W.O.W. MD - Your Wellness Optimizing Warrior

In this episode we're concluding our conversation about breast cancer screening. This part discusses the importance of breast exams and what an ideal breast surveillance process could look like (versus how it looks today for most women). Many women today are bypassing a breast exam by believing that a mammogram is sufficient. Here's the truth: 10% of breast cancers are not picked up by a mammogram. You should have a breast exam performed at the doctor's office annually. You can also perform your own regular breast exams at home. Regardless of whether or not you need a pap smear, you will still always need an annual breast exam. Breast cancer risk increases as you get older, so during menopause and beyond is not the time to put off testing. While a pap test can identify potential risks very early, the mammogram does not screen for pre-cancer changes. A mammogram picks up breast cancer early on—hopefully early enough to save your life. Introducing new testing that could identify harmful cell growth early on in breast tissue will allow time for the woman to create a plan of action with her health care provider. We should also be screening for inflammatory markers, hormone imbalance markers, and more so we can identify risks as early as possible. Not using hormone therapy isn't a guaranteed protection against breast cancer. It may also not decrease your risk. Hormones are not to blame for increasing breast cancer risk. In fact, the picture is so much bigger than that. We have to take a look at our lives as a whole to really identify what actually increases breast cancer incidence.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/  https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/  https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

We're moving on to part 3 of our conversation about breast cancer screening in this episode. Previously, we've covered breast health surveillance in general. Today, we're going to dive into breast cancer screening when a woman is on hormone therapy, as this therapy often brings up concerns for breast cancer risk. So, is there an association between hormone therapy and breast cancer? Although hormone therapy doesn't cause breast cancer, this kind of therapy can act as a catalyst for existing cancerous tissues—if they're already growing, estrogen-sensitive cancers can respond. Generally, the outcome is that your already present cancer may grow more quickly or become apparent faster. That said, hormone therapy isn't the cause of the cancer. Some women experience extremely difficult issues going through menopause—so much so it creates an actual medical need to be on hormone therapy. Women who are on hormone therapy during menopause should consider increasing their surveillance.  Ultimately, the responsibility will fall on you to figure out what caused your cancer in the first place. You'll have to investigate and address the environmental factors, lifestyle factors, and more that could have contributed to it so you can avoid recurrence. The decisions you've made in years prior, like birth control use, for example, can have a significant impact on your risk of breast cancer. Generally, the further away from menopause you progress, your risk of cancer is going to go up no matter what. But will a lower dose of hormone therapy reduce the risk of associated cancer growth? While this is an option, remember that all hormones should be balanced and optimized to protect your health, as ultimately this will provide you with the most resilience.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/  https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/  https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

In today's episode we're continuing our conversation about breast cancer surveillance, focusing on the risks of getting a regular mammogram. Last week, we discussed the cumulative risk of radiation damage that women are subjected to over decades of annual mammogram screenings. Mammograms also have shortcomings: they don't detect pre-cancer changes. Many women aren't aware of the unintended harm a regular mammogram can cause. One of those issues is overdiagnosis. This doesn't refer to a false-positive diagnosis, but rather when a mammogram finds a cancer that grows slowly or not at all (which requires no treatment). However, mammograms can't firmly identify these types, so all cancer is treated the same. This means some women enter aggressive treatment when it isn't actually necessary, especially if they are older in age and may not recover well from the treatment they've been recommended. These false-positives can also lead to psychological harm. After the detection of an abnormal finding on a mammogram, women are often sent for additional screening tests (such as a diagnostic breast ultrasound). If this process continues, a woman may also be sent for a biopsy. However, this diagnostic process can take some time—months or even years—and may hurt her mental and emotional wellbeing. 93% of the additional testing required after an abnormal screening mammogram will yield normal, reassuring findings. The chance of false-positives also increases over time. This isn't about dissuading women from getting screened, but it does highlight the importance of exploring screening options.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/  https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/  https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Today we're beginning our conversation about breast cancer screening when on hormone therapy. There are biological markers and overall wellness indicators that need to be assessed every time a woman has an annual checkup when on hormone replacement therapy. Regardless of what therapies she is taking, every woman should have their breast wellbeing monitored, especially as she ages. Is an annual mammogram done over decades actually safe? Some medical experts say that the benefits of identifying cancer early outweighs the risk of yearly exposure to radiation. But the reality is that radiation exposure is cumulative, so you can achieve the maximum threshold for tolerance sooner than you'd think. On top of this, breast sensitivity is heightened when the breast cells are younger, so the risk is higher the younger you are. Aside from mammography, we now have other techniques for breast cancer detection. These advancements, like ultrasounds and thermography, should also be considered for use. Thermography offers great benefits and can do so much more than identify cancer when it's present. This technology is also able to recognize abnormalities that could lead to cancer later on. When abnormal findings come up on mammograms, there is very little information to go on in terms of what should happen next. Early intervention is of the utmost importance when screening for breast cancer, but the question remains: what kind of screening methods are available for women? Mammograms are uncomfortable, and it would be much better for women to explore alternative options than to forgo any regular breast health monitoring at all.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/  https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/  https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

In this episode I'm concluding our conversation about hormone optimization. Previously, we've discussed the difference between hormone therapy and hormone optimization, as well as the myths and benefits about hormone use for health optimization. Today, we're looking at the bigger picture of overall health and how the rest of your body plays a role in hormone balance. How well our bodies function as we age is highly dependent on how balanced our hormones are. For women, that's not just about estrogen. It's also about how all the other major hormones in your body are balanced together. The integrity of your digestive lining is also a very important aspect of maintaining optimal hormone balance, as it plays a critical role for metabolizing and eliminating hormones. An unhealthy, highly processed diet, a sedentary lifestyle, and common use of some medications can seriously harm your gut health—and therefore your body's ability to process hormones effectively. There are also environmental factors and stress factors that can cause inflammation and further harm your hormone and overall health. Inflammation of the gut lining needs to be addressed if you want to improve your overall health. When estrogen is lost during menopause, it will impact the levels of all other hormones. A loss of estrogen can also reduce thyroid function too. Simply replacing estrogen during menopause is not enough to ensure a woman is feeling her best. When estrogen declines in menopause, it affects insulin sensitvity, and this can lead to weight gain that seems more difficult to lose as you age. The earlier you start optimizing your hormones, the better you'll feel through menopause and beyond.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/  https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/  https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Last week, I introduced the concept of what hormone optimization is and how it differs from hormone therapy. In this episode, let's focus on exploring the myths about using hormones and how you can use hormone optimization to age on your own terms. Going through menopause means experiencing significant changes in hormone levels, including estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone. These hormone shifts will have an impact on how you feel (both mentally and physically) and may even lead you to feel a loss of control over things you had a handle on before. Hormone therapy, especially hormone optimization, gives women the opportunity to age the way they desire. It helps women experience these changes gradually and gracefully while maintaining physical and mental function as much as possible. The process of repair is driven by anabolic hormones, and these are the very hormones we lose with age. The earlier you start hormone optimization, the more likely you are to maintain the physical strength you have and protect yourself against osteoporosis. Despite what you may hear, hormone therapy is not risky or dangerous. When facilitated by a medical expert and professional, you can look forward to a lot of benefits. If you choose not to look into hormone therapy or hormone optimization, you deserve to do it with both eyes open. If you're worried about being judged for asking your medical professionals about it, you're not alone. But don't let misinformation stop you from making an empowered decision for your health, especially one that can significantly impact the later years of your life.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/  https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/  https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Hormone optimization is a new and complicated topic, and we're going to begin covering it in today's episode. As women enter menopause and seek hormone replacement therapy as a solution, it's important to have an understanding of how aging impacts the body and how hormone optimization can help. I recently listened to a podcast which compared hormone therapy to home renovation. The host, a retired doctor, discussed using the estradiol patch with oral progesterone (a common pair used in hormone therapy today). Taking into account the doses available for these products, there are only 10 possible dose combinations available. Do we honestly believe that these 10 combinations are going to balance the hormones of all individually unique women? While hormone replacement therapy can reduce unwanted symptoms like hot flashes, it doesn't necessarily mean you're achieving the best quality of life and highest function possible. Optimal functional levels reflect peak performance and wellbeing—not just the reduction of one or two symptoms. It goes beyond replacing what's deficient, but instead focuses on restoring hormone levels to mirror a time in life where you looked and felt your best. Knowing the difference can help you manage expectations, should you pursue hormone replacement therapy. Menopause management should be (and may become over the next decade or two) its own specialty. It takes vast knowledge to truly help a woman reach a balanced, optimal state through hormone replacement treatment. I believe every woman should know what hormone optimization is and the benefits it can offer.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/  https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/  https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

On today's episode we're concluding our conversation about prolapse, specifically focusing on pelvic prolapse. These pelvic floor muscles are a small yet crucial aspect of your overall muscle structure. Women who have given birth vaginally are more susceptible to experience pelvic floor prolapse, making this area of muscles even more important to know about. Menopause can also cause various changes in the pelvic area, and the farther ahead a woman when she started menopause, the more likely she is to experience pelvic prolapse. Yes, this is in large part due to hormonal changes, however after menopause many women stop having sex. Overall, their body may be healthy, but this lack of intimacy impacts the pelvic area too. Women tend to become highly motivated to pursue pelvic floor therapy and other types of support only after they've experienced prolapse. Essentially, they're waiting until it's too late. Pelvic prolapse is usually diagnosed in an advanced state, and women aren't usually informed about it in any meaningful way during their lives. The earlier you start working on your pelvic health, the better results you'll have. It's important to have a significant amount of control over those muscles already in order to strengthen them. There's also a treatment called EMSELLA which is designed to help you work on your pelvic floor muscles. There's another device called the VTone which uses electrical stimulation. This intravaginal device makes contact with the appropriate muscle groups that women can control to their level of comfort. Neither of these treatments works overnight. It takes multiple treatments to produce significant results.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/  https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/  https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Let's continue on with our conversation about prolapse. A great number of women experience prolapse after childbirth trauma, but this can also come up many years after menopause when the loss of estrogen starts to impact a woman's pelvic floor muscles and tissues. Women on some form of hormone therapy can still experience issues with prolapse, especially since the replacement dose is nowhere near the level a woman has when she is younger. Even a relief of symptoms, like hot flashes for instance, doesn't necessarily mean that her estrogen is back to the same level it was pre-menopause. A woman's pelvic organs are held up by muscles, ligaments, tendons, and bones. These muscles also play a crucial role in bodily functions related to bladder control, bowel control, sexual function, and stabilizing organs during physical activity. When this is compromised, the uterus can descend into the vaginal canal to the point where you may even be able to feel it. This is called uterine prolapse. Something similar can happen with the bladder, which is called bladder prolapse. It can lead to significant urinary incontinence and discomfort. The rectum can also prolapse into the posterior wall of the vagina. This can cause difficulty passing stool. Generally speaking, women can usually recall the event that triggered their prolapse. Before this, they have likely already experienced a gradual weakening of the pelvic floor. Childbirth greatly increases the risk for pelvic floor prolapse. Delivering a baby through the vaginal opening results in great pressure and stress on the pelvic organs and tissues. The bigger the baby's head, the greater the risk is for prolapse. Increased abdominal fat (obesity) can also weaken pelvic floor muscles. Some individuals may also have genetic disorders that impact muscle groups, including the pelvic floor.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/  https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/  https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

In this episode we're talking about something I haven't yet approached on this show: prolapse, specifically as it relates to a very specific female condition. Many women aren't aware of the vital connection between estrogen and the health of the tissues of their pelvic floor, but you'll learn about it today. A prolapse is caused by a weakening of the pelvic floor that supports the female organs, and this displacement can lead those female organs to descend towards the vaginal opening. There is no pill or cream that can correct this condition, especially if it's more advanced. Surgery can help, but sometimes only temporarily due to the underlying cause of the issue. Prolapse is associated with the trauma of childbirth, but other women may never experience it until after they've gone through menopause. The loss of estrogen impacts the elasticity, tone, and consistency of the connective tissues of the pelvic floor and vaginal walls. If you maintain a strong pelvic floor, it may help you avoid prolapse as you get older. Estrogen plays a vital role in the health of your pelvic floor, but for years, women have been told that estrogen therapy is bad for them. Therefore, so many are missing out on something that could really help them maintain the flexibility and integrity of the ligaments and connective tissue of their pelvic floor. For women, estrogen is your best friend when it comes to your health. An optimal level helps women support their pelvic floor. Estrogen enhances blood circulation, which also brings oxygen and nutrients to the tissues (including pelvic tissues). Estrogen therapy, applied early, can prevent a severe prolapse. Consider consulting with a health professional who is trained in estrogen therapy who can give you more information.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/  https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/  https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Today we're continuing our conversation about health insurance, health expenses, and what to consider when you're budgeting for your health. We often forget that health insurance is a business. And just like any other business, there's a lot to know, and it takes a few extra intentional steps to truly understand it. Last episode, we discussed how your health insurance plan is not designed to maintain your health, but rather to treat diagnosed conditions and illnesses. Many people find it difficult to save for their health expenses while also paying for their insurance. So what can normal people who want to stay healthy and keep their insurance do? More than likely, your doctors (and their support staff) are far removed from what is happening with your specific insurance plan. Between their busy schedules and managing their own work environment, they're not able to keep up with individual patient health insurance plans. The onus is on you to be prepared for your bill after each visit. In an ideal world, insurance plans would be a lot clearer and easier to understand. The financial burden on the patients is real, but so is the financial burden on the clinic. By the time your bills are generated for your medical services, weeks may have gone by. Delayed bills confuse patients and cripple doctors, but this is just how the process goes. Spend the time it takes to become educated on your health insurance plan. You will save yourself a lot of stress at the doctors office if you know what to expect. It's not fun to talk about it, but it is very important. Don't renew your plan without doing your due diligence, and be sure to check if your coverage will be the same as it was in previous years.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/  https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/  https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

In this episode we're diving deeper into health expenses to help you gain insight into where your money is best allocated. In the last episode, we explored how your health insurance is designed to treat illness, not to keep you healthy. Often, saving for your health treatments is the best option if you want to stay healthy. Unfortunately, that's not an option for everybody, especially those who are already paying for expensive health plans. Be aware that most physicians, especially those working for corporations, are removed from the process of healthcare expenses. Their schedule is full and they don't have time to deeply guide you through your healthcare expenses and options. Educating yourself is so important, especially as you get older. You have to know the basics of your insurance plan and be prepared as to what your bills will look like when you go visit your doctor. The four main numbers you need to know are: copay, coinsurance, deductible, and maximum out-of-pocket cost. Your copay is what you have to pay every time you see your doctor, no matter what the visit is for. Your coinsurance is a percentage of the medical cost for the services you receive, and percentages vary greatly. The deductible is the amount you must pay before your health insurance plan covers any expenses. Lastly, your maximum out-of-pocket cost is the ceiling you have to meet before your insurance will pay 100% your in-network healthcare expenses. Privately-owned, independent practices accepting health insurance are becoming less and less common. This is because their reimbursement is delayed, low, and there is poor coverage. Plus, there is also a rising cost of building a workforce, medical supplies, and more. If you can begin by educating yourself on your health insurance plan, you will make your life and your doctor's life much easier.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/  https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/  https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Let's talk about your health goals for this year and beyond. The truth is that basic self-care practices don't always restore us to the level we desire. That's where seeking additional support comes in, but in order to use that, we first have to understand insurance plans. The first basic question you can ask yourself is this: What kind of expense can actually bring the greatest value to your health? This can help you uncover where your money is best spent. Dedicating more time, effort, and money to your self-care now is the key to avoiding many of the health issues that some people accept come with aging. Having an insurance plan is vital if you have a serious health condition. Not after it happens, but at the point of diagnosis. The purpose of health insurance is to support treatment of disease, not to help you maintain your health. In fact, coverage often discourages care unless it's part of an approved treatment plan for a diagnosed disease. Don't invest in a health insurance plan if your goal is to maintain your health. The majority of people who purchase health insurance with the intention of safeguarding their health end up experiencing a rude awakening at their doctors office. It's not the best place to put your money, especially considering the other expenses many people face today outside of their health. You may not know this, but your health insurance plan may be charging you triple (if not quadruple) what services used to cost, and here's the catch: Doctors are being paid less by insurance companies than ever before. When you find out where your money is really going, you may want to take another look at your health insurance plan and what it's really offering.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/  https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/  https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

How you can achieve your health goals in 2026 and in all the years to come? Life can (and does) get busy, and time can move by quickly. Self-care doesn't always feel easy, but prioritizing self-care is so important if you want to achieve a truly optimal state of health Many people struggle to intentionally dedicate time to their selfcare. Why? It's often due to putting other people's health and wellness before our own, and this is especially true for women. For me, rest is going to be at the top of my priority list this year. I have a lot of obligations, responsibilities, and goals, and if I want to do all those things well I need to maintain a feeling of restoration and balance. Our culture of achievement has its upsides. It pushes us to do more and pursue our goals, but if you want to be at your best to accomplish those things, you have to be at the top of your game. And being at the top of your game requires the best, most cared-of version of yourself. When you take care of yourself, you're better able to deal with stress. You don't have to fight through fatigue or brain fog while working towards your goals. Self-care looks different for everybody, but for me it includes doing activities I enjoy (like pickleball and reading) and getting lots of sleep. For you, self-care activities could include balanced hormones and hormone therapy. It may also mean eating well and getting outside. You can also include what you love to do, whether that's yoga, a community activity, or somewhere else you feel your best. I hope you'll go into each week this year remembering to put yourself first.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/  https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/  https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Today we are continuing our conversation on women's urinary health and the issues that arise during and after menopause such as loss of elasticity, vaginal discomfort, and urinary incontinence. These changes are all related to the loss of estrogen over time. Other conditions can impact estrogen production too, for example PCOS, certain medications, and eating disorders. Understanding the core issue of estrogen loss, regardless of the woman's age, is extremely important. Estrogen therapy can make a significant difference for women struggling with urinary issues. Estrogen promotes healthy skin elasticity, which can support the bladder as it typically holds around 300-500ml of urine. Estrogen therapy doesn't just increase estrogen in the body, but pellet therapy, for instance, can offer more stable levels of estrogen over time. More consistent levels of estrogen can help manage weight gain, which is another issue many women struggle with during and after menopause. It also promotes a healthier sleep, and quality of sleep heavily impacts a woman's quality of life. It's crucial that you don't ignore these urinary issues once they begin to develop. A loss of elasticity is difficult to reverse the longer it goes on. The sooner you start hormone therapy, the more effective it will be in reducing the impact of menopause. Early intervention can keep some of the most difficult urinary challenges from becoming permanent struggles. As a woman, incontinence is something that's likely to happen, especially if you don't address it quickly. You deserve to age with dignity and a high quality of life and not with fear about tools like estrogen therapy which can actually support you later in life.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/  https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/  https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

In today's episode I'm talking about urinary health and the problems that can arise during and after menopause. These urinary problems can become an ongoing or worsening problem as time goes on. So what's happening to the urinary tract as we age? The problems start in perimenopause, primarily beginning with an increase in urgency. Sometimes this change is subtle; an increase in getting up during the night to empty your bladder. It's disturbing to your sleep, but it may not necessarily stand out at first. Increased urgency, frequency, and discomfort can also be a typical presentation of interstitial cystitis. These are also the same signs of a urinary tract infection (UTI). However, with a UTI, there tends to be more discomfort and pain at the end of voiding. Another urinary issue is urinary incontinence, such as urge incontinence, stress incontinence, or both. Involuntary leakage can vary depending on the woman experiencing it. These types of incidents can be extremely debilitating. Even though many women in their 8th decade of life experience incontinence, they tend not to bring it up with their doctor. As a result, they may not know the different treatments available, including lasers, PRP injections, hormone injections, and more. Most of the options for treatment are also affordable and can actually save you money on incontinence pads and diapers moving forward. Untreated urinary incontinence comes with health consequences like chronic UTIs, skin irritation, and an increase in falling and injuries. It can also lead to stress, anxiety, and depression. These issues naturally arise as estrogen declines, making it a normal part of the aging process for women. However, that doesn't mean women shouldn't explore the support that's available for them, especially if it can increase their quality of life.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/  https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/  https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

