumper cars survive to carry another rider. You give it preferentially to your offspring through your uterus or breast milk (DHA is the only omega-3 food additive approved for baby formula). If you don’t have enough of it, you can develop nerve dysfunction (depression in some), or deficient eyesight (dry macular degeneration) or fading memory (why did I go to the living room?).

DHA also seems to lengthen gestational periods if taken in pregnancy, preventing preterm labor in some cases. And in a recent animal study (there are some things you can’t get most humans to do), rats given DHA after traumatic concussions learned mazes better than those who ate regular rat chow. That learning difference persisted even after those rats lived longer than the human equivalent of great-grandfather.

Your brain requires DHA to grow and to create new very functional connections needed for memory and learning. DHA’s ability to keep inflammation from triggering fatal heart rhythms is thought responsible for the 30-plus percent decrease in heart attack deaths in the famous Lyon heart study.

How It Works
Want to know why this specific omega-3 is so darn good? Truth is we really aren’t sure it is DHA, but the trail of evidence is pretty strong. Omega-3 refers to its position on the carbon chain that gives the fat the ability to help your membranes withstand shocks and to latch onto stuff that fosters nerve development and regeneration. Ninety-seven (97) percent of omega-3’s in your brain and the seeing part of your eye called the retina are DHA. The three common omega-3’s are ALA (alpha lenolenic acid in foods like flax seeds and walnuts), EPA, (eicosapentaenoic acid found in cold water fishes) and DHA. Many foods, such as fish, have mixtures of ALA, EPA, and DHA. Some algae, which fish eat, have mainly DHA. That’s where the fisdh get theirs, and we prefer to get ours.

Feed Your Head
So here’s what we recommend: get 600 milligrams of DHA form of Omega-3 in food or supplements each day — that’s the equivalent of 2 grams of distilled fish oil. ( I just even bought you can even bought some Cannola Oil with DHA as an additive—so it is becoming more common. And whatever way you do it, I recommend you get 600 mg of DHA daily—Mehmet and I and the family members we care about do). And by the way, some swear that 600mg of DHA a day decreases the pain and inflammation of minor arthritis—and the scientific evidence says they’re as right on as your spouse was when he proposed to you. (He clearly was right on—you may not have been to accept—but that is another blog).

That’s how good DHA-omega-3 is for you. That’s why we take it, and recommend it to all of our family members as well. So for now, enjoy understanding what DHA is doing as you walk 30 minutes a day, knowing that both choices are keeping your brain, heart, eyes, and joints a whole lot younger than they are today.

About Dr. Roizen
Michael F. Roizen, MD, is a professor of anesthesiology and internal medicine, Chief Wellness Officer, and chair of the Wellness Institute at the Cleveland Clinic.. Mike and Dr. Mehmet Oz have written 3 #1 NYTimes Bestsellers together, the latest: YOU:The Owner’s Manual, Updated and Expanded. You can find the supplement list they recommend on page 367 of that book or a more detailed list on pages 356-358 of YOU Staying Young.

Improving the Doctor-Patient Relationship: Top Tips from a Real Woman

noreply@blogger.com (Kelley Connors) — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 22:23:00 +0000

Have you ever visited a doctor's office to discuss a diagnosis or some treament options, only to have your brain ambushed by fear or confusion?

Once I read Sheryl's advice to women who are undergoing breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, I got connected to my own vulnerabilities in speaking to "the doctor".

It absolutely mirrors the top three mistakes women make when speaking with doctors, regardless of how educated we might be!

In Sharon's voice, here's what she has to tell us from her experience as a breast cancer survivor:

Below, I offer some tips garnered from various sources, including the excellent information offered by Dr. Marisa Weiss, president and founder of www.breastcancer.org, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Office on Women's Health (www.womenshealth.gov) and http://www.networkofstrength.org/.

1. Write down questions or issues ahead of time. Don't forget to prioritize these. Many of us tend to save the most important question for last. When the doctor has one foot out the door is not the right time to ask any question, much less your most important one.

2. It it's a diagnostic visit, come prepared with a detailed description of your symptoms. Note when the problem began, how it makes you feel, what sets it off or triggers it and what works/doesn't work to make you feel better.

3. Bring a list of your medications and dosages. Include both prescription and over-the-counter medications, as well as vitamins, herbs and any other supplements. Make sure you also understand the implications of any medications your doctor prescribes: what to do if you miss a dose; if there are any foods, drugs or activities that you should avoid while taking the medication; if there is a generic brand of the drug you can use; what side effects to expect.

