By Iris Farrou
30 Sep, 2023
Breast Cancer, Breast health, Lifestyle Tips, Prevention, Procedures, Queer Health, Women's Health
boob job, breast, breast augmentation, Breast cancer, breast lift, chest masculinization, cosmetic, gender affirming surgery, how to fix breast shape, implants, lumpectomy, male breast cancer, male breast reduction, mastectomy, men with breast cancer, partial, reconstruction, reduction, remove implants, surgery, top surgery
The conversation around breast reconstruction surgeries focuses on women who have had either a mastectomy or a lumpectomy done and wish to reconstruct their breasts once they are cancer free. This is a wonderful opportunity for women who are cancer survivors, and of course, a very body-affirming procedure as well! According to 2020 data from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, breast augmentation surgery has been in the top 5 cosmetic surgeries since 2006, followed by breast implant removals, lifts, and reductions. The highest demographic for breast procedures are women ages 40-54. Sometimes, breast reconstruction surgeries get categorized alongside cosmetic breast procedures. Though there is definitely an overlap, these are the most common breast surgeries:
- Breast augmentation that increases the size of the breasts and may affect the shape and cleavage as well.
- Breast lift, which tightens the existing tissue for a more refined breast shape.
- A combination of breast augmentation with lift, for a one-time makeover.
- Breast revision: patients update their existing implants, can change the size or shape of their breasts, or completely remove the implants.
- Breast reduction for women with excessively large breasts that affect either their body image, create physical problems, or both.
- Male breast reduction for men with excess fat and glandular tissue on their breasts.
All of these procedures reconstruct the breasts in one way or another, and the reasons are often both cosmetic and medical, as well as mental health reasons. A prime example of this is gender affirming top surgery for trans people: either chest feminization or chest masculinization. For chest feminization, surgeons will usually recommend breast augmentation with implants or fat grafting, or a combination. When it comes to chest masculinization, surgeons perform a type of mastectomy that removes breast tissue, eliminates the crease on the bottom of the breast, and reconstructs the nipples according to the patient’s preferences.
Women who have undergone double or partial mastectomy, or a lumpectomy, may choose to have breast reconstruction surgery. Patients whose breast cancer can be removed with surgery have more options on the type of surgery they get done–and can usually have immediate reconstruction surgery right after their breast cancer surgery. However, for medical and/or personal reasons, women can also choose to have delayed reconstruction surgery: months or even years later. There are two main types of post-cancer breast reconstruction surgery:
- Flap Reconstruction: this surgery uses tissue from your own body to form one or both breasts. There are several types of flaps, and the choice is made on a case by case basis. Your surgeon will consider which type is appropriate for you, and whether you safely qualify for this type.
- Implant Reconstruction: much like the cosmetic procedure, silicone or saline implants are used to reconstruct the breast tissue. Your surgeon will either lift the chest muscle and place the implant underneath, or they may place the implant above the chest muscle if they can.
Since every body and case is different, not all options may be available. Whether for medical or cosmetic reasons, consult with your surgeon about your breast surgery options, get several opinions if you can, and see if you are eligible for insurance coverage. Keep in mind some procedures may take a long time to be completed, may need to successfully happen over a period of months, or be regularly maintained to ensure your health and safety.
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By Iris Farrou
24 Sep, 2023
Lifestyle Tips, Menopause, Mental Health, Peri-Menopause, Queer Health, Reproductive health, Sexual health, Women's Health
Anxiety, asexual, asexuality, assault, boyfriend, Buffalo NY, Depression, exhaustion, fear of intimacy, fiancé, girlfriend, how to be a supportive partner, how to bring up low sex drive, husband, intimacy fears, lack of intimacy, Low libido, low sex drive, medications that kill sex drive, meds, mental health interfere with sex drive, OB/GYN, OBGYN, overwhelmed, partner, PTSD, sexual trauma, talk to my doctor about low libido, what is a healthy sex life, why does my partner not want to have sex, why is my libido gone, wife
This may be a touchy subject for many women, as on the one hand a lot of us experience low sex drive, but on the other hand we don’t talk about it! The issue becomes more complicated when healthcare providers don’t even ask us about our libido, yet hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) is quite a common issue women deal with. Additionally, many psychologists, primary healthcare providers and OBGYNs are trained to care for and treat HSDD. HSDD is defined as the absence of desire for sexual activity and/or sexual fantasies– we most often just refer to it as “low libido,” and like anything else, it can have its ebbs and flows. Lack of sex drive can be frustrating in a relationship, but it is a normal thing to be experiencing, it can be traced back to causes, and it doesn’t mean that it’s permanent or that you do not love or are attracted to your partner.