This week, let's wrap up our series on lichen sclerosus by discussing more of the therapies available for treatment. If diagnosed and treated early, the condition can be greatly improved—especially if you're using a hormone replacement therapy approach that's been optimized. Aside from steroid medication, tacrolimus, estrogen therapy, and testosterone therapy (which were all options discussed in a previous episode), there are other treatment options like platelet-rich plasma, which can be injected to improve vaginal and sexual wellness. PRP is gaining in popularity because it's considered to be minimally invasive. It's done under topical anesthesia, and although the vaginal tissues may be sensitive after, there are very few side effects. PRP treatment can improve itching and burning, and may even support regeneration of healthier skin. However, it does need to be injected in the area that is impacted the most to be effective. The major downside to PRP therapy is cost. It is considered experimental, so no insurance plan will cover it. It's also important to know that results may vary. While some patients experience great success, others see little effect. The success depends greatly on the overall regenerative capacity of the individual. Exosomes are a useful alternative to PRP and may even work better in women of an older age (or younger women with autoimmune issues or nutrient deficiencies). Exosomes are transport molecules that facilitate communication between the cells. Injecting exosomes locally or applying topically may reduce symptoms associated with lichen sclerosus or potentially eliminate them completely. Just like PRP, exosomes are considered experimental and not covered by insurance.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/  https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/  https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Let's continue our conversation about lichen sclerosus, specifically focusing on treatment options this time. The treatments and therapies I'm discussing in this episode can actually be quite useful for many vaginal conditions and are something all women should know about. The first line of approved care for lichen sclerosus is a local application of a steroid medication, usually in an ointment form. Prolonged use of a steroid medication can lead to thinning of the skin, but it is particularly useful for women dealing with significant itching and plaque formation. Keep in mind that treatment does not mean reversing the course of the disease. Another treatment option—one I rarely use due to side effects and cost—is a topical tacrolimus. Tacrolimus is a potent immune system suppressant, and it can decrease the inflammation associated with this skin condition (as well as some others). It is only intended for short-term use, and can be compounded for application. There are also some unconventional options for care, including topical estrogen. It can improve dryness, reduce pain during sex, and support elasticity. Estrogen can also be used as treatment in the form of pellet therapy. This treatment option can help women return to more comfortable intimacy in as little as 4-6 weeks. Nothing is perfect, but estrogen pellets offer more consistent exposure than other options. Testosterone is another hormone that can be used in the treatment of lichen sclerosus. This hormone plays an important role in skin quality, and it has been demonstrated in improving skin elasticity and strength. Side effects and an adjustment of dose can reduce the risk of unwanted side effects.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/  https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/  https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Let's talk about a surprisingly common skin condition that impacts women after menopause: Lichen sclerosus. It's a chronic inflammation of the skin which creates a pathological change at the vaginal entrance. These skin changes are often underdiagnosed and even misdiagnosed, sometimes even for years. This debilitating skin condition can cause persistent and uncomfortable itching, white patches on the skin, and may also result in thinning of the skin. It can cause a disappearance of sensitive skin areas where certain tissue areas fuse. The skin can also crack, resulting in irritation and pain. Many women, after visiting their gynecologist, are shocked to find out their doctor missed their lichen sclerosus diagnosis. Often this means they've suffered with the symptoms for years without knowing the root cause of their issues. Unfortunately, the reality is many doctors mistake this condition for atrophy during menopause. If you're experiencing painful sex, this skin condition is something worth investigating—especially if the initial stages of intimacy and penetration is where the discomfort happens. This condition is diagnosed through a skin biopsy. For accurate results, you'll have to ask your doctor specifically to rule out lichen sclerosus. There are many skin disorders that can create inflammation and skin changes of the vaginal area. Many are accompanied by dryness and hinder the act of sexual penetration. Telling a woman to simply use a lubricant is subpar medical care, as it's an important part of a woman's wellness and life.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/  https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/  https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Today we're continuing our conversation about natural solutions for vaginal wellness after menopause. There are various issues that can arise after menopause due to a drop in estrogen, and vaginal lubrication is one of the main ones that women seek to address. The tissues in the vaginal canal and opening are very sensitive, and after menopause, the area can be dry and the skin begins thinning. One of my favorite solutions is DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone)—a hormone typically made by the adrenal gland but that can also be obtained through supplementation. For purposes of vaginal wellness, DHEA has to be applied directly to the tissue to be effective. Maintaining vaginal wellness isn't just for women who have a partner, it's also for women who are single too. When you find a man who you want to be intimate with, taking care of your vaginal health now will ensure that you're ready. That's where the specific devices designed to support the health of vaginal tissues can come in. I carry a device in my office to help with this particular issue. It's a home use, red-light therapy device used purely for medical issues like vaginal atrophy. There is an 80-90% chance of improvement when used as recommended: three times a week for a maximum of ten minutes. When the desired outcome is achieved, it can be used just once a week. Women entering menopause, or going through it, should have an exam with an experienced gynecological doctor to assess tissue changes and to get support as quickly as possible. If your annual exam is already uncomfortable, it's a sign that vaginal intercourse will also be uncomfortable. The sooner you address these changes, the less you will have to deal with difficult symptoms.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/  https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/  https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

There has been very little research done in the area of urinary and vaginal wellness for menopausal and perimenopausal women, despite the number of women experiencing these issues increasing. This week, I'm starting a series of episodes about non-hormonal options available to women to overcome these concerns. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) tend to increase as women age, and staying hydrated is one thing that can help flush bacteria from the bladder wall, reducing the instance of infection. Cranberry juice can also protect the bladder from bacteria, but it has to be unsweetened (or you can take cranberry in supplement form). Our digestive health is interconnected with our vaginal health. Probiotics help maintain a healthy gut microbiome, and they can also support a healthy vaginal microbiome. There are even specific probiotic brands available for vaginal health. Good hygiene is also key to a woman's urinary and vaginal health. Avoiding douching, holding in urine, and getting dehydrated can help. Women should also change their underwear after a workout. Some women may need to take antibiotics to protect themselves during times of sexual activity. Uva ursi (also known as bearberry) and goldenseal are herbs that can support urinary wellness, thanks to their anti-microbial elements. During menopause, many women experience vaginal dryness and irritation. Vaginal moisturizers can be used to reduce tears in the urethra and vaginal opening, which also supports a reduction in urinary tract infections. Coconut oil is an all-natural, safe vaginal lubricant that is widely available.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/  https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/  https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

We're getting intro part 2 of our conversation about vaginal estrogen and its usefulness for treating GSM (genital urinary syndrome of menopause) symptoms in this episode. Last time, we began discussing the importance of timing for hormone replacement therapy, including estrogen therapy. When you act early—before your symptoms get worse—it can make a big difference. The vaginal walls and vaginal lining will lose lubrication and architectural support over time without estrogen. This is also called vaginal atrophy. The loss of moisture, which is the main symptom, is directly linked to a decrease in estrogen. Exposing your body to increased estrogen, like through vaginal estrogen for example, won't lead to a quick fix. It can take months of treatment before you start to notice a decrease in uncomfortable symptoms. Bringing your body back to a place where you feel a desire, or even a comfortability, with increased intimacy requires patience. Women have a right to know how valuable estrogen is to their intimacy. Portraying this hormone as the enemy when it's actually a vital hormone leads to a lot of suffering. There are safe products available on the market for women, and everyone should know about them. This includes vaginal suppositories and estrogen creams. The differing options of vaginal estrogen each come with their own benefits and potential side effects. When exploring your options, remember that, in large part, the fear behind estrogen is generally unfounded. After menopause, women should be getting an annual pelvic ultrasound and discuss estrogen treatment options with their doctor if desired.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/  https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/  https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Today we're talking about GSM: genitourinary syndrome of menopause. This new term encompasses the vaginal and urinary changes that happen during menopause. These changes don't just impact women during menopause—they have long-lasting implications post-menopause as well. Some of these changes include increased urinary frequency and urgency, plus recurrent vaginal infections. Menopausal women may also experience urinary tract infections differently: they aren't as painful. While this could be seen as a positive, it also makes it much more difficult to identify when the woman is experiencing a UTI. Many of the symptoms associated with GSM can be prevented when treated with vaginal estrogen. Vaginal estrogen is safe for women who have been diagnosed and treated for breast cancer, for women who have clotting disorders, and for women who have suffered heart attacks and strokes. Contrary to prior beliefs, the purpose of estrogen in a woman's body is not limited to reproduction. Estrogen plays a significant role in making us feel good. So why shouldn't we replace it when it's lost? Vaginal estrogen can be used for specific, local effects, targeting the actual area it's being administered too. Vaginal estrogen can be used by women who are also using other forms of hormone replacement therapy. Whether you're already taking another type of estrogen, or you haven't been but you want to explore vaginal estrogen to help manage your GSM, the sooner you talk to your health professional about it, the better. There is relief for your vaginal, sexual, and urinary wellness symptoms caused by a lack of estrogen.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/  https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/  https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Get ready to learn all about the timing for estrogen therapy and exactly when you should start hormone therapy for menopause. Timing is crucial because many women don't know when the best time to use it is, often realized when there have been irreversible changes and it's too late to undo them. Previous studies done on estrogen have scared women away from taking advantage of its benefits as a therapy earlier on. Yet, one of the main studies that led to widespread misinformation used oral synthetic estrogens. Keep in mind this hormone was one of the main ones available at the time.  As soon as transdermal estrogen became available, the benefits it had over oral estrogen were clear. It works well and is associated with less risks than oral synthetic options. The median average age of the women in this study was 63 years old, which means these women had been in menopause for at least the last decade. At this stage, the benefits of estrogen therapy have been limited. Based on the issues contained in this study, the outcomes are skewed. What you have been told about the dangers of estrogen is simply not true. They have led to a lot of harmful myths about estrogen, even in cases where hormone replacement therapy with estrogen could actually be helpful. Using synthetic progestin should also be avoided. Instead, ask your doctor for bioidentical progesterone, which is highly available since its approval decades ago. The timing of your hormone replacement therapy is critical to the outcome. The earlier the better, especially if you want to proactively protect your health.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

In this episode we're bringing our conversation about the WHI study about estrogen to a close. This study scared many health care professionals (and their patients) out of using estrogen therapy. Today, we're focusing on the reality of the risks associated with estrogen replacement therapy, especially whether or not there are actually any cancer-related risks. The breast cancer incidence in the women who took part in this study but did not receive hormone therapy (the placebo group) was almost identical to the women who received hormone treatment. The results, percentage wise, presented in this study were misleading. Another part of the study not explored was that women who took part who also had a hysterectomy showed a decrease in the incidence of cancer. Another idea not explored is the benefit of using estrogen and progesterone together, as it's critical to balance these hormones in women. Long term birth control use can increase a woman's risk for cancer, yet birth control is widely prescribed. Further to this point, when a woman who has used birth control most of her life and hormone replacement therapy after menopause gets cancer, no one will talk about the birth control. The people around her will likely point to the estrogen therapy as the culprit, even if she has been on it a very short amount of time. It takes courage to move even a single step towards what you feel is right for you. Don't let the misconceptions about estrogen (and misleading public opinion) stop you from taking action and improving your life. I hope the takeaway for you today is that estrogen is not what some people would have you believe!   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Today we're continuing our conversation about the WHI study that led to some serious misconceptions about estrogen therapy. This study involved oral estrogen, synthetically made from pregnant horse urine, given to women 10+ years past menopause. It's important to remember that by this time, these women had experienced irreversible changes due to how far into menopause they had been. This study looked specifically at the effect of estrogen in cardiovascular health in women. Estrogen therapy can help improve various unwanted symptoms in women, even past menopause. However, once you have plaque in your arteries, it's nearly impossible to reverse it.  The options for estrogen administration have also expanded since this study. At the time this research was conducted, transdermal patches hadn't been embraced on the scale they would be. Many hormone specialists have criticized how this research was done and point out the many things they would have done differently at the time the study was done and today. I, and many doctors like me, do not use oral estrogen therapy with clients. Transdermal estrogen bypasses the liver, which is just one reason why it's superior to oral estrogen. It therefore also has a much different risk profile than oral estrogen. Many women who are prescribed this potentially life-changing therapy feel dissuaded by FDA warnings and labels. It's been designated as a warning for all estrogen products indiscriminately, when it should have been applied to oral estrogen products only. As a result of these labels, so many women are missing out on this life saving treatment.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

For the next few episodes, I'm going to be focusing on the misconceptions around the relationship between estrogen and breast cancer. Many women are surrounded by people (even healthcare professionals) who tell them that estrogen is dangerous after menopause. However, this simply isn't true. Recently, I have had a few women come to me with similar issues related to menopause. These patients spent years suffering as opposed to seeking options for support. But if we can prevent significant loss of function, why not try it? That's where hormone replacement therapy comes in. Most women I see who decide to start hormone replacement therapy after menopause are so happy that they did. Instead of following their social conditioning to wait, or even suffer in silence, they decide to set themselves and their health as a priority. The mental shift I'd like to highlight here is instead of thinking "it's not broken, let's not fix it", the thinking should be "it's not broken, let's maintain it." Many women, including those who are already on hormone therapy, are afraid of taking estrogen due to the misconceptions about its role in breast cancer. For decades, estrogen therapy was recommended as a treatment for women during menopause. But in the early 2000s, a study was released that misled the public on how estrogen impacts women.  It's important to keep in mind this study was also run by cardiologists, not hormone specialists. In the next few episodes, I'll be shedding more light on this topic, including how this study was done on the wrong women using the wrong medication and method of administration.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

In this episode we'll continue to explore the true value of estrogen and why it's so important for women. It's important to recognize that there are limiting factors as to why more women don't invest in hormone replacement therapy treatments like estrogen. One of those factors is the cost, especially for women who put their wallet over their wellness. The health issues caused by menopause can be quite significant, and I believe hormone therapy should be much more accessible for women. It is the responsibility of health care professionals everywhere to convey why estrogen therapy is so valuable and how it can make a difference in their patient's lives.  The problem is most doctors aren't trained in hormone replacement therapy (although this doesn't necessarily stop them from talking badly about it). The idea that estrogen replacement could be harmful is illogical. Think about it: You have it in your body for decades before it's lost during menopause. Of course, there are other drugs you can take to help you manage the various symptoms of menopause. Keep in mind that these drugs come with side effects, but estrogen replacement can come with a lot of benefits. The slanderous campaign against estrogen is unfounded. Without exposure to estrogen, a young girl would never become a young woman. She would have no secondary sex characteristics or puberty. Without estrogen, she'll experience early cardiovascular issues and events. Estrogen doesn't increase the risk of cancer—but the lack of it does increase the risk of various health issues.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Today we're talking about the value of estrogen, and this episode may introduce you to a whole new perspective on the value of it in your life and body. I recently met a patient who kept herself in good physical health. However, she started to notice signs of aging that felt incongruent with her self-image. She was also struggling to desire intimacy with her husband of many years. Until she listened to some podcasts that specifically focused on hormone replacement therapy, she never connected the dots between her symptoms and the loss of estrogen she was experiencing. I'm highlighting this because it isn't just her story; it's the story of so many women who have experienced a significant loss of estrogen. After meeting her, I reflected on a situation I went through which had some similarities to hers; a health issue that I waited to address. Thankfully, I didn't wait too long, and I had a dental issue taken care of before it caused more damage. However, this patient I saw waited a long time and went through so much before seeking support. Many women choose to wait until they experience the loss of something dear to them, like the loss of intimacy with their partner, before they do something about it. Why? Because they don't yet understand what they are facing. Women don't yet know the value of what they lose during menopause, which is why this needs to be talked about. A woman's body changes irreversibly without estrogen. While I don't consider myself a hormone specialist, I am very well-versed in hormone therapy and have taken a lot of advanced training on this subject. I use this knowledge to help my patients, like the one I've discussed here, feel more like themselves again.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Most women don't really understand how hormones like estrogen fluctuate during their cycle. If you were to test a woman's estrogen, the level you would get would vary greatly depending on which part of her cycle she was in. Ovulation marks the peak of estrogen levels during the entire cycle. At the same time, the level of estrogen at ovulation is dependent on the quality of egg that is released during her cycle. Further to this, normal levels of estrogen don't always reflect the optimal levels. This highlights the importance of data interpretation when your levels are being tested, especially if you don't feel well. The lower your estrogen is, the higher your FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) will be. Put plainly, FSH is stimulated by the brain and helps your ovaries make estrogen. If FSH is low, this indicates normal ovarian function. FSH and estrogen should always be tested together because it gives you and your health provider a more panoramic view of overall hormone levels. After the age of 50, FSH can be used as a reliable menopause indicator. When you're taking estrogen therapy during menopause, symptoms like hot flashes and fatigue can be drastically reduced. But other issues, like vaginal dryness and urinary tract infections, may persist at those moments when your estrogen is low.  Pellet administration of estrogen therapy offers a more consistent release of estrogen, which helps you avoid other symptoms. Even in this case, your FSH levels should still be tested alongside your estrogen levels. Gathering this information will allow you and your doctor to figure out your optimal estrogen exposure.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Why don't we know more about optimal testosterone levels, especially since it can be so beneficial for women? Part of the problem is that research into women's health is significantly underfunded. Testosterone is an estrogen antagonist, so it could help with estrogen-dominant conditions like endometriosis. Yet, it isn't put forth as a possible treatment. Many women have excellent tolerance levels for the right amount of testosterone so long as their health professionals consider their physiology and reason for treatment. Menopause is another hormone-related issue many women struggle with, yet we put very little resources towards researching how hormone replacement therapy can help. No study has been aimed at figuring out the optimal dose of testosterone for women and how those levels can improve bone mass, but this would be a critical health issue to explore. Due to the drug dose gender gap, women also experience a higher degree of side effects due to the fact that women are dosed medications based on research done on male bodies. Women would have happier lives, marriages, and families if their testosterone levels were tested before they were sent off to therapy or given medications for depression. Testosterone isn't just important for motivation and energy, but it's also a mood stabilizer. So, what is the optimal testosterone level for women, especially considering their specific goals and conditions? There isn't enough data yet to know. Our sex hormones aren't just about continuing the human race—we should call them anabolic youth hormones because that better describes what they actually do.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

In today's episode we're continuing our conversation about testosterone therapy, including its benefits and the importance of monitoring testosterone levels. Understanding the testosterone levels you should strive for and measuring your physiological responses is key to using it beneficially. Testosterone is the main anabolic hormone in the body. It repairs, restores, and regrows damaged tissue. The problem is that the normal range established by labs—a guide most doctors will use to identify if your testosterone is low—is not always the best baseline to use.  In an ideal world, people would have their testosterone levels measured in their early twenties and every year after. When using hormone replacement therapy, an optimal level of testosterone would be the amount that allows you to see improvements in stamina, endurance, motivation, and athletic performance.  At the right amount, you would also notice a better mood, an increase in sexual desire, and a higher metabolic rate. That said, there's no perfect amount for testosterone replacement for women; only the amount that works for them as an individual. There are different options for testosterone administration, including injections and creams. Injectable testosterone is administered about once a week. Testosterone creams are usually applied daily, and this method usually increases testosterone levels right after administration (usually in the morning) with the levels tapering down throughout the day. Creams are the easiest to administer, so they are also a popular choice among women. If you're wondering if testosterone could improve your health, reach out to a medical professional trained in this type of therapy.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

This episode is for all the women who have left the doctor disappointed—turned away and told their hormone levels were fine even when they didn't feel right. Hormone level testing isn't given much thought by the majority of medical professionals, yet it's crucial to providing adequate patient health. Right now, there is a complete lack of standardization in this area. A part of this is due to the fact that hormones impact men and women differently, and we don't know how introductions of hormones will impact any specific individual. There is also a difference between testing for normal levels of hormones and optimal levels. Ranges for hormones like progesterone and estrogen can also vary in women depending on their age. The time of the day in which hormones are tested can also change the interpretation of the results. How much testosterone should a woman have, regardless of age? The normal range is considered 2 units above zero. While this is considered "normal," in reality this is quite low. It's important for energy and mood, and no other hormone has the capacity to stimulate muscle formation and muscle repair. Given how it impacts women's health, it's clear to see how accepting low levels as normal in testing can impact a woman's health greatly. I believe that the key to helping patients maintain optimal hormone levels is to establish a baseline early on. Man or woman, the patient should be tested when they are at their peak health level. No one goes to the doctor when they feel great, and therefore they aren't getting tested when they're feeling their best, but you may want to advocate for this if you're looking forward to how you'll feel down the road.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

We're welcoming Meghan Morrissette, my aesthetics nurse, again today to bring our conversation about Botox and other types of neurotoxin treatments to a close. We'll be addressing more common questions in this episode. When is the best time to get Botox? Is there a better age to start? Patients in their 20s typically seek neurotoxin treatment for facial balancing, as they haven't largely experienced the signs of aging. By relaxing some of the facial muscles, you can also reduce the appearance of static wrinkles later in life, which are caused by repetitive muscle movements. Social media has played a significant role in attracting younger people towards neurotoxin treatment and other preventative aging measures. This is, in part, due to the fact that Gen Z is much more aware of their appearance. If you're in your 20s, simply wearing sunscreen is one of the best things you can do for your skin. For patients who are more advanced in age, it's important to be clear and transparent when discussing expectations for results. For example, Botox can't lift sagging skin. This should be made clear to clients who come in with sagging skin as their primary concern. No matter what stage of life you're in, your aesthetics nurse should always conduct an individual assessment so they can customize a treatment plan for you based on your skin type, face shape, and outcome desires. You should also know the potential side effects, which can include bruising, headaches, or more serious side effects like the spreading of the toxin itself.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

