The Femina Physical Therapy Blog
Featuring original articles by our staff about current events and trends
Explore our insightful blog articles on pelvic health, where we delve into essential topics that empower and educate. From understanding pelvic floor disorders to strategies for conquering infertility, our content is designed for those seeking knowledge and support. We discuss the latest research, expert advice, and practical tips to enhance your well-being and foster a deeper connection to your body.
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The History of Estrogen Therapy - A Cure for Hot Flashes, Insomnia, Vaginal Discomfort and More?
Hello, menopause! If you’re experiencing any of those symptoms, your doctor may have recommended some form of menopausal hormone therapy.
But is it safe?
When should you start?
And which therapy is right for you?
Researchers have been trying to answer those questions for decades, often with confusing and even conflicting results. Let’s take a look at the history of estrogen therapy, and how past studies are informing the latest recommendations.
A French physician coined the word ‘menopause’ in the 1800s and advanced the revolutionary idea that the health concerns of aging women deserved medical attention. Throughout that century, doctors experimented – sometimes on themselves – with various animal hormones. The science was far from perfected; but by the 1890s, women were being treated successfully for symptoms of menopause with a powder or pill made from cow ovaries.
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What did you discuss with your healthcare provider at your last OB-Gyn appointment?
Hard truth – there’s a good chance your answer depends on your skin color.
The disturbing statistics about increased COVID risks for people of color shed much needed light on systemic injustice in our healthcare system; but you may not realize the problem extends to almost every facet of women’s health, from yearly check-ups to frightening mortality rates in pregnancy and childbirth. A recent survey of nearly 1,700 white and black, non-Hispanic women aged 18-49 pulls back the exam room curtain, indicating a double standard that often leaves women of color underserved and medically vulnerable to several risks.
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On July 30th, the House approved to DOUBLE funding for Endometriosis.
This is a HUGE win for the 1 in 10 women across the US that suffer from this hidden disease.
Endometriosis can lead to missed days from work and school, chronic pelvic pain, infertility and many other chronic overlapping pain conditions.
The efforts were led by Rep. Abby Finkenauer of Iowa, who in March pubicly noted her own struggles with endometriosis. From her website:
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I just returned to Los Angeles after completing an amazing eight day trip to Beijing, China. There I had the opportunity to work with the Chinese Olympic Committee,their rehabilitation staff and athletes. I gave two lectures with hands-on labs to their physiotherapists on Hip Impingement and Cyclist's Syndrome (Pudendal neuralgia in cyclists). Did I talk about the pelvic floor muscles in both lectures? You bet I did! Monica is my awesome Mandarin translator pictured standing next to me below.
Read more: Heather returns from work with the Chinese Olympic Committee
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Tightly Wound released on Iris!
Tightly Wound has been released, watch it today and share it with your loved ones and anyone else who may need more education on vaginismus and pain with sex.
Tightly Wound is a 15-minute animated short by Shelby Hadden. Our very own Heather Jeffcoat, DPT is one of the producers of film.
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On May 6, communities across the country including downtown LA gathered for the March for Moms to bring about changes to improve the health of mothers and birthing families in the United States. Femina Physical Therapy was there to join the national movement to address the maternal health crisis in our country. It was a wonderful day connecting with the community of concerned parents, community members, and health practitioners.
Together, we were able to call attention to issues affecting moms in Los Angeles.
Read more: Femina Physical Therapy and the March for Moms in Los...
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Redefining Postpartum Care in the “Fourth Trimester” by Utilizing Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
Last month the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) updated their position on postpartum care in the “fourth trimester” - the first 12 weeks after your baby is born. This is such a huge step for better healthcare and support for women after delivery. In other countries (France, Belgium, Northern Ireland and other European countries), postpartum physical therapy is a routine referral for women both in the hospital and for ongoing support when they are discharged.
The statement updates the previous recommendation of a 6 week visit, and instead supports a paradigm shift of postpartum care that not only adds contact with their Ob-Gyns within the first 3 weeks of delivery, but also address the need for ongoing care:
Read more: Redefining Postpartum Care in the “Fourth Trimester”