What Causes It?
Especially in women, low libido can be attributed to hormonal changes or imbalances: this can be during the menstrual cycle as estrogen and progesterone levels rise and lower, during menopause when our estrogen levels dramatically drop, in the case of a total hysterectomy, during pregnancy, or if you have PCOS–just to name a few examples.
Another common reason for low libido in women are mental health issues, as well as medications. Depression and anxiety, PTSD, and past sexual trauma can negatively affect a woman’s desire for sex. Many times, the medications used to treat mental health issues can worsen an already low libido. This does not mean an important medication should be stopped, but you can–and should–bring it up with your therapist or mental healthcare professional.
Life stressors, chronic stress, and fatigue can minimize the body’s natural sexual urges. This is even more prevalent in new mothers, or families with young kids: the everyday exhaustion, lack of sleep, and constant worry simply leave no room for sexual intimacy, or desire thereof.
What Can We Do?
If one partner has low or no interest in sex while in a healthy relationship, remember it is a team effort: it is not up to the partner who has low libido to “solve” the issue and magically become better.
- The first thing to consider and talk about, even if it’s uncomfortable, is relationship issues. Your partner’s desire for sex, or how safe they feel, may be affected by something in the relationship neither of you knew was an issue until you really examined it and talked about it.
- If you and/or your partner face mental health issues, it is important to carefully consider how those may be affecting your sex life. Especially if you take any medications, look into the side effects and talk with your therapists about how they could be affecting your sex drive, and solutions to balance that out.
- Redefine intimacy in ways that work for you, and where sex is not the goal or the starting point. You may plan a romantic date, do small daily things to lessen stress, or start with small affectionate gestures to help strengthen your romantic bond.
If you feel that your lack of interest in sex is related to a more serious health issue, either physical or mental, or to a serious issue in your relationship that you have not communicated about, it may be a good idea to seek out professional help and support. HSDD is not uncommon, and many medical professionals can assist you with it; you know your body and life circumstances best, and with a bit of assistance you will be able to get to the root of the issue much more effectively.
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By Iris Farrou
18 Sep, 2023
Diet & Exercise, Lifestyle Tips, Mental Health, Prevention, Queer Health, Reproductive health, Sexual health, Women's Health, Young adults & teens
Bisexual, Buffalo NY, Gay, Gender Identity, gender non-conforming, healthcare, How do I find a gynecologist if I'm LGBTQ, How do I find an LGBTQ doctor, Inclusive OBGYN Care, Lesbian, LGBTQIA+, Non-Binary, OBGYN for queer couples, Queer Friendly Doctor, queer health, Queer-Friendly OBGYN, sexual orientation, Transgender
If you belong in the LGBTQ community, you probably know that coming out is constant and not a “rip off the bandaid processm,” as it happens every time you meet someone new. Seeking a medical provider, and specifically an OBGYN, as a queer person can be challenging; if you already have a provider but have not discussed your sexual orientation or gender identity with them, it may be time to prepare for a coming out discussion.
Why does it matter?
It’s understandable you may want to avoid another discussion about your sexual orientation and/or gender identity, but when it comes to healthcare this is vital information so you can get the best possible healthcare. A queer ally doctor would be knowledgeable on the health risks a queer person faces. If you are seeing an OBGYN, being open with them about your sexual orientation is important in getting the care you deserve: proper exams and vaccinations, contraceptive methods (if needed), safe sex and risk factors education, and other preventative care. For example, if you are a lesbian couple trying to conceive, your OBGYN should be your strongest advocate in this process. If you are transitioning, your OBGYN should oversee your hormone intake and be there for you through your hormone replacement therapy, helping you remain healthy both physically and mentally.