We are continuing our conversation about Botox with Meghan, my aesthetics nurse. Is all Botox the same? Actually, they can vary in some ways. If you don't feel ecstatic about the results a few weeks later, you can experiment with different types of neuromodulators. For example, instead of the Botox brand name you can try Dysport, Daxxify, Xeomin, and more. If your treatment is going well and you're happy with it, you don't need to change anything. Typically, injectors don't carry all the different brands. The dosing discussion can be challenging for patients and injectors, so it's important to take into account the person's response and their risk for sensitivity. Younger women and men are seeking Botox, and it's important to note the frequency of their treatments. Patients who are injected more often (usually with smaller doses) are more likely to build up antibodies to the treatment. Those who want to use Botox with longevity should focus on getting treatments less often at the dose required to see results. All patients should be educated on what overtreating with Botox looks like. The goal is not for you to feel or look frozen; it's to smooth wrinkles and add lift and balance. You always want to preserve some facial expression. If you're looking to address static wrinkles, that's where lasers and peels come in. Resurfacing layers can help smooth wrinkles that appear at rest. Botox doesn't address pigmentation, pore size, or hydration—but these are all things layers and/or peels can help with.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

This week's episode is all about Botox as we welcome my aesthetics nurse Meghan Morrissette. As a holistically-minded person, the idea of injecting myself with a toxic chemical just to look better did not appeal to me for many years. However, now that I have a deeper understanding about what Botox can really do, I think it's worth exploring, which I recently did myself. I had a great experience trying Botox for the first time with Meghan. She has a soft, delicate touch, and the needles are tiny, so I felt no pain at all. She's passionate about giving natural results and long-lasting outcomes. Meghan sees the art in what she does, while also understanding the science behind it.  Neurotoxins like Botox are substances that impact the nervous system. They block the signal between the nerves and muscles, leading to smoother looking skin. It can address existing wrinkles and ones that haven't formed yet. Interestingly, Botox was actually developed for medical use, specifically to help with chronic migraines, excessive sweating, an overactive bladder, and eye spasms.  It takes a certain set of skills to be a great injector. For example, it's crucial to have an eye for anatomy, especially for natural-looking results. It's also important to understand how the neurotoxin works to properly customize the dose and the placement. The personal anatomy and goals of the patient should be taken into account too. If you have concerns about trying Botox, there are a few things you should know. First, Botox should not freeze your face. Botox is intended to relax specific areas and overall bring greater balance to your face. It's perfectly safe and very effective.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Today we're concluding our conversation about being independently healthy. This time, we're focusing on preventative care and maintaining your health. Most patients believe their health insurance plan is there to keep them healthy, but this is not true. The medical insurance industry is designed only to cover catastrophically high expenses in serious health situations. It's important to remember that your health insurance does not guarantee you access to a wide array of services with your medical care provider. If you want services outside of what's covered by your insurance, you may have to start budgeting and saving for those services. As you advance in age, this becomes even more important. If you require pellet hormone therapy, IV vitamin therapy, hyperbaric oxygen, or vitamins on a regular basis, you'll need to consider these costs in advance. Access to weight loss support can also be expensive. Plan in advance for these times so that if anything happens to you or someone you love, you're prepared. Some of the best doctors are going with a concierge service, and this is a good thing. It means they can take time to get to know you and truly care for your needs, while also taking your insurance as well. Doctors are not paid their true worth by medical insurance plans, which can also make a concierge fee necessary. The support staff in your doctor's office need to be paid, and medical insurance doesn't cover that. There are so many things your insurance plan doesn't cover, and doctors are adding a fee to support the administrative work and staff to provide you with better experience in their care.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

In this episode we're continuing our conversation about being independently healthy, focusing on covered medical expenses. Medical insurance premiums have skyrocketed—they are extremely expensive, and therefore unaffordable for many people. If possible, it's important to prioritize having your deductible on hand in case you ever need it. You may also need a contingency plan for specific medical expenses which are not covered. If it's a therapy focused on maintaining wellness, balancing hormones, or anti-aging, it will likely not be a covered expense.  The medical insurance business is indeed a business, so they want to make a profit. But remember, this has nothing to do with your doctor making profit. Your doctor simply made the decision to allow access to more people by accepting insurance plans. If any issues come up with your medical insurance, you will need to handle it with the insurance company directly. Here's the truth about private practice: your doctor gets paid last. He or she pays everyone else before they pay themselves, and they would actually make more if they worked for an entity that paid them annually (plus for billing). That's corporate medicine, and it helps doctors avoid dealing with customer service, managing teams, billing, and more.  For doctors, independence comes at a cost. Most doctors today have to implement fees to support their admin, and this is often wrapped up in a concierge fee. When it comes to affordability as a patient, there's also a lot to consider, like where you're at in life and who you're providing for. Perhaps you can't afford to not invest in proactive, maintenance-focused care.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Many of us are familiar with the idea of being independently wealthy, but what does it mean to be independently healthy? Health independence is the ability to maintain your physical and mental wellbeing without relying on external support. If you want to be independently healthy, you need to eat well, exercise often, sleep soundly, and manage your stress. Having this knowledge is one thing, but using it is another. The reality is that 40% of Americans suffer from two or more chronic illnesses, and 3 out of 4 Americans are overweight or obese. It's also much easier to be independently healthy when you're young, whereas when we're older we need more support. Your medical insurance company does not exist to help you be independently healthy. For many, an expensive plan can mean throwing money into a black hole, never to be seen again. You could instead invest in a less expensive plan and save extra on the side so that you have that additional cost if and when you need it. Your insurance likely won't cover a lot of the preventative and proactive measures that keep you healthy like vitamins, hormone replacement therapy, and more. Your insurance will probably cover you for a significant medical event—like a heart attack—but waiting for the worst case scenario isn't an ideal use for insurance money. The medical insurance industry tends to over promise and under deliver. I'm not saying to forgo any medical coverage at all, but I am highlighting the importance of considering your health costs and encouraging you to think about budgeting for your health care differently.    Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Today we're continuing our conversation about cholesterol and debunking the myths around it. In their 50s, approximately 40-50% of men have some degree of coronary artery disease. This risk only increases as age advances. Poor food choices, sedentary lifestyle, and exposure to toxins also increases this risk. Half of men who experience a heart attack don't even have any symptoms prior to this event. For the men who don't make it through the heart attack, they will never get the chance to do anything about it. This highlights the importance of early detection of heart disease, especially in men. So, low cholesterol isn't healthy, but neither is excessively high cholesterol. It's time to start seeking support and get evaluated by your doctor. If you have high cholesterol, you will need to change your diet (low in saturated fats and high in vegetables, fiber, and protein). You also need to engage in regular activity. Statins are widely used to help manage cholesterol levels, however they come with a fair amount of side effects. The most commonly reported side effect is muscle pain and weakness. It can also lead to constipation, bloating, and liver damage. Statins may also cause dizziness and could increase the risk of rhabdomyolysis.  If you want to improve your nutrition and lower your cholesterol, include more soluble fiber in your diet. Omega 3 fatty acids (found commonly in fish) offer heart-protective benefits. Vitamin B3 increases good cholesterol while lowering bad cholesterol, but this should be taken with supervision. COQ10 supports heart health and is especially helpful if you're taking a statin.    Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

We all have men in our life that we care about, and it's important to keep their health at the top of our mind. One factor that can greatly impact men's health is his cholesterol, however the way cholesterol works is greatly misunderstood. In this episode we're debunking cholesterol myths and shedding light on what matters when it comes to cholesterol and men's health. 70% of heart attacks are first time events, which means those who have one never knew they had heart disease in the first place. If you experience a heart attack, it's really important to make diet and lifestyle changes. You will likely also be given medications by your doctor to help manage your heart health. But here's what you need to know: cholesterol is not the enemy. It's actually an important molecule that serves many vital functions. It helps maintain the integrity of your cell membranes, plus supports hormone production (estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, cortisol, and more), and many of these hormones are vital to men's optimal health. Without cholesterol, you can become deficient in vitamin D. Cholesterol turns into vitamin D when we're exposed to sunlight, and this vitamin is very important for maintaining bone health. Cholesterol is also needed to produce bile acids which help digest and absorb dietary fats in the digestive system. A lack of cholesterol, specifically due to malabsorption, has been linked to neurodegenerative diseases like dementia. It's indispensable for brain health and cognitive function. This doesn't mean high cholesterol is the answer. When it comes to your levels, balance is key. You deserve a doctor who can take the time to guide you through balancing your cholesterol holistically.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

This month we're taking a few episodes to explore things to keep top of mind for men's health. Even if you're not a man yourself, the men in your life may have some unique needs and health issues you'll want to know about. In the United States, heart attacks kill about 325,000 men per year. So, why are men so prone to heart disease? It can develop due to a combination of lifestyle, genetic, and environmental factors. A sedentary lifestyle contributes to high blood pressure and an unfavorable lipid profile, among other things. Heavy drinking can also weaken the heart muscle and impair its ability to function effectively.  Many people believe vaping and smoking helps with stress, when in reality the damage it does to your body adds to your physical stress and further strains the heart. High cholesterol can lead to the buildup of plaque, which can narrow arteries and reduce the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the heart. While sometimes shrugged off as "normal," sleep apnea can contribute to high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. Repeated episodes can damage your blood vessels and decrease your vascular health. Low testosterone can also contribute to heart disease through various mechanisms. The symptoms of heart disease in men vary greatly, but the most common are chest pain and discomfort (angina) and shortness of breath. You may experience pain in your neck, chest, or arm accompanied by fatigue, dizziness, or light-headedness. If you're experiencing these symptoms, don't push them aside—call for help immediately.    Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

We're continuing our conversation about insurance coverage today, specifically how it impacts your access to wellness procedures and therapies. All insurance companies are positioned in a particularly advantageous position. People tend to have unrealistic expectations about what they're being offered, and this usually comes to light when they get denied. Oftentimes, insurance is a lose-win situation, and only becomes a win-win for you when something unfortunate happens and you need high-cost medical care. Each medical insurance company has their own version of a formulary, which is an approved list of cheapest medications they are willing to pay for—only with proven medical necessity. Our bodies are complex machines, and issues can arise even when you're seemingly in good health. Doing what it takes to maintain your health can give you the additional support you might need and wish you'd had when illness strikes. If you value your health, you must pay attention to what you eat, how you exercise, and the nutrients you provide yourself with. Many men and women fail to value their health and demand other people—like their doctors or their insurance company—to carry the responsibility for it. But in reality, we should call health insurance "medical insurance," because that's what it actually is. Your insurance is designed to help you get back to baseline, but not to restore optimal health. Remember when visiting your doctor that they do not know the specifics of your insurance plan. It is your responsibility to understand your insurance plan and what is actually covered. No matter your budget looks like, your medical professionals should be able to provide some options to help you move forward.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

In this episode we're discussing vitamins and what insurance coverage looks like for them. IV vitamin therapy is beneficial to your health for so many reasons, but some types may be covered and some may not. Additionally, hospitals also have very specific policies and protocols about what they will offer, and typically they do not offer IV vitamin therapy. Hospitals often cite a lack of scientific evidence for IV vitamin therapy. Yet the truth is that there is actually more scientific support for the vitamins administered during IV therapy than there is for any drug administered in any hospital. Vitamins support healthy immune function, normal cell function, and DNA synthesis. Drugs are not designed to do this. Drugs can alter and destroy DNA, but only the vitamins, nutrients, and hormones we have support healing. Insurance companies look at vitamins as not medically necessary, yet many hospitalized patients are too sick to eat and therefore do need this nutritional support. I often get asked if vitamins are covered by health insurance, and the answer is always no. Vitamins are considered dietary aids, which puts them outside of the realm of medical interventions. If you're interested in IV vitamin therapy, you're best off seeking it out at a clinic that supports their patients through additional measures outside of traditional western medicine. Patients in our clinic always go through a consultation process, and as a part of this process, they are asked to bring in their vitamins. Once we review their blood test results, we personalize their vitamin packs based on what they actually need. IV vitamin therapy can play an extremely important role in reaching your optimal health.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Today we're continuing our discussion about IV vitamin therapy, especially regarding how administering vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, and amino acids through IV can be beneficial for you. Vitamin C supports a healthy immune system, and injectable forms provide a rapid increase. If you feel exhausted or stressed, whether from life changes, travelling, or everyday stresses, a vitamin C administration through IV can help protect you from getting sick. It can also reduce damage and stress to tissues. Vitamin C is also essential for collagen production and plays an important role in healing. And thanks to this collagen benefit, it can also support healthy looking skin. High-dose vitamin C injections can also be used as a complementary therapy to cancer treatments. It also reduces fatigue, which can be particularly beneficial for those with chronic fatigue syndrome. Calcium isn't commonly given intravenously, but it is important in specific situations—for example, during a blood transfusion or for electrolyte support in acute situations. Magnesium is important for key functions like energy function, nerve transmission, and muscle contraction. It is often recommended as part of restorative IV plans, especially for those who struggle to absorb magnesium. ALA, or alpha-lipoic acid, is an antioxidant that neutralizes free radical damage and helps with blood sugar regulation. It supports healthy cognition and may slow down the effect of aging. Amino acids, the building blocks of protein, can also be given intravenously. They are essential for nutrient absorption, tissue growth, and so many other crucial processes of the body.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Let's dig deeper into IV vitamin therapy. Specifically, we're exploring how to administer vitamin therapy and going further in depth with the vitamins themselves. Generally, IV vitamin therapy lasts about 60 minutes, especially if you are getting more than a few vitamins at once. Rushing your infusion is probably not a good thing. Even if you're eager to save time, it's much better to dilute the vitamins appropriately and give them time to be administered. The amount of times per month you'll need an infusion depends on your individual needs and goals. Vitamins are either water soluble (like vitamin C and B) or fat soluble (like vitamin A and D). Water soluble vitamins are not stored in the body, so they must be consumed regularly as part of your diet. Fat soluble vitamins can be banked, stored, and utilized by the body as needed. B vitamins are crucial for a healthy functioning body. B1, thiamine, is important for energy production and nerve function. B12, or riboflavin, supports energy production, too, and also plays an important role in metabolism. B3 is also called niacin, and this helps with DNA repair and promotes healthy skin. Vitamin B5, or pantothenic acid, helps convert food into energy and supports healthy hormone production.  Vitamin B6, also called pyridoxine, helps regulate the production of hemoglobin and plays a crucial role in fighting infections. B7, biotin, supports healthy hair and clear skin. It also supports nerve communication and function. B8, or inositol, supports cellular health and integrity. B9, or folate, is absolutely essential in creating new DNA and repairing existing DNA. Lastly, B12, or cobalamin, is important for red blood cell formation and cell division.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/  

Although IV vitamin therapy is far from mainstream, it's a great alternative therapy for many reasons. There are many hours that doctors and healthcare professionals have to put into self-education about IV vitamin therapy before they can be comfortable offering it.   As a restorative anti-aging practitioner, I believe in allowing the body to heal by providing it the nutrients it needs. IV vitamin therapy allows for the administration of vitamins and minerals directly into the bloodstream. This method of delivery allows for immediate 100% availability to your cells.   This is especially helpful for those who suffer from severe nutrient deficiencies, especially if they cannot take them orally. This includes those who suffer with malabsorption syndromes. If you've had a gastric bypass or gastric sleeve, or have used antibiotics for a long time, you may also have nutrient deficiencies that can be addressed with IV vitamin therapy. IV vitamin administration can also improve quality of life in cancer patients, while reducing the side effects of their treatments. Specifically, high doses of vitamin C seem to work well to keep cancer cells in check. Our immune systems also need certain vitamins and minerals to operate optimally, especially those in cancer treatment.   IV fluids can also be used to hydrate patients effectively. This allows yet another application of IV therapy in a variety of serious situations. In fact, this plays a part in what launched IV therapy into the wellness industry: hangover clinics. Hopefully, sometime in the future, IV vitamin therapy will be more widely offered in the health and wellness industry.     Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/    

In this episode we're discussing how the body works and why nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, or NAD, might be a miracle molecule. You may have heard of NAD before and be aware that it has benefits, but feel unclear about what those actually are. By the end of this episode, you'll feel confident in discussing this topic. The human body is very complex—we have about 78 organs that keep us alive. The brain has 86 billion nerve cells, and then our bodies produce 50 hormones and thousands of enzymes crucial for various processes. But what would it look like to replenish a universal essential molecule to optimal levels? That's where NAD comes in. If we can naturally or artificially improve NAD levels, it is possible we can improve health, wellness, and even lifespan. It's primarily known in substance abuse and addiction recovery, having been used to help minimize cravings. It can also help with neurodegenerative diseases and cognitive decline. Due to NAD's ability to speed up metabolism, it can also be used to help chronic fatigue.  NAD can be made in the body from scratch using tryptophan. There is another pathway using niacin, as well as a third pathway—called the salvage pathway—which is the most efficient. Lifestyle changes and supplementing with substrates can also help increase natural production of NAD. It can also be injected into the body, but each type (IV, intramuscular, and subcutaneously) has their own benefits and downsides. An adequate dose of highly bioavailable NAD can have significant impacts on your cellular function, helping you feel less tired and sharper cognitively. It can also improve your mood. That said, NAD is relatively new in the supplement space, so you may be choosing a manufacturer with a lot of unknowns.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Today we're talking about WarmScuplting platforms as a non-invasive option for reducing fat cells. Using it in my practice, we use laser-generated heat that destroys fat cells in 25-minute treatment sessions. It is also highly customizable, and the treatment is designed to keep your skin cool. There is another type of treatment that uses radiofrequency (RF), and this is also non-invasive. One specific option, called TempSure, uses an applicator to apply RF deep into the skin. However, it doesn't destroy fat cells. Rather, its primary use is reducing the appearance of cellulite and tightening the skin. You may have heard of a body contouring procedure called Vanquish. It uses heat at a specific temperature and length of time. The device emits energy that heats the skin and underlying fat, but it does not touch your body. With Vanquish, you do need more treatments (six or more) to achieve desired results). What about radiofrequency microneedling? Morpheus8 uses this combination to mainly remodel your skin through micro injuries that promote collagen and elastin production. It is imperative to take good care of your skin post-procedure, due to the needle puncture wounds. Of all the options available, EmSculpt Neo is the most unique It utilizes HIFEM energy, and it can be used almost anywhere on the body. It can accomplish three things at once: destroying fat, growing and strengthening muscle, and tightening skin. It's not just a body contouring device—its regenerative features make it an excellent option to explore.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Today we're diving into more specific surgery-free options for achieving fat removal results: WarmSculpting (also known as SculpSure) and CoolSculpting. Both of these target pockets of fat using extreme temperatures to get rid of them permanently. The first time I tried CoolSculpting, I wasn't sold on it, so I had decided not to bring it into my practice. But later, when the MonaLisa Touch came out, I had a completely different experience. I had no discomfort, no lumps, and 2-3 weeks later I noticed the fat on my belly shrinking. Convinced of the effectiveness and ease of procedure, I would then use it for the next decade for my patients. CoolSculpting has some significant downsides to be aware of. There can be redness, swelling, bruising. The biggest problem you need to know about is skin damage, including a possible loss of sensation for 6 months (and even permanently in some cases). WarmSculpting also comes with its share of risks, but generally it is safer than CoolSculpting. Where CoolSculpting can leave an uneven appearance, this is a non-issue with WarmSculpting technology. When you use heat to destroy fat, there is always a cold counteractive mechanism to protect the skin. Paradoxical adipose hyperplasia is a serious complication of CoolSculpting. This happens when the fat cells you try to destroy actually increase in size and firm up. There are a few people whose fat cells react like this too cool sculpting specifically, and it can be disfiguring.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Today we're exploring body contouring, including what exactly it is, the pros and cons, and the various ways you can achieve it. The first thing you need to know is that body contouring is not at all similar to weight loss. The goal, more specifically, is to change the shape of your body, not necessarily the number on the scale. The best candidates for this type of treatment are those dealing with stubborn pockets of fat that seem to be resistant to weight loss. These areas are usually around the stomach, hips, and upper arms, and it more commonly bothers women than men. As a woman, it's important to understand the risks and benefits to body contouring and other options like liposuction so you can make an informed decision on whether or not they are right for you. While liposuction can offer quick results, that's not always a good thing, and it can be very expensive as well. Body contouring is less expensive, and there is much less recovery time. Liposuction is invasive; it's considered a major surgery and does come with a risk of infection. There's also a risk of nerve damage, rippling, and loose skin. If you want no pain, no down time, and no risks, body contouring technology is a better option, even if it takes a little longer to get the results you want. Body contouring devices destroy fat cells by exposing them to either too much heat or too much cold, and the results aren't temporary. Once the cells are destroyed, they are gone for good. Just remember that the key is maintaining a healthy relationship with food and exercise if you really want your body contentment to last.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

