But sexual health is part of your overall health, and asking questions should never be a source of shame.

Why Sexual Health Can Be Difficult to Talk About

Messages we receive from family, culture, religion, relationships, and society can shape how we think about sex and our bodies. Some women may have grown up being taught that sexual topics should not be discussed openly.

Previous negative healthcare experiences, fear of an STI diagnosis, concerns about sexual pain, or embarrassment about changes in desire can make these conversations even harder.

Avoiding the conversation, however, can mean that treatable problems go unaddressed.

What You Can Talk About With Your Provider

You do not need to wait until something feels seriously wrong before bringing up a sexual health concern.

Your healthcare provider can help you discuss topics such as:

• Pain during or after sex
• Vaginal dryness or irritation
• Changes in sexual desire
• Difficulty with arousal or orgasm
• Concerns about contraception
• STI testing and prevention
• Changes in vaginal discharge or odor
• Concerns about sexual function after childbirth or during menopause
• Questions about sexual health after a new diagnosis or treatment

These are legitimate healthcare concerns, and your provider’s role is to listen and help—not judge.

How to Start the Conversation

You do not have to know the medical terminology or explain everything perfectly.

You can simply say, “I’ve noticed a change in my sexual health and I’d like to talk about it.”

If you feel embarrassed, you can say that too. Letting your provider know that the topic is difficult for you can help them approach the conversation with greater sensitivity.

It may also help to write down your questions before your appointment. This can make it easier to bring up something you might otherwise avoid.

When You Should Seek Help

Sexual health concerns are worth discussing with a healthcare professional, particularly when symptoms are persistent, painful, or affecting your quality of life.

Pain during sex, unusual bleeding, sores, persistent itching or irritation, unusual discharge, or concerns about possible STI exposure should be evaluated rather than ignored.

Changes in sexual desire or function can also have many possible causes, including medications, hormonal changes, relationship factors, stress, mental health, medical conditions, and physical discomfort. There is no single explanation for every woman.

The Bottom Line

There is nothing shameful about asking questions about your sexual health.

A healthy conversation with your healthcare provider can help you understand what is happening, identify possible causes, and find appropriate treatment when needed.

Your questions are valid. Your concerns deserve to be heard. And you deserve healthcare where you can talk openly without feeling judged.

Schedule your women’s health appointment with IVANA MD in Missouri City, TX. 346-585-4077. 4220 Cartwright Road, Suite 201, Missouri City, Texas 77459.

References:

Shifren, J. L., Monz, B. U., Russo, P. A., Segreti, A., & Johannes, C. B. (2008). Sexual problems and distress in United States women: Prevalence and correlates. Obstetrics & Gynecology, 112(5), 970–978. https://doi.org/10.1097/AOG.0b013e3181898cdb 

McCabe, M. P., Sharlach, M., Lewis, E., Atalla, E., Balon, R., Fisher, A. D., Laumann, E., Lee, S. W., & Segraves, R. T. (2016). Risk factors for sexual dysfunction among women and men: A consensus statement from the Fourth International Consultation on Sexual Medicine 2015. Journal of Sexual Medicine, 13(2), 153–167. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsxm.2015.12.015 

Nappi, R. E., Cucinella, L., Martella, S., Rossi, M., Tiranini, L., & Martini, E. (2016). Female sexual dysfunction (FSD): Prevalence and impact on quality of life. Maturitas, 94, 87–91. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.maturitas.2016.09.013 

World Health Organization. (2022). Sexual health. https://www.who.int/health-topics/sexual-health 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). STI screening recommendations. https://www.cdc.gov/std/treatment-guidelines/screening-recommendations.htm

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Weight is influenced by many factors, including nutrition, physical activity, sleep, medications, genetics, age, stress, and certain medical conditions.

How Hormones Can Affect Weight

Hormones do play an important role in regulating body weight. Insulin, thyroid hormones, cortisol, estrogen, and other hormones are involved in metabolism, appetite, energy use, and fat distribution.

Some medical conditions can contribute to weight gain. For example, an underactive thyroid can slow metabolism and cause symptoms such as fatigue and weight gain. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can also be associated with weight gain or difficulty losing weight, partly because of insulin resistance and other metabolic changes.

During perimenopause and menopause, changes in estrogen and the natural effects of aging can contribute to changes in body composition, including increased abdominal fat and loss of muscle mass.

However, not every change in weight means your hormones are “out of balance.”