How to Find a Queer-Friendly Provider
Whether you are considering coming out to your current doctor or looking for one, it’s good to look for queer friendly signs in a practice: you can inquire whether they have LGBTQ+ patients, or if there are doctors who focus on queer health and are more knowledgeable and experienced. You can also ask for referrals through your community: especially when it comes to finding an OBGYN, word of mouth and personal credibility go a long way. If you are nervous about your initial appointment you can ask a friend or trusted family member to come with you. Sometimes you can also authorize your partner or spouse to speak with your doctor on your behalf about certain matters–should you feel comfortable doing so–or be with you during the appointments.
What Should Providers Do?
Don’t think this should be a one-way street: not all falls on you when you want to ensure a practice is queer friendly. Providers can specifically showcase they are LGBTQ friendly, and a safe space, by doing some of the following:
- Displaying equality symbols in their office and/ or website
- Specifically stating they are knowledgeable about the LGBTQ community and are allies
- Have a visible non-discrimination statement
- Customize their patient intake forms to be appropriately inclusive
Meet the Standards of Practice: a set of recommendations created by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health to improve LGBTQ access to quality care
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By Iris Farrou
14 Sep, 2023
Fatherhood, Lifestyle Tips, New Moms, Postpartum, Pregnancy, Queer Health, Reproductive health, Sexual health, Women's Health
After Giving Birth, Decreased Sex Drive after Pregnancy, hormone changes, Intimacy, Libido, los sex drive, no interest in sex, post pregnancy, postpartum, Postpartum depression, Sex after giving birth, Why is my sex drive gone, will my libido ever return
When we become pregnant, we anticipate changes in our bodies. We may also have worries about how we will look and feel different after giving birth. Many women are concerned about the changes delivery and a newborn baby creates in their intimate relationships– and who wouldn’t worry about such a profound issue? A baby changes everything, bedroom adventures included!
Medical professionals recommend that you allow your body approximately 4-6 weeks to heal after giving birth: if you have had a C-section, the area will need extra care, so sex may prove a little challenging. During delivery, it is also possible you have had a vaginal tear that needs to heal, or have received an incision to enlarge the vaginal opening. Give your body the time it needs to heal; there is no need to rush.
New mothers experience their body differently after giving birth. Some women feel like their libido may never come back, while others find themselves aroused– a lot of hormones and the release of oxytocin make for a variety of responses to sexual desire; any way you feel is completely normal. There is no right or wrong way to feel or not feel sexual desire and no right or wrong way to listen to your body. To ensure your safety, note that the risk for postpartum complications is highest two weeks after giving birth, regardless of the delivery method. You may also have vaginal discharge during this time, vaginal dryness, general discomfort, or even pain. Fatigue, exhaustion, and lack of sleep are also very common and it is understandable that you may have zero interest in sex while trying to recover and care for your newborn baby.
If and when you and your partner decide to have sex make sure you are completely comfortable and not just trying to get things “back to normal.” Couples go through several changes when their baby is born, and nobody is under any obligation to put their health on the line—especially not a new mother. So, when the time is right for you, keep in mind you may experience some pain during vaginal sex.
Since sex after delivery is guaranteed to be different, consider the following as ways to rebuild your intimacy with your partner and be safe:
- Sex is the end point, not the start. Start small, like hand holding or cuddling.
- Be comfortable: you may want to take a painkiller to help your body relax and ease some of the discomfort. You can ask your partner to give you a massage, or take a hot bath together.
- Set time aside to be intimate. You will need time to relax, get in the moment, pay attention to your body, and to reconnect with your partner.
- Discuss alternatives to vaginal intercourse and use this opportunity to experiment with your partner.