In today's episode we're welcoming Meghan Morrissette as a guest. Meghan is a dedicated aesthetics nurse of 15 years, and she's here to share her knowledge on filler injections and more. She specializes in facial balancing and contouring with injectables. It takes a lot of skill, experience, exposure, and an artistic eye to master the craft of injecting filler. You always want to focus on enhancing someone's natural features in a way that's subtle and undetectable. Many women begin losing the youthful volume in their face in their mid-thirties. If you don't recognize the woman you see in the mirror and you are ready to do something about it, scheduling an assessment is the first place to start. A curated treatment plan that includes lasers and fillers can go a long way in improving skin texture, pigmentation, and face balance. While filler can result in light bruising and swelling, there is typically very little downtime involved. One of the issues that can arise with filler—especially if you don't choose the right provider—is overfilling. As a provider, Meghan knows how important it is to say "no" to maintain her honesty and integrity. There are a lot of different applications for both filler and Botox. Botox can reduce lines and give the skin a smoother look. Filler can be added in different parts of the face and body, including the lips, hands, buttocks, and more. No matter which you use, you should do an assessment first and the outcome should always look natural.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Today we're discussing vaginal laser technology in detail and which options should be considered for best results. The MonaLisa Touch was the first vaginal laser technology introduced in the US—but previously, the same technology has been used for fine lines and wrinkles. The purchase of any laser for a woman's intimate wellness isn't a decision to be taken lightly. Your medical professional should always refer to what the research and studies have said, not what the sales rep is telling them. Still, investing in new technologies for vaginal wellness was a no-brainer for me as a doctor who cares about bringing the best possible tools to the women's wellness space. The MonaLisa Touch was designed to treat vaginal atrophy that occurs with aging. It can also be used for vaginal infections or even surface issues like marks and scarring. It has even been used for interstitial cystitis to reduce the frequency and urgency of bladder pain. There is another treatment called Viveve that can be used for vaginal wellness. This treatment uses cryogen-cooled monopolar radiofrequency (CMRF) energy, and by employing two different technologies, it can penetrate energy deeper. This can help with vaginal laxity through the stimulation of collagen production. You can also microneedle the vagina. Despite the name, this treatment is not painful. Morpheus8 V is a non-invasive treatment that uses both microneedling with radiofrequency energy to improve vaginal health, tighten tissue, and encourage collagen production.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

The most recent breakthrough launched in the last decade for vaginal health improvement has been laser technology. This new approach comes from an emphasis on looking for ways to promote health and healing (as opposed to destroying disease). There is a demand for safe treatment for serious medical conditions that cause vaginal discomfort and pain. Generally, our medical system has fallen short of meeting women's sexual health and wellbeing needs. The friction that occurs during intercourse can be intolerable and downright painful if a woman is struggling with sensitive tissues and decreased lubrication. Women experiencing fibroids, adenomyosis, and other estrogen sensitive conditions (like an estrogen sensitive cancer) aren't able to utilize the benefits of estrogen therapy. Laser therapy gives these women another option to explore. The cosmetic industry has been using lasers in various applications for a long time. While some laser therapies delivered to other areas, like the face for example, can be harsh, the only way to treat the vagina with lasers is to use a gentle approach. Keep in mind that this treatment isn't available everywhere, as it can come with certain risks for the medical professionals offering it. We need to change the idea that a woman's vaginal wellness is purely related to sex. The truth is that vaginal health is interconnected with other health systems (the urinary system, quite closely, for instance). Check in with your healthcare professionals, especially if you're experiencing a loss of elasticity, atrophy, or other changes to your vaginal area so you can be proactive in addressing it.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Endometriosis can make intimacy difficult for women to enjoy—and that's not just for young women, but women of all ages. Endometriosis is when the uterine lining (the endometrium) grows outside the uterus. The cause of this is unknown, however it causes inflammation, scarring, and pain. Research regarding treatment is severely lacking when it comes to this condition, in part because it is not considered a life-threatening illness. Another reason is that the potential for money-making is limited. That said, it does highly impact a woman's quality of life and her experiences, and therefore deserves more attention than it's gotten. Endometriosis is also difficult to diagnose as this requires surgery under anesthesia. The approach by conventional medicine in terms of treatment is offering medication that drastically decreases estrogen, for example birth control pills. It can help with some symptoms, but it doesn't reduce pain during intercourse and can come with some side effects. Testosterone inhibits the growth of endometrial cells in-vitro, so there is some research to support that testosterone therapy can counteract the overactive growth of uterine lining associated with endometriosis. Testosterone isn't recommended as a first line therapy for women with this condition, but it should be. The key with testosterone therapy is using bioidentical hormones. Synthetic testosterone products can come with significant side effects like facial hair growth, voice changes, and acne. Women and health care providers need to educate themselves on the benefits of testosterone for endometriosis and the best way to use it. Regardless of their condition, women deserve to enjoy intimacy just as much as men.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

There are two conditions that can impact a woman's sexual wellness regardless of their age: vulvodynia and vaginismus. These conditions can be painful and limit a woman's desire for intimacy—all while they suffer in silence. This is why it's so important to open up a conversation about these conditions and the options available for treatment. Vulvodynia is a disturbance at the nerve endings of a woman's delicate tissues. It can feel sensitive even when a woman sits down, rides a bike, or engages in other activities. It's easy to diagnose, and there are various options for treatment that dampen the excessive pain response of this issue. There are laser platforms and technologies that can also be applied for women's intimacy needs, offering support where conventional medicine fails to provide relief. The application of energy to tissues can rewire and reset nerve endings, helping relieve pain. Vaginismus affects many women both younger and older. Yet, so many who are diagnosed with this condition have no idea what it is or how they've developed it. It happens when pelvic floor muscles suffer involuntary contractions, which narrows the vaginal canal and can make initiating intimacy difficult and unenjoyable. Pelvic floor therapy and relaxation techniques can be effective in supporting vaginismus, especially when the root cause has been resolved. If pain during intercourse is not addressed early on, a woman may begin to associate intimacy with her partner with pain. This experience of anticipating pain can make the condition even more difficult to deal with, and eventually she may avoid intimacy altogether.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

In this episode, we're continuing our discussion about sexual wellness during perimenopause. This stage of life can be extremely difficult for women who are sensitive to changes in mood. They may look to outside sources to alleviate this stress. For example: sweet and salty foods or alcohol. This stress, and the weight gain that comes with it, makes a woman feel anything but sexual. Stress is the enemy of intimacy and fertility, which can be disruptive to women who desire a healthy sexual relationship with their partner and those who want to have kids later in life. For women, as we age, it gets even more difficult to maintain our weight. It can even feel impossible to lose weight during perimenopause and beyond. A decline in testosterone levels is part of the reason behind this, as it's an important hormone when it comes to building and maintaining muscle. Early intervention is critical in combating weight gain issues and the other issues that accompany perimenopause. A simple blood draw can provide lots of insight into hormone levels, but a deeper blood evaluation is more reliable and provides even greater information. This depth of care isn't easy to find unless you seek out a doctor who appreciates more holistic methods. As a woman, it's important to understand that testosterone is your feel-good hormone. It's the hormone that keeps you feeling lean, fit, and sexy. It can also help boost mood and can help with mood issues like PMDD and depression. Testosterone replacement can support significant improvement with certain hormonal-based problems, but knowing which type to use is key.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

How can women find optimal intimacy in all stages of life, including during perimenopause? Most women experience perimenopause around their early forties, and a woman's body goes through a lot of changes at this time, some of which greatly impact their desire to be intimate with their partners. Taking steps early on is a woman's best tool for navigating these changes. However, it's important to note that the solutions for a woman in menopause are not the same as those experiencing perimenopause. While there is a decline in estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone, there is not a complete loss of estrogen. During perimenopause, it's not abnormal for women to act out of character or behave differently than normal. This may be due in part because estrogen is an agitating hormone—and fluctuations can have a significant impact on a woman's life. If you're a woman who's been feeling especially anxious, angry, and frustrated, having sex is going to be at the bottom of your priority list. You may also feel like your partner is the enemy as your body deals with these intense hormonal ups and downs. At the same time, you may also feel an increased craving for sweet and salty foods. As if dealing with these changes weren't difficult enough, changes to hormones and diet can also influence insulin resistance and weight gain, which may lead you to feel even less sexy. If you haven't been through perimenopause yet, remember it's something all women have to go through. Be proactive in your approach to these changes if you want to be prepared.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

If you're a woman who struggles with pain and discomfort during intimacy, you're not alone. There are a multitude of conditions that limit women in terms of intimacy, and they suffer in silence. In this episode, we're diving into this topic and sharing possible solutions.  As women age and go through menopause, they experience significant shifts in their hormones. These shifts, such as the loss of estrogen, can lead to vaginal dryness and other issues of sexual dysfunction. The good news is that estrogen deficiency is easily addressed through a cream or vaginal insert. Once a woman loses her estrogen, it does not come back. This is important to note for women looking to balance their hormones when balance is no longer an option. Once the ovaries have run out of eggs, we have to deal with the reality of final estrogen loss in women and the difficult symptoms that come along with this change. Most women will need to try various hormone replacement methods until they find the perfect one for them. There's no reason to fear it either. Any concern about the relationship between estrogen replacement and cancer is unfounded—cancer rates naturally rise as we get older no matter what. If you want to restore intimacy, there is help out there. Estrogen replacement is worth trying, even if you've tried it before and the method you used didn't work for you. You should feel encouraged to try a different method of delivery with a doctor who is well versed in hormone replacement therapy.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

We're continuing our conversation about concierge medical practices this week. There were a few reasons I decided to go with a membership practice; the first one being financial survival. Our healthcare system has been compromised, and something has to change. Doctors have almost no choice but to go cash and stop accepting insurance or go concierge to survive. The membership fee isn't put in place for profit, it's there for necessity. In an insurance-driven healthcare market, medical providers are penalized if they decide to spend a longer amount of time with patients. Providers are compensated more greatly if they see four patients over one hour, rather than seeing one patient for that full hour. This is just one example of how the healthcare industry is driven by greed. You may have visited medical offices where the practice hasn't invested in growing their team or adding the latest supportive technology. These are two things we do invest in to make our services the best they can be. We have even made it possible for our patients to text us so they can reach us more easily.  It's additions like this that make it easy for patients to choose to pay the membership fee. We focus on education, but this takes an investment in training and equipping our staff with the information they need. Ultimately, only you can decide if a membership practice is right for you. If you value your health, it may be worth it to you.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Do you know what the benefits of a concierge medical practice are? There are a few to cover for both doctors and patients. In today's economy, our purchasing power has been reduced. So, everyone wants to know: is a medical practice membership really worth it? The simple answer is that if you can get the same services—quantity and quality—from someone else who does not require a membership, it's not a good deal. But all medical practices are unique and will provide their own specific services. It really depends on the quality of service and the type of services you need. Many medical practices must go concierge to keep their doors open. If you feel frustrated about not being able to afford the care you want, consider the root cause. It's not the doctor's fault. Behind the curtain, doctors themselves have very little options unless they want to be at the mercy of the insurance companies. The vision for my practice has been in the works for a very long time. For 12 years, I have been building and developing my team, technology, and services while making minimal profit. I would love to be able to help my patients out of the goodness of my heart, but that's not feasible if I want to continue helping clients achieve hormone optimization while restoring their highest level of health. I love my job, my team, my patients, and all that we can do for them. It's worth more than money, and it makes it easy to get out of bed in the morning. If you take anything from this episode, remember that in most cases, your doctor and their team are truly there to help you.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Let's get back into part two of our discussion about valuable markers to look for when it comes to anti-aging. In the first episode, we covered markers such as a cardiovascular assessment, body composition, and cancer screenings. Both men and women should be undergoing regular colonoscopies to screen for cancer. If possible, opt for a whole-body MRI to screen for various cancers—many can be caught before they become symptomatic. There are also blood tests that can help test for cancers in the very early stages. A bone density evaluation is also important when it comes to aging. This scan should be done as a baseline when you are 50. By testing early, you can identify your level of risk for problems down the road. For women specifically, it's very important to do regular mammograms and annual pap tests. Men should be doing regular prostate checks.  The importance of vision and hearing testing is often overlooked, but it should also be considered as a marker of health as you age. Of course, you will have to seek an outside provider (like an ophthalmologist and a hearing specialist) to complete these exams. You may also need to seek out blood testing in separate facilities too. This all can add additional time and effort to getting a comprehensive view of your health, which is why there aren't many people over 50 who seek out a full view of their anti-aging markers. In our wellness exams, we take our time to cover all of the important aspects of aging. It is crucial at this age to have health professionals on your side who are committed to walking the journey with you.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

What are the most valuable things to focus on when making an anti-aging plan with your doctor? In this episode we're discussing just that. Everyone's body changes over time, but you can make aging easier if you get support sooner rather than later. Over time, you may start to notice your energy levels decline—and perhaps you are softer in areas than you were before. Weight loss or even maintaining your weight becomes more difficult as we age, and your mood may also change too. Some of these changes are subtle, but they are bound to happen as a part of aging. The most important part of your anti-aging wellness exam is the time spent assessing your current state of health. This should be a thorough interview that covers every system in the body. A comprehensive blood test should be ordered, even if you have zero signs and symptoms or generally feel great. Your doctor should also do an in-depth cardiovascular assessment. The reality is there aren't always signs and symptoms when you have a heart problem. Heart disease gives no warning, which is why preventative care of your cardiovascular health is essential. A cancer screening is also crucial—the statistics show that digestive cancers and respiratory cancers are the most dangerous as we age. Abdominal visceral fat is also a key marker for wellness as we age. Your metabolic health is important too, so make healthy choices when it comes to what you include in your diet. In the next episode, I'll share even more anti-aging markers to prioritize with your health professionals.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Chronic stress is recognized as a major stress of disability and mortality worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, stress is a state of worry or mental tension caused by a difficult situation. Stress is a natural response, and it prompts us to take action under certain circumstances. However, when stress becomes chronic, it can be very damaging to our health. Chronic stress is associated with many different health consequences. What you do, what you think, and how you feel when you're stressed matters—and it greatly impacts your body. If you want to live a long life, you have to be able to manage stress when it comes up. If you're stressed for a long time, cortisol will be released for a prolonged duration. This can lead to adrenal dysfunction, which means your body is releasing too much cortisol or not enough. Chronic stress can also lead to maladaptive coping, for example drinking alcohol. This will negatively impact your liver, hormones, and more. Stress zaps your energy, and it can make you feel fatigued no matter how much rest you get. It also damages and weakens your immune system, leaving you prone to illness and infections. Long-term stress damages your gut lining, resulting in a cascade of symptoms that can heavily impact your gut health, and it could even lead to autoimmunity. Stress hurts your sleep, which keeps your body and brain from recharging when it needs it most. Chronic stress plays a significant role in the onset of serious psychiatric conditions. It can also accelerate aging. Make time for family, friends, fun, and physical activity regularly to ease your stress levels and stay healthy.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Let's continue our deep discussion on preparing for menopause. In part one, we talked about the changes you can expect in perimenopause and menopause, and explored the importance of awareness around this hormonal shift. In this episode, we're exploring specific ways you can support this transition. If you want to improve your experience going through perimenopause and menopause, you should first consider how you feel about hormones. If you think you'd like to explore hormone replacement therapy, you'll want to align yourself with a doctor who has expertise in that area. It's important to remember that a loss of hormones has a significant effect on your body, whether that loss brings you to an average rate or not. Just because you still have expected rates of hormones present doesn't necessarily mean you're producing the optimal amounts for you. Estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone are not dangerous. They do not suddenly cause cancer after you turn a certain age. The naysayers are usually missing out on crucial information, leaving them considerably misinformed. Hormones administered at the correct dosage and with the proper consideration for hormonal balance are perfectly safe. So, what's the magic hormone for menopause? Testosterone can do wonders for your mood, energy, and sex life. There are different methods you can try, and if you give it some time to get your dosing right, you could get a boost that makes you feel like you're decades younger. Menopause can look however you want it to. The choice is yours.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Is there such a thing as preparing for menopause? This is a topic not many people are discussing, but they should be. Menopause impacts women, but that impact will also have an effect on the other people in their lives, like their partner and children. Many women struggle with procrastination when it comes to prioritizing themselves. However, the best thing we can do for ourselves is prepare for menopause early on so we can have the tools to make this transition easier. The first thing you need to prepare for menopause adequately is awareness. Ignoring it won't make it go away. Perimenopause is the transition into menopause, and it can last anywhere from two to ten years. This is when hormones decline, and so does egg quality as well as egg quantity. All women should know this, especially those in their 30s who still desire to have children. The more eggs you have, the longer you will produce natural progesterone and estrogen. Understanding and knowing what is happening in your body is crucial for a smooth navigation through this time in your life. Perimenopause brings a lot of hormonal fluctuations, and therefore a lot of ups and downs. There will be changes to your metabolic rate, desire for intimacy, and more. The changes in hormones can also alter the way you react to stress. In fact, one might see a possible correlation between hormonal changes in men and women and the breakdown of marriages when a couple reaches their 40s or 50s. Hormone therapy can help couples deal with some of these issues and symptoms, but lifestyle changes that support a healthy, balanced  body should be the first priority.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

In this episode, we're continuing our conversation about wellness checks in your 40s. Last time we discussed weight, height, body mass composition, and cardiovascular health. Blood pressure, specifically hypertension, is a silent killer and is another very important aspect of your health that you should know about. Most doctor's visits are brief. They spend about 15 minutes with you, and they may order some simple blood tests—but they don't often invest in your longer health journey. Comprehensive wellness checks should include an in-depth analysis of all the important markers. Keep this in mind if you're choosing a new doctor in your 40s. Men are experiencing a low testosterone epidemic, and this is regardless of age. This is something that men in their 40s should address with their doctor. For women in their 40s, it's common to experience perimenopause, a stage in which estrogen and progesterone production declines. Women should be able to share details of their cycle to their doctor during a visit. If you're overweight or obese, you'll want to have your doctor check your fasting insulin and fasting glucose. Insulin resistance is the beginning of diabetes, and if you catch this during the pre-diabetes phase, it is reversible.  Cortisol isn't that important to look at in your 40s unless you're concerned about adrenal dysfunction. Many cancers manifest at this stage in life, making this a good time to be diligent and check your family history for cancer. Focus on your essential wellness markers and create a starting point so you're walking into your 50s as healthy as you can be.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

What is important when it comes to your health in your 40s? The 40s is an important decade of life because it's one of subtle decline; the beginning of widespread changes to come. While you might feel like you're in good health, there are still some key things to pay attention to. The sooner you make these things a priority, the better. In your 40s, look for a doctor that has the energy, time, and dedication to create an aging plan with you. It might cost you to find a physician that can work with you on this, but it's worth it—especially if you can add on bloodwork that will give you even greater insights into your health status. A health checkup at this age should include your weight, height, blood pressure, and circumference of your abdomen. It's also critical to look at your body mass composition. If you're avoiding having these numbers checked with your doctor, you're choosing to stay in the dark, but it won't change the reality you're facing. There are also many devices that can be used as tools to help you with anti-aging. Some of these can even help you with subcutaneous fat, which is extremely difficult to get rid of. When you're working towards greater health, don't get discouraged that you're not where you want to be. Keep moving forward, because the effort you put in now counts. For men, elevated resting heart rates is something to pay attention to. It should never be over 80. Your exercise heart rate should also be within a healthy range. Investing in your health now matters if you want to feel well in your 50s, 60s, 70s and beyond.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

In this episode we're continuing our discussion of wellness pearls for men and women in their 30s. At this age, you should have no urinary trouble. If you use the bathroom multiple times each night, or you're dealing with feelings of urgency, you should bring this up to your doctor. This could potentially be a urinary tract infection, which women are more likely to experience overall. Most physicians that complete a wellness exam don't ask about sexual health—but they should. As your doctor, they should be prepared to not only hear about any problem you have, but also be ready to guide you towards a solution. Painful sex, low sexual desire, and inability to maintain arousal are just a few symptoms you may want to discuss. In your 30s, you should be at your peak of health. Your joints should be able to support just about any activity without limitations. An adequate amount of muscle mass at this age can also help you age more gracefully. Muscle tissue is metabolically active, so it helps you burn calories. At this age, you'll also want to consider the health of your skin. Your skin looks its best when your skin microbiome is healthy and your immune system is strong. Any rash at this age may indicate immune system dysfunction or possible food allergies. For many women with dry skin, the underlying cause is low estrogen. Hair loss is another issue that is important to take note of, especially in your 30s. It could signal an issue with your hormones, your vitamins, your immune system, or your digestion. You should also have great focus and cognitive function. If you have any concerning symptoms, write them down and review them with your doctor at your next wellness check.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