Why Weight Gain Can Happen

Weight gain can happen for many reasons, and several factors can occur at the same time.

• Changes in eating habits or activity levels
• Loss of muscle with age
• Poor or insufficient sleep
• Chronic stress
• Certain medications
• Pregnancy and postpartum changes
• Perimenopause and menopause
• PCOS
• Thyroid disorders
• Other medical conditions

This is why simply taking a “hormone-balancing” supplement is unlikely to solve unexplained weight gain.

What Can You Do?

Start by looking at the bigger picture rather than focusing on one hormone.

Prioritize regular movement, adequate protein and fiber, balanced meals, sufficient sleep, and stress management. Strength training is particularly helpful as you age because maintaining muscle supports strength, function, and metabolic health.

If you are gaining weight without an obvious explanation, or if the weight gain is accompanied by symptoms such as irregular periods, excessive hair growth, persistent fatigue, feeling unusually cold, or significant changes in your menstrual cycle, talk with your healthcare provider.

Depending on your symptoms and medical history, your provider can determine whether testing for conditions such as thyroid disease, PCOS, or other causes is appropriate.

The Bottom Line

Hormones can influence weight, but weight gain is rarely explained by hormones alone. There is no single “hormone imbalance” responsible for everyone’s weight changes.

Instead of blaming yourself—or assuming you need a hormone-balancing product—focus on identifying the factors that may be affecting your health. If your weight has changed unexpectedly, a healthcare professional can help determine whether an underlying medical condition may be contributing.

Schedule your women’s health appointment with IVANA MD in Missouri City, TX. 346-585-4077. 4220 Cartwright Road, Suite 201, Missouri City, Texas 77459.

References:

Hall, K. D., & Kahan, S. (2018). Maintenance of lost weight and long-term management of obesity. Medical Clinics of North America, 102(1), 183–197. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mcna.2017.08.012 

Teede, H. J., Tay, C. T., Laven, J. J. E., et al. (2023). Recommendations from the 2023 International Evidence-based Guideline for the Assessment and Management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Fertility and Sterility, 120(4), 767–793. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fertnstert.2023.07.025 

Ross, D. S., Burch, H. B., Cooper, D. S., et al. (2016). 2016 American Thyroid Association guidelines for diagnosis and management of hyperthyroidism and other causes of thyrotoxicosis. Thyroid, 26(10), 1343–1421. https://doi.org/10.1089/thy.2016.0229 

The North American Menopause Society. (2022). The 2022 hormone therapy position statement of The North American Menopause Society. Menopause, 29(7), 767–794. https://doi.org/10.1097/GME.0000000000002028 

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If you have been looking for natural ways to support your hormones, you may have heard that meditation can help “balance” them. While meditation cannot directly correct a hormonal imbalance, it may support your overall health by reducing stress, improving emotional wellbeing, and potentially influencing the body’s stress response.

How Stress Affects Hormones

When you experience stress, your body activates the stress-response system, which includes the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and adrenal glands. This process increases hormones such as cortisol to help your body respond to stress.

Short-term stress is normal. However, significant or prolonged stress can affect sleep, mood, appetite, and, in some women, menstrual function. Severe stress can interfere with the communication between the brain and ovaries that helps regulate the menstrual cycle.

This does not mean that stress is responsible for every hormonal symptom. Irregular periods, fatigue, acne, weight changes, and other symptoms can have many different causes.

Can Meditation Lower Cortisol?

Some research suggests that mindfulness and meditation may reduce perceived stress and may influence cortisol and other measures of the body’s stress response. However, results are not completely consistent, and meditation should not be considered a treatment for abnormal cortisol levels.

The same applies to reproductive hormones. There is currently not enough evidence to say that meditation directly increases estrogen, raises progesterone, or “balances” reproductive hormones.

Its potential benefit may be more indirect: helping you manage stress, sleep better, and improve your overall wellbeing.

Meditation and Women’s Health

A regular mindfulness practice may be helpful for:

• Managing stress and anxiety
• Supporting better sleep
• Improving emotional wellbeing
• Coping with some symptoms associated with menopause
• Developing healthier stress-management habits

You do not need to meditate for a long time to get started. Try five to ten minutes a day in a quiet place. Focus on your breathing and gently bring your attention back whenever your mind wanders. Guided meditation can also be helpful if you are new to the practice.

When to Talk to Your Doctor

Meditation can be a useful addition to a healthy lifestyle, but it should not replace medical evaluation when you have concerning symptoms.

