The Millstone Times April 2018

HEALTH 

 WELLNESS

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QUESTION: How does The MonaLisa Touch counteract vaginal dryness? V aginal dryness is extremely common during menopause. It’s just one of a collection of symptoms known as the increasing blood flow to the genital region and helping maintain the size of the vagina. Dr. Simigiannis is one of the leading gynecologists in the nation using this new procedure.

genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) that involves changes to the vulvovaginal area, as well as to the urethra and bladder. These changes can lead to vaginal dryness, pain with intercourse, urinary urgency, and sometimes more frequent bladder infections.

For more information feel free to contact: Dr. Helen Simigiannis, MD, FACOG Antheia Gynecology 375 US Highway 130, Suite 103 East Windsor, NJ 08520 Next to the Americana Diner 609.448.7800 www.antheiagyn.com

Dr. Helen Simigiannis, MD, FACOG

These body changes and symptoms are commonly associated with decreased estrogen. However, decreased estrogen is not the only cause of vaginal dryness. It is important to stop using soap and powder on the vulva, stop using fabric softeners and anticling products on your underwear, and avoid wearing panty liners and pads. Vaginal moisturizers and lubricants may help. Persistent vaginal dryness and painful intercourse should be evaluated by your healthcare provider. If it is determined to be a symptom of menopause, vaginal dryness can be treated with low-dose vaginal estrogen, or the oral selective estrogen-receptor modulator ospemifene can be used. The MonaLisa Touch is a new therapy for the treatment of vaginal dryness that is non hormonal, non medication and non surgical using a gentle laser. Regular sexual activity can help preserve vaginal function by

Adolescent & Routine Gynecology Menopause Minimally Invasive Surgery Endometrial Ablation Birth Control

Blue Light Blockers By Lauren Kolacki

Sunlight contains several different color light rays, each that affects us differently. These shades are characterized by their energy and wavelength; light rays that have relatively long wavelengths contain less energy, and those with short wavelengths have more energy. Blue light rays have the shortest wavelengths, therefore, the highest amount of energy. The display screens of computers, electronic notebooks, smartphones and other digital devices radiate only half the amount of blue light as the sun does; but because of the time using these devices and the proximity of the screens, it has become a higher risk for long-term eye health effects. The cornea and lens of the eye, are blockers of UV rays reaching the retina but blue light passes through, becoming a cause of serious damage and/or possible vision loss. In the US, 97% of kids under the age of four use mobile devices. 77% of Americans have smart phones and teenagers spend an approximate 6.5 hours a day staring at a screen. With these statistics being so high, it is established that Americans have a high exposure to blue light. Because of this, it is important to be aware of certain blue light filters that can protect your retina. Fortunately, there has been several productions of blockers that protect your eyes without affecting the visibility of the display screen, some even act as a screen protector from scratches or cracks. Ask your eye doctor or optician about which type of vision correction and lens features best suit your needs for viewing your computer and other digital devices and protecting your eyes from blue light.

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