 What should a physician focus on when their patient is a man or a woman in their 30s? For women, their 30s set the tone for a smooth and easy—or potentially difficult—perimenopause stage. For both men and women, the 30's should represent a peak in health. Women who are 35 years old and above who are planning on having children should discuss this with their doctor, and the sooner the better. After this point, a woman's eggs may be of less quality than they once were, and thus conception may be a more difficult process. A comprehensive doctor should perform an in-depth analysis of your health at this stage, helping you discover and deal with any potential problems early on. If you're experiencing symptoms like fatigue, insomnia, or weight changes, make sure you let your doctor know.  Whether intentionally or unintentionally experiencing disrupted sleep in your 30s, it's important to address it as early as you can. Your sleep quality has a profound impact on your overall health, and at this stage in life it's imperative you get the necessary duration and quality.  Intestinal health issues are another one that should not be overlooked, as these can be related to your immune system health. We have a tendency to excuse symptoms like gas and bloating as "normal," but in reality, these issues should not be ignored. If you've had any nagging symptoms in your body in the last twelve months, bring them to your doctor's attention as soon as possible.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Many doctors and health providers of young women are overburdened and overworked. This can cause them to skim over critical aspects for their patients, so it helps to know what to ask for when a wellness check is being done. The more informed you can be as a patient, the more likely you are to receive a better experience.  Height, weight, temperature, heart rate, and last menstrual period are crucial starting points of a wellness exam. Though some of these checks, like weight, can make young women feel uncomfortable, it is imperative that they are done.  Your doctor should also do a review of all your health systems. This includes vision, hearing, cardiovascular, and joint and muscle health. If you are having any gastrointestinal issues, these should be shared with your health care provider. 80% of autoimmune issues happen in women, and they are on the rise. Telltale signs of inflammation are achiness and stiffness. Mental health should also be covered during your health check, and you should also discuss your period. Your doctor will want to know if your period is reliable and whether or not your pain is tolerable. If you aren't able to go to work or school during your period, it's a sign of hormonal imbalance or disease.  We are in the midst of a fertility crisis, so if you are a young woman planning to have children, be sure to bring this up at your next doctor's visit. A woman's ability to have children declines in her 30s. You can ask your provider to check your ovarian reserve, which is a great indicator for ovarian health. This is especially important if you are planning to have children after 30.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

In this episode we're addressing health in young boys and young men, including what to watch for as far as health checks. The number-one marker for wellness (in both young men and young women) is body composition. This is important to know, as more than 1 in 5 young people struggle with obesity which is associated with serious health issues. 20% of teenagers experience mental health problems in any given year. These problems are often established by age 14. It's important to check in on the mental health of young people and intervene as early as possible. A check of the sexual organs should also be done in young men to reduce issues and ensure healthy development. Between 15 and 20, it's a good idea to check hormone levels as well. Certain hormones, like testosterone and thyroid hormones, play a crucial role at this time. Nutritional markers like iron, and B12 should also be monitored if possible. Men aged 20 to 30 are affected heavily by the food habits they've picked up in their teen years. Health care providers should also be asking young men about their alcohol, tobacco, and drug use. They should also ask if they are sexually active and promote safe sex practices.  Digestive health issues are often overlooked in young men. Issues with bloating, heartburn, and diarrhea should be noted. The physical exam (which comes after a verbal check) should be followed by comprehensive testing, including hormone testing and sperm analysis. If a young man is going to be confident and well-functioning, healthy hormone levels are a must.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

What are the signs of health in a young woman? Each doctor may have a different approach to their wellness exams. Knowing the details of what your health provider offers can help you decide if choosing them is the right option for you. This is especially important for women, whose health needs are highly underserved.  Women are usually recommended three specific exams: breast exams, a Papanicolaou (Pap) test, and a general physical. From ages 11-16, it's important to consider the shift in hormones happening primarily in the ovaries. The importance of endocrine disruptors from their diet and environment shouldn't be underestimated at this time. Young women should be educated early on about the importance of regular exercise and a healthy diet. They should also be made aware that processed foods are highly addictive. It is much easier to develop healthy habits than it is to change them later down the road. Endocrine disruptors and some pathological issues can lead to early menarche (an early first period) in young women. An early first period is associated with mental health issues, weight issues, early menopause, and more. This is an important health marker to look for in young women. If a young woman is struggling with their health, their doctor should check iron, vitamin D, and vitamin B12. They should also do a simple urine test to check for heavy metals. There should also be an emphasis on interpersonal skills and coping skills to help young women manage stress and feelings of overwhelm. The consequences of failing to address mental health issue at a young age will have an impact in adulthood.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

If you want to avoid spending money on costly surgeries, procedures, medications, and illnesses, choose a doctor to partner with to better your health. Be sure to pick a physician who will work with you towards your wellness goals. While it will cost money to do this, you can consider it an investment in your health. The tests and labs your insurance usually covers are not always enough to tell your provider if there is a serious medical problem. You can have normal panels in your annual exam and still have underlying health issues. Getting a checkup 1-3 times a year is more important than anything else you could do. You take care of your house and ensure it doesn't get damaged. You look after your car and get it the maintenance it needs. You have home insurance, and you have car insurance—and you hope you never need it. So why wouldn't you take these same principles and apply it to your health? It can be frustrating to work in a system that operates slowly, and perhaps you don't get as much time with your doctor as you'd hoped. Many doctors decide to go into private practice so that they can avoid working with insurance companies and operate with a different business model. Medications are not magic pills designed to help you—-there is usually a price to pay in the form of serious or mild side effects. Don't wait for disease to see a doctor. Choose a doctor who will talk to you about preventing illness, even if it means disrupting your status quo.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/  https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/  https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

How can you stay healthy in a seemingly uncaring healthcare system? While not every professional in the health space is corrupt or unwilling to help (in fact many are passionate about helping and serving others), the system at large is not designed to allow access to the best possible care. On top of this, many of us are eating food that is overprocessed and lacking in nutrients, which contributes to a host of health-related issues including obesity, arthritis, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. But just as food can harm you, it can also heal you. By eating healthy, colorful food you can reduce the need for medication and improve your overall health. Change is hard, especially when your health professionals haven't been trained in what is required to be healthy. Doctors of medicine and other medical professionals are trained in how to diagnose and treat disease, but they are not trained in the strategies necessary to avoid getting sick in the first place. Often, doctors will prescribe medications to help combat the symptoms you're experiencing without doing a deep dive on the underlying cause. For example, if you have an autoimmune condition, you may be given medication to reduce the reaction. However, what is actually going on inside your body and with your immunity is never addressed. According to the FDA, there are over 20,000 different prescription drugs available. The top four are statins (for cholesterol), metformin (often used for diabetes), lisinopril, and levothyroxine. Patients are led to believe taking these medications is the only way to control or support their conditions. Instead, they should be educated on how to prevent or correct diseases in a holistic way.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/  https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/  https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Many people do not truly understand the value of their health until it's gone. You may even be ignoring the signals your body is giving you, even though the signs may have been present for some time. Yet, when you lose your ability to function optimally, you finally have to confront the reality of your health situation. The truth is you should value your health above almost everything in life—including your work, career, finances, and your to-do list. All the possessions you have lose their importance without your health. A healthy body is important for the healthy movement you might be taking for granted every day. For example, simply walking from A to B. Without proper exercise, your muscles and bones will lose their strength and start to deteriorate. A lack of exercise can also affect the way your body uses nourishment and can lead to mood changes, brain fog, weight gain, and more. All exercise is good exercise, whether it's yoga, working out in the gym, or running outside. Exercise is important for your body, but it is also important for your brain. When you're engaged in exercise, you become more present in the moment, which can also be great for your emotional health. Excuses will always be there, but your health won't—so you have to make it a priority to move your body and find the right kind of exercise for you. The best thing you can do for your health is make exercise a daily non-negotiable activity. It can help you maintain your bones and joints, grow muscle, support your heart health, and maintain a healthier hormone balance, just to name a few. Remember: your body was made to move.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/  https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/  https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Why are Americans dealing with so many health issues, including chronic conditions and mental health issues? The first question we need to answer is this: what does it really mean to be healthy? According to the World Health organization, health is a state of complete physical, mental, and social wellbeing—not just the absence of disease. Only 12% of adults in the US are metabolically healthy, and as a society we are getting sicker and heavier. It's important for people to work to be at peace in their lives and within themselves. Developing healthy habits is so important for maintaining your physical, mental, and emotional health. This includes movement and healthy sleep habits. Social isolation, domestic violence, relationship breakdowns, and work problems can impact your mental health. Aspects of our modern world, like access to technology and social media, can also hurt mental health when used incorrectly or too often. There are five metabolic health markers you should know about: your blood glucose, your triglycerides, HDL cholesterol, blood pressure, and waist circumference. Elevated blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart and stroke, and you can have high blood pressure without knowing it. The less stress you have, the better for your blood pressure. An increasing number of people are dealing with multiple chronic conditions. In fact, 12% of Americans have at least five chronic conditions. We need to make a change, starting with diet. We are what we eat, and you may not be eating as healthily as you think. Start there if you want to begin making changes to your health today.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/  https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/  https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

This podcast episode marks the one-year anniversary of launching this podcast. Today we're going off-script and talking about what our healthcare landscape looks like today. Our medical system today is quite changed from what it once was—especially since the Affordable Care Act was enacted. Most people pay the equivalent of a monthly mortgage for an insurance plan, and unfortunately, this plan doesn't provide the same amount of coverage as it once did. If you do have insurance, you will definitely need to know your deductible. This is the most important and relevant number to know for your healthcare costs. Many doctors go private and stop accepting insurance because of the benefits it has for their business. Setting their own prices and accepting cash can make it easier to run their business. A $300 blood test could be billed to your insurance for thousands. When you do the math—and take your potentially high deductible into account—sometimes it works out better for the patient too.  A patient's autonomy goes out the window when they aren't fully informed of their possible options. Yet, many doctors don't have time to spend an hour going over all those options because their time is limited. They also likely do not know the details of your insurance plan, so they can't get into details. In the end, this is not in the best interest of the patient.  Most patients have to consider cost when weighing their options for treatment. When cost is an issue, you're no longer choosing the best treatment for you—you're choosing the treatment you can afford. So, what should you do? The answer is to do your best to stay healthy and avoid treatment altogether.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/  https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/  https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

For couples looking to conceive, it may be helpful to know the various ways they can maximize their fertility—especially if these couples have already been trying to get pregnant for some time. In this episode, we're discussing how women specifically can support their fertility, including using restorative therapies. Modern medicine doesn't always account for the body's natural healing process. Your body can, on its own, resume normal function. There are also procedures that can reverse things that inhibit pregnancy. For example, tubal ligation. However, it's important to note that reversing tubal ligation does come with its own set of risks. There's a pelvic therapy called the Wurn Technique, which is designed to detach adhesions to the tubes and ovaries. This form of alternative medicine has shown dramatic improvements in some women, reducing obstructions, spasms, and decreasing pain. There are also treatments for a diseased uterus that can help it become a more hospitable environment for childbearing. An ultrasound can help you identify issues in your uterus, ovaries, and more so you can move forward with treatment options. Getting surgery on your pelvic organs is a huge decision, and it's also not guaranteed to restore your fertility. It can also be quite expensive to pursue. Costs can go as high as over $100,000 in an effort to get pregnant. This is why it's so important to know what options you have, what they entail, and what the risks are so you can invest your time, energy, and money wisely. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/  https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/  https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

In today's episode we're talking about the factors you can control to improve your ability to conceive. The best first step in your fertility journey is a consultation with a doctor or fertility specialist. Seek help if within six months of regular periods you have been unable to get pregnant. If you're trying to successfully conceive, having regular periods is a good sign. It should also last between 3 and 7 days. If you're suffering from severe pain during your periods, you'll want to get this checked out—you could have endometriosis. which affects almost half of couples who are trying to conceive.  Men concerned about their fertility health should get a sperm analysis. There's no way to tell how healthy the sperm is without this analysis. You can also rule out other issues with additional tests, like hormone testing. Lifestyle changes like limiting consumption of alcohol, avoiding hot tubs and saunas, and taking specific vitamins and supplements can support sperm quality. Women who want to get pregnant should consider taking folate, vitamin D, inositol (vitamin B8), and arginine. Minerals like selenium and magnesium are also fertility supportive. Taking a multivitamin or prenatal vitamin isn't enough if you're already struggling to get pregnant—you need nutrients capable of supporting your body's mitochondrial function. Just because you take these vitamins, it doesn't guarantee that they will work. Your best option is to use IV vitamin therapy, which is a laser-focused delivery that rejuvenates and revives your mitochondria, at least in the short term. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/  https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/  https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

The fertility process is so extraordinarily unique and so important. Yet many young men and women are unaware that we are also currently experiencing a fertility epidemic. When you're ready to have a kid, it's becoming less easy to conceive, and many people only realize they have a problem by the time it takes a lot of money and effort to fix. If you plan on having children, don't be afraid to discuss this with your doctor—even if you're currently unattached. A simple test, like a blood test or an ultrasound, can uncover potential problems. Ask for a fertility consultation if you want to catch any conception roadblocks sooner rather than later. How are men experiencing this fertility crisis? Sperm counts have declined by almost 60% over the past few decades. If this rate of decline continues, men in significantly impacted areas will be completely infertile by 2060. Environmental pollutants and endocrine disruptors are the most likely culprit.  Men today also have lower than optimal testosterone levels. A sedentary lifestyle, a poor diet, chronic stress, and use of substances like alcohol are all contributing factors to this. Cortisol, the major stress hormone, can disrupt your body in ways that significantly impact a man or woman's ability to conceive.  A savvy fertility doctor might look into your mitochondria. Your mitochondria are responsible for using cholesterol to make testosterone. There are quite a few viral illnesses that impact your mitochondria including mononucleosis, Lyme disease, and COVID-19. If you're experiencing infertility, have your doctor check your mitochondria for answers.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/  https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/  https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Endometriosis is a condition that is underdiagnosed by many physicians, and it's also underappreciated by many patients. Endometriosis exists in approximately 50% of women who struggle with infertility. This condition can result in adhesions, scarring, and inflammation—all things that greatly impact the function of your fertility. This condition happens when the endometrial cells (the cells that line the uterus) spread outside of the uterus and develop endometrial lesions across all pelvic organs. It typically affects the ovaries most significantly, as well as the uterosacral ligaments. Once a woman develops endometriotic lesions, the inflammatory process that occurs often damages the fallopian tubes. There is a significant amount of research that shows women who have endometriosis experience altered immunological responses. This can make the conditions for conception less than perfect. It can also have a direct impact on a woman's ovarian reserve, and it influences a woman's egg quality too. The symptoms associated with endometriosis can also negatively influence a woman's fertility. Many women with this condition experience painful sex. They may also experience serious pain, bloating, and cramping between periods, which can also make a woman feel less inclined towards intimacy. What should women with endometriosis do to support their fertility? Surgery is an option for temporary relief. Cysts and lesions can be carefully removed to reduce symptoms and improve fertility. Addressing hormonal issues with progesterone, or in some cases progesterone blockers, are other options. If you have endometriosis, visit your doctor and discuss your options—you do have some available to you. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

If you're experiencing fertility challenges, you should be aware of the different factors that have a significant influence on your fertility health. In this episode we're covering two of those factors: the cervical factor and the vaginal factor. There are various health aspects to consider for each factor, and this information is valuable to all women. The cervix is a structure that guards the uterus. The size, shape, and appearance of the cervix differs greatly depending on a woman's age, medical background, and whether or not she's had children in the past. The interaction between the sperm and the cervical mucus is very important to fertility. A woman's body has built-in systems to protect it, and in some cases—typically an overactive response—sperm will be deemed as a "foreign invader" and killed. This will have an effect on how baby-friendly your body is. Removal of abnormal cells on the cervix can also impact mucus production, which can in turn have a negative impact on fertility. There are various aspects of vaginal health to consider for fertility as well. First, women who experience pain during sex will have a difficult time conceiving, for the obvious reason that intercourse may be difficult or less common. There are topical therapies and other types of therapies that can help mitigate this pain. Vaginal dryness and recurrent vaginal infections can also reduce the likelihood of sperm survival. Vaginal health issues should not be ignored, so don't delay going to a medical professional. The best doctor to see is a gynecologist—especially if you are trying to get pregnant. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/  https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/  https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Our human reproductive system is delicate, so if you're planning to have a baby, you'll want to know the things to look out for to give yourself the best chance of a successful pregnancy. In this episode, we'll be discussing the various tubal factors and uterine factors that could impact your pregnancy and lead to loss. Poor egg quality is a crucial factor too, as is sperm quality. These can lead to embryos with genetic problems, and therefore a non-viable pregnancy. Healthy sperm should be able to travel into the fallopian tube to meet the egg there. The fallopian tube needs to be able to grab the egg for this meeting to take place. The uterus has to be ready to not just receive the fertilized egg, but also be ready for implantation so the fetus can begin to grow. It's important to have a "baby friendly" uterus–this is when the thickness of the uterine lining really matters. Uterine deformities can occur in women and impact her ability to grow a healthy child. Uterine polyps, uterine fibroids, and scar tissues are the main uterine factors that negatively influence fertility. Fibroids specifically can disrupt or deform the uterine cavity, and they may even interfere with the fallopian tubes. These can also cause bloating, distention, and pain. Many women with fibroids get pregnant easily, but a small percentage will have resulting difficulties.  Implantation requires a very specific molecular attachment process, and many chemical pregnancy losses are due to an issue with this process. This is just one of many things that has to go right for a healthy pregnancy, which truly serves as a reminder of what a miracle it is for women to be able to get pregnant and have a baby in the first place. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/  https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/  https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

If you're a couple looking to start or grow your family, this episode will have lots of valuable information for you: we're discussing fertility factors you should consider when planning for a child. If you've been trying for six months or longer and you and your partner are over 30 years old, don't wait to seek support sooner rather than later. The biggest thing you should consider as a couple trying to conceive is the male factor, and doing a sperm analysis is simple. Your medical professionals will look for motility, morphology, and sperm count. This issue is estimated to be the problem in about 20% of all fertility cases, but it can also be easily ruled out. As far as female factors, a woman's ovaries and hormones need to be considered. Issues with ovaries are the underlying cause for about 40% of infertility cases. Lab tests, like an ultrasound or ovarian reserve test, can help rule out any issues with your ovaries. If for any reason you want or need to freeze your eggs, the best time to do it is in your mid-20s. Your 30s is not too late, either. However, in many cases, women don't consider this until much later, like in their 40s. Take time to weigh your life goals and aspirations, including having children, when the time is optimal if you can. Brain issues, like pituitary tumors, can also have an impact on fertility. Benign tumors that develop and grow can have a negative influence on your fertility too. Up to 50% of women could have PCOS, and the estrogen dominance associated with this condition can also lead to fertility issues for couples. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/  https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/   https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Many women have a unique story regarding their experiences and choices with their fertility. For those women looking to preserve their fertility for the right time, this episode is for you. First, peak fertility for a woman is in her early-to-mid 20s. All women are born with the number of eggs they will have for their life.  The number of eggs you have is far less important than the quality of eggs you have. When you are young, you are likely to be more resilient. This leads to better egg quality, but it also provides you with the resources you need to raise a child. The later in life you decide to become a mother, the less likely you are to have help available from your parents as well. In every cycle, somewhere between 20 and 50 eggs are recruited for one mature egg. Women also lose about 1000 eggs each month, mostly as they get older. So, in spite of being born with a large amount of eggs, our ovarian reserve goes down quite drastically over time. Certain conditions, like endometriosis or tumors, can impact your fertility. Young women who go through psychological stress or abuse also have very little ovarian reserve. Negative emotions and chronic stress influences endorphin output and can lead to poor nutrient flow to the ovaries. Lack of sleep can impact your ovarian function too. A positive, non-stressful environment, moderate exercise, and quality sleep are all very important factors that affect your fertility. Certain foods can also expose you to hormone disruptors, which can also negatively impact your fertility. Lastly, it's important to avoid smoking and drinking alcohol if you want to prioritize the health of your eggs. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