Talk with your healthcare provider if you experience persistent irregular or missed periods, very heavy bleeding, unexplained weight changes, significant fatigue, new excessive hair growth or acne, difficulty becoming pregnant, or other symptoms that concern you.

These symptoms can have many causes, including PCOS, thyroid disorders, perimenopause, medication effects, and other medical conditions.

The Bottom Line

Meditation does not directly “balance your hormones.” However, it may help reduce stress and support sleep and emotional wellbeing, which are all important parts of women’s health.

Think of meditation as one tool in your overall wellness routine—not a replacement for appropriate medical care.

Schedule your women’s health appointment with IVANA MD in Missouri City, TX. 346-585-4077. 4220 Cartwright Road, Suite 201, Missouri City, Texas 77459.

References:

Pascoe, M. C., Thompson, D. R., Jenkins, Z. M., & Ski, C. F. (2017). Mindfulness mediates the physiological markers of stress: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Psychiatric Research, 95, 156–178. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpsychires.2017.08.004 

Goyal, M., Singh, S., Sibinga, E. M. S., et al. (2014). Meditation programs for psychological stress and well-being: A systematic review and meta-analysis. JAMA Internal Medicine, 174(3), 357–368. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamainternmed.2013.13018 

Hofmann, S. G., Sawyer, A. T., Witt, A. A., & Oh, D. (2010). The effect of mindfulness-based therapy on anxiety and depression: A meta-analytic review. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 78(2), 169–183. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0018555 

National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. (2022). Meditation and mindfulness: Effectiveness and safety. https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/meditation-and-mindfulness-effectiveness-and-safety 

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Why GYN Anxiety Is So Common

Gynecological examinations involve a level of physical vulnerability that can make some patients feel anxious or uncomfortable. Undressing, an intimate physical examination, concerns about pain, and uncertainty about what the provider may find can all contribute to anxiety.

For women who have experienced sexual trauma, abuse, or previous painful medical procedures, a pelvic examination may feel particularly difficult. Trauma can affect how a person responds to medical care, which is why trauma-informed approaches emphasize safety, communication, choice, and control throughout the examination.

Avoiding care because of anxiety can also make it harder to receive preventive care or have symptoms evaluated. Recognizing that your anxiety is valid and communicating your concerns with your provider can be an important first step toward receiving care that feels safer and more comfortable.

Before Your Appointment

Choose a Provider You Feel Safe With

Choosing a provider who listens to you, explains what they are doing, and respects your boundaries can make a significant difference in how comfortable you feel.

If you have had a negative experience with a provider in the past, it is reasonable to look for someone with whom you feel more comfortable. You can also ask questions before scheduling your appointment about the examination process and what accommodations may be available.

Know What to Expect

Anxiety often becomes worse when you do not know what is going to happen. Asking your provider or their office what to expect can help you feel more prepared.

A pelvic examination, when medically indicated, generally involves an external examination and may include a speculum examination and a bimanual examination. Not every gynecological visit requires a pelvic examination. Whether one is appropriate depends on your symptoms, medical history, age, and the purpose of the visit.

Some women experience pressure or mild discomfort during an examination, but significant or persistent pain should not simply be accepted as normal. Tell your provider if something hurts so they can stop, adjust the examination, or discuss alternatives when appropriate.

Schedule Strategically

Choose an appointment time that allows you to arrive without feeling rushed. If possible, give yourself enough time to get to the office, complete any paperwork, and settle in before your appointment.

There is no medical reason that every woman needs to avoid scheduling a gynecological appointment before her period. However, if you personally experience increased discomfort, anxiety, or heavy bleeding around your period, you may prefer to schedule at another time when practical.

Write Down Your Concerns

Many women find it helpful to write down their questions and concerns before the appointment. This can make it easier to remember important details, especially if anxiety makes it difficult to think clearly during the visit.

You can also write down symptoms, medications, menstrual changes, or questions you want to discuss with your provider.

During Your Appointment

Communicate Openly with Your Provider

Tell your provider at the beginning of the appointment that you are feeling anxious. You do not need to provide a detailed explanation if you are not comfortable doing so.

You can simply say, “I’m nervous about the examination and would appreciate it if you could explain each step before you do it.”

A trauma-informed approach encourages providers to explain what they are doing, ask for permission, respect a patient’s choices, and give the patient opportunities to pause or stop the examination.

