SOURCES
Your Complete (Real-Talk) Guide to Contraception
Use of contraception in US: Center for Disease Control, Current Contraceptive Status Among Women Aged 15–49: United States, 2015–2017, December 2018
Female use of contraceptive pill worldwide: AMA Journal of Ethics, Audiey Kao, MD, PhD, June 2000
Affordable Care Act: KFF.org, 2022
Pill use for non-contraceptive health reasons: The Broad Benefits of Contraceptive Use in the United States, April 2020
Non-pregnancy related birth control: Women's Sexual and Reproductive Health Services: Key Findings from the 2020 KFF Women's Health Survey, April 21, 2021
Other uses of hormonal contraceptives: ACOG Guidelines on Noncontraceptive Uses of Hormonal Contraceptives, Carrie Armstrong, January 2010
Oral contraceptive clinical uses: StatPearls - Contraception, July 2023
Forms of birth control: PubMed Central Contraceptive Methods: Needs, Options, Utilization, Rakhi Jain, Sumathi Muralidhar, February 2012
Effectiveness of birth control by method: ACOG Effectiveness of Birth Control Methods, April 2023
Contraceptive Effectiveness: Contraceptive Effectiveness in the United States, Guttmacher Institute, April 2020
Barrier methods of birth control: ACOG Barrier Methods of Birth Control: Spermicide, Condom, Sponge, Diaphragm, and Cervical Cap, April 2022
How hormonal contraceptives work: Reproductive Fact Sheet, 2018
Birth control ring: ACOG Birth Control Method: Vaginal Ring, 2021
Birth control shot: ACOG Birth Control Method: Injection, 2021
Birth control patch: ACOG Combined Hormonal Birth Control: Pill, Patch, and Ring, March 2018
IUDs and Implants: Long-Acting Reversible Contraception: Implants and Intrauterine Devices, Committee on Practice Bulletins—Gynecology and the Long-Acting Reversible Contraception Work Group in collaboration with Eve Espey, MD, MPH; and Lisa Hofler, MD, MPH, MBA, November 2017, Reaffirmed 2021.
Permanent methods of birth control: ACOG Sterilization for Women and Men, June 2022
Fertility awareness contraception: Fertility Awareness-Based Methods of Family Planning, January 2019
Effectiveness of the LAM method: Postpartum contraception: the lactational amenorrhea method, M. Vekemans, June 1997
Emergency contraception: ACOG Emergency Contraception FAQs, August 2019
Effectiveness of Emergency Contraception: PubMed Central, Emergency Contraceptive Review, December 2015
US women use of contraceptives: 2015-2017 National Survey of Family Growth, Kimberly Daniels, Ph.D., and Joyce C. Abma, Ph.D., December 2018
Side effects and risks: Office on Women’s Health, Birth Control Methods, December 2022
Birth Control and reduced cancer risk: American Cancer Society, January 2016
Long-Acting Reversible Contraception: Your Questions, Answered
Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARC): Intrauterine Device (IUD) and Implant: American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. April 2023.
How To Know If Your IUD Is Out of Place and What To Do Next: MedicalNewsToday. February 2023.
Intrauterine Device: StatPearls. June 2023.
Contraceptive Implant: Cleveland Clinic. December 2022.
What is a Birth Control Implant: MedicalNewsToday. February 2023.
9 Things People Always Say About Birth Control: True or False?
Nearly 50% of American women say they never had a “sex talk” with either parent: SWNS Digital September 2021
Contraception: Do hormonal contraceptives cause weight gain? National Library of Medicine: InformedHealth.org June 2017
Weight and body composition changes during oral contraceptive use in obese and normal weight women: Journal of Women’s Health January 2014
Progestin-only contraceptives: effects on weight Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews August 2016
Researchers identify women at risk of gaining excessive weight with Depo-Provera: News Medical Life Sciences July 2009
Hormonal contraceptives and mood changes: MGH Center for Women’s Mental Health, July 2015
Hormonal contraception and risk of breast cancer: The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists January 2018
Oral contraceptives and cancer risk: National Cancer Institute February 2018
Fertility after discontinuation of contraception: a comprehensive review of the literature: Contraception November 2011
Blood clot risk and the oral contraceptive pill: News Medical Life Sciences April 2023
Blood Clot link to oral contraceptives: Cleveland Clinic, April 2022
Condoms: past, present, and future: Indian Journal of Sexually Transmitted Diseases and AIDS December 2015
Antibiotics and birth control pill interactions: fact or fallacy? Drugs.com January 2022
Your Complete (Real-Talk) Guide to Pregnancy
What is pregnancy: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. About Pregnancy.
What is conception: StatPearls. Physiology, Pregnancy.
How long conception takes: StatPearls. Embryology, Fertilization.
What is implantation: F1000 Research. Early embryo mortality in natural human reproduction: What the data say. 2016.
Human chorionic gonadotropin: StatPearls. Human chorionic gonadotropin.
Why you don’t get your period during pregnancy: StatPearls. Physiology, Pregnancy.
Vaginal bleeding during pregnancy. StatPearls. Vaginal Bleeding.
Nausea and vomiting during pregnancy: Frontiers in Medicine. Emerging Progress in Nausea and Vomiting of Pregnancy and Hyperemesis Gravidarum: Challenges and Opportunities. 2021.
Changes to nipples during pregnancy. International Journal of Women’s Dermatology. Physiological changes of pregnancy: A review of the literature. 2017.
Genetic testing during the first trimester: The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Prenatal Genetic Screening Tests.
Fetal organs developing: National Library of Medicine. Critical Periods of Development.
Gestational diabetes: StatPearls. Gestational Diabetes.
Preeclampsia: Iranian Journal of Medical Sciences. A Comparison of 4- and 24-Hour Urine Samples for the Diagnosis of Proteinuria in Pregnancy. 2011.
Baby surviving after 24 weeks: United Kingdom National Health Service. You and your baby at 24 weeks pregnant.
When a fetus can start to hear: Handbook of Clinical Neurology. Development of the auditory system. 2015.
Physical symptoms in third trimester: Mayo Clinic. 3rd trimester pregnancy: What to expect.
Risk of miscarriage over age 35: BMJ. Role of maternal age and pregnancy history in risk of miscarriage: prospective register based study. 2019.
Risk of Down Syndrome: Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Pregnancy Over Age 30.
Risk of Down Syndrome for women 35 and younger: Minnesota Department of Health. Down syndrome (also called Trisomy 21).
High blood pressure and obesity impacting pregnancy: StatPearls. Miscarriage.
Lupus, kidney disease, and thyroid disorders impacting pregnancy: United Kingdom National Health Service. Miscarriage.
