Could Chemicals in Cosmetics be Causing Early Puberty?

Razi Berry A recent study supports the theory that phthalates, parabens and phenols commonly used in personal care products could be contributing to earlier onset of puberty in girls. These environmental toxins, are considered “endocrine disruptors” and are thought to mimic female sex hormones. The study, Association of phthalates, parabens and phenols found in personal […]

Review: Omega-3 Fatty Acids May Reduce Premature Birth Risk

Razi Berry A new Cochrane Review has found that increasing the intake of omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA) during pregnancy reduces the risk of premature births. Premature birth is the leading cause of death for children under 5 years old worldwide Premature birth is the leading cause of death for children under 5 years […]

Global Inadequacies in Access to Private Toilets for Women

Razi Berry A recent article underlines a widespread form of gender discrimination – inadequate access to private toilets. This is a serious problem for girls and women around the world, and perhaps one of the most pervasive forms of gender discrimination. There has been an increase in advocacy and research in this area, however little […]

Violence Experienced in Utero May Increase Toddlers’ Aggressive Behavior

Razi Berry Reprinted from Penn State Babies whose mothers experience interpersonal violence during pregnancy are more likely to exhibit aggression and defiance toward their mothers in toddlerhood, according to new research by Laura Miller-Graff, assistant professor of psychology and peace studies, and Jennifer Burke Lefever, managing director of the William J. Shaw Center for Children […]

HPV Vaccine May Cause Sterility in 25%

Razi Berry A recent research study has suggested that girls who have received the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine have a 25% chance of becoming sterile.1 ‘A lowered probability of pregnancy’ This information comes from a study published in the Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health in June 2018. The study is titled, “A lowered probability […]

Low Concentrations of Omega-3 Fatty Acids May Predispose to Preterm Birth

Razi Berry A recent study from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and Statens Serum Institut in Copenhagen, shows strong evidence that lower plasma levels of long chain omega-3 fatty acids in pregnant mothers during the first and second trimester may elevate risk for premature birth.1 When compared to women with higher levels of […]

Vitamin D Deficiency May be Common in Pregnancy

Razi Berry A recent study from Norway determined that by the end of pregnancy, 1 in 3 women are deficient in vitamin D.1 During the winter, when the days are much darker, this percentage rose to nearly 50 percent. Lead author adds, “use of sunscreen during the summer months further inhibits vitamin D production” The […]

How personal lubricants can affect fertility

Sarah King, ND Personal lubricants are commonly used for sexual comfort. For women it can help decrease the discomfort and pain associated with dyspareunia and can also be used to enhance sexual pleasure. There are several different brands and formulas available on the market today, from standard water-based lubricants, to those which offer warming or […]

Natural Remedies for Common Pregnancy Complaints

Sarah Cimperman, ND Pregnancy can be a magical time. Anticipation of a new baby brings families and couples closer together and inspires positive thoughts about the future. Strangers suddenly display random acts of kindness, offering to open doors, help carry groceries, and give up their seats. Hormone surges and increased circulation promote thicker hair, fuller […]

4 Proven Ways to Reduce Leg Swelling and Varicose Veins in Pregnancy

Dr Sarah King, ND Changes in circulation, resulting in swelling, varicose veins and hemorrhoids, are common during pregnancy. It’s no wonder, with an increase in body weight from the fetus and surrounding fluid, extra pressure is added onto organs and other structures like the weaker-walled veins. About 40% of pregnant women will be affected, and […]