The fallopian tubes are an essential part of the female reproductive system. They are soft tubes that play a crucial role in the process of transferring eggs from the ovaries to the uterus. These tubes also provide a nourishing environment for the egg while it travels on this important journey. The fallopian tubes are also where the egg could potentially be fertilized by sperm, becoming an embryo. For this reason, and many others, it's important to be aware of possible issues with the fallopian tubes. This includes inflammation, tubal obstruction, ectopic pregnancy, tubal adhesions, and endometriosis—just to name a few. Some of these conditions, like an ectopic pregnancy, are considered emergencies due to the risk of fallopian tube rupture. Tubal ligation failures can also lead to ectopic pregnancies. Pelvic inflammatory disease can also cause scarring, damage, and blockage. Some women are born with abnormalities, like extra-long tubes. Healthy fallopian tubes are important for women looking to conceive. For a woman without fallopian tubes, or tubes with extensive damage, IVF is an option for getting pregnant. Catching issues early can also help manage potential issues before they cause irreversible damage. There is one more condition that's very important to be aware of called hydrosalpinx. This is when fluid blocks your fallopian tubes, making it difficult to get pregnant.  There are often no symptoms, but it can be seen on ultrasound. Some women will have mild discomfort, but pelvic pain is rare. The number-one cause is pelvic infection, which can be caused by STDs like chlamydia. It's important for women to prioritize the health of their fallopian tubes, especially if having children is important to them. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Hysterectomies are one of the commonly performed surgeries in the United States, with half a million being performed every year. More than 40% of women will end up having a hysterectomy in their lifetime. Having this procedure may mean the end of carrying a child, however if you still have your ovaries, you may be able to have biological children via a surrogate.  Your period is a sign of how your hormones are working. Being without a uterus may make it more difficult to uncover any possible problems. For some women, their uterus is associated with their womanly spirit or essence—which means the loss of their uterus can lead to feelings of loss. Sexual function is another potential downside following a hysterectomy. The degree to which your sex life may be impacted depends on your age, the reason your uterus was removed, and whether your cervix and/or ovaries were removed. It's important to know there are potential traumas that can happen due to having this type of surgery. Other organs like your kidneys and bladder could be affected. For example, a significant percentage of women experience increased feelings of urgency to urinate and frequency of urination after a hysterectomy. Before you decide to get a hysterectomy, it's important to consider your personal circumstances. Ask your health professionals about your options, and don't be afraid to get a second opinion. Depending on your age, the state of your uterus, and your personal preferences, you may be better off choosing surgical or non-surgical options that allow you to keep your uterus. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Hysterectomies are one of the commonly performed surgeries in the United States, with half a million being performed every year. More than 40% of women will end up having a hysterectomy in their lifetime. Having this procedure may mean the end of carrying a child, however if you still have your ovaries, you may be able to have biological children via a surrogate.  Your period is a sign of how your hormones are working. Being without a uterus may make it more difficult to uncover any possible problems. For some women, their uterus is associated with their womanly spirit or essence—which means the loss of their uterus can lead to feelings of loss. Sexual function is another potential downside following a hysterectomy. The degree to which your sex life may be impacted depends on your age, the reason your uterus was removed, and whether your cervix and/or ovaries were removed. It's important to know there are potential traumas that can happen due to having this type of surgery. Other organs like your kidneys and bladder could be affected. For example, a significant percentage of women experience increased feelings of urgency to urinate and frequency of urination after a hysterectomy. Before you decide to get a hysterectomy, it's important to consider your personal circumstances. Ask your health professionals about your options, and don't be afraid to get a second opinion. Depending on your age, the state of your uterus, and your personal preferences, you may be better off choosing surgical or non-surgical options that allow you to keep your uterus. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Does a perfect diet exist? Some of the most popular diets to follow today include paleo, keto, and carnivore. While any one of these diets might make you feel good for a few weeks or months, variety is the key to eating in a way that fully supports a well-functioning body. Being on any specific diet for a long time has the potential to help you lose weight. Many lead to a natural reduction in calories by emphasizing whole foods. Stable and improved blood sugar levels are also a common outcome from reducing processed carbs. Reduced inflammation is another benefit of following a specific diet. Genetic individuality can also influence how any one diet impacts you specifically. One negative outcome, specifically those with an emphasis on high protein, can put a strain on your kidneys. Another downside might be inadequate fiber intake from excluding foods like grains and legumes. Knowing there are pros and cons to each diet, how do you choose which one is best? The truth is there's no such thing as a perfect diet—but there may be a perfect diet for you. While you're exploring your options, here are a few things to look for: adequate nutrients, a focus on whole foods, balanced macronutrients, and controlled portions. Even the perfect diet should allow for the occasional treat. Balance is the key to maintaining a strong diet long-term. Whatever diet you choose, it should be sustainable and support your health goals, whether that's weight loss, autoimmune disease, or blood sugar balance. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Food is medicine, and what you eat has a significant impact on your health. While it's good to be conscious and intentional with what you eat, an intense focus on your diet can easily turn into an obsession. This is in part due to the fact that awareness around how what we eat affects our bodies has increased recently. Different types of diets and eating styles have also been popularized online. Dietary advice is just about everywhere you look, pressuring you to eat a specific way to lose weight. Some of the most well-known diets include Mediterranean, carnivore, Atkins, Whole30 diet, and paleo. Alongside types of diets, there are also different types of eating patterns or eating styles. One such example is intermittent fasting. This pattern narrows your eating window to between 6 and 8 hours. This style of eating has been documented to support cellular repair. However, if not done properly, this can instigate erratic eating habits for some people or lead to nutrient deficiencies. Intermittent fasting may also lead to an increase in cortisol. However, this varies greatly from person to person. Some people experience a temporary rise, while others adapt without any fluctuation at all. If you're going to try this eating style, make sure you also prioritize sleep so you can manage stress and reduce any negative outcomes from this eating pattern. Repeated exposure to intermittent fasting protocols may change the way you interpret hunger signals (hunger hormones) from your body. This, along with other hormones like norepinephrine and melatonin, can also be impacted by fasting cycles. If you decide to try intermittent fasting, be sure to monitor your body's response and modify the pattern (or try another style) if needed. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Let's talk about the reality of food addiction. Whether you realize it or not, many of us are addicted to the foods we eat, at least to some degree. Our addiction to food affects us every day. What we eat plays a significant role in allowing our bodies to maintain homeostasis and can either help us reduce our toxic burden or increase it. Once we can no longer manage our toxic burden, we become symptomatic. These symptoms can vary widely from person to person, making it difficult to identify detoxification as a possible issue. If you're eating food that you know is bad for you and you're doing it anyway, it's another sign that this could be causing issues for you. Awareness is one thing, but you also need to have a willingness to change. This is as true for food addiction as it is for any other. On top of that, processed foods are designed to be highly palatable. These foods fire up your brain's reward centers and induce feelings of pleasure, encouraging you to go back for more. Food addiction can have very negative emotional and psychological effects. It can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and an unhealthy relationship or unhealthy cycles with food. How do we fix it? Recognizing the problem comes first, and the decision to fix it comes next. Connecting with someone who understands, like a health professional or support group, can help. You may also need to identify your trigger foods. Keeping a food journal to track your habits can help, as well as planning and preparing your meals. Focusing on your intake of nutrient dense foods can help you satisfy your body's needs and reduce cravings for addictive processed foods. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

We are exposed to a lot of unhealthy chemicals through our lifestyle and diet. In fact, ingestion is one of the main ways we are exposed to toxic compounds. In this sense, a clean diet isn't just one that's healthy or home cooked—it's also one that limits exposure to these chemicals.  One of the main issues most people run into is being too busy or overwhelmed to prioritize our diet and looking to foods of convenience. In our haste to be efficient and satisfy our taste buds, we develop habits that work temporarily but might hurt us in the long run.  The way our food is produced matters. Opting for products in a container, box, can, or bag may increase your exposure to chemicals. Processed foods contain additives, artificial flavors, colors, sweeteners, and other synthetic compounds. A focus on eating whole, unprocessed foods can help reduce your toxic burden.  Cancer rates have been rising over the last few decades. For those born after 1960, the risk of cancer is 1 in 2 in your lifetime. Most experts agree that diet and lifestyle is one of the most significant factors in these increasing rates. The way we farm our food is also hurting our health. By consuming genetically modified foods and foods that are sprayed heavily with chemicals, we are increasing our chances of negative health outcomes.  Your body is capable of eliminating many of these chemicals and potentially harmful compounds, unless you are taking them in to the point that your body becomes overwhelmed. PFAS, more specifically, have greater longevity and can take years to be eliminated from the body. In many ways, we haven't yet scratched the surface as to how these toxic compounds are affecting us in the long term. Endocrine disruption and obesity: A current review on environmental obesogens https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7326440/ PFAS Exposure and Risk of Cancer https://dceg.cancer.gov/research/what-we-study/pfas   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

When it comes to women's health, many are concerned about how hormones might put them at a higher risk for cancer. At the same time, so few women are not as concerned with the toxins they come into contact with every day, which definitely do put them at a higher risk for cancer. Thousands of chemicals have been introduced into our daily modern lives: walking barefoot on your carpet, breathing in car exhaust, and washing your clothes with detergent to name a few. Even the skincare you use exposes you to toxins. This increases the toxic burden on your body. Complete avoidance of exposure isn't the goal, but rather to lower the burden enough for our own detoxification system to keep up. So, what are the symptoms of an overwhelmed detoxification system? Autoimmune diseases, chemical sensitivity, digestive issues, skin issues, mental illness, fatigue, stubborn weight loss, migraines, and menstrual issues are all signs of this issue. Your liver is your primary detox organ and plays a significant role in processing and eliminating toxins. Normal bowel function is also critical for eliminating toxins. Those with declining kidney function or kidney disease can also struggle to flush out toxins. There are some types of genetic conditions (mutations) that can influence detoxification processes via the body's various detox pathways. Genetic testing can give you insight into your body's ability to deal with these compounds. Each hepatic cell has about 1,000-2,000 mitochondria, so the liver needs a lot of energy to work efficiently. The liver needs crucial trace minerals and vitamins for the intense process of detoxification. This is why a medical grade detox program usually contains pre-packaged pills and supplements designed to enhance the different phases of detox and support each step along the way.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Have you been exposed to estrogen receptor disruptors like phthalates, BPA, pesticides, and other chemicals? These substances can mimic, block, or alter the effects of estrogen on our cells, leading to significant potential health risks. These disruptors interfere with your hormones, but there are strategies you can use to detoxify from them and reduce your risk of related issues. Endocrine disruptors were defined as exogenous compounds that interfere with pathways of endogenous hormones at the level of synthesis, storage, metabolism, elimination, and binding. Exposure is associated with hormone-related cancers like uterine cancer, breast cancer, and ovarian cancers. Estrogen is not the cause of cancer, but estrogen disrupting substances are associated with cancer. In order to reduce this risk, it's critical to minimize exposure to these substances. A few ways of doing this include opting for organic food, using natural cleaning products, and using natural personal care products. By raising awareness and addressing these risk factors, you can make informed choices to support your health and hormonal balance. What are the top ten signs you've been exposed to estrogen receptor disruptors? Changes in menstrual cycles is one, including abnormal bleeding patterns. Infertility is another big sign that estrogen disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are having an impact on you. Changes in breast tissue may also occur due to exposure.  Weight gain is another sign, as persistent exposure can influence your metabolism. Mood swings and fatigue can also be signs that EDCs are having an effect on you. Thyroid issues and endometriosis are further signs that you've been exposed to these chemicals. Lastly, breast cancer and various reproductive disorders are red flags that exposure to xenoestrogens may be causing issues for you.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Our estrogen receptors play a significant role in our health as women. Knowing what they are, what they do, and how they work really matters, especially if you want to feel informed and empowered about your health. While estrogen is not the enemy, estrogen receptors play a role in all female cancers, including uterine cancer, and many other health related issues. Estrogen has hundreds of functions in the female body. There are actually different types of estrogens our body can make: Estradiol (made by the ovaries), estriol (made in pregnancy), and estrone (produced during menopause). These estrogens bind to proteins, called estrogen receptors, which are found throughout a woman's body. Both alpha estrogen receptors and beta estrogen receptors are expressed in our cardiovascular and central nervous system. Our cellular growth is greatly influenced by these receptor interactions too. While alpha is associated with hypergrowth and proliferation, beta is associated with balance and safety. When estrogen acts on its own unchecked and unbalanced by progesterone—or when your system is hijacked by disruptors— issues related to estrogen proliferation can occur. Estrogen receptors can be influenced by chemicals as well, and these can act as a sort of virus on the receptors, causing dysfunction. Estrogen is found in so many organs and systems in the female body, so the health of these receptors is crucial to healthy, functioning hormones. Molecules that can bind to these receptors include phthalates, BPA, pesticides, and more. These exogenous substances can bind to our receptors and lead to adverse health outcomes like infertility, various types of cancer, obesity, immune function problems, and more.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

By understanding the risk factors, you can reduce the risk factors not only for uterine cancer, but for all cancers. As women, there are steps we can take early on to avoid having uterine cancer later in life. The American Cancer Society estimates that 1 in 37 women will develop uterine cancer in their lifetime. Uterine cancer is more common in women who are postmenopausal or over the age of 50. After 50, women have little or no estrogen. Hormonal imbalances like estrogen dominance can also increase the risk of uterine cancer. Other conditions, like PCOS, are also correlated with higher instances of uterine cancer. Obesity is one of the most significant risk factors for this type of cancer, especially endometrial cancer. This is because an excess of fat tissue leads to higher levels of estrogen in the body, leading to estrogen dominance, increasing the risk of uterine cancer development. In particular, fat distribution along the midsection adds to the risk. Regular screening for risk factors can play a key role in uterine cancer prevention. If you've experienced early onset menstruation, late menopause, and/or a history of infertility, you may also be at a higher risk. Women with diabetes also have an elevated risk. Genetics also play a role. There are gene mutations that increase the risk for developing uterine cancer. If you notice symptoms like pain, discomfort, or abnormal uterine bleeding, it's important to talk to your health professional about it right away. Discuss birth control options with your doctor, as some may offer protection from uterine cancer.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Even though uterine cancer isn't common, it's crucial to diagnose and treat it as soon as possible. Because this type of cancer presents with very clear signs and symptoms, it's possible to detect it early, and early detection supports more positive treatment outcomes.  Abnormal vaginal bleeding is an early sign of uterine cancer. This includes prolonged or heavy periods, bleeding after menopause, or bleeding in between your periods. If your period is heavy month after month or if you're bleeding twelve months after you've finished the time in your life where you've menstruated naturally, this needs to be investigated. Pelvic pain and pelvic pressure may also be a sign of uterine cancer, and so is abnormal vaginal discharge. Women with uterine cancer may also experience pain or discomfort during intercourse. If you're ever not sure if what you're feeling is normal or not, it's worth discussing with your healthcare provider. Significant unexplained weight loss may be a sign of an underlying health issue, including uterine cancer. This typically looks like a lot of weight loss that happens without any additional exercise or dieting measures. Another symptom is a feeling of fullness or bloating in the pelvic area. Persistent chronic fatigue is a possible symptom too. Uterine cancer can also lead to chronic blood loss and anemia. If you're feeling any of these symptoms, don't dismiss them. Don't be so busy taking care of everyone else that you forget to make yourself a priority. Regular screenings can also help detect uterine cancer too. Remember to advocate for yourself and request a pelvic ultrasound on your annual checkup after the age of 50.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Many women who develop uterine polyps have no idea they have this condition, yet these abnormal growths are very common. They develop on the endometrium and can be the size of a sesame seed—or they can develop to be the size of a golf ball. While this condition is often asymptomatic, you could also experience heavy bleeding, bleeding between periods, and infertility. So, what's the difference between fibroids and uterine polyps? Fibroids grow from fibromuscular tissue, whereas polyps grow inside the uterine cavity from the endometrium. Fibroids are hard, whereas polyps are soft. Polyps are often benign, whereas fibroids are almost always benign. However, both conditions share a common risk factor: high estrogen levels. An ultrasound is usually the first step for diagnosis. You may also undergo a hysteroscopy, a procedure in which a tiny camera visually examines the uterus and performs an endometrial biopsy. This is an in-office procedure, so it helps you avoid something more invasive, as well as a hospital visit. Asymptomatic polyps may not require any treatment, especially for women who have already gone through menopause. For women experiencing symptoms, including those struggling with infertility, they may want to have them removed. Addressing excess estrogen is the best way to address the underlying cause of polyps. Progesterone can stabilize the uterine lining and stop it from growing further, thereby limiting the influence of excess estrogen. If you have abnormal bleeding, like especially long periods, short periods, very heavy flow, or very light flow, talk to your healthcare provider and find out if uterine polyps are affecting you.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Uterine fibroids are benign tumors, and they are a very common uterine disease. Fibroids may also be called nodules or cysts, and may vary in size and appearance. However, they are always solid because they are made of fibromuscular tissue, and they can cause a host of symptoms.  Fibroids can develop inside the uterus or even outside the uterus into the abdomen. So what makes fibroids develop in the first place? While there is no decisive answer, there are specific factors that contribute to the formation of fibroids including: race, obesity, and estrogen levels. Women with a higher body mass, as well as women with estrogen dominance, are more likely to develop fibroids. Sometimes fibroids are big enough to feel simply by floating on your lower belly. They can be painless, even when they're quite large. But most of the time, they create pelvic pressure and other potential issues, for example pressure on your bladder leading to feelings of urgency.  You can have fibroids removed surgically, but you will have to give birth by C-section if you have children. This solution also doesn't take into account the underlying issue, so the fibroids could come back. But, primarily, the treatment for fibroids addresses the symptoms such as pain and bleeding using over-the-counter medications and birth control. If you have fibroids, you should know your options for treatments. One is a uterine artery embolization, a procedure that can significantly reduce symptoms as well as fibroid size. Other treatments include a laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation or a high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), both of which are minimally invasive.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Do you have painful, heavy periods? Adenomyosis and uterine fibroids are common uterine conditions, yet so many women go through their reproductive years not knowing that they have such a condition. Listen to this episode to learn the signs and symptoms to look out for, as well as the solutions that are available. Many women will write off occasional uterine pain as a weird cycle, however this can delay diagnosis and treatment of a possibly serious medical condition. The female reproductive system is intricately designed, and the uterus plays a significant role. The uterus is a muscular organ and has a mucosal lining called endometrium.  Some of the issues that can affect the uterus include adenomyosis (endometriosis of the uterus), uterine fibroids, uterine tumors, endometrial polyps, and uterine prolapse. It's estimated that 25-35% of women of reproductive age suffer with endometriosis, which can be very painful. Chronic pelvic pain that increases during menstruation, as well as bloating and bowel dysfunction, are signs of adenomyosis. A diagnosis is made through a gynecological exam and imaging, like MRIs or ultrasounds. Hormonal therapies can be effective in controlling the symptoms. If medical treatment fails, surgery is an option. You can get a procedure that destroys the lining of the uterus. This procedure can delay the need for a hysterectomy. There is recent research being done to explore new procedures to help with this condition too. Menopause can be challenging for women with this condition, so they should be well informed of their options and solutions.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Hormone replacement therapy can promote vaginal bleeding after menopause. So, is progesterone necessary as a part of HRT? It is essential to take progesterone to balance levels of estrogen, much like the way our bodies naturally would. So how often and how long is progesterone required? For some patients, they will need to take it every day—especially those with a medical reason to avoid getting their period. Studies have shown that it is safe to use daily. But in all other cases, it's best to mimic the way nature intended it, taking progesterone 12-14 days a month. However, doing it this way means you will get a period. If you use progesterone without estrogen, you will not get a period. Estrogen is required to create the uterine lining. Are there cons to having a period after menopause? Having a regular period can be inconvenient and/or physically distressing, or even cause anemia. There are also pros to having a period after menopause too. For one, it can promote heart health by helping to naturally thin out your blood. It also protects your lining by promoting shedding. You're also less likely to develop polyps or hyperplasia. Having a period is also useful data for your doctor, especially if you're on HRT. Bleeding monthly can also help to prevent breakthrough bleeding. This can happen multiple times a year and always needs to be evaluated, which can be costly and uncomfortable. Ultimately, the decision to take it daily or not is a personal one, but knowing the pros and cons can help you make an informed decision.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