Gaining weight during pregnancy: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Weight Gain During Pregnancy.
Overweight or underweight before pregnancy: Mount Sinai. When you need to gain more weight during pregnancy.
Miscarriages: StatPearls. Miscarriage.
Gestational Diabetes. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Gestational Diabetes.
Episiotomy. Johns Hopkins Medicine. What is an episiotomy?
Perinatal Asphyxia. Johns Hopkins Medicine. Perinatal Asphyxia.
Perinatal Asphyxia: Seattle Children’s. Birth Asphyxia.
How common is perinatal asphyxia: Heliyon. Prevalence of perinatal asphyxia in East and Central Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis. 2020.
Effects of perinatal asphyxia: World Journal of Clinical Pediatrics. Short and long term prognosis in perinatal asphyxia: An update. 2016.
Shoulder dystocia: Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists. Shoulder dystocia patient information leaflet.
McRoberts Maneuver: Cleveland Clinic. McRoberts Maneuver.
Excessive bleeding as leading cause of maternal death: World Health Organization. Maternal mortality.
Maternal deaths in the U.S. due to excessive bleeding: Research and Practice in Thrombosis and Haemostasis. Disparities in obstetric hemorrhage outcomes.
Importance of folic acid during pregnancy: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Folic Acid.
How much folic acid to get a day: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Current Folic Acid Research.
Best food sources of folic acid: Advances in Nutrition. Folate. 2013.
Importance of iron during pregnancy: American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Iron Deficiency in Pregnancy. 2021.
The Dos and Don’ts of Traveling While Pregnant
Dos:
- Safe time to travel
“Is it safe to fly during pregnancy?” Mayo Clinic. December 29, 2022.
“Travel during pregnancy,” The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Last updated: July 2023.
“Vaccines and pregnancy: Things to know,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Last reviewed: September 29, 2023.
“Travelers’ Health,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Last reviewed: June 28, 2022.
- Do scope out your medical care options while away
- Do find out about any health risks at your destination
- Do Consider getting traveler’s insurance
“Traveler’s Health,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Last updated November 27, 2023.
“What to know about travel during your pregnancy,” Cleveland Clinic. November 29, 2022.
“Cruise Line Directory,” American College of Emergency Physicians. November 10, 2020.
“Food and drink considerations when travelling,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Last reviewed: July 13, 2023.
“What we know about Zika and pregnancy,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Last reviewed: July 1, 2022.
“Intermittent Preventive Treatment of Malaria for Pregnant Women (IPTp),” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Last reviewed: July 23, 2018.
- Do pack the essentials
“5 snack foods to eat while pregnant,” Johns Hopkins Medicine. 2023.
“Eat healthy during pregnancy: quick tips,” U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Last updated: May 19, 2023.
- Do wear your seatbelt
“Placental abruption,” Cleveland Clinic. Last reviewed July 7, 2021.
“Pregnant Travelers,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Last reviewed: May 1, 2023.
Don’ts:
- Don’t book a cruise if you suffer from morning sickness
“Travel during pregnancy,” The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Last updated: July 2023.
“Morning sickness,” Cleveland Clinic. Last reviewed: April 5, 2023.
-
Don’t lift or carry heavy luggage
“Physical Job Demands – Reproductive Health,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Last reviewed: May 1, 2023.
- Don’t overload your schedule
“Travel fatigue: Why does traveling tired you out?,” The Ohio State University. September 22, 2021.
- Don’t engage in risky activities
“Pregnant Travelers,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Last reviewed: May 1, 2023.
Positive Pregnancy Test? Here's What to Do Next
Home pregnancy tests: Can you trust the results? Mayo Clinic December 2022
Prenatal care in your first trimester: MedlinePlus April 2022
Pregnancy complications: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention February 2023
Early signs of pregnancy: American Pregnancy Association 2023
Nutrition during pregnancy: The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists June 2023
Omega-3 fish oil and pregnancy: American Pregnancy Association
Sleep patterns and sleep disturbances across pregnancy: Sleep Medicine April 2015
People at risk: pregnant women: FoodSafety.gov September 2020
Is it safe to keep a cat during pregnancy? The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists October 2020
Toxoplasmosis: pregnancy FAQs Centers for Disease Control and Prevention December 2022
Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC): USDA Food and Nutrition Service: U.S. Department of Agriculture July 2022
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): USDA Food and Nutrition Service: U.S. Department of Agriculture
Your Pregnancy Timeline: Appointments, Screenings, Milestones, More!
Home pregnancy test info:
"Pregnancy tests." Office on Women's Health. February 22, 2021.
Home pregnancy test stats:
Ralph L, Greene Foster D, et al. "Home pregnancy test use and timing of pregnancy confirmation among people seeking health care." Contraception. March 2022.
Branum A, Ahrens K. "Trends in Timing of Pregnancy Awareness Among US Women." Maternal and Child Health Journal. April 2017.
Pregnancy timing info:
"Fetal development." MedlinePlus. August 23, 2023. [[NOTE: I picked this source because it's a government source, but it actually has outdated information about what a full-term pregnancy is (!) so if we want to go with something more accurate, we can use: "Pregnancy week by week." Mayo Clinic. June 3, 2022.]]
"Know Your Terms: Full-Term Pregnancy." National Child & Maternal Health Education Program. June 2, 2022.
Types of pregnancy healthcare providers:
"Choosing the right health care provider for pregnancy and childbirth." MedlinePlus. November 21, 2022.
First prenatal visit:
"What happens during prenatal visits?" NICHD. January 31, 2017.
"Ultrasound in pregnancy." Cleveland Clinic. September 28, 2022.
Nuchal translucency scan:
"Nuchal Translucency." Cleveland Clinic. June 23, 2022.
CVS test:
"Chorionic Villus Sampling for Prenatal Diagnosis." Cleveland Clinic. June 27, 2021.
Second trimester:
"Stages of pregnancy." Office on Women's Health. February 22, 2021.
Finding a pediatrician:
"Finding a pediatrician." American Academy of Pediatrics. April 18, 2022.
20 week anatomy scan:
"20-Week Ultrasound (Anatomy Scan)." Cleveland Clinic. April 2, 2022.
Glucose test:
"Oral Glucose Tolerance Test During Pregnancy." Cleveland Clinic. November 11, 2022.
Third trimester:
"Stages of pregnancy." Office on Women's Health. February 22, 2021.
"What happens during prenatal visits?" NICHD. January 31, 2017.
Group B Strep:
"Group B Strep Pregnancy." Cleveland Clinic. April 27, 2022.
"Group B Strep and Pregnancy." American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. September 2023.