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By Iris Farrou
31 Jul, 2023
Da Vinci Robotic Surgery, Health Conditions and Pregnancy, Hysterectomy, Menopause, Peri-Menopause, Peri-Menopause, Procedures, Queer Health, Reproductive health, Robot Hysterectomy, WNY Ob-Gyn News, Women's Health
3D imaging, abnormal vaginal bleeding, Cancer Treatment, cervical, cervix, endometriosis, faster recovery, fibroids, Laparoscopic Surgery, minimally invasive surgery, Ovarian, ovaries, pelvic pain, Precancer, Robot Assisted Hysterectomy, Robot Hysterectomy, uterine, uterine prolapse, uterus
What is it?
You may have heard of a traditional hysterectomy, which refers to the surgical procedure to remove the uterus (hysteros) from the body. In this case, the procedure is done with a large incision and requires longer recovery time. Nowadays, doctors can use robotic technology to their advantage–and to the advantage of the patients–to perform certain procedures, hysterectomy being one of them. In robotic hysterectomy, your doctor uses the technology to make small incisions of 1-2cm and fully controls the robotic arms with a controller while looking at a 3D magnified image of the area of surgery on their screen.
How does it work?
Robotic hysterectomy is a type of laparoscopic surgery: it is less invasive than traditional surgery, and patients experience much less pain, faster recovery, and less blood loss than open abdominal hysterectomy. Your doctor makes small incisions on your abdomen, and then inserts a laparoscope and other surgical instruments through the incisions. The laparoscope is a very thin tube with light and a camera at the end, thus projecting the surgery on a high-definition and magnified screen; this allows your surgeon to be aware of a lot more details during the surgery, as well as possible problems, than the human eye itself since the image is magnified up to 15 times.
The instruments used during robotic hysterectomy, particularly the technology of the daVinci surgical system, mimic the movement of human hands but with a lot more dexterity, precision, and flexibility. Your surgeon has full control over the instruments at all times, and they would be in the operating room just a few feet away from you. As opposed to traditional surgery where the surgeon would be standing over you for long periods of time, robotic hysterectomy allows your surgeon to utilize the constant steadiness of the robot arms to operate from angles and positions that would be typically hard to reach. Keep in mind that the robotic arms are more precise than natural hand movements, and they will not get tired during the surgery.
Who needs it?
Hysterectomies may be suggested to treat conditions like cancer or precancer of the uterus, cervix, and ovaries, uterine prolapse, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, pelvic pain, and abnormal vaginal bleeding.
Robotic hysterectomy is one of the methods surgeons can use to remove the uterus from the body, and though less invasive and more precise, surgeons decide on a case by case basis whether robotic hysterectomy is an appropriate option for their patients. Robot assisted procedures can be especially helpful if you have a complex surgical case, such as scar tissue that binds surrounding organs together and would need more precision during surgery.
What happens after it?
Like with any surgery, there will be a recovery period. Patients who have had robotic hysterectomies report that they heal faster and experience less pain; we need to remember that every body is different, and that people recover at different rates. After a robotic hysterectomy, you may be expected to stay the night at the hospital, and you may experience vaginal bleeding for a few days or weeks after your surgery. Full recovery can take 3-4 weeks, and vaginal intercourse should be avoided for at least 6 weeks after the surgery. If you are concerned about any symptoms or adverse reactions, reach out to your doctor and immediately seek professional assistance.
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21057-robotic-assisted-hysterectomy
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/robotic-hysterectomy/about/pac-20384544
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By Iris Farrou
14 Jul, 2023
Fatherhood, New Moms, Parenting, Pregnancy, Queer Health
Accommodations, After Giving Birth, Corporate Policies, Coworkers, Do new fathers have time off work, Extra Bathroom Breaks, Fair Labor Standards Act, Family and Medical Leave Act, FMLA, HR, Maternity Leave, Office Job, Parental Leave, Paternity Leave, Policies, Pregnant and Working, Time Off after Birth, Will I lose my job after having a baby, Workplace
Having a baby is a source of great joy for many families, single parents not excluded; it is also a big change, especially if you are an employed parent who will need accommodations to prepare for the arrival of their child. Talking to your boss or coworkers about it can be a sensitive topic, and many people may feel awkward having this conversation. First things first, it is important to know your federal rights:
- The Family and Medical Leave Act was established in 1993 to provide family and temporary medical leave under circumstances that include the birth and care of a newborn child and the placement of a child for foster care or adoption with an employee.