4. Ask for support materials. If your doctor is discussing things like treatment options, things can get pretty complicated and confusing. Many times, there are pamphlets you can take home. Ask the doctor about reliable Web sites, too; there's a wealth of information out there. Remember, the more information you have—assuming it's reliable and current—the more able you are to participate in your treatment and understand your condition.

5. Don't be afraid to ask questions or ask for clarification. A study from the University of Washington found that doctors rarely (only 1.5 percent of the time) ask patients whether they understand what was discussed during an appointment. So it's important to be your own advocate and make sure you understand everything. This will avoid unnecessary worry and follow-up phone calls to your doctor. It doesn't hurt to say something like, "So, if I understand correctly, you are telling me XXXX" and reiterate what your understanding of the conversation is.

6. Check ahead to make sure the doctor has your test results and/or reports from other labs or doctors. This gives you the opportunity to discuss those results in person, rather than over a rushed phone call (if you're lucky enough to even get your doctor on the phone).

7. Bring a trusted friend or family member with you. In the beginning, I rarely went to a visit without my husband. Thankfully, he was able to adjust his schedule to accommodate me. The few times he couldn't, my mother or a close friend accompanied me. Another set of ears is always helpful. Many times, as a patient, you may be too consumed with worry or fright to fully comprehend what the doctor is saying. And sometimes another person thinks of questions to ask that would not even occur to you. A tape recorder (with your doctor's OK, of course) can also serve as a backup for you, as will a pad of paper to jot down some notes.

8. And lastly, there are a couple more things I have experienced that I'd like to include.
- Make sure you find out how to reach your doctor between visits. Some doctors might use e-mail; others have a designated time of day for returning calls. You may even be able to talk to a nurse to get the information you need.

- Keep a folder with copies of your test results (yes, you are entitled to this information). With copies in hand, I could share them with my internist, if need be, or just feel secure knowing that I had a stack of papers that conferred my continued good health.

Have Fun with Pink Power

noreply@blogger.com (Kelley Connors) — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 16:55:00 +0000

With October peeking around the corner, main streets across America will be filled with runners, racers and pink party-goers, joined together in raising money for a cure and access to treatment for breast cancer.

Whether you choose to fun-raise with Susan G. Komen, Avon, The Breast Cancer Foundation or other grassroots groups to support, fun-raising couldn't be easier today.

Here's a couple of ideas:

Roll the Dice and Beat the Odds. Turn your living room into Bunco night. See the video bar to your right with Naomi Judd talking about the fun she had in Vegas and turn your living room into a bunco night with your friends. The Breast Cancer Research Foundation has put together a Bunco tool box that will have your event up and running with a couple of hours of planning.

Have you seen "The Women"? Bring your friends and plan a pre-movie pot luck dinner with a donation to your favorite breast cancer research charity.

(Yes, I'm planning on an October night out with my own galpals and sending out invitations this week!)

From Empowerment to Results: A Survivor's Story

noreply@blogger.com (Kelley Connors) — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 23:35:00 +0000

What is this blog about anyway?

I am blogging is to help marketers see how they can find ways to support, encourage and speak with women in ways that convey authenticity and transparency.

The result will allow marketers to meet the many unmet needs in the area of women's health and wellness, motivate new health behaviors and improve women's quality of life.

If you know of someone who can inspire us with their story please let me know and I will work with them to blog their story.

Here's an example of a real woman, an intelligent woman, with an inspiring story that might jumpstart your fundraising efforts, found on the Breast Cancer Research Foundation website:

Meet Tami Agassi

Former Executive Director for the Marsha Rivkin Center for Ovarian Cancer Research

Q. Tell us a little about yourself and your lifestyle.

A. I am 34. I live in Seattle, Washington and am the Executive Director for the Marsha Rivkin Center for Ovarian Cancer Research.

A. BCRF Note:
Since this profile was received, Tami has married, become the mother of a baby girl and retired to be a full-time mother.

Q. Describe how you found your cancer, were you on 'watch' or did it sneak up on you?

A. I found my cancer through self examination at age 30. When I first found a lump, I was told by a doctor that there was a 98% chance it was benign. It was suggested that I go back to the doctors in 6 months to see if the lump had grown. Fortunately, I didn't accept 98% as a good enough answer. I sought a second opinion which allowed me to detect my cancer in its earlier stages.

Q. Following diagnosis, what helped you cope the most, and gave you strength?

A. My faith in God and passion for life gave me tremendous strength and inner peace.

Q. How has breast cancer changed your outlook on life?

A. Breast cancer has taught me how precious life is. Each day I am alive is a glorious day for me. Instead of being excited or worried about the future, I am ever grateful for today.