Weekly prenatal visits starting around week 36/37:
"What happens during prenatal visits?" NICHD. January 31, 2017.
Due date accuracy:
Erickson E, Gotlieb N, et al. "Predicting labor onset relative to the estimated date of delivery using smart ring physiological data." npj Digital Medicine. August 19, 2023.
6 Common Pregnancy Myths, Debunked
VBAC: Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC). Cleveland Clinic. August 23, 2021.
Exercise benefits: “Exercise During Pregnancy.” The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. March 2022.
140 beats per minute advice: Evenson K, Hesketh K. "Monitoring Physical Activity Intensity During Pregnancy." American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine. January-February 2023.
Smell, taste and appetite changes: Choo E, Dando R. "The Impact of Pregnancy on Taste Function." Chemical Senses. February 23, 2017.
https://reproductive-health-journal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12978-021-01258-w
Pica: "Pica." Cleveland Clinic. May 6, 2022.
Stretch marks (1): “Stretch Marks.” Cleveland Clinic. May 4, 2022.
Stretch marks (2): “Stretch Marks: Why They Appear and How to Get Rid of Them.” American Academy of Dermatology Association.
Morning sickness:
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000604.htm
Anemia more common in pregnancy: "Anemia During Pregnancy." Cleveland Clinic. May 26, 2022.
5 Clinicians You Might See When Pregnant
Ob/gyn
“Obstetrician.” Cleveland Clinic. Last reviewed: January 28, 2022.
“Your first gynecologic visit.” The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Last updated: June 2022.
“Cesarean Birth.” The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Last updated: May 2022.
“Prenatal care and tests.” U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. Office on Women’s Health. Last updated: February 22, 2021.
Perinatologist
“Perinatologist.” Cleveland Clinic. Last reviewed: Jan. 8, 2023.
“High-risk pregnancy.” Oregon Health and Sciences University. 2023.
Dentist
“Dentist.” Cleveland Clinic. Last reviewed: November 15, 2022. Accessed: November 24, 2023.
“Pregnancy and Oral Health.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Last reviewed: March 18, 2022.
“Gingivitis”. Mayo Clinic. November 16, 2023.
“Pregnancy Gingivitis.” Cleveland Clinic. Last reviewed: March 7, 2022.
“Pregnancy and your dental health.” American Dental Association. No date.
“Is it safe to go to the dentist while pregnant?” Cleveland Clinic. August 14, 2020.
Optometrist or ophthalmologist
“What is an optometrist?” Cleveland Clinic.
“Blurry vision while pregnant.” Cleveland Clinic. Last reviewed: May 26, 2022.
“20 reasons to see an ophthalmologist.” American Academy of Ophthalmology. February 24, 2023.
“Pregnancy and your vision.” Prevent Blindness. No date.
“What is an ophthalmologist?” American Academy of Ophthalmology. December 8, 2022.
“Crucial contact lens considerations during pregnancy.” American Optometric Association. March 2021.
“Comprehensive eye exams.” American Optometric Association.
Midwife
“What is a midwife?” Boston University. No date.
“Making a midwife a part of your birth plan.” University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. June 3, 2022.
“The Origins of Midwifery.” International Confederation of Midwives. January 31, 2022.
“Midwives. Information on Births, Workforce, and Midwifery Education.” United States Government Accountability Office. April 2023.
“Midwife.” Cleveland Clinic. Last reviewed: April 5, 2022. Accessed: November 24, 2023.
“Midwife and Ob-gyn role clarity for team based practice. American College of Nurse Midwives and The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. 2021.
“Comparison of Certified Nurse-Midwives, Certified Midwives, Certified Professional Midwives Clarifying the Distinctions Among Professional Midwifery Credentials in the U.S.” American College of Nurse-Midwives. 2017.
“Legal status of U.S. Midwives.” Midwives Alliance of North America. Last updated: September 3, 2023.
“Who are CPMs?” National Association of Certified Professional Midwives. No date.
“Legal recognition of CPMs.” National Association of Certified Professional Midwives. Last updated: August 1, 2023.
5 Reasons to Consider Group Prenatal Care
What is group prenatal care:
General descriptions of group prenatal care:
“Group prenatal care.” The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. March 2018.
“Group prenatal care.” University of Missouri. No date.
“Centering Pregnancy: Prenatal Group Visit Model.” Boston University. No date.
It offers you more social support
“Prevalence of and determinants of low social support during pregnancy among Australian women: a community-based, cross-sectional study.” Reproductive Health. July 27, 2021.
“Group prenatal care.” The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. March 2018.
You’ll have more face time with your provider:
“Group prenatal care.” The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. March 2018.
“Group prenatal care.” Prenatal-to-3 Policy Impact Center. Vanderbilt University. No date.
You may have improved birth outcomes:
“Birth Outcomes Improved Through Expect With Me Group Prenatal Care.” Yale School of Public Health. December 2, 2021.
“Group prenatal care and improved birth outcomes: Results from a type 1 hybrid effectiveness – implementation study.” Preventive Medicine. December 2021.
“Group versus traditional prenatal care for improving racial equity in preterm and low birthweight: the Cradle randomized clinical trial study.” American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. December 1, 2023.
Bleeding and Pain During Pregnancy: What’s Going On?
Bleeding in pregnancy:
"Bleeding During Pregnancy." Cleveland Clinic. November 17, 2021.
"Bleeding during pregnancy." Mayo Clinic. January 20, 2022.
Implantation bleeding:
"Blastocyst." Cleveland Clinic. April 29, 2022.
Subchorionic hematoma:
"Subchorionic hematoma." Cleveland Clinic. July 20, 2022.
Ectopic pregnancy:
“Ectopic Pregnancy.” Cleveland Clinic. January 18, 2023.
Removing polyps during pregnancy (1):
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0002937822005506
Removing polyps during pregnancy (2):
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8585498/
Miscarriage:
"Miscarriage." Cleveland Clinic. July 19, 2022.
Bleeding after sex:
"Bleeding During Pregnancy." American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. August 2022.
Placental problems:
“Placenta Previa.” Cleveland Clinic. September 26, 2022.
“Placental Abruption.” Cleveland Clinic. July 7, 2021.
Pain in pregnancy:
"Pregnancy Discomforts." Cleveland Clinic. September 28, 2023.
UTI common in pregnancy:
Johnson C, Rocheleau C, et al. "Characteristics of Women with Urinary Tract Infection in Pregnancy." Journal of Women's Health. November 30, 2021.
UTI symptoms:
"Urinary tract infection (UTI)." Mayo Clinic. September 14, 2022.
Kidney stone 2021 study:
Thongprayoon C, Vaughan L, et al. "Risk of Symptomatic Kidney Stones During and After Pregnancy." American Journal of Kidney Diseases. September 2021.
