PCOS Phenotypes – Everyone is Unique
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine conditions, but its presentation and impact vary enormously from person to person. Some individuals experience regular menstrual cycles yet have significant biochemical signs of hyperandrogenism, while others have irregular periods without elevated androgen levels. Understandably, this variability can be confusing—especially when friends or the […]
Why Women Are More Than Twice as Likely to Suffer Stress Fractures—And the Hidden Risk During Perimenopause
Stress fractures—minute cracks in bone resulting from repetitive stress or overuse—are significantly more prevalent in women than in men. Studies indicate that women are over twice as likely to experience these injuries, especially in sports involving high-impact activities like running, hockey, or soccer. In my practice as an endocrinologist, I frequently encounter women facing bone-related […]
Conflicts of Interest – What to be Aware of Before Starting Hormone or Supplement Therapy
Recently, I had a conversation with a friend that echoed many discussions I’ve had with patients—particularly those who’ve been prescribed hormone treatments like testosterone or growth hormone analogues by online providers. These treatments are often marketed as quick fixes for fatigue, low libido, or general wellness. But here’s the catch: when the person or company […]
Hypothalamic Amenorrhea – Herbal supplements or the DUTCH test aren’t going to help get your periods back
The Problem with Over-Supplementation Without a Diagnosis As an endocrinologist, I often work with women who are dealing with absent or irregular periods. Many of them come to me after seeing a naturopath, having already spent a significant amount of money on various supplements—often without receiving a clear diagnosis. The Supplement Trap It’s common for […]
When Missing Your Period Isn’t “Normal”: Understanding Functional Hypothalamic Amenorrhea (FHA)
If you’ve lost your period due to intense training or weight loss, you’re not alone. Functional Hypothalamic Amenorrhea (FHA) is common among athletes and those with low energy availability—but just because it’s common doesn’t mean it’s normal or without consequences. What Is FHA and Why Does It Happen? FHA typically results from low energy availability (LEA)—when […]
New Weight Loss drugs.. Hollywood weight loss fad or miracle for metabolic health??
In the realm of medical treatments, the truth often lies in the nuances. This is particularly true for GLP-1 (Glucagon Like Peptide-1), the molecule found in medications like Mounjaro and Wegovy. GLP-1 hormones, known as “incretins,” are naturally released after eating. They play a crucial role in increasing insulin production and sensitivity, slowing gastric emptying, […]
5 Ways Exercise can Improve PCOS
The Truth About Exercise and PCOS: Debunking Myths and Highlighting Benefits In the age of social media, misinformation can spread like wildfire. One such myth is that exercise is bad for health, particularly for those with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Contrary to these claims, exercise can actually help restore menstrual regularities, lower androgen levels, and […]
Tips for Navigating and Advocating for Yourself in the Healthcare System
Navigating Healthcare: The Importance of Communication and Asking the Right Questions Healthcare experiences can sometimes be negative or unhelpful, but it’s often not the medicine itself that’s the issue. More frequently, it’s the communication breakdowns, the feeling of not being heard, and the lack of thorough explanations about treatment options that leave patients feeling unsure […]
What is Metabolic Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD)?
MASLD, previously known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, is a condition where fat accumulates in liver cells (hepatocytes) in the form of triglycerides. This accumulation is visible under a microscope. The term “non-alcoholic” was used to differentiate it from alcohol-related liver disease, which shows similar features. The name change to MASLD aims to reduce stigma, […]
Understanding Endometriosis – A Common Yet Often Misunderstood Condition
Recently, I was chatting with a friend and mentioned endometriosis. I was surprised when they asked, “What’s that?” This surprised me because endometriosis affects at least 1 in 9 females, making it almost as common as asthma or migraines. What is Endometriosis? Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus […]