For pregnant people, extreme heat comes with extra risks

Extreme heat poses serious risks for pregnant individuals, as their bodies are already undergoing significant changes that make it harder to cool down. The stresses of heat on vital organs are amplified during pregnancy, especially in the context of climate change, which is increasing the frequency and intensity of heat waves.

As pregnancy progresses, the body generates more internal heat and requires additional hydration, which can lead to dehydration. The larger belly can also hinder the body's ability to dissipate heat effectively. Moreover, research indicates that extreme heat can affect blood flow to the placenta, potentially impacting fetal development. This increased blood flow can also heighten chemical absorption if the pregnant person is exposed to harmful substances.

Heat exposure during pregnancy is linked to significant health complications like high blood pressure disorders and preeclampsia, which can be dangerous for both mother and child. Additionally, heat can exacerbate mental health issues and postpartum challenges. There's concern that children exposed to extreme heat while in utero may face developmental issues later in life.

Overall, there is a need for more research on the specific effects of extreme heat on pregnant individuals, as much of the existing knowledge comes from studies focused on athletes or young, healthy individuals, leaving a gap in maternal health research.

Hormone Replacement Therapy Market Poised to Reach USD 46.32 Billion by 2034, Growing at 6.68% CAGR: Towards Healthcare Report

The global hormone replacement therapy (HRT) market is projected to grow from USD 25.88 billion in 2025 to approximately USD 46.32 billion by 2034, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.68%. This growth is driven by the increasing prevalence of hormonal issues and the need for various hormonal treatments around the world.

In 2024, North America was the leading region in the HRT market, while Asia Pacific is expected to experience the fastest growth from 2025 to 2034. The estrogen and progesterone replacement therapy segment was dominant in 2024, and the parathyroid hormone replacement therapy segment is anticipated to expand significantly in the coming years. The oral route of administration led the market, but the parenteral route is also expected to grow.

The HRT market primarily addresses hormonal deficiencies related to menopause, thyroid disorders, and growth hormone deficiencies. Innovations like real-time hormone tracking technologies are being developed to optimize HRT treatments. An increase in public awareness about the benefits of HRT and legal partnerships in health tech are leading trends that support the market's growth.

However, challenges such as potential side effects, including blood clots and cardiovascular diseases, as well as the high costs associated with HRT treatments, could restrict broader adoption. The aging population in North America, especially with more diagnosed hormonal imbalances, significantly contributes to the market's demand.

Why brittle bones aren’t just a woman’s problem

Osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones and increases fracture risk, is often thought to primarily affect women. However, men are also significantly at risk. About 1 in 5 men over the age of 50 will experience an osteoporotic fracture. The consequences of such fractures can be severe, with research showing that a 50-year-old man is more likely to die from complications related to fractures than from prostate cancer.

Case studies highlight the issue, such as that of Ronald Klein, who suffered multiple fractures from a minor bike accident. His experience underscores the misconception that osteoporosis is solely a women's issue, as men are frequently not screened for it despite being susceptible. After his injury, a bone density scan confirmed his osteoporosis, prompting him to begin treatment.

This shift in perspective is essential for better men’s health care, as osteoporosis can lead to significant health problems in aging males. Increased awareness and screening are suggested to help catch this silent disease early and ensure better outcomes.

I Lied to My Wife About Why I’ve Been Dodging Sex. I’m Not Sure She Can Handle the Truth.

A man writes in, expressing that he has lost his desire for sex with his wife after witnessing her douching. He feels uncomfortable and is unsure how to communicate this to her, instead citing work stress as the reason for his avoidance of intimacy.

The advisors, Jessica and Rich, emphasize that the issue begins with questioning why the wife is douching, as it is generally considered unhealthy and unnecessary. They highlight that the practice is rooted in capitalism and societal pressures about women’s hygiene. They suggest the husband needs to shift his perspective and understand that women’s bodies should not be stigmatized or objectified.

The discussion reveals that the man's reaction might stem from a shallow understanding of his wife's body and her autonomy. They encourage him to confront the realities of intimacy and the natural aspects of the female body, arguing that he needs to embrace the full humanity of his partner rather than retreating in disgust.

