Women's Health
This subject is broad. Women's health is hormonal health, reproductive health, sexual health AND it is public health. There are all the ways that we care for our own bodies and also the ways in which we as a society care for women and families. The education that I had about women's bodies growing up was insufficient. Even in medical school and then training as doula, there was still so much I did not understand until after childbirth, especially about the pelvic floor. Pelvic floor dysfunctions are so common and relate to a multitude of conditions - urinary issues, pelvic pain, low back pain, dyspareunia (painful sex).
Treatment options for women have also lagged behind where they should be for conditions like endometriosis and menopausal symptoms. Even so, it does feel to me like times are changing. And Portland is such a great city to be interested in Women's Health. We have some world-class educators and resources. I love being a part of this community, networking and connecting about the best ways to support women.
There are many great resources for queer folks in Portland too, though not surprisingly, there is still a lot to learn here too. I am committed to inclusivity and equal access to quality care. All are welcome here.
Resources:
Hormones/Women's Health Education
Dr. Lara Briden: Author of Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual (so much great menopause info!), naturopathic doctor. Check out her podcast too. Upcoming book about metabolic health.
Dr. Carrie Jones: functional medicine doctor here in Portland. primarily an educator, Carrie is great about breaking down concepts and keeping it interesting.
Dr. Jolene Brighton: naturopathic endocrinologist, clinical sexologist. Dr. Brighton has been open about her own struggles with fertility and painful periods.
Local Medical Providers
Naturopathic Medicine: Canyon Medical Center in SW Portland, A Woman's Time in NW Portland, Khivan Oberoi in Salem.
Sexual Health
The Authentic Sex Podcast with Juliet Allen - so refreshing to have some real talk about all things sex so we can really get comfortable and inspired for pleasure!
SheBop: this women-owned sex toy boutique also offers classes. Check out their events page.
Herbalism for Women's Health
Aviva Jill Romm, MD: A Yale trained MD and board certified family physician, midwife and herbalist, author, teacher and mama. Author of books like the Natural Pregnancy Book and Hormone Intelligence.
Read more on the blog:
Why A Pill Bleed is Not a Period
Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine for Painful Periods
Dr. Amber Hincks LAc FABORM
Beaverton, OR