Kidney stones and pain:
"Kidney Stones." National Kidney Foundation. 2023.
Preterm labor:
"What are the symptoms of preterm labor?" NICHD. May 9, 2023.
Immune system changes in pregnancy:
Cornish E, Filipovic I, et al. "Innate Immune Responses to Acute Viral Infection During Pregnancy." Frontiers in immunology. September 30, 2020.
Norovirus symptoms:
"Symptoms of Norovirus." Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. May 10, 2023.
Constipation in pregnancy:
“Pregnancy Constipation.” Cleveland Clinic. October 19, 2021.
Your Complete (Real-Talk) Guide to Postpartum
Postpartum period definition: StatPearls. Postpartum Care of the New Mother.
Woman’s uterus returning to its prepregnancy state: Cleveland Clinic. Uterus Involution.
Hormonal changes after childbirth: Acta Endocrinologica (Buc). The Neuroendocrinological Aspects of Pregnancy and Postpartum Depression. 2019.
Fourth trimester: The Journal of Perinatal Education. A Fourth Trimester Action Plan for Wellness. 2020.
Uterine lining thinning down after childbirth: Journal of Ultrasonography. Comparison of postpartum sonographic findings after uneventful vaginal and cesarean section deliveries. 2018.
Lochia: Cleveland Clinic. Lochia.
Opioids no longer being prescribed as much after c-section: National Institute for Health Care Excellence. Opioids for pain relief after cesarean birth.
Risk of opioid addiction: Cleveland Clinic. How Doctors Are Treating C-Section Pain—Without Opioids.
Talking to your doctor about prescription medication after c-section: National Institutes of Health. Personalizing Pain Management for Women.
Peri bottle: PennMedicine Lancaster General Medicine. 7 Items to Help You Recover from a Vaginal Delivery.
How long bleeding continues: Journal of Ultrasonography. Comparison of postpartum sonographic findings after uneventful vaginal and cesarean section deliveries. 2018.
Hemorrhoids: BJOG. Haemorrhoids and anal fissures during pregnancy and after childbirth: a prospective cohort study. 2014.
Why it’s hard to poop: Journal of Prenatal Medicine. Postpartum pelvic floor changes. 2009.
Prolactin: Cleveland Clinic. Prolactin.
Baby blues: March of Dimes. Baby blues after pregnancy.
Postpartum depression: StatPearls. Postpartum Depression.
Trouble bonding: The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Bonding With Your Newborn: What to Know if You Don’t Feel Connected Right Away.
It’s normal to leak milk: Australian Breastfeeding Association. Leaking breasts.
How long it’s normal to leak milk: StatPearls. Physiology, Breast Milk.
When the body is physically healed: StatPearls. Postpartum Care of the New Mother.
When bleeding stops after childbirth: Journal of Ultrasonography. Comparison of postpartum sonographic findings after uneventful vaginal and cesarean section deliveries. 2018.
When stitches heal: National Health Service. Caring for tears and stitches.
Sex after childbirth: March of Dimes. Sex after pregnancy: what you need to know.
Nursing women need extra calories: University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Nutrition and Sleep Postpartum.
Abdominal pain because of uterus shrinking: BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth. A randomized clinical trial on the effect of foot reflexology performed in the fourth stage of labor on uterine afterpain. 2022.
Hemorrhoids: Frontiers in Surgery. Perianal Diseases in Pregnancy and After Childbirth: Frequency, Risk Factors, Impact on Women’s Quality of Life and Treatment Methods. 2022.
Witch hazel for hemorrhoids: InformedHealth. Enlarged hemorrhoids: How can you relieve the symptoms yourself?
Constipation after giving birth: Cochrane Library. Interventions for preventing postpartum constipation. 2020.
Sore breasts and nipples: Cleveland Clinic. Breast Engorgement.
How common tears are during childbirth: StatPearls. Perineal Lacerations.
How long it takes for tears to heal: Mayo Clinic. Vaginal tears in childbirth.
Stitches from a c-section: Mount Sinai. Going home after a C-section.
How to care for incision from C-section: Mayo Clinic. C-section recovery: What to expect.
Postpartum depression: StatPearls. Postpartum Depression.
Postpartum anxiety: Journal of Psychiatry and Psychiatric Disorders. Postpartum Anxiety Prevalence, Predictors, and Effects on Child Development: A Review. 2017.
Postpartum post traumatic stress disorder: Geburtshilfe und Frauenheilkunde. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Postpartum. 2012.
Postpartum obsessive compulsive disorder: Anxiety & Depression Association of America. Understanding Postpartum OCD and the Mother/Baby Attachment.
First pill for postpartum depression: U.S. Food & Drug Administration. FDA Approves First Oral Treatment for Postpartum Depression.
Zuranolone: Yale Medicine. What to Know About Zuranolone, the New Pill to Treat Postpartum Depression.
How to treat postpartum abdominal and breast pain: The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Postpartum Pain Management.
How to care for a perineum tear during labor: Women and Birth. Length of perinatal pain relief after ice pack application: A quasi-experimental study. 2016.
Sitz bath: Cleveland Clinic. Sitz Bath.
Why the LAM Method Isn’t an Effective Form of Birth Control While Breastfeeding
Feeding your newborn:
“How to Prepare for Breastfeeding in the Month Before Birth.” American College of Gynecology. How to Prepare for Breastfeeding in the Month Before Birth | ACOG, November, 2022.
“Feeding your Baby: Breast milk or formula.” Mayo Clinic. Feeding your baby: Breast milk or formula? - Mayo Clinic Press, September 9, 2022.
Oakley LL, Renfrew MJ, Kurinczuk JJ, et al. “Factors associated with breastfeeding in England: an analysis by primary care trust.” BMJ Open 2013. 3:e002765. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2013-002765.
“Postpartum Birth Control.” American College of Gynecology. Postpartum Birth Control | ACOG, April 2023.
“Breastfeeding Your Baby,” American College of Gynecology. Breastfeeding Your Baby | ACOG, July 2023.
Postpartum Birth Control:
“Can you get Pregnant While Breastfeeding?” Cleveland Clinic.Can You Get Pregnant While Breastfeeding? (clevelandclinic.org). September 5, 2023.
“Mechanisms of Action and Effectiveness of Contraception Methods” World Health Organization. mechanisms-of-action-and-effectiveness-of-contraception-methods.pdf (who.int). 2022.
“Contraception Myths.” Cleveland Clinic. Contraception Myths (clevelandclinic.org). September 28, 2018.
“Lactational Amenorrhea Method.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Lactational Amenorrhea Method - USMEC | CDC. March 27, 2023.