- Though you will need to check with your employer and meet certain provisions, the FMLA in general provides employees up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave per year. During this time, your job is protected and your health benefits should remain active.
- Upon returning to work, you also have the right to request reasonable accommodations for nursing, and other needs you may have as a new mother; the Fair Labor Standards Act protects employees from discrimination or retaliation when they assert their rights in the workspace.
With that in mind, you know you have specific laws on your side! What happens when it comes to private businesses or a work environment you’re not quite sure about? Here are some tips on how to approach your supervisors in a comfortable manner:
- Research your company’s policies on parental leave and rights; if you know you want to start a family before you start working at a specific place, that’s something you can look into early on. Knowledge is power, so you should be informed about HR processes at your workplace.
- Choose who to talk to first; if there is a chain of command, but you don’t feel comfortable approaching a certain person on it, that’s an issue HR can help you with. If you can choose who to talk to and you feel comfortable with that person, set up a meeting with them first.
- It never hurts to follow the buddy system, so consider asking a coworker you trust to be present with you in any conversations regarding parental leave and rights. Two sets of eyes and ears are better than one!
It is undeniable that you will need accommodations in the workplace during your pregnancy, before the parental leave kicks in, and that you will continue to need accommodations after you welcome your new family member.
Accommodations change throughout the duration of your pregnancy, and they differ from person to person. It is very likely that you will need different accommodations throughout your pregnancy, and of course depending on the nature of your job. Some common pregnancy accommodations may include:
- Extra breaks for restroom use, snacks, water, and rest
- Changes to job duties or location to avoid physical harm and/or fatigue
- Schedule changes and excusal from tardiness policies, as well as time for prenatal appointments
No matter the regulations or laws, it is important to remember that your health and the health of your baby and family come first; though you should feel supported by your workplace, it never hurts to know your rights and advocate for what you need.
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By Iris Farrou
29 Jun, 2023
Lifestyle Tips, Mental Health, Prevention, Queer Health, Reproductive health, Sexual health, Women's Health, Young adults & teens
Bisexual Sex Health, Can Lesbians get STDs?, Do I have AIDs, Do I need a PAP smear, Do Lesbians Need to See Gynecologist, gay woman, Gender Identity, Lesbian, Lesbian Sexual Health, Non-binary Health, Nonbinary, Queer Sexual Health, queer woman, Safe Lesbian Sex, Sex Health, Transgender
If you were a queer woman growing up in the 80s and 90s, your sex education probably consisted of mostly heteronormative standards, focusing on relationships between men and women, assuming heterosexuality as the standard overall. If you had a progressive teacher or parents, you may have been exposed to healthy examples of same-sex relationships (fingers crossed!). But, for most women who are now either well into their adult life or are parents themselves, there is a general lack on queer sex education. If like many of us, you have been fed myths, here are some that can be easily refuted:
Myth 1: Lesbian and Bisexual Women don’t get STIs
That is absolutely not the case. We may believe that the risk of Sexually Transmitted Infections between women is relatively low, but new research suggests this is not the case. In fact, lesbians are at as much risk as heterosexual women when it comes to getting an STI. Even if you are very careful in your intimate relationships and the risk is low, that does not mean that lesbians and bisexual women are not prone to STIs.
Along with dispelling this myth, we should bring up the fact that many women who identify as lesbians may have had sexual relations with men in the past–they may be carrying STIs without even knowing it. Consider this especially true for bisexual women, who may be sexually active with partners of all genders. Vaginas have the ability to fight off STIs naturally–to a certain level–while penises do not have that ability.