You can also agree on a signal, such as raising your hand, to indicate that you want the examination to pause. Knowing that you can speak up and stop the examination can help restore a sense of control.

Use Controlled Breathing

Slow, controlled breathing can be a simple way to help manage the physical symptoms of anxiety. Taking slower breaths and focusing on a longer, relaxed exhale may help you feel calmer.

You can practice controlled breathing while waiting for your appointment and continue using it during the examination if it helps you stay relaxed.

Distraction Techniques

Some patients find that distraction makes an examination easier. Depending on the clinical setting and your provider’s policies, you may be able to listen to music, focus on a particular point in the room, or talk with your provider during the examination.

You can also ask whether a support person is allowed to accompany you. Policies vary between healthcare settings, but having someone you trust present may help you feel more comfortable.

Request Modifications When Needed

You can tell your provider what would make the examination more comfortable for you. Depending on your circumstances and the clinical setting, these may include:

• Requesting a smaller speculum if appropriate
• Asking your provider to explain each step before performing it
• Asking whether you can control or assist with insertion of the speculum
• Requesting additional draping or privacy
• Requesting a female provider when available
• Asking for breaks during the examination
• Asking your provider to stop if you experience significant pain or distress

A respectful examination should involve communication and attention to your comfort and consent throughout the process.

For Women With a History of Trauma

If you have experienced sexual trauma or abuse, a gynecological examination can feel particularly triggering. You do not have to share details of your experience if you do not want to. However, letting your provider know that you have a history of trauma or that examinations are difficult for you can help them adapt their approach.

Trauma-informed care emphasizes physical and emotional safety, transparency, choice, collaboration, and giving patients control where possible. Your provider may be able to modify the examination, take additional breaks, explain each step beforehand, or discuss whether an examination is necessary at that particular visit.

If anxiety or trauma symptoms are making it difficult to receive medical care, a mental health professional, particularly one experienced in trauma-focused care, may also be able to help you develop strategies for managing these situations.

After Your Appointment

Acknowledge the fact that you showed up and took care of your health. If gynecological appointments are particularly difficult for you, completing one can be an important step toward making future healthcare visits easier.

Give yourself time to decompress afterward if you need it. You may also find it helpful to think about what went well and what you would like your provider to do differently at your next visit.

If anxiety about medical appointments is significantly interfering with your ability to receive necessary healthcare, consider speaking with a mental health professional. Treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy can be helpful for anxiety and specific fears or phobias.

Your gynecological health is important, and you deserve care that is respectful, compassionate, and centered on your comfort and wellbeing. You are allowed to ask questions, communicate your boundaries, and speak up if you are uncomfortable.

Schedule your women’s health appointment with IVANA MD in Missouri City, TX.

346-585-4077. 4220

Cartwright Road, Suite 201, Missouri City, Texas 77459.

References:

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2021). Caring for patients who have experienced trauma: ACOG Committee Opinion No. 825. Obstetrics & Gynecology, 137(4), e94–e99. https://doi.org/10.1097/AOG.0000000000004326 

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2024). Pelvic exams. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/pelvic-exams 

Bates, C. K., Carroll, N., & Potter, J. (2011). The challenging pelvic examination. Journal of General Internal Medicine, 26(6), 651–657. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11606-010-1610-8 

National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. (2011). Generalised anxiety disorder and panic disorder in adults: Management (CG113). https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/cg113 

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Adolescence and Early Adulthood (Ages 13 to 25)

The teenage and early adult years are important for growth, bone development, and establishing healthy nutritional habits. Some nutrients deserve particular attention during this stage.

Iron

Menstruation increases iron needs, and adolescents who have heavy periods may be particularly vulnerable to iron deficiency. Iron deficiency can cause fatigue, weakness, difficulty concentrating, and, when severe, iron-deficiency anemia.

However, not every young woman needs an iron supplement. Taking iron when it is not needed can cause side effects and, in excessive amounts, can be harmful. Good dietary sources include meat, poultry, seafood, beans, lentils, fortified cereals, and leafy green vegetables. If heavy periods or symptoms suggest possible iron deficiency, your healthcare provider can determine whether blood testing or supplementation is appropriate.

Calcium and Vitamin D

Adolescence and early adulthood are important years for building bone mass. Teenagers ages 14 to 18 need approximately 1,300 mg of calcium daily, while adults ages 19 to 50 generally need 1,000 mg.

Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium and plays an important role in bone health. Food should be the primary source of nutrients whenever possible, but vitamin D supplementation may be appropriate for people who do not get enough or who have been found to have inadequate levels.

Folate

Folate is essential for DNA production and cell division. Adequate folic acid is particularly important for women who could become pregnant because neural tube development occurs very early in pregnancy, sometimes before a woman knows she is pregnant.

The CDC recommends that women and teen girls who could become pregnant consume 400 micrograms of folic acid every day through supplements, fortified foods, or both, in addition to consuming folate from a varied diet.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are found in foods such as salmon, sardines, walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds. They support cardiovascular and overall health.

Omega-3 supplements have also been studied for menstrual pain, with some research suggesting they may help reduce dysmenorrhea. However, they should not be considered a replacement for medical evaluation, particularly when menstrual pain is severe or interferes with daily life.

Reproductive Years (Ages 25 to 40)

During the reproductive years, nutritional needs can vary depending on whether a woman is menstruating, trying to conceive, pregnant, breastfeeding, or managing a medical condition. Supplementation should be based on individual needs rather than age alone.

Prenatal Vitamins and Folate

Women who could become pregnant should pay particular attention to folic acid. The CDC recommends 400 micrograms of folic acid daily for women who could become pregnant.

During pregnancy, nutritional requirements increase, and prenatal vitamins are often recommended to help provide nutrients such as folic acid, iron, iodine, and other vitamins and minerals.

Prenatal vitamins vary in their ingredients and amounts, so your healthcare provider can help you choose one that is appropriate for your needs.

Magnesium

Magnesium is involved in hundreds of processes throughout the body, including muscle and nerve function, energy production, and normal blood glucose regulation.

Good food sources include nuts, seeds, legumes, whole grains, and leafy green vegetables. Magnesium supplements have been studied for conditions including migraine and some premenstrual symptoms, but evidence does not support recommending a high-dose magnesium supplement to every woman.

Supplemental magnesium can cause diarrhea and may interact with certain medications, so discuss supplementation with your healthcare provider if you are considering it.

Vitamin B6

Vitamin B6 supports normal metabolism, nervous system function, and red blood cell production. It has also been studied for premenstrual symptoms and is sometimes used as part of treatment for nausea and vomiting during pregnancy.

However, more is not necessarily better. High doses of vitamin B6 taken for prolonged periods can cause nerve damage. If you are pregnant or considering supplementation for PMS or nausea, discuss the appropriate dose with your healthcare provider.

Inositol

Myo-inositol and other forms of inositol have been studied in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), particularly in relation to insulin sensitivity, ovulation, and metabolic health.

Some studies suggest potential benefits, but the evidence is still developing, and supplement formulations and doses vary. Inositol should be considered as a possible component of an individualized PCOS management plan rather than a replacement for established medical treatment.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is important for bone health and several other functions in the body. The recommended dietary allowance for most adults ages 19 to 70 is 600 IU per day, increasing to 800 IU after age 70.

Some individuals may require additional supplementation based on their health, diet, or vitamin D status, but routinely taking high doses is not appropriate for everyone. Your healthcare provider can determine whether testing or supplementation is appropriate for you.

Perimenopause (Ages 40 to 52)

Perimenopause is the transition leading up to menopause. During this stage, hormone levels fluctuate, and women may experience changes in menstrual cycles, hot flashes, sleep, mood, and other symptoms.

Supplements may help address nutritional needs, but they should not be viewed as a substitute for evidence-based treatment when symptoms are significant.

Calcium and Vitamin D

Maintaining adequate calcium and vitamin D intake becomes increasingly important as women approach and move through menopause.

Women ages 51 and older generally need 1,200 mg of calcium per day. The recommended dietary allowance for vitamin D is 600 IU daily through age 70 and 800 IU daily after age 70.

Getting calcium primarily through food is generally preferred. Supplements can help fill dietary gaps when necessary, but excessive calcium or vitamin D intake can be harmful.

Magnesium

Magnesium supports normal muscle, nerve, and bone function. It is sometimes promoted for sleep, anxiety, or menopausal symptoms, but evidence for using magnesium specifically as a treatment for perimenopause remains limited.

If you are considering magnesium supplementation, your healthcare provider can help determine whether it is appropriate and which form and dose may be suitable for you.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids support cardiovascular health and can help lower triglyceride levels in certain patients. Fatty fish such as salmon, sardines, and trout are excellent sources.