How LAM Works:
“Prolactin: What it is, Function & Symptoms.” Cleveland Clinic. Prolactin: What It Is, Function & Symptoms (clevelandclinic.org). February 15, 2022.
“Lactation (Human Milk Production: How it Works.” Cleveland Clinic. Lactation (Human Milk Production): How it Works (clevelandclinic.org). December 16, 2021.
“Can You Get Pregnant While Breastfeeding?” Cleveland Clinic. Can You Get Pregnant While Breastfeeding? – Cleveland Clinic. September 25, 2023.
“Postpartum Birth Control.” American College of Gynecology. Postpartum Birth Control | ACOG. April 2023.
Dørheim SK, Bondevik GT, Eberhard-Gran M, Bjorvatn B. Sleep and depression in postpartum women: a population-based study. Sleep. 2009 Jul;32(7):847-55. doi: 10.1093/sleep/32.7.847. PMID: 19639747; PMCID: PMC2704916.:
Sit, D., Luther, J., Buysse, D., Dills, J. L., Eng, H., Okun, M., Wisniewski, S., & Wisner, K. L. (2015). Suicidal ideation in depressed postpartum women: Associations with childhood trauma, sleep disturbance and anxiety. Journal of Psychiatric Research, 66-67, 95–104.
“Are there any special conditions or situations in which I should not breastfeed?” National Institutes of Health. Are there any special conditions or situations in which I should not breastfeed? | NICHD - Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (nih.gov) January 21, 2017
Safe Birth Control:
“Breastfeeding and Medications: What’s Safe?” Mayo Clinic. Breastfeeding and medications: What's safe? - Mayo Clinic. August 24, 2022.
“Sex after Pregnancy: Set your own timeline.” Mayo Clinic. Sex after pregnancy: Set your own timeline - Mayo Clinic. December 6, 2022.
“Postpartum Birth Control.” American College of Gynecology. Postpartum Birth Control | ACOG. April 2023.
“Effectiveness of Birth Control Methods.” American College of Gynecology. Effectiveness of Birth Control Methods | ACOG. April 2023.
Abou-Ismail MY, Citla Sridhar D, Nayak L. Estrogen and thrombosis: A bench to bedside review. Thromb Res. 2020 Aug;192:40-51. doi:
10.1016/j.thromres.2020.05.008. Epub 2020 May 11. PMID: 32450447; PMCID: PMC7341440.
“Tubal Ligation.” Mayo Clinic.Tubal ligation - Mayo Clinic. February 10, 2023.
“Vasectomy.” Mayo Clinic. Vasectomy - Mayo Clinic. February 9, 2023.
Your Complete (Real-Talk) Guide to Pregnancy
What is pregnancy: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. About Pregnancy.
What is conception: StatPearls. Physiology, Pregnancy.
How long conception takes: StatPearls. Embryology, Fertilization.
What is implantation: F1000 Research. Early embryo mortality in natural human reproduction: What the data say. 2016.
Human chorionic gonadotropin: StatPearls. Human chorionic gonadotropin.
Why you don’t get your period during pregnancy: StatPearls. Physiology, Pregnancy.
Vaginal bleeding during pregnancy. StatPearls. Vaginal Bleeding.
Nausea and vomiting during pregnancy: Frontiers in Medicine. Emerging Progress in Nausea and Vomiting of Pregnancy and Hyperemesis Gravidarum: Challenges and Opportunities. 2021.
Changes to nipples during pregnancy. International Journal of Women’s Dermatology. Physiological changes of pregnancy: A review of the literature. 2017.
Genetic testing during the first trimester: The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Prenatal Genetic Screening Tests.
Fetal organs developing: National Library of Medicine. Critical Periods of Development.
Gestational diabetes: StatPearls. Gestational Diabetes.
Preeclampsia: Iranian Journal of Medical Sciences. A Comparison of 4- and 24-Hour Urine Samples for the Diagnosis of Proteinuria in Pregnancy. 2011.
Baby surviving after 24 weeks: United Kingdom National Health Service. You and your baby at 24 weeks pregnant.
When a fetus can start to hear: Handbook of Clinical Neurology. Development of the auditory system. 2015.
Physical symptoms in third trimester: Mayo Clinic. 3rd trimester pregnancy: What to expect.
Risk of miscarriage over age 35: BMJ. Role of maternal age and pregnancy history in risk of miscarriage: prospective register based study. 2019.
Risk of Down Syndrome: Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Pregnancy Over Age 30.
Risk of Down Syndrome for women 35 and younger: Minnesota Department of Health. Down syndrome (also called Trisomy 21).
High blood pressure and obesity impacting pregnancy: StatPearls. Miscarriage.
Lupus, kidney disease, and thyroid disorders impacting pregnancy: United Kingdom National Health Service. Miscarriage.
Gaining weight during pregnancy: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Weight Gain During Pregnancy.
Overweight or underweight before pregnancy: Mount Sinai. When you need to gain more weight during pregnancy.
Miscarriages: StatPearls. Miscarriage.
Gestational Diabetes. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Gestational Diabetes.
Episiotomy. Johns Hopkins Medicine. What is an episiotomy?
Perinatal Asphyxia. Johns Hopkins Medicine. Perinatal Asphyxia.
Perinatal Asphyxia: Seattle Children’s. Birth Asphyxia.
How common is perinatal asphyxia: Heliyon. Prevalence of perinatal asphyxia in East and Central Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis. 2020.
Effects of perinatal asphyxia: World Journal of Clinical Pediatrics. Short and long term prognosis in perinatal asphyxia: An update. 2016.
Shoulder dystocia: Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists. Shoulder dystocia patient information leaflet.
McRoberts Maneuver: Cleveland Clinic. McRoberts Maneuver.
Excessive bleeding as leading cause of maternal death: World Health Organization. Maternal mortality.
Maternal deaths in the U.S. due to excessive bleeding: Research and Practice in Thrombosis and Haemostasis. Disparities in obstetric hemorrhage outcomes.
Importance of folic acid during pregnancy: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Folic Acid.
How much folic acid to get a day: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Current Folic Acid Research.
Best food sources of folic acid: Advances in Nutrition. Folate. 2013.
Importance of iron during pregnancy: American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Iron Deficiency in Pregnancy. 2021.
How much iron to get a day: Nutrition During Pregnancy. Iron Deficiency During Pregnancy.
Best food sources of iron: National Institute of Health. Sources of Iron.
Iron in prenatal vitamins: Nutrients. Evidence-Based Recommendations for an Optimal Perinatal Supplement for Women in the U.S., Part Two: Minerals. 2021.