Face the Taboos
Many people in the queer community may identify as one gender, but carry the biological bits of another gender; if you are further exploring your own sexuality, or if you are parenting a child who is or is already a member of the queer community, it is important to keep this information in mind and not shy away from discussing matters of sexual health on all fronts. “The talk” has become more complicated, but it is our responsibility to remain educated and parent openly.
Myth 2: STIs Cannot be Transmitted Between Women
Bold lie. If you were ever told that, or have a partner/friend/family member who believes that–it is a lie. STIs are transmitted mostly through the exchange of bodily fluids, and some STIs are also contracted through skin-to-skin contact. Additionally, the risk of STI transmission is higher during menstruation.
Face the Taboos
STIs can be transmitted through oral to vaginal/vulva contact; oral-anal contact also places the participants at high risk of infections. STIs like herpes, syphilis, hepatitis A and intestinal (gut) infections, as well as possibly gonorrhea may be transmitted in this manner. Genital contact can spread HPV, pubic lice, and herpes. Fingers-in-vagina also carry the risk of transmitting herpes, HPV and bacterial vaginosis, trichomonas, chlamydia, and gonorrhea. This is especially true if one of the partners has been previously exposed to those STIs through an infected person. Use of toys that may be inserted in the vagina or anus can absolutely place the partners at risk of infection; washing the toys is not enough– you will only be 100% safe by using condoms on them.
Myth 3: Queer Women Don’t Need PAP smears
If the above two myths have shown us anything, it is that everyone is at risk of contracting an STI–no matter their sexual preferences. PAP smears are recommended for all sexually active women, even if they have never had sexual contact with a cisgender male. This is a good resource on HPV transmission : https://www.gmhc.org/resource_category/hiv-aids-information/
Myth 4: There is no Safe Lesbian Sex
Wrong! As mentioned above, the no-brainer would be to use condoms on toys (shared or not). Use different condoms for each partner, and when switching orifices. If you have any cuts or open sores on the mouth and lips, it is recommended that you use a dental dam during oral sex to protect yourself from contracting any STIs. Since some infections are transmitted by hands, always make sure that you thoroughly wash your hands before and after sex; if you have cuts or sores on your hands, you can always use a latex glove–or as many as you need!
Any member of the queer community has the right to respectful and knowledgeable treatment by their healthcare professionals. If you are having trouble finding queer-friendly health professionals, for any health issue, in your are or somewhere you are visiting, this resource can help you locate queer-safe providers: https://www.glma.org/
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By Iris Farrou
19 Jun, 2023
Fatherhood, Mental Health, Parenting, Queer Health, Reproductive health, Sexual health, Women's Health, Young adults & teens
Adolescents, Ally, Bisexual, Gay, Gay-Straight Alliance, Gender Identity, Gender Terminology, Gynecologist, Gynecology, health, Helping my LGBTQ child, Inclusive Sexual Health Education, Intersex, Lesbian, LGBTQ, LGBTQ Youth Support, LGBTQIA+, Neurodivergent, Non-Binary, OBGYN, Pre-Teen, Pride Month, Pronouns, Queer, Sexual Behavior, Teen, Teenagers, Transgender, Youth
Most parents nowadays try to ensure their kids have a well rounded education when it comes to sexual health and safety, and “the talk” has been appropriately modified–in most households–to expand beyond the heteronormative model of sexual intimacy. Teenagers are exposed to diverse models of relationships, and abundant resources are available for those who explore their sexual and gender identity.
Despite the positive rise, the statistics on LGBTQ-focused sex ed in schools remain low. In a 2015 survey only 12% of the Millennial participants reported that their school’s sex ed curriculum covered same-sex relationships–and that’s not even discussing sexual or gender identity. It becomes clear, then, that it is up to parents and medical professionals to be more educated, to be better allies to LGBTQ kids and youth, and to be a safe space for them. According to the National Center on the Sexual Behavior of Youth “children’s sexual awareness starts in infancy and continues to strengthen throughout preschool and school-age years,” so no matter how young your child is, they know what’s going on with their body and it is your job as a parent to support them.