Q. What advice would you give to someone who is newly diagnosed with breast cancer?

A. The greatest gift you can give to yourself and to your loved ones is to take care of yourself first and foremost. As women, we tend to take care of others first and put our needs second. This is the one time in your life where your needs must come first. Always remember that allowing others to care for you is the greatest gift you can give them, especially during this time.

Q. How has The Breast Cancer Research Foundation been helpful to you?

A. I credit organizations like the BCRF for saving my life. Without the awareness created by organizations like this, I would have never had the knowledge needed to conduct self breast examinations, especially at the age of 30. This awareness also gave me wisdom to challenge my doctor and seek a second opinion, which resulted in early detection for me.

The Women's Sexual Health Foundation Weighs In

noreply@blogger.com (Kelley Connors) — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 00:05:00 +0000

This is a great article that I found on an excellent web site for women, The Women's Sexual Health Foundation (http://www.twshf.org/). It's a well written article on the subject that seems "to wax and wane" to paraphrase Julia Heiman, Director of the Kinsey Institute in Bloomington, Indiana

No Fem a gra
A decade after Viagra, there's no equivalent for women, but treatments for sexual problems are promising.

By Shari Rudavsky
shari.rudavsky@indystar.com

T en years ago, American found themselves talking about sex. A new HBO show, "Sex and the City," instantly sparked controversy for the I- can't-believe-they-said-that girl talks among its leading ladies. And a little blue pill called Viagra landed on U.S. shelves, with pitchman Bob Dole helping to usher the phrase "erectile dysfunction" into common parlance.

Fast forward a decade. Turns out "Sex and the City," a movie version of which arrives in theaters on Friday, made a lot of real-life women feel OK about discussing sexual issues. And while no pink pill has emerged from the laboratories to play the role for women that Viagra played for men, that doesn't mean the drug hasn't had an effect for women, experts say.

"That's opened the door for women feeling and believing that they really have a right to a satisfying, intimate life with their partner," says Lisa Martinez, executive director of The Women's Sexual Health Foundation. "What we've heard is, 'Men have Viagra and Cialis and penile implants, and what do we women have?' "

Interest in women's sexuality "seems to wax and wane," says Julia Heiman, director of the Kinsey Institute in Bloomington. "For now, it seems to be coming back some."

The data varies widely, but studies suggest that about 40 percent of women will have a problem with sexual function at some time in their lives, says Martinez, whose nonprofit organization aims to educate doctors and women about sexual health.

Decreased desire is women's most common complaint. Finding a remedy, however, may not be as simple as developing Viagra, originally developed for angina, not male sexual dysfunction.

In the flurry of interest after Viagra hit the market, scientists wondered whether it might also work for women. But after initial trials in this area failed, efforts to find such a drug waned.

One of the challenges is that men and women are completely different when it comes to sexual arousal. For men, arousal is a biological phenomenon. For women, sexual arousal is tied more to their emotional and mental state.

Women, who often have multiple responsibilities, may have other priorities that push sex lower on their to-do list.

"Women's sexual functioning is by and large above the neck," says Dr. Lynda Smirz, a gynecologist with Women's Health Alliance in Carmel. "Therefore, to find a medication that is able to produce the same results that Viagra does in a male is going to be virtually impossible."

There's one proven thing to improve a woman's libido, Smirz says: a new partner. While she's not advocating adultery, this offers proof of the power of women's minds.

Studies have also shown that women respond to placebos, testifying further to the link between the mind and sexual satisfaction, Smirz says.

"The guys can take a pill and immediately they're ready for sexual activity," she says. "Well, we're not ever going to have something like that for women."

Not that the drug companies aren't trying to find the female Viagra equivalent.

In many European countries, Intrinsa, a patch that dispenses testosterone and aims to increase sexual desire in surgically menopausal women, is already on the market.

Products being tested

LibiGel, a testosterone gel, is in trials here. If approved, this product could become the first on the market to treat all women with a low sexual drive. BioSante Pharmaceuticals says it hopes to have LibiGel approved and launched by 2011.

One nonhormonal product in the pipeline, flibanserin, is, like Viagra, a drug that was originally tested for one purpose (as an antidepressant) and is now being tested for its effect on sexual desire. But unlike Viagra, flibanserin would need to be taken regularly, not just when one planned on sexual intercourse.

Such a product might prove useful for women whose libido has dropped and who have a history of some cancers, such as breast cancer, that would make taking hormones risky for them, Martinez says. "Certainly we're headed in the right direction with options."

And some options already exist, such as Zestra, an over-the-counter topical product made of natural oils that's billed as a female arousal fluid.

But drugs or topical applications are not the only answer for women with low sexual desire, experts agree. Because so much of sex is mental for women, those who lack desire may benefit from either couples or relationship therapy, they say.

"Sex is not just a medication-treatable problem," the Kinsey Institute's Heiman says. "It's something that also responds to other kinds of intervention."

When love hurts

Some women, however, suffer from a decreased interest in sex because they find it painful.

About 6 million women of reproductive age suffer vulvodynia, pain that lasts at least three months without any known cause. Some women may experience it just upon penetration, even with a tampon. For some, the pain comes on suddenly; for others, it's gradual.

"Women describe the pain as sitting on shards of glass," says Christin Veasley, associate executive director of the National Vulvodynia Association.

While the cause of vulvodynia is unknown, there are some treatments available. Topical estrogen creams may help, as may antidepressants to control the pain. Alternative techniques such as biofeedback or acupuncture may also ease the pain.

For some women, a surgical procedure similar to an episiotomy that removes excess nerve fibers in the region will address the condition. Women with this condition have about 10 times as many nerve fibers in this area as women who are not affected.

Diagnosing this condition can be tricky, Veasley says. Many women are told they have recurrent yeast infections. Others are told it's psychological. Even once it's diagnosed and treated, however, vulvodynia can have a dramatic effect on a woman's sexuality.

"There's this loop that takes place. Women start to avoid sexuality," Veasley says. "When you have pain when you're having sex, that can be very difficult to reverse even once the pain has gone away."

With another rare condition, vaginismus, the woman's muscles contract involuntarily whenever penetration is attempted. Often associated with past trauma or pain, this condition can be addressed with treatment, which may include pelvic floor exercises and the use of insertable dilators.

Far more common, and more easily treated, is vaginal dryness, which can make sex more painful than enjoyable. Problems with lubrication affect about 70 percent of all women at some point in their sexual lives, according to statistics from Trigg Laboratories, which makes a range of lubricant products. While it's a common problem among menopausal women, dryness also can stem from other hormonal changes, dehydration, alcohol or certain medications and childbirth.

Despite signs that women are now more comfortable talking about their sexuality, too many who suffer do not raise the issue with their physicians, says Martinez. Nor are doctors asking their patients about their sex lives, but that is slowly changing, she adds.

"If you have a concern, you absolutely must raise it," Martinez says. "There's more help out there than there was five or eight years ago."

Beyond Empowerment to Results

noreply@blogger.com (Kelley Connors) — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 00:41:00 +0000

"Controversy. Conflict. Words that I have heard over and over again. I have heard that women avoid confrontation and conflict. That they historically have been quiet, conforming, polite. That certainly has not been my experience with the National Breast Cancer Coalition and its network of activists across the country. These women embrace controversy and conflict, recognizing that going along with the way things are will not change the statistics about breast cancer."

Those words are from Fran Visco, President of the National Breast Cancer Coalition in her post this evening at MyBreastCancerNetwork.com. Read on about how Ms. Visco has mobilized patients, caregivers and researchers in the organization's grant making process -- resulting in some of the most important breakthroughs in breast cancer research today.

"In 1991, many breast cancer groups decided to band together and launch a political movement - the National Breast Cancer Coalition - to make breast cancer a national priority and to make certain the right policies were in place to address the important issues surrounding this disease.
And, while it was controversial, it was the right thing to do. In fact, one of our first campaigns was Do the Write Thing - delivering more than 600,000 letters to the President and Congress, calling for significantly increased federal funding for breast cancer research. In response, funding went up by $50 million. The following year, NBCC launched its $300 Million More! Campaign and was invited by a Senate Committee to testify on the issue."

"It was controversial, both the campaign and the testimony. And it was 1992, the vaunted "Year of the Woman" (as though we only got one year!) But we were making more and more progress, bringing together more and more voices across the country, some lawmakers were now beginning to understand the depth of the problem, and that year, thanks to our efforts, they funded the Department of Defense Breast Cancer Peer Reviewed Research Program. Federal funding immediately increased from $90 million to more than $400 million.

Fifteen years later, with annual lobbying on our part to make it happen, this unique program has brought two billion dollars in federal funding and attracted more than 26,500 research proposals. The result: some of the most important breakthroughs in breast cancer research.

And, breast cancer consumer activists -- women and men who are living with breast cancer and can speak from first-hand experience - play an equal role with scientists on the panels deciding which grants to fund."