Drinking alcohol during pregnancy: Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology. Alcohol Use in Pregnancy. 2020.
Exercising during pregnancy: The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Exercise During Pregnancy.
Smoking during pregnancy: BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth. Smoking during pregnancy and harm reduction in birth weight: a cross-sectional study. 2018.
Poor sleep during pregnancy: Clocks & Sleep. Pregnant Women’s Attitudes and Beliefs toward Sleep and Exercise: A Cross-Sectional Survey. 2023.
7 Big Questions About Egg Freezing, Answered
Evaluating Infertility: American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, August 2022
Having a Baby After Age 35-How Aging Affects Fertility and Pregnancy: American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, February 2023
Social Freezing – Pressing Pause on Fertility: National Library of Medicine, Valentin N Varlas, Roxana G Bors, Dragos Albu, Ovidiu N Penes, Bogdana A Nasui, Claudie Mehedintu, Anca L Pop, July 2021
Fifteen years of autologous oocyte thaw outcomes from a large university-based fertility center: National Library of Medicine, Sarah D Cascante, Jennifer K Blakemore, Shannon Devore, Brooke Hodes-Wertz, M. Elizabeth Finn,, Alan S Berkeley, Carlos M Parra, Caroline McCaffrey, James A Grifo, July 2022
The Cost of Freezing Your Eggs-and 15 Ways to Financially Prepare: GoodRx Health, September 2023
Egg Freezing Cycles Jumped in 2021: American Society for Reproductive Medicine, 2022
Outcomes of Social Egg Freezing, A Cohort Study and Literature Review: National Library of Medicine, July 2023
What to Know About Freezing Your Eggs: Cleveland Clinic, July 2023
Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS): Cleveland Clinic, January 2020
Ready to Get Pregnant? 8 Steps to Prepare Your Body and Mind
Why BMI is inaccurate and misleading: MedicalNewsToday
AMA adopts new policy clarifying role of BMI as a measure in medicine: American Medical Association June 2023
Weight, fertility, and pregnancy: Office on Women’s Health February 2021
Prenatal vitamins: why they matter, how to choose: Mayo Clinic, April 2022
Good health before pregnancy: pre pregnancy care: The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, June 2020
Smoking, pregnancy, and babies: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention May 2022
Alcohol and pregnancy: MedlinePlus January 2022
ACOG Committee Opinion No. 462: Moderate caffeine consumption during pregnancy: Obstetrics & Gynecology August 2010
Moderate amounts of caffeine not linked to maternal health risks: Penn Medicine News November 2021
NIH study indicates stress may delay women getting pregnant: National Institutes of Health August 2010
Should you use ovulation strips to get pregnant? Cleveland Clinic May 2021
Trying to get pregnant? Here’s when to have sex: The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists August 2023
Ready to Get Pregnant? 10 Signs You’re On the Right Track
Having a Baby after Age 35, How Aging Affects Fertility and Pregnancy: American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. February 2023.
Weight, Fertility, and Pregnancy: Office on Women’s Health. February 2021.
How Smoking Affects Reproductive Health: U.S. Food & Drug Administration. November 2021.
Does Smoking Cause Infertility in Females: Medical News Today. March 2023.
How To Get Pregnant: Mayo Clinic. December 2021.
Female Fertility, Why Lifestyle Choices Count: Mayo Clinic. December 2022.
The impact of selected modifiable lifestyle factors on male fertility in the modern world: National Library of Medicine. October 2020.
How Your Age Affects Your Fertility
Evaluating Infertility: American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, August 2022
30s
Having a Baby After Age 35-How Aging Affects Fertility and Pregnancy: American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, February 2023
Female Infertility: National Library of Medicine, Matthew H. Walker, Kyle J. Tobler, December 2022
Role of maternal age and pregnancy history in risk of miscarriage: prospective register based study: BMJ, March 2019
Pregnancy after 35-Healthy pregnancies, healthy babies: Mayo Clinic, July 2022
Advanced Maternal Age: Cleveland Clinic, February 2022
Births-Provisional Data for 2022: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, June 2023
Do Irregular Periods Mean I Will Have Trouble Getting Pregnant?
Irregular Periods – Why is my period late?: Penn Medicine, November 2020
Menstrual cycle: What’s normal, what’s not: Mayo Clinic, April 2023
What to know about irregular periods: Medical News Today, November 2021
Pregnancy Tests: Office on Women’s Health, February 2021
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Mayo Clinic, September 2022
PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) and Diabetes: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, December 2022
Thyroid Disease, Office on Women’s Health, February 2021
Prolactinoma: Mayo Clinic, May 2022
Male Infertility: Causes, Treatments, and How to Support Your Partner
How Common is Male Infertility, and What are the Causes: National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, November 2021
Male Infertility: Cleveland Clinic, May 2021
What is Male Infertility: Urology Care Foundation, N.D.
Male Infertility: National Library of Medicine, Stephen Leslie, Laylor Soon-Sutton, Moien Khan, March 2023
Semen Analysis: National Library of Medicine, Meera Sunder, Stephen Leslie, October 2022
Diet and Male Fertility-The Impact of Nutrients and Antioxidants on Sperm Energetic Metabolism: National Library of Medicine, Alessandra Ferramosca, Vincenzo Zara, March 2022
Infertility FAQ’s-What increases a man’s risk of infertility: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, April 2023
Fertility Issues in Boys and Men with Cancer: National Cancer Institute, February 2020
Relaxation: Department of the Navy, Bureau of Medicine and Surgery, N.D.
When You Can’t Get Pregnant On Your Own But Want a Baby
Gamete (Eggs and Sperm) and Embryo Donation: American Society for Reproductive Medicine, N.D.
Infertility: Office on Women’s Health, February 2021
Types of Adoption: Adoption Center, N.D.
Adoption Statistics and Legal Trends: Find Law, Lisa Burdgen J.D., July 2023
The Truth About Domestic Infant Adoption: Adoptive Families, December 2023
Everything You Need to Know About Fostering to Adopt: Considering Adoption, N.D.