How can I be an Ally?
Just as it is with any support system, the best way to be an ally is to educate yourself; on LGBTQ history, sex and gender terminology, legal issues, local issues in your city, school issues that may have come up in your child’s school. LGBTQ youth are more likely to be bullied in school, and to search for information on the internet– which often leads them to not credible sources.
- Be a Visible Safe Person: it is important to show your kids you are supportive of the LGBTQ community, and that you are open to conversations about sex and gender. This can be as simple as bringing home a book about queer issues, or a pamphlet from your local Pride Center; you can also initiate conversations about the history, rights, and health of the LGBTQ community. Even a film night is a great way in!
- Support Local Queer Organizations: if there is a Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA) at your child’s school, be an active participant in their efforts for inclusivity, policy, and curriculum changes. If there is a Pride Center where you live, take your kids to family-friendly events. Should a Pride Parade happen in your town or nearby, go the extra mile, or walk the rainbow mile with your kids.
- Provide Reading Materials: just like with any topic, there are age-appropriate books for your child to help them learn more about the LGBTQ community. Visit your local bookstore and ask for the latest publications, and take a look at The Rainbow Collection of the American Psychological Association: https://go.maginationpress.org/rainbow-collection/
- Be a Source of Knowledge: it is impossible to be an encyclopedia for everything your child asks you. But for topics on which misinformation is rampant, is it not important to be a trustworthy source of knowledge? The CDC has an excellent LGBT Health page you can consult as a “crash course,” and they also have a list of regional LGBT Health Services.
Use the Right Words: when your child first becomes interested in their body, or if your toddler or pre-teen asks questions, you can expand the discussion and include appropriate terminology to talk about gender, and talk with them about how pronouns are important outside of their grammar exercises. If your teen is being more direct with their questions, the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network (GLSEN) can help you and them on Inclusive Sexual Health Education, and they can also visit a well-researched and peer-edited page written for teens by teens: https://sexetc.org/
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By Iris Farrou
16 Jun, 2023
Diet & Exercise, Health Conditions and Pregnancy, Lifestyle Tips, Nutrition, Pregnancy, Prevention, Queer Health, Women's Health
Acid Reflux During Pregnancy, Besides Tums, Digestion, Digestive Issues, Esophagus, GERD, Health Conditions while Pregnant, Heartburn, How to cure heartburn while pregnant, OTC Medication for Heartburn, Pregnancy, Pregnancy Heartburn Prevention, Preventing stomach issues, Safe Heartburn Medication, Too much calcium, What foods trigger heartburn, What stops heartburn
A large number of pregnant people experience heartburn during pregnancy, and the logical next step is to see treatment for acid reflux. There is, however, a slight difference between the two terms that may help you differentiate: acid reflux refers to the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) not tightening as it should, which allows the stomach acid to travel up to your esophagus.
Heartburn is a symptom of acid reflux, and it is often experienced as a feeling of burning or pain in your chest. During pregnancy, not only is your body changing to accommodate your baby, pushing all your gastrointestinal organs together and upwards, but your hormone levels also change and affect how you digest food.
How can it be prevented?
First things first, note that more than half of pregnant women report having heartburn in the third trimester. This is more common in women who have been pregnant before, or have experienced heartburn or dealt with acid reflux conditions before pregnancy.
Lifestyle Changes would be the first suggested method of helping you prevent heartburn during your pregnancy. One suggestion is to wear loose clothing as much as possible to avoid further constrictions on your body. You should also avoid lying down within 3 hours after a meal, and if that is not possible, make sure that your head is elevated–which can also help throughout the night as well. Additionally, lying on the left side of the body to sleep or rest has been shown to assist digestion much faster, and thus lessen the feeling of heartburn.