As you approach menopause, you may be considering hormone replacement therapy. Knowing what to expect can help you make the most informed decision possible. For example, if you are on HRT and are taking progesterone, you may experience vaginal bleeding.  Generally, there is a lack of options for exactly how you can take progesterone as a patient. If you go to a Naturopathic doctor, they may only give you the option to take progesterone therapy daily. However, you should be given the option to cycle your progesterone replacement to mimic how it would fluctuate during your cycle.  The standard of care in this area is lacking, despite how important it is to continue to balance progesterone as you approach and enter menopause. So, is it bad to bleed while you are taking progesterone?  Some women feel like having a cycle is inconvenient and annoying, whereas other women feel better physically and psychologically when they have a period. As a medical professional with over a decade of experience supporting progesterone HRT, I recommend cycling progesterone. Daily progesterone may feel easier, but it doesn't take into account the inner workings of hormonal balance. Having an in-depth knowledge of the inner workings of a woman's delicate hormone balance is crucial to ensure her mental and physical health while on progesterone replacement. That's why it's so important to work with a doctor who is an expert in HRT. Using hormones with the most effective methods and the right doctor can help you avoid undesirable symptoms while still gaining positive outcomes.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Why do doctors recommend birth control pills for hormonal imbalance in women? This is one of the many questions I hear from my female patients over and over again. To answer this question, it helps to understand why women bleed monthly. The answer comes down to estrogen and progesterone. Estrogen promotes growth of the uterine lining. Then, around day 14, you ovulate, and progesterone fortifies this lining. Without estrogen, your period would be light. With a little bit of estrogen, you may have light but more frequent cycles. If you have erratic periods, it's a sign your hormones are not functioning properly.  Your cycle should be reliable and predictable. When it's not, many physicians will recommend birth control. Why? Because they believe the birth control pill is designed to help you regulate your period. But in reality, this can often act as nothing more than a band-aid. Using birth control to regulate your period masks your underlying issues without addressing them. Birth control is not the answer for managing perimenopause symptoms, and it can actually worsen your mood, mental clarity, and metabolism. If you're looking for support during perimenopause, you should seek testing first with your physician. At that time, you could explore taking progesterone.  Balanced hormones are crucial for a normal period, and our bodies need to be healthy for this harmony to exist. Doctors tend to get fixated on the function of your organs, like the uterus and ovaries. Focusing on balancing hormones, even adrenal and thyroid hormones, may reveal the root of the problem.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Our current healthcare system in America is leading to serious burnout among physicians. Why? Because demand is high and the pay is very little. Respect and satisfaction among doctors is low—even for those who perform crucial surgeries. As a patient, you will pay more to replace your car transmission than what your doctor gets paid for a bypass surgery. This is an indicator of where the values in our society lie. Doctors spend years on their education and work grueling hours, racking up debt, but they are no longer compensated accordingly. Considering the sacrifice they have gone through, they are greatly underpaid. For these reasons and many more, doctors are deciding to go with a concierge service, including charging membership and other associated fees. Before you pass judgement about doctors for going this route, you have to understand the reasons why so many physicians would choose to. We need our doctors, and we need to start acting like it. The way the healthcare system is designed doesn't protect doctors and their businesses. They support the insurance companies who fleece you, the patient, and your medical professionals. Doctors want to help and heal people. Ideally not only those who can afford them. But at the same time, physicians have to put a value on the time they spend serving your needs outside of a face-to-face visit. Spending the minimum amount on your healthcare costs will get you the minimum amount of care. The business of medicine is the same as any other: You get what you pay for.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

We're continuing our conversation about the American healthcare system in this week's episode. It's important to recognize that the Affordable Healthcare Act advertised simplicity in our system, but in reality, the changes made fueled a huge rise in premium costs.  This act was intended to lower the number of uninsured Americans. Yet 10 years later, affordability has tanked for most people. So, what is the answer, and how do we address this? We have to trim the fat: Get rid of the bureaucracy that doesn't enhance the system in any way, shape, or form. Private doctors are a dying breed, leaving room for only those associated with groups and corporations. This has made healthcare much less accessible overall. When you do seek care, you may also find yourself confronted with long wait times to see the doctor in person, but also with customer service over the phone.  If you find a skilled doctor who takes your insurance, hold on to them. It isn't likely that we'll see a change in this system anytime soon. We are facing a physician shortage. The Great Resignation is still impacting medical support personnel in clinics and hospitals, making it hard to find good candidates to fill these roles. At the same time, the cost of overhead and labor has been weighing heavily on doctors, influencing many to decide to close their practice or retire from their practice early. Experienced, well-trained doctors want to be paid fairly–and rightly so. As a result, the people who need it the most are missing out on quality care. The Congressional Joint Economic Committee created this flowchart to map Obamacare Physician Suicide: A Call to Action Will the doctor see you now? Maybe not amid the changing health care landscape in the US.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Have you ever thought about how the healthcare system in the USA operates? The American healthcare system isn't designed to cover you or support you. At the end of the day, these healthcare entities are a business, and therefore they exist to be profitable, not to put your best interests first. When you buy insurance, you're signing a contract that will only cover certain aspects of your care. Insurance plans can vary greatly, so don't be surprised when your doctors and other health professionals don't know what your plan covers. Being savvy and in-the-know about your insurance plan is really important and will pay off for you. Your deductible is the amount you have to pay out of pocket before your plan will cover medical services. Some services are subject to deductibles while others are not. Deductible costs vary and could be as high as $10,000. If this is the case for you, you're more than likely paying for your care out of pocket.  Once you agree to a plan, you are also limited to medical services from the doctors you have access to and the services they provide. Waiting in line for an opening can delay your services, which is something you need to know upfront. A PPO plan is always preferable over an HMO or EPO plan. When you sign up for a plan, the number one thing you need to know is your maximum out-of-pocket costs. When you have a serious medical condition that requires hospitalization, you may end up spending an astronomical amount in bills without being aware of or even prepared for it. If you don't know the details of your plan yet, be sure to check them out sooner rather than later.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Having a great wellness provider matters, and that includes the medical team that works at the practice you choose. Recently on the podcast we've covered what to look for in a doctor, which includes a willingness to give you, the patient, a lot of time and patience while actively listening to your concerns. They should also have a great depth of knowledge that they also know how to apply. Your doctor and their medical team should never see you or treat you like just another number. Access to prompt, quality medical care is important for patients to have—however, it is increasingly difficult to find. Doctors are overwhelmed, and the consequences fall on the patients. Members of the medical team are usually the first point of contact with patients and will support quite a significant degree of your care. While their job is to support the doctor, each team member plays an important role in the outcome of your care. Yet, the way most medical teams are set up is flawed. Doctors aren't necessarily trained on how to be effective leaders, but this is crucial if you want to create a strong team. The medical team is truly an extension of the physician, so they need to be exceptional in their interactions and their knowledge to provide the best quality care. Doctors cannot run their office alone. A great physician will need a great team to work alongside them. In fact, they are the most valuable asset a doctor can have. Working well as a unit with minimal supervision and being able to handle difficult situations on their own allows the doctor to focus on what they do best.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

How important is it to have wellness doctors, and what does that even really mean? One way to think of this is a doctor who focuses on being well as opposed to combating symptoms and illness. This is really the art of keeping someone healthy versus the art of fighting disease, which are actually quite distinct. A wealth of knowledge is required to help one maintain harmony in a patient's health. That's why it would be difficult to be both a doctor who treats illnesses as well as an expert in wellness. There are also certain characteristics it can be helpful to have depending on your focus with patients. For example, surgeons need to have mental stamina and great attention to detail. There are many different specialties within medicine today. Does this make every type of doctor an expert in their own way? Not necessarily. Narrowing a field of knowledge doesn't necessarily make you an expert in the medical world. With all of the advances in medicine today, combined with the information available, no medical professional can know it all. That considered, wellness experts would need to be able to take in the big picture. They have to be able to look at multiple body systems and make informed decisions based on this overarching view. This professional would also need to take into account lifestyle factors like stress, diet, and exercise to help their patients avoid disease before it even begins. Going to the doctor once a year for a routine checkup isn't enough to prevent disease. It won't keep you away from serious illness because it doesn't focus on wellness. Wellness medicine should be a specialty in and of itself—and it already exists under another name: hormone optimization.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

The time your medical provider is willing to spend with you is one of the most valuable things to look for when searching for wellness support. It's also important that your provider has a strong knowledge base and versatile treatment options. But what about when you have an issue you can't identify the cause of? How can you choose the best wellness doctor for you? With various different types of providers to choose from, it's not always clear where to start. That said, in many cases, investigating hormone imbalances as the underlying cause can be helpful. Yet, when the option of hormone replacement therapy comes up, many patients shy away due to beliefs based on outdated information. Hormone replacement therapy is safe and effective, but keep in mind that there are effects and consequences you should be aware of. Therefore, your doctor will need to be specifically trained in this area in order to offer it to you.  Some physicians are resistant and close-minded when it comes to expanding their knowledge. The truth is that many women consider going to a nurse practitioner or a naturopathic doctor rather than an OBGYN for this reason. An OBGYN may be in the best position to help guide you through hormone replacement (and potential consequences), especially those intimately related to hormone issues. Your wellness doctor should be equipped to not only see the big picture, but also understand the importance of looking into all hormones and how they may be impacting you. Search for a wellness doctor who can look ahead, support your optimal wellness, and keep your best interests at heart.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

What's the secret to choosing the right doctor or medical practice? If you're not sure what to look for, you're not alone. The answers can be nebulous, and it's not always clear what's valuable and what's not when seeking the right fit. There is no shortage of options, but a great place to start is considering the reason you are looking for a health provider.  Having a full understanding of your problem can enable you to align with the right person to help you find a solution. If you need support getting there, your family doctor may be able to point you in the right direction. If you don't have a specific problem and you want a comprehensive wellness check, they can help with that too.  As a patient, it's important you look for a provider that can give you the amount of time you need to resolve your problem effectively. You also want to look for a provider who listens and allows you to explain your needs patiently. This includes being able to ask the right probing questions so they can gather all the information they need. The last thing you want as a patient is to feel rushed. Understanding and empathy are really important characteristics to have as a medical professional, especially when it comes to discussing sensitive issues. Our medical system is designed to be efficient, but the more people doctors see, the less time they are able to spend with them. But as a patient, you need time to tell your story. Versatility is another quality you want to look for. Providers who have an abundance of knowledge and seek additional training and certifications have more to offer you as a patient.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Let's talk about personalized thyroid dysfunction treatment. We're going to explore the various medication options available for those with hypothyroidism, and how customization of treatment can lead to significantly better health outcomes. Whether you have no functioning thyroid tissue or some residual function, we're here to discuss the importance of vigilant medication management tailored to your unique needs. The default treatment that doctors provide is T4-only therapy, but that might not be sufficient for everyone. Understanding the need for T3 inclusion in your treatment can be a game changer for many. It's essential to have open conversations with your healthcare providers about the best personalized treatment options for you. Don't settle for anything less than feeling your absolute best. There are plenty of potential benefits of adding T3 to improve patient well-being. It's crucial to recognize the role of compounded medications in providing tailored dosages, and why some patients may fare better with a combination of T4 and T3. Be sure to find a physician who is willing to adjust your treatment plan to achieve optimal wellness. A single type of therapy is not optimal for everyone. There's a minority of patients that are treated only with T3 therapy. Those people are rare cases, as they are only able to tolerate T3 therapy. T4 does not work for them at all, and it can make them feel terrible, despite being fine on T3. Coming back to the question of which therapy for thyroid is the best, you'll hear in the episode that the answer is very simple. Of course, figuring it out might take a little trial and error at the beginning. If you have been taking medication that you feel is not useful, and your doctor is not willing to change it, then it's time to change physicians.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

This week we're diving deep into the intricacies of thyroid health. As we navigate the complexities of thyroid function, we'll uncover the thyroid tests that actually matter and give you a clear picture of your thyroid health. Throughout our conversation today, you'll see why testing both T3 and T4 hormones is necessary. Understanding the balance between bound and free thyroid hormones is key to decoding our body's hormonal harmony. It's a common issue that patients will suffer symptoms due to low free hormone levels, despite normal bound hormone levels. This explains why you might feel dismissed by healthcare professionals when their lab results come back "normal," yet you continue to experience symptoms like chronic fatigue and digestive issues. Furthermore, thyroid antibodies are often overlooked regarding their role in autoimmune diseases such as Hashimoto's. Genetic factors, environmental triggers, and gut health contribute to these conditions. An imbalance in the immune system can turn into a relentless assault on thyroid tissue. Remember that knowledge is power, especially when it comes to personal health. Adopt a proactive stance in managing your thyroid health, with a focus on whole-body treatment strategies that go beyond dietary changes. It's a holistic approach that not only treats the symptoms, but also targets the underlying causes, paving the way for lasting wellness. It's not just about understanding our bodies, but also about advocating for ourselves in a healthcare system that can sometimes overlook the nuances of conditions like thyroid dysfunction.   To join the WOW MD Facebook Group please request access here https://www.facebook.com/groups/wellness.optimizing.warrior   To get more information about the practice please visit website Thousand Oaks Holistic OBGYN Women's Doctor | Medical Spa Westlake Village   To sign up for our email list please click https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/contact/   To follow us on instagram https://www.instagram.com/herabeautywellness/   To follow us on facebook https://m.facebook.com/p/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD-100063462643162 

Today we're addressing the complicated path of navigating functional testing for thyroid health. Specifically, we'll be looking at why TSH, which is the most commonly used thyroid test, is not as accurate as you might think. Remember, there is a big difference between your thyroid just functioning, and functioning optimally. We delve into the intricate pathways of thyroid functions and hormone conversion, a topic that's closely linked to fertility and general well-being. A so-called 'normal' TSH level doesn't necessarily point to a well-functioning thyroid, but aiming for a TSH level between 0.5 and 2 can be beneficial for fertility, for example. The enzyme DI flips the switch from inactive T4 hormones to active T3 hormones, and an imbalance in this process can cause thyroid dysfunction. This is so important to know because many doctors do not. We also discuss five common scenarios—inflammation, broken hormone receptors, leaky gut, acute illness, and restrictive diets—that can disrupt this T4 to T3 conversion. Various bodily functions such as metabolism, body temperature, growth, heart rate, digestion, reproductive health, mood, energy levels, muscle function, and skin health can all be affected by your thyroid health. We'll break down the myths surrounding thyroid testing, explaining further why a TSH test may not provide the full picture of your thyroid health. Finding a doctor who has extensive thyroid knowledge might not be easy, but it can give you much better results on your optimal health quest. This episode will give you enough tools to know more, educate your doctor, ask the right questions to prompt for the right test.   To join the WOW MD Facebook Group please request access here https://www.facebook.com/groups/wellness.optimizing.warrior   To get more information about the practice please visit website Thousand Oaks Holistic OBGYN Women's Doctor | Medical Spa Westlake Village   To sign up for our email list please click https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/contact/   To follow us on instagram https://www.instagram.com/herabeautywellness/   To follow us on facebook https://m.facebook.com/p/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD-100063462643162

The thyroid's intricate role in maintaining our body's delicate balance often goes unnoticed. This small gland acts as a silent symphony conductor, an architect of growth and development, a metabolic mastermind, and a guardian of vital functions. Today we'll discuss various thyroid disorders along with their symptoms and causes. There are various thyroid pathologies including autoimmune thyroiditis, goiter, nodules, thyroiditis, and even cancer. T4 and T3 hormones play a critical role in the thyroid because of the conversion process between them. I'll highlight the need for optimal levels of iodine, iron, selenium, magnesium, and B vitamins for efficient conversion, as well as the importance of checking T4, T3, and reverse T3 levels for proper treatment. If you're feeling fatigued, experiencing unexplained weight gain, or suffering from other symptoms, you might be dealing with hypothyroidism. These symptoms can often be subtle and easy to misinterpret, but it's crucial to be aware of them. It's best to have the knowledge to challenge the broken healthcare system and make informed choices concerning your health. This episode is not just about understanding thyroid disorders, it's about managing them. Being aware of the intricacies of thyroid health is crucial in maintaining overall health. Remember, the thyroid gland, albeit small in size, is colossal in its operational scale. Acknowledging the subtle and overt signs of hypothyroidism not only enhances our overall understanding of this organ, but also emphasizes the importance of detecting and addressing thyroid imbalances.   To join the WOW MD Facebook Group please request access here https://www.facebook.com/groups/wellness.optimizing.warrior   To get more information about the practice please visit website Thousand Oaks Holistic OBGYN Women's Doctor | Medical Spa Westlake Village   To sign up for our email list please click https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/contact/   To follow us on instagram https://www.instagram.com/herabeautywellness/   To follow us on facebook https://m.facebook.com/p/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD-100063462643162 

With age comes wisdom, experience, and unfortunately, the inevitability of our bodies changing. The quest for maintaining vitality and health as we age has become a topic of paramount importance in the medical field. Today, we're talking about the world of anti-aging, health preservation, and the pivotal role of hormone optimization. The brain, eyesight, musculoskeletal system, and heart and cardiovascular system are subject to the natural process of aging, so they need care and attention as we mature. The importance of our immune system cannot be overstated as it plays an integral role in our health, inevitably weakening as we age. An often-overlooked aspect of health is hormone optimization, and there are some common myths about the safety of it. In reality, hormone optimization plays a critical role in recuperating from adrenal fatigue, a condition that transcends age boundaries. It's best to counteract hormone deficiencies before they significantly impact our lives. Hormone optimization goes beyond hormone replacement. While hormone replacement is a commonly known method of anti-aging, hormone optimization goes a step further, ensuring that our hormone levels are not just replaced, but optimized. This approach can be a game-changer in managing and slowing down the aging process. It's never too late to prioritize your health. Whether you're in your 30s, 40s, or beyond, there's always a path to better health, vitality, and wellness. It's best to kickstart an anti-aging regimen as early as our 30s, and to seek advanced knowledge to sustain functional capacity.   To join the WOW MD Facebook Group please request access here https://www.facebook.com/groups/wellness.optimizing.warrior   To get more information about the practice please visit website Thousand Oaks Holistic OBGYN Women's Doctor | Medical Spa Westlake Village   To sign up for our email list please click https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/contact/   To follow us on instagram https://www.instagram.com/herabeautywellness/   To follow us on facebook https://m.facebook.com/p/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD-100063462643162 

Anti-aging has a few definitions, but what is it really? Anti-aging is actually about creating a lifestyle that revolves around maintaining functional capacity and making aging a more enjoyable process. It's about preserving key parts of our body, especially the ones that play a crucial role in supporting a high quality of life for as long as possible. The first important thing we need to preserve for effective anti-aging is our brain. It doesn't matter how pretty we age on the outside if we lose who we are or our sense of mental clarity. Without a healthy brain, you will need someone to take care of you—which is not ideal for aging. There is a significant role that preventative care plays when it comes to maintaining optimal eyesight. This includes eye protection, sunglasses, supplements, and regular eye exams. We also need to keep healthy mobility so we can get ourselves wherever we need to be.  Moving and exercising regularly, as well as taking advantage of helpful hormones, can support you in keeping the mobility you have—which is much easier than starting from scratch. Maintaining healthy muscle tone spans beyond mobility. It also includes supporting a strong pelvic floor and promoting back health in an effort to reduce chronic back pain. The good news is that if you want to support healthy muscles, you have options. Lastly, you need a strong engine to power your body: a healthy heart. This will help with adequate blood flow to your brain, eyes, and muscles, thereby supporting the other systems crucial for anti-aging. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. This couldn't be more true than when it comes to our aging process.   To join the WOW MD Facebook Group please request access here https://www.facebook.com/groups/wellness.optimizing.warrior   To get more information about the practice please visit website Thousand Oaks Holistic OBGYN Women's Doctor | Medical Spa Westlake Village   To sign up for our email list please click https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/contact/   To follow us on instagram https://www.instagram.com/herabeautywellness/   To follow us on facebook https://m.facebook.com/p/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD-100063462643162

Last time, we talked about autoimmunity, specifically focusing on the role stress plays in immune dysfunction. We also discussed leaky gut and how this condition can impact your immunity. In this second part, we're going to continue the conversation and explore conventional methods for autoimmunity and why you may want to consider addressing it more holistically. An immune response can be a cellular response; a reaction initiated by foreign antigens. This kind of immune response is non-specific, which means we can't necessarily narrow down where the issue is coming from. Testing your blood and/or measuring your T-cells can provide more information on this type of activation. There is also another kind of response called a humoral response, which is more easily identifiable through testing as it's mediated by antibody molecules secreted by plasma cells. There are five types of antibodies: IgA, IgM, IgD, IgG, and IgE. The presence of these antibodies can help you figure out the underlying cause of your autoimmune issues. Conventional medicine approaches autoimmune conditions by focusing on controlling your symptoms first. This is typically done through non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. If the inflammation is severe, you may be prescribed prednisone—a steroid with various unfavorable side effects. It is estimated that one in fifteen people in the US have an autoimmune disease, and 80% of those individuals are women. While drugs are effective in reducing or eliminating clinical signs and symptoms, they do not address the underlying cause. By focusing on the leading causes (a compromised gut barrier and chronic stress), we can allow holistic healing to take place.   To join the WOW MD Facebook Group please request access here https://www.facebook.com/groups/wellness.optimizing.warrior   To get more information about the practice please visit website Thousand Oaks Holistic OBGYN Women's Doctor | Medical Spa Westlake Village   To sign up for our email list please click https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/contact/   To follow us on instagram https://www.instagram.com/herabeautywellness/   To follow us on facebook https://m.facebook.com/p/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD-100063462643162

We really need to talk about autoimmunity, as it could be considered one of the scariest epidemics we're facing. When you're diagnosed with an autoimmune disease, it means you have signs and symptoms of a problem caused by antibodies attacking your own cells and tissues.  In some cases, these signs may not be considered clinically significant, and therefore would not lead to a clinical diagnosis. In fact, the presence of these antibodies is higher in our modern world than ever before. Autoimmune disease is a serious problem, and we can think of autoimmunity as a precursor for this problem. Most autoimmune illnesses attack connective tissue like joints, tissue, skin, and muscles. These illnesses are also more common in women than in men. Common symptoms include pain, fatigue, and digestive issues. While conventional medicine doesn't accept a widespread explanation for autoimmune issues, functional medical doctors agree that autoimmunity starts with a damaged intestinal layer. In your intestines, there is a unique single-cell barrier. The integrity of this barrier relies on the junctions between the cells. Numerous studies have shown that this layer is seriously damaged by stress. When this lining is damaged, large molecules can gain entry into our bloodstream, which can lead to the many issues we see with autoimmunity. Women are significantly more likely to experience autoimmune issues, and this is due to higher levels of stress. Not only do women have a lot to manage, but we're also more likely to need more time for emotional processing than men. The answer? Testosterone can help balance mood and ultimately help women cope better with stress. Testosterone replacement therapy may significantly reduce the instance of these issues.