6 Miscarriage Myths—and What You Really Need to Know
Miscarriage: National Library of Medicine, Carla Duga, Valori H. Slane, June 2022
Miscarriage: March of Dimes, February 2023
Stillbirth: March of Dimes, October 2020
Miscarriage: Mayo Clinic, September 2023
Early Pregnancy Loss: American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, May 2023
Repeated Miscarriages: American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, June 2022
Getting Pregnant: Mayo Clinic, October 2021
Pregnancy Loss-Consequences for Mental Health: National Library of Medicine, Diana Cuenca, January 2023
Toward Optimal Emotional Care During the Experience of Miscarriage: An Integrative Review of the Perspectives of Women, Partners, and Health Care Providers: National Library of Medicine, November 2022
Pregnancy Loss: Office on Women’s Health, February 2021
5 Common Feelings Women Have About Infertility—and How to Deal
Psychological Problems Related to Infertility: National Library of Medicine, Aanchal Sharma, Deepti Shrivastava, October 2022
The Relationship Between Stress and Infertility: National Library of Medicine, Kristin Rooney, Alice Domar, March 2018
Infertility: The Impact of Stress and Mental Health: American Psychiatric Association, April 2019
The complex relationship between infertility and psychological distress: National Library of Medicine, Gabrilea Simionescu, Bodgan Doroftei, Radu Maftei, Bianca-Elena Obreja, Emil Anton, Delia Grab, Ciprian Ilea, Carmen Anton, April 2021
Impact of group mind/body intervention on pregnancy rates in IVF patients: Fertility and Sterility, June 2011
Infertility and Mental Health: Cedars Sinai, September 2020
Infertility and Stress: Mayo Clinic Health System, August 2022
Why Every Woman Should Practice Breast Self-Awareness
- https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/practice-bulletin/articles/2017/07/breast-cancer-risk-assessment-and-screening-in-average-risk-women
- https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/breast-cancer/screening-tests-and-early-detection/american-cancer-society-recommendations-for-the-early-detection-of-breast-cancer.html
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK565846/
The Pap Smear, Decoded
Cervical cancer statistics: “Cervical Cancer Screening.” National Cancer Institute. August 2023.
Importance of Pap smear: “The American Cancer Society Guidelines for the Prevention and Early Detection of Cervical Cancer.” American Cancer Society. April 2021.
Cervical cancer statistics: “Facts About Cancer.” American Cancer Society. January 2021.
Pap smear background information: “Pap Test.” American Society of Clinical Oncology. June 2018.
Pap smear background information: “What Should I Know About Screening?” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. August 2023.
Pap smear background information: “Pap and HPV Tests.” Office on Women’s Health. February 2021.
Pap smear background information: “Updated Cervical Cancer Screening Guidelines.” ACOG. April 2023.
Two Blood Tests Every Woman Needs (and Three Maybes)
General information: “Get Your Well Woman Visit Every Year.” U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. December 2022.
Cholesterol: “Patient Education: High Cholesterol and Lipids (Beyond the Basics).” UptoDate. July 2021.
Diabetes: “Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes—2022.” American Diabetes Association. January 2022.
Anemia: “How Will Your Doctor Know You Have Anemia.” National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. March 2022.
Thyroid: “Thyroid Tests.” National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. May 2017.
General information: “Overview of Preventive Care in Adults.” UptoDate. October 2023.
Your Complete (Real-Talk) Guide to Menopause
Gayle King talking about menopause: YouTube. CBS Mornings. Facing Fertility: Part 3: Menopause and fertility.
Michelle Obama talking about menopause: People. Michelle Obama Gets Real About Menopause: the ‘Creep’ of Weight Gain and Giving Up on ‘Michelle Obama Arms.’
Average age of perimenopause: Journal of Women’s Health. Perimenopause: From Research to Practice. 2016.
How long menopause lasts: StatPearls. Menopause.
Postmenopause: Indian Journal of Psychiatry. Postmenopausal syndrome. 2015.
Number of ovarian follicles diminishing: StatPearls. Menopause.
Ovarian follicles: StatPearls. Embryology, Ovarian Follicle Development.
Hormone levels stay low in postmenopause: StatPearls. Postmenopausal Syndrome.
Other changes during menopause: StatPearls. Menopause.
Decrease in estrogen weakens bones: International Journal of Molecular Sciences. Osteoporosis Due to Hormone Imbalance: An Overview of the Effects of Estrogen Deficiency and Glucocorticoid Overuse in Bone Turnover. 2022.
Increase in LDL cholesterol: Archives of Medical Sciences. Menopause and women’s cardiovascular health: is it really an obvious relationship? 2023.
Premature menopause: Annals of Medical & Health Sciences Research. Premature Menopause. 2013.
Chemotherapy and premature menopause: Oncologist. Symptoms and treatment in cancer therapy-induced early menopause. 2006.
Mood changes: Endocrine Society. Menopause.
Changes in sexual desire: Johns Hopkins Medicine. How Sex Changes After Menopause.
Tracee Ellis Ross talking about menopause: Harper’s Bazaar. Tracee Ellis Ross Will Set You Free. 2021.
Trouble concentrating: Hormones and Behavior. Estrogen receptors in the central nervous system and their implication for dopamine-dependent cognition in females. 2015.
Low estrogen and low cognitive performance: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences. Hormonal Influences on Cognitive Function. 2018.
Headaches: Women’s Midlife Health. The impact of midlife on migraine in women: summary of current views. 2020.
Night sweats: Cleveland Clinic. Night Sweats.
Hot flashes: Cleveland Clinic. Night Sweats.
How hot flashes cool the body down: The North American Menopause Society. Menopause FAQs: Hot Flashes.
Vaginal dryness: StatPearls. Menopause.
Trouble with sleep: National Institute on Aging. Sleep Problems and Menopause: What Can I Do?
Hair loss: International Journal of Molecular Sciences. Hormonal Effect on Hair Follicles. 2020.
Irregular periods: Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology. Management of the Perimenopause. 2018.
Symptoms of menopause continuing from perimenopause: StatPearls. Menopause.
Stress urinary incontinence: BMC Urology. Prevalence and severity of urinary incontinence and associated factors in Iranian postmenopausal women: a cross-sectional study. 2023.
Painful sex: The North American Menopause Society. Pain with Penetration.
Weight gain: Mayo Clinic. The reality of menopause weight gain.
Higher risk of depression: Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinics of North America. Depression During and After the Perimenopause: Impact of Hormones, Genetics, and Environmental Determinants of Disease. 2018.
Causes of depression during menopause: Johns Hopkins Medicine. Can Menopause Cause Depression?
Plant-based diet and menopause symptoms: Menopause. A dietary intervention for vasomotor symptoms of menopause: a randomized, controlled trial. 2023.
Soy high in isoflavonoids: Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Straight Talk About Soy.
Black cohosh oil and menopause: Journal of Education and Health Promotion. A comparative study on the effect of “black cohosh” and “evening primrose oil” on menopausal hot flashes. 2018.
Black cohosh oil and menopause: Gynecological Endocrinology. Black cohosh efficacy and safety for menopausal symptoms. The Spanish Menopause Society statement. 2022.
Exercising regularly: Journal of Mid-Life Health. Exercise beyond menopause: Dos and Don’ts. 2011.