While cardiovascular risk increases with age, omega-3 supplements should not be considered a general treatment for menopause or a replacement for established cardiovascular risk management.

CoQ10

Coenzyme Q10 plays a role in cellular energy production and has been studied in reproductive medicine, including among women undergoing fertility treatment.

Some research suggests that CoQ10 may have potential benefits for certain women undergoing fertility treatment, but evidence is still developing. It should not be presented as a proven way to improve egg quality or guarantee better fertility outcomes.

If you are trying to conceive, discuss supplements with your fertility or women’s health provider.

Menopause and Beyond (Ages 52 and Older)

After menopause, maintaining bone, cardiovascular, and overall health becomes increasingly important. Nutritional needs should be assessed individually rather than assuming that every woman needs the same supplement routine.

Calcium, Vitamin D, and Vitamin K

Calcium and vitamin D are important for maintaining bone health after menopause. Vitamin K also plays an important role in normal blood clotting and bone metabolism.

Vitamin K2 supplements are sometimes marketed as a way to direct calcium into bones and away from arteries, but evidence is not strong enough to recommend vitamin K2 supplements routinely for every postmenopausal woman.

People taking warfarin or certain other anticoagulants should not start vitamin K supplements without discussing them with their healthcare provider because vitamin K can interfere with anticoagulation.

Collagen

Collagen supplements are marketed for skin, joints, and bone health. Some studies suggest that collagen peptides may modestly improve measures such as skin hydration and elasticity, although research remains limited and products vary.

Collagen is not an essential supplement for every woman after menopause. A balanced diet that provides adequate protein, vitamin C, and other nutrients remains important for maintaining healthy skin, muscles, bones, and connective tissue.

B12

Vitamin B12 is essential for healthy red blood cells, neurological function, and DNA production.

The risk of B12 deficiency can increase with age, particularly among people with certain gastrointestinal conditions, those following vegan or vegetarian diets, and people taking medications such as metformin or acid-suppressing drugs.

B12 deficiency can cause fatigue, weakness, numbness or tingling, and neurological changes. People with risk factors may benefit from discussing B12 testing with their healthcare provider.

Probiotics

The gut and vaginal microbiomes change throughout life, and researchers continue to study how these changes relate to women’s health.

Probiotic supplements have been investigated for several gastrointestinal and vaginal conditions. However, there is not currently enough evidence to recommend a particular probiotic strain or supplement for all postmenopausal women.

Different probiotic products contain different microorganisms and doses, and their effects are not interchangeable. Talk with your healthcare provider about whether a probiotic is appropriate for your specific concern.

Important Considerations Before Starting Supplements

Supplements are not one-size-fits-all, and more is not always better. Before beginning any new supplement regimen, consider the following:

• Do not assume you need a supplement simply because it is marketed for your age group. Your diet, health history, medications, and individual needs matter.
• Discuss supplements with your healthcare provider, particularly if you take medications, are pregnant, are trying to conceive, or have an underlying health condition.
• Choose reputable products and, when possible, look for independent third-party testing for quality and purity.
• Be cautious with megadose formulations. Excessive amounts of certain vitamins and minerals can be harmful.
• Remember that supplements support but do not replace a nutrient-dense diet, regular physical activity, preventive care, or appropriate medical treatment.

Your nutritional needs are as individual as you are. The goal is not to take the most supplements—it is to identify and address the nutrients your body actually needs.

Working with a women’s health provider can help you make informed decisions about supplementation based on your age, health history, reproductive stage, diet, medications, and individual risk factors.

Schedule your women’s health appointment with IVANA MD in Missouri City, TX. 346-585-4077. 4220 Cartwright Road, Suite 201, Missouri City, Texas 77459.

References

Teede, H. J., Tay, C. T., Laven, J. J. E., Dokras, A., Moran, L. J., Piltonen, T. T., Costello, M. F., et al. (2023). Recommendations from the 2023 International Evidence-based Guideline for the Assessment and Management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Fertility and Sterility, 120(4), 767–793. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fertnstert.2023.07.025 

National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements. (2025). Magnesium: Fact sheet for health professionals. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Magnesium-HealthProfessional/

National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements. (2025). Vitamin B6: Fact sheet for health professionals. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminB6-HealthProfessional/

National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements. (2025). Omega-3 fatty acids: Fact sheet for health professionals. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Omega3FattyAcids-HealthProfessional/

National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. (2024). Probiotics: What you need to know. https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/probiotics-what-you-need-to-know

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