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Hormones Revisited
As the Women's Health Initiative hit the media in 2002, and the update in 2004, women have had growing concerns over the safety of hormone replacement therapy. In May, Dr. Ruth Pryor addressed these concerns with a through discussion of the results of the estrogen/progestin arm and the estrogen-only arm of this study, and put these results in the context of what we have already known about hormone replacement therapy. While certainly there are some risks to use of hormones after menopause, all experts are in agreement (and Dr. Pryor, too!) that use of either regimen is safe for "short term use" for relief of menopausal symptoms, about 5 years. However, some woman may benefit from longer use without fear! There were many limitations to the WHI study, especially the fact that the average age of the participants was 63 years! The average age of the women seeking relief of symptoms is at least ten years younger!
Women interested in therapy should (as usual) seek the advice of her gynecologist or nurse practitioner or midwife, as any decision has to take into account an individual's personal and family history, and current symptoms and concerns.
Stay tuned for upcoming talk on alternative therapies for symptoms of menopause in August!
This Month :
Ready for the Menopause Trivia game with your spouses and significant others? Based on some of your suggestions, we are planning a game to test one's knowledge of menopause and women's health! Bring your spouse for a lively and slightly challenging question and answer session! Show off what you know, and what he does or does not know, at our next meeting. We are busy thinking up questions, maybe some answers, and even prizes! We promise to have some that men can answer, too, even if they have not attended any meetings. We hope to see and hear you on June 9th at Mercy Medical Center - 7PM – 9PM.
Recipe of the Month:
Brussel Sprout Maple Syrup and Walnut Vinaigrette.
(Yes, you read correctly, that says Brussel sprouts, a great vegetable which deserves a better reputation. This member of the cruciferous family is full of great cancer-prevention nutrients! And fiber! And vitamins! Besides, what doesn't taste great with some maple syrup? Use the real genuine article for best results.)
2 Cups (or more) Brussel sprouts
4 TBS vinegar (I like apple cider vinegar)
4 TBS maple syrup
½ cup walnut oil (or olive oil, if, like me, you never have walnut oil around)
1 TBS Dijon mustard
Pinch nutmeg (Optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup chopped walnuts (still good without this one, also. Obviously, I need to stock my kitchen better!)
- Trim stem and cut X into bottom of sprouts, Steam, but not to the mushy stage, only til just tender enough
- Whisk vinegar, syrup, and mustard together, then whisk in oil, salt, pepper If in a rush, just whisk all at once!
- Toss the sprouts with the walnuts and vinaigrette, and enjoy!
Visit us at our website: www.womenshealthteam.com.
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All the practitioners and staff at Women's Health Associates are committed to your health. Our practice is dedicated to practicing the "Art of Medicine" in the modern world. We know that the latest science and technology cannot replace the understanding and intuition of a conscientious, caring practitioner. We strive to provide both. When you think of your healthcare, think of us.
To register, obtain a lecture schedule, or obtain information on our practice, call 413-736-9978.
To schedule an appointment at our Westfield office, call 413-562-8306.
To schedule an appointment at our Springfield office, call 413-736-9978.
Robert Wool, MD James Wang, MD Ruth Pryor, MD Christine Sevigny,CNM Deborah Harris, OGNP | | 