Weight training: Journal of Geriatric Physical Therapy. Effect of weighted exercise on bone mineral density in postmenopausal women. A systematic review. 2007.
Yoga: Nursing and Health Sciences. Effects of yoga on menopausal symptoms and sleep quality across menopause statuses: A randomized controlled trial. 2022.
Cognitive behavioral therapy for hot flashes: Menopause. Cognitive-behavior therapy for menopausal symptoms (hot flushes and night sweats): moderators and mediators of treatment effects. 2014.
Hormone replacement therapy: Mayo Clinic. Hormone therapy: Is it right for you?
7 Signs You’re in Perimenopause—And How to Get Relief
How do you know when you’re in perimenopause:
“Menopause can be rough. Psychology is here to help.” American Psychological Association,
Menopause can be rough. Psychology is here to help (apa.org). September 1, 2023.
F. J. Broekmans, M. R. Soules, B. C. Fauser, Ovarian Aging: Mechanisms and Clinical Consequences, Endocrine Reviews, Volume 30, Issue 5, 1 August 2009, Pages 465–493, https://doi.org/10.1210/er.2009-0006
“Perimenopause-Symptoms and Causes.” Mayo Clinic. Perimenopause - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic. May 25, 2023.
“Perimenopause, Early Menopause Symptoms.” The North American Menopause Society. Perimenopause, Early Menopause Symptoms | The North American Menopause Society, NAMS. 2023.
“Menopause Basics.” Office on Women’s Health. Menopause basics | Office on Women's Health (womenshealth.gov). January 6, 2023.
Shifren J, Gass M. “The North American menopause society recommendations for clinical care of midlife women.” Menopause. 2014;21(10):1038-1062. doi:10.1097/gme.0000000000000319
The most common symptoms:
“Perimenopause: Age, Stages, Signs, Symptoms & Treatment.” Cleveland Clinic. Perimenopause: Age, Stages, Signs, Symptoms & Treatment (clevelandclinic.org). October 5, 2021.
“Perimenopause-Symptoms and Causes.” Mayo Clinic.Perimenopause - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic. May 25, 2023.
“Irregular Periods (Abnormal Menstruation): Causes & Treatment.” Cleveland Clinic. Irregular Periods (Abnormal Menstruation): Causes & Treatment (clevelandclinic.org). January 18, 2023.
Hot Flashes:
Kingma BR, Frijns AJ, Schellen L, van Marken Lichtenbelt WD. Beyond the classic thermoneutral zone: Including thermal comfort. Temperature (Austin). 2014 Jul 8;1(2):142-9. doi: 10.4161/temp.29702. PMID: 27583296; PMCID: PMC4977175.
“Night Sweats in Women: Causes, Remedies, and Tips.” The Sleep Foundation. Night Sweats in Women: Causes, Remedies, and Tips (sleepfoundation.org), November 22, 2023.
“Menopause FAQs: Hot Flashes.” North American Menopause Society. Menopause FAQS: Hot Flashes, 2023.
“The Menopause Years.” American College of Gynecology. The Menopause Years | ACOG. November 2021.
“An Ob-Gyn’s Top Tips for Managing Hot Flashes.” American College of Gynecology. An Ob-Gyn’s Top Tips for Managing Hot Flashes | ACOG. August 2023.
“Hot Flashes - Diagnosis & treatment.” Mayo Clinic. Hot flashes - Diagnosis & treatment - Mayo Clinic. May 20, 2022.
Sleep Problems:
Baker FC, de Zambotti M, Colrain IM, Bei B. Sleep problems during the menopausal transition: prevalence, impact, and management challenges. Nat Sci Sleep. 2018 Feb 9;10:73-95. doi: 10.2147/NSS.S125807. PMID: 29445307; PMCID: PMC5810528.
“Sleep Problems, Sexual SIe Effects of Menopause.” North American Menopause Society. Sleep Problems, Sexual Side Effects of Menopause | The North American Menopause Society, NAMS. 2023
Vaginal Dryness:
“Vaginal Dryness: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment.” Cleveland Clinic. Vaginal Dryness: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment (clevelandclinic.org). July 26, 2022
“Vaginal Discomfort, Sexual Side Effects of Menopause.” North American Menopause Society. Vaginal Discomfort, Sexual Side Effects of Menopause | The North American Menopause Society, NAMS. 2023.
Mood Changes:
“Mood Changes During Perimenopause Are Real. Here’s What to Know.” American College of Gynecology. Mood Changes During Perimenopause Are Real. Here’s What to Know. | ACOG, April 2023.
Moilanen, Jaana M. MSc1; Mikkola, Tomi S. MD2; Raitanen, Jani A. MSc1,3; Heinonen, Reetta H. MSc1; Tomas, Eija I. MD4; Nygård, Clas-Håkan PhD1; Luoto, Riitta M. MD3,5. Effect of aerobic training on menopausal symptoms—a randomized controlled trial. Menopause 19(6):p 691-696, June 2012. | DOI: 10.1097/gme.0b013e31823cc5f7
“Menopause Frequently Asked Questions.” North American Menopause Society. Menopause Frequently Asked Questions | The North American Menopause Society, NAMS. 2023.
Anxiety and Depression:
Freeman, E.W. Depression in the menopause transition: risks in the changing hormone milieu as observed in the general population. womens midlife health 1, 2 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40695-015-0002-y
“Menopause can be rough. Psychology is here to help.” American Psychological Association,
Menopause can be rough. Psychology is here to help (apa.org). September 1, 2023.
Memory and brain fog:
Epperson,C. N., Sammel, M. D., & Freeman, E. W. (2013, September). Menopause effects on verbal memory: Findings from a longitudinal community cohort. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology And Metabolism, 98(9), 3829–3838
Russell JK, Jones CK, Newhouse PA. The Role of Estrogen in Brain and Cognitive Aging. Neurotherapeutics. 2019 Jul;16(3):649-665. doi: 10.1007/s13311-019-00766-9. PMID: 31364065; PMCID: PMC6694379.
Braxton Hicks or Real Contractions: How to Tell the Difference
“How to tell when labor begins.” American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Last reviewed: November 2023.
“Braxton Hicks Contractions.” National Institutes of Health. StatPearls. Last update: August 8, 2023.
“Am I in Labor?” National Institutes of Health. MedlinePlus. April 19, 2022.
“How do I know I’m in labor?” American Academy of Family Physicians. Last updated: June 2022.
Other sources I used but you don’t have to include in the main list:
“Braxton Hicks Contractions.” Cleveland Clinic. Last reviewed: May 10, 2022.
“False alarm: Braxton Hicks contractions vs. true labor.” University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. July 12, 2016.
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