Eating Habits may be another element to address while pregnant. It is advised to eat smaller meals throughout the day instead of 3 big ones so that your body has more time to process the food and digest easily. Eat slowly for the same reasons, and avoid consuming fluids with your meals– instead, consume fluids in between your meals. Sitting up straight when you eat can also be of great help, as well as not eating a big meal late at night/before you sleep. Cravings may not be avoided, but do your best to pace your intake of food and respect the new–perhaps slower and more sensitive–process of your digestive system.
What are safe medications?
Most pregnant people turn to Tums as a safe medication for heartburn during pregnancy. Tums is a typical antacid with a combination of calcium, magnesium, and aluminum salts that help neutralize stomach acid. Pay attention to the dose, however, as a pregnant person should not be taking more than 1000 mg of elemental calcium per day. Additionally, when pregnant, you should avoid long term use of medications that contain magnesium trisilicate.
Your doctor may suggest other medications, specifically a medication that blocks the stomach acid from traveling up to the esophagus and contains sucralfate. A tried and true method is also to avoid citrus foods, spicy foods and caffeine, and increase how much yogurt, milk, and probiotics you take.
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/what-can-i-take-for-heartburn-while-pregnant-besides-tums#safe-medications
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12011-heartburn-during-pregnancy#prevention
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By Iris Farrou
09 May, 2023
Early Childhood Education, Fatherhood, Parenting, Queer Health, Reproductive health, Sexual health, Toddler Health, Women's Health, Young adults & teens
Adolescents, body positivity, Hormone Changes in Children, How to explain sex, How to teach children about sex, Parenting Preteens, Preteen, Safe Sex for Teens, Self-Stimulation, Sex Ed, Sexual Education for Toddlers, Teaching Boundaries, Tween, When should I explain sex, Where do babies come from
If you are parenting a teenager, you are probably thinking of when would be the right time to have “the talk.” Well, the time starts when curiosity strikes in their toddler years! You don’t have to turn back time, but if you are a new parent you may want to start taking notes: it is never too early to start talking to your children about sex education, their bodies, and relationships. Consider sex education a broad subject, and not just an awkward talk about hormone-driven intimate moments.
Sex education includes talking with your children about anatomy, teaching them the proper names for their body parts as soon as they start making associations between items and words, educating them on how to take care of themselves and their bodily functions, and being by their side when they start being able to express their feelings and/or they start to understand themselves in relation to others; relationships and boundaries are also part of sex education.
Early Exploration
It is best to let your toddler set the time for questions regarding anatomy and sex, but you should also be aware of what questions may be opportunities for further discussions. For example, during bath time you can take the opportunity to talk with your child about their anatomy, and which parts of the body are private. Keep your answers short and simple, and age appropriate– if your child seems confused about something, don’t be embarrassed to explain further. You are, after all, the role model: the more maturely you approach the conversation, the more secure your child will feel about your knowledge.
Curiosity
It is not uncommon for toddlers to express their natural curiosity through self-stimulation. If you notice your child engaging with their genitals, it is advised to encourage their curiosity while also reminding them that some acts and areas of the body are private. This self exploration may coincide with curiosity about others, which can lead to uncomfortable social interactions. If your child asks about pregnancy or “where do babies come from” in front of others, it’s ok to take a moment in a social setting to explain some things to them. Should the question have made someone else uncomfortable, take the opportunity to apologize on behalf of your child, and model boundary-respectful behavior for them. It is also normal during this time for children to want to play doctor with their friends, and many families choose to monitor their children’s play time at this stage of their development, or set limits.
New Knowledge
As much as you may try to be open with your child and monitor their knowledge of sex education matters, you should be aware that new knowledge always finds its way to young children. Unfortunately, new knowledge may not always come from reputable sources or be truthful and accurate. If your child asks you a question that seems off, or hasn’t been discussed in your household, the best course of action would be to ask them where they heard that, or try to locate the source of the information. Then, you could ask them to share what they already know about the topic and begin a conversation with them. It is important to let your child know you are comfortable with those questions, knowledgeable on the topics, and that they can trust you with their curiosity.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/sexual-health/in-depth/sex-education/art-20044104
https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/parents/tips-talking
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