In this episode we're talking about how you can harness nature to revitalize your inner feminine strength which, ultimately, is our natural testosterone. You can holistically increase your testosterone by nourishing and supporting two organs that play a significant role in testosterone production. Why do some women need to support the production of testosterone? A high, chronic level of stress, a lack of sleep, hormone disruptors, and lifestyle factors can all impact your testosterone levels. That said, there are shifts you can make in each of these areas to naturally boost your testosterone. Your diet influences your hormones too. Foods high in zinc, vitamin D, and healthy fats promote healthy hormone levels, including testosterone. Engaging in resistance training creates mechanical stress that stimulates the production of testosterone. Compound exercises like squats, deadlifts, and bench press boost testosterone naturally in the short term. Short bursts of intense activity, like those performed during HIIT workouts, can also increase testosterone levels in men and women. Half of the testosterone produced in your body comes from the adrenal glands. Therefore, having healthy functioning adrenals is crucial for naturally increasing your testosterone. Stress management and staying out of fight-or-flight mode also supports healthy adrenal function. The higher your stress, the lower your sex hormones. This is true for both men and women. If you want to increase testosterone, you should do your best to avoid hormone disruptors. These come in the form of chemicals found in furniture, cans, plastic containers, and more. Avoiding drugs, alcohol, and certain types of medications (opioids and antidepressants) can also support naturally balanced testosterone levels.

This week we're talking about a magic solution you may not have heard of for turning the shifts of perimenopause in your favor. This solution can effectively help you navigate the ups and downs (fatigue, anxiety, weight gain, etc) of the hormonal storm for many years. Fatigue is a major complaint among perimenopausal women, and it shouldn't be ignored. You may also notice mood changes at this time—feeling a general lack of motivation and increased anxiety. Your appetite may change, and weight loss can become increasingly difficult if not seemingly impossible. Lastly, it's common for perimenopausal women to notice a significant decrease in their desire for sex. When all of these symptoms seem to come up at once, it can be very overwhelming. This can also have consequences for your self-esteem and your relationship. The hormone shifts responsible for this are a decline in estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. There's also a marked difference in the balance between these hormones. If you're looking for a fast and easy solution, it can be found in testosterone replacement. There are actually many benefits of testosterone in women, including its usefulness in reducing symptoms associated with perimenopause. It also promotes increased confidence, stamina, and sense of wellbeing.  Testosterone therapy is safe for women, and despite what you may have heard, it does not cause cancer. In any case, it's always best to start with a low dose. It's also important you work with a qualified professional who will monitor your hormones closely while you're on testosterone therapy. It's a great option if you want fast results and to quickly start feeling more like yourself.

In this episode, we're picking back up where we left off last, exploring the different options for hormone replacement therapy. One method not covered yet is injectable therapies, which really do not exist for estrogen. However, injectable testosterone is available for women. But remember: Testosterone given via injection is not bioidentical, and there is no established approved dose for women. Injectable testosterone has high bioavailability, but it's only in your system for a few days. Furthermore, typically with this type of administration you're hit with a "hormone bomb"—a dose that floods your system with a high amount of hormones right away. An alternative yet similar solution to traditional injectables is pellet hormone therapy. Pellet hormone therapy comes in the form of small, compounded beads. These are inserted into the body through injection using a large needle, but local anesthesia ensures you don't feel anything. It's not a widely available option, but they usually last between two and a half to four months. The unique benefit of this option is an internal regulatory mechanism: Your heart rate. Of all the methods you can choose from, pellet therapy is the most reliable. For a few weeks, you can expect steady hormone levels, and nothing else on the market for hormone replacement therapy can match that. Pellet hormone therapy also offers convenience and guaranteed compliance.  There are some concerns regarding accumulation of estradiol with long-term pellet implantation, which is something that should be monitored by your health care professionals. Typically, this is seen in women who have been estrogen dominant (and therefore prone to high estrogen) throughout their life. While not approved by the FDA as a medication, pellets can be sourced from compounding pharmacies offering custom products.

What are the safest and most effective solutions for menopause? That's exactly what we're covering in this episode of Wellness Optimizing Warrior MD. When it comes to exploring your options for hormone replacement therapy, transdermal options tend to be the most bioavailable and safe to detoxify, which means you can avoid secondary risks. One therapy to consider is the estradiol patch, which delivers estrogen. It's an acrylic adhesive that's applied directly to the skin, and you change it weekly or bi-weekly. You receive a gradual release, and it's much more bioavailable than oral alternatives because it's not subject to the first pass liver effect. On the flipside, it's not super reliable. The delivery can be impacted by your hydration, and other factors as well. It has a slightly different chemical structure than non-synthetic estrogen. Plus, the highest levels you can attain are not full replacement levels, which means you may not get the results you're aiming for. While you can replace estrogen with a patch, it's also important to keep in mind that other replacement therapies provide options to include the other crucial hormones as well, which are progesterone and testosterone. It's less convenient to get all three in different forms because you have to take them separately. Another option for hormone replacement is in a cream, which is usually applied daily. But like the patch, it only applies bioavailable levels for a few hours. In many ways like the patch, this method has pros and cons. Ideally, the hormone replacement therapy you choose will fit your personality and lifestyle. It will fit your goals, budget, and medical needs.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Let's talk about oral estrogen, which is a form of hormone replacement therapy many doctors still recommend—even though sometimes perhaps they shouldn't. In addition to that, many women use synthetic oral estrogens, like birth control pills, for decades. The more information you have regarding your choices for estrogen replacement, the better decision you can make for yourself. Whatever form you choose, it should be able to enter your body, circulate, reach the proper receptors, and be eliminated effectively. Essentially, it needs to be bioavailable and activate receptors on the target cells to achieve desired results. Oral estrogens have minimal systemic bioavailability—between 2% and 10%. This is due to the first pass effect and demonstrates how a huge amount of this dose does not make it into the circulatory system. Despite this, they are still often prescribed by doctors who are making recommendations based on outdated or biased information. There is no established ideal hormone level at menopause, which can make it more difficult for women on hormone replacement therapy to figure out their most effective dose. It really comes down to weighing the benefits being experienced against the potential side effects or risks. Often, these risks are there regardless due to age, so many women feel the positive effects are worth it.  Synthetic hormone use comes with its share of things to consider. To keep this in perspective, we have to remember that many women are exposed to synthetic hormones via birth control measures. That means we have to account for this too when looking at the data. If you're taking or considering taking oral estrogen, it's best to understand the upsides along with the dangers that could be lurking.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Are you interested in hormone replacement therapy? We're shedding light on hormone replacement in this episode, and exploring how you should go about it. Here's the thing: There is no general "best" way to approach hormone replacement therapy—only the way that works best for you. So where should you start? Begin by connecting with a doctor who is well-versed in all the methods of hormone replacement therapy. They should be able to explain the pros, cons, and differences between them to guide you as you choose the most ideal method for you. It's even better if they can provide you with additional resources and educational material. One thing you'll want to be aware of when making a decision is the difference between bioidentical and non-bioidentical hormones. Keep in mind this isn't the same as synthetic versus non-synthetic, which is another aspect to take into consideration. Lastly, the method by which you receive replacement therapy matters too. Typical options include gels, creams, and injectables. Synthetic estrogens, like ethinyl estradiol, are commonly used in birth control. However, this is one type of estrogen you want to stay away from, especially in menopause. Premarin is another estrogen derived from horse urine, which you may want to stay away from. That said, whether you feel more comfortable with big pharma produced, FDA-approved drugs or natural, more "non-GMO" type products, you have options. Transdermal use of estrogen has been proved safer for long-term use than oral alternatives. If you're considering being on hormone replacement therapy for more than a few years, stay away from oral options. Compounded estrogens are a great option because they are customizable based on your unique needs, whereas gels come in predetermined doses. Understanding the options available to you is crucial for making an informed decision.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Testosterone has different functions in male and female bodies. In this episode, we're focusing on the role testosterone plays for women specifically and why this hormone is so important. Estrogen and testosterone are usually seen as opposites, but the truth is they actually work together to maintain an equilibrium in the woman's body. Though present in much lower quantities in women than in men, it contributes to a woman's bone strength, mood, mental clarity, and ambition. Testosterone influences physical features and aspects of personality like muscle mass, motivation, and the desire to succeed. In women, it subtly compliments estrogen to create a complete portrait of a woman's health. Testosterone is an androgenic hormone—the king of all androgens. It's produced in the ovaries, adrenal glands, and some tissues. Testosterone is important for sexual desire in women. Various methods of birth control can impact the product of testosterone, thereby lowering your sex drive. If you feel tired, depressed, and seem to be gaining weight, low testosterone could be the underlying cause. Testosterone declines with age in women, and this is because the ovaries and adrenal glands naturally lower their production over time. In an ideal world, women would have their testosterone levels tested early to establish a baseline to distinguish if their levels have dropped later on. Overall, there is more to be uncovered and understood about testosterone in women. For example, we have defined an optimal level for women, but there is no "normal" amount defined. The level target for replacing your testosterone, if you go this route, will likely be more than your natural baseline. Your health professional will likely recommend 10% of what's healthy in a male, and some will aim for more.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Are you having trouble losing weight? This is one of the most bothersome and common health issues patients have. During this episode, we explore various possible reasons why this could be happening to you. The valuable insights shared here will, at the very least, help point you in the right direction. First and foremost, there is no such thing as a "perfect" diet. That said, people tend to eat the same foods with consistency—something that can actually contribute to food sensitivities. If you're stuck and you can't lose weight, you might consider changing your diet and exercise routine. When it comes to exercise, there is such a thing as too much—even if your goal is weight loss. Not only that, but the type of exercise you're doing matters too. A functional doctor can help provide you with feedback on your specific routine. Don't get trapped trying the same thing over and over again if it's not working. If you suffer from inflammation and it's not being addressed, this could be the culprit to your struggle with weight loss. The solution is figuring out the cause of inflammation in your body, fixing it, and promoting the body's natural healing processes. Getting to the bottom of your issue may involve measuring levels of insulin and cortisol, which are two hormones that play major roles in weight loss. Mitochondrial dysfunction is another reason some people have difficulty losing weight. When mitochondrial damage occurs, it can trigger an inflammatory response. This leads to stress on various body systems and tissues which disrupts receptor function that is essential for your body's ability to lose weight. If you want to achieve meaningful weight loss, you have to be willing to dive deep.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

In this episode, we're moving into part two in a series all about progesterone. This episode will cover the role progesterone plays in menstruation, when to test for sex hormones like progesterone, and what happens to a woman's cycle as we age. You'll also discover the difference between progesterone and progestyn, along with why it matters. Imagine the uterine lining as a brick wall. In this example, estrogen would be the bricks or building blocks of the wall. Progesterone's role would be the mortar—fortifying the brick wall. If you don't have enough progesterone, your wall, or uterine lining, could be weak or unstable. The role progesterone plays in balance with estrogen cannot be understated. When these hormones are not in balance, various issues can arise including reproductive conditions and irregularities. Estrogen, without progesterone, can even lead to an increase in cancer. For this reason, cycle abnormalities should be taken seriously by your doctor. As a woman approaches menopause, the quality of her eggs naturally declines. As a result, the progesterone produced is much lower. At the same time, estrogen naturally declines as the body naturally works to keep a balance. Women in perimenopause may still notice symptoms like painful periods, gastrointestinal issues, and more. Many OBGYNs who put their patients on estrogen replacement therapy don't bother with progesterone. This is a mistake. If you have a uterus and are on ERT, you will need to take progesterone too. Women in perimenopause and menopause deserve to have the full picture of the role these hormones play in their health so they can make educated decisions.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Did you know progesterone is the second most important sex hormone if you're a woman? That's just one reason it's so important to acknowledge and understand progesterone for women's health. In this episode, we're diving into part one of all things progesterone including how it's produced and what happens when it's out of balance with other hormones. Women's bodies create progesterone alongside estrogen, and it's truly the balance between these two major hormones that promotes healthy balance. During a regular menstrual cycle, after ovulation, progesterone is generated at higher levels in the body. In fact, there is no progesterone without ovulation. This means ovulation is really crucial to balancing these hormones. Low progesterone levels can lead to estrogen dominance—a hormone state in which symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, insomnia, and more can arise. Identifying estrogen dominance and its possible cause (whether in relation to progesterone levels or not) can help you figure out the best next step towards a solution. High cortisol can impact progesterone levels. It's been postulated that the production of cortisol may actually steal progesterone from the ovaries. Whether this is true or not, stress has been shown to inhibit ovulation by directly impacting the brain, thereby promoting an overall hormone imbalance. Intense and strenuous exercise or competitive athletes may also notice low progesterone levels. Their bodies are under a different kind of stress, but a stress nonetheless, so the body shuts down pituitary hormones, meaning the ovaries won't make any estrogen. Without estrogen, the body won't produce any progesterone, leading to further health symptoms.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Last time, we covered how low estrogen can impact women's health. Today, our focus is on excess estrogen, and how this can affect both women's and men's health. Having too much estrogen in the body is also referred to as estrogen dominance. Because this hormone plays such a significant role in the body, outcomes of estrogen dominance can have a serious impact on our health. An excess of estrogen in women can lead to weight gain around the midsection, breast enlargement, period and cycle changes, severe PMS, sleeping difficulties, and more. In men, high estrogen can lead to low sex drive, gynecomastia, decrease in muscle tone (in spite of exercise), and depression. Our bodies, when stressed, release cortisol. When cortisol release is irregularly high, the body's ability to produce progesterone, which balances estrogen, is compromised. Drinking alcohol daily can also increase estrogen levels because it directly impacts the liver, where estrogen is metabolized. There are also chemicals in plastic products like pesticides, skincare, fragrances, food storage, and more which can influence estrogen production negatively. These substances are called estrogen disruptors (or EEDCs), and they alter the function of the hormonal system. Keeping your hands clean throughout the day, avoiding plastic, and choosing organic foods can limit your exposure to these toxic chemicals. Poor diet and increased carbohydrate intake are linked to increased estrogen in men. High stress, poor sleep, and lack of exercise can also lead to increased estrogen levels in men. Avoiding alcohol, smoked meat, and fish, while enjoying more cruciferous vegetables, fermented foods, and flavones (found in chamomile) can help keep estrogen balanced in men.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Estrogen influences so many diverse aspects of a woman's existence. In the last episode, we explored two of the main reasons why estrogen is awesome: first for sexuality, and second for brain health. In this episode, we continue empowering you with knowledge on this amazing hormone and discuss all the other ways estrogen is beneficial for a woman's body. Estrogen is awesome for the role it plays in supporting heart health. Interestingly, the risk for heart disease increases after menopause. This decrease in estrogen coincides with potential issues in cardiovascular health. This may be related to its ability to decrease plaque, or its promotion of healthy cholesterol.  This hormone also plays a role in supporting a woman's musculoskeletal health. Estrogen receptors are found inside your two main bone cells, which highlights its importance in bone formation and integrity. As such, estrogen deficiency can lead to bone mineral decline. It also plays an important role in supporting a woman's joint health. In a healthy body, the balance between anabolic hormones (like estrogen) and catabolic hormones (like cortisol) is maintained and creates homeostasis. So, when we lose estrogen as an anabolic hormone, your metabolism will slow down to a crawl. You might find you need to eat less and workout more to maintain the same weight. Estrogen is also vision supportive and helps maintain hydration of the eyes. It even works wonders in promoting healthy skin by promoting sebum and collagen production. Estrogen has antioxidant properties and protects the skin against UV damage. By nourishing our bodies with the appropriate amount of estrogen, women can ensure robust, resilient health for years to come.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Today's episode is all about estrogen and why it's awesome for women. It's important to know the information shared here, whether it impacts you as a woman directly or you have women in your life who could benefit from this knowledge. Estrogen is important for men too, which will be covered more in future episodes. If you're a woman, estrogen is your body's best friend—especially for the first 40 years (and potentially later, if using hormone replacement therapy). Estrogen is the essence of femininity. It's what makes a woman a woman—her sexuality, fertility, and ability to bear children.  There are some misconceptions about estrogen, but the truth is estrogen is only negatively impactful when it's not balanced correctly. Every hormone in the body plays a part in the larger endocrine system, so balance—especially with testosterone and progesterone—is crucial. As a woman, you're able to ovulate, be fertile, birth children, and nourish them thanks to estrogen. Your desire to have sex and be intimate is also linked to the presence of estrogen in your body. It influences your brain and psychology. If you're suffering from a very low level of estrogen, you will likely notice the effects in these areas of your life. Your estrogen levels also influence your mental health. It's vital to a woman's stable mood. In fact, there are mood changes like PMS, PMDD, postpartum depression, and post-menopausal depression, all of which are affected by levels of estrogen. Because estrogen has such a profound impact on a woman's overall health, it's worth it for most women to explore hormone replacement therapy as estrogen declines.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

We're talking about hormones in this episode. Today's introduction to hormones will give you interesting facts about them that will leave you wowed, fascinated, and eager to learn more. Plus, it will provide insight on what you could ask your doctor when you see them. There are ten major hormones produced by the body. Hormones regulate and control just about everything in your body including mood, metabolism, sleep, immune system, and blood sugar. They act like chemical messengers, facilitating communication between cells, tissues, and organs. There are three major sex hormones in women: estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. These play a crucial role in species propagation and survival, and so much more. We also have thyroid-specific hormones that control our metabolism, temperature, and blood pressure. Adrenal hormones like cortisol, aldosterone, and more have both specific and generalized roles. Cortisol, also known as the "stress hormone," is the most potent anti-inflammatory tool our body has. Adrenaline and noradrenaline, also produced by the adrenals, are our "fight or flight" hormones. These hormones are essential for survival, and eventually will be covered more in depth in a future episode. Insulin and glucagon are two other hormones that are also essential for survival. These are just a few of the hormones working within your body each and every day. Our endocrine system is very complex, and they influence every function in your body. Knowing what the hormones are, the roles they play, and how to properly test them is vital for empowering yourself when it comes to your health. We'll cover many of these hormones in detail in future episodes.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Welcome to the Wellness Optimizing Warrior M.D. podcast. When I decided to pursue becoming an OBGYN in the US after my medical studies in Romania, my friends and family thought I was crazy. However, I didn't let this deter me. The English speaking skills I had honed as a child were a valuable asset, and I became the first foreign medical graduate at Louisiana State University.  Life became about learning new things, making new friends, and adapting in a new world. I embraced it—and I still do. A few years after graduating from university, I got a job in a community healthcare clinic in California. I'm conventionally trained, but I have always been holistic in my approach to medicine. When my father got sick with ARDS (acute respiratory distress syndrome), I was shocked by the substandard care he received. Despite the battle we fought for him and against the healthcare system, he passed. This set me down the path to learning more about anti-aging, and I discovered a whole new world. The more I learned, the more I wanted to know. Today, I practice medicine on my own terms with a skilled team of professionals alongside me. I lead a team of nine people, and together we support thousands of patients. I want to continue giving back, and that's what inspired me to start this podcast. A lack of information leads to fear, so filling the gap with education allows patients to make the best choice for them. It's my hope that this podcast will give value to anyone who wants access to useful, helpful information on the latest innovative solutions in regenerative health. Healthcare has grown so much, and it's so complex. It's time to expect more from the care you get from your healthcare professionals, and that journey starts here.   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/

Welcome to the Wellness Optimizing Warrior M.D. Podcast!   Connect with Dr. Cernaianu https://www.herabeautyandwellness.com/ https://www.instagram.com/herabeautyandwellness/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Hera-Healthcare-Mirela-Cernaianu-MD/100063462643162/