The pelvic floor and elite sport: The muscle that no one talks about

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The stigma over breast cancer must be challenged

After a Lifetime of Dieting, This Is How 1 Woman Finally Lost 130 Lbs Post-Menopause

Paulette Szalay, a 60-year-old woman, lost 130 pounds post-menopause by changing her mindset and adopting a healthier lifestyle. Previously, she believed weight loss was impossible after menopause, but a chance encounter at a beach inspired her to take action. Feeling weighed down by her struggles with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and depression, she decided to change her eating habits and prioritize her health.

Her journey began on Easter Sunday in 2022 when she chose to order grilled salmon and vegetables instead of traditional pasta dishes during a family dinner. This marked the start of her commitment to healthier eating. Over the next three years, she successfully lost 133 pounds by incorporating strength training and low-carb meals into her routine, leading to significant improvements in her overall health.

Joining Planet Fitness helped her feel comfortable exercising despite her initial insecurities. Starting with just five minutes of cardio, Szalay gradually increased her workouts to over an hour, incorporating both cardio and strength training. After her transformation, she not only achieved her weight loss goals but also embraced new opportunities, including modeling. Now, she confidently wears a bikini and shares her inspiring journey on social media.

Dealing With Embarrassing Menopause Symptoms

Menopause brings various symptoms, some of which are embarrassing and often go unmentioned. These include voice changes, bladder issues, and other factors that impact quality of life. Despite common knowledge of symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings, women often hesitate to discuss these less-talked-about concerns, even with healthcare providers.

Voice changes, such as increased hoarseness and a lower speaking pitch, can occur as the muscles and cartilage in the throat change. While more research is needed, women can try voice warmups, steam, and staying away from irritants like smoking to help manage these changes.

Bladder leaks affect nearly 50% of menopausal women but can be managed through lifestyle adjustments, including reducing caffeine and alcohol intake. Pelvic floor exercises and sometimes low-dose vaginal estrogen can offer relief. Additionally, clitoral changes, like decreased sensitivity, are common but not often discussed. Women are encouraged to bring up these symptoms with their doctors, as treatments like lubricants or estrogen can help.

Further, body odor changes may accompany menopause, and recognizing these can be challenging. Overall, it’s important for women to feel comfortable discussing all menopause symptoms, as many options exist to alleviate discomfort and improve quality of life.

How sexism in medicine continues to endanger women’s health

Recent discussions at a symposium at the Radcliffe Institute highlighted ongoing sexism in medicine that negatively impacts women's healthcare. Experts, including breast cancer specialist Elizabeth Comen, emphasized that the focus on reproductive health has neglected many other critical aspects of women's health, like heart disease, which is the leading cause of death among women.

Comen pointed out that there is a historical bias in the medical field, where women's health concerns were often downplayed or misunderstood, largely due to a male-dominated perspective. This bias persists today, as women’s symptoms are frequently dismissed as "atypical" or attributed to anxiety rather than genuine medical issues. For example, Comen described a case where a woman presenting with significant neurological symptoms was initially labeled as anxious, highlighting the severe consequences of such gender biases in treatment.

Although there are advancements in women's health, such as longer life expectancies, there remains a troubling trend where women may live longer but often endure extended periods of ill health compared to men. Experts called for a more comprehensive understanding of women's health that goes beyond reproductive issues to include a wider range of medical concerns, ensuring that women receive the quality care they deserve.

How Abortion Access Shapes Women’s Financial Futures

Research indicates that access to abortion significantly influences women's financial stability and socioeconomic outcomes. A new study by sociologists Bethany G. Everett and Catherine J. Taylor investigates how restrictive abortion policies affect women's education and income levels over time.

The findings reveal that women who grew up in states with strict abortion laws were less likely to graduate from college, had lower incomes, and faced greater financial instability as adults. Specifically, these women reported more difficulties such as falling behind on bills and accumulating debt compared to those from states with more lenient policies.

Additionally, the study contrasts the experiences of women who chose to have abortions as teenagers with those who carried pregnancies to term. It shows that women who had abortions were more likely to finish high school and college and enjoyed higher financial stability in adulthood.

Overall, Everett and Taylor’s research underscores the long-term economic impacts of limited abortion access, suggesting that such restrictions threaten not only health and autonomy but also economic well-being and contribute to increasing inequality.