CERVICAL CAPS
Cervical caps which are being used in Canada to prevent pregnancy
have been shown to cause damage to cervical tissue. As the cap rims
deteriorate they release compounds which are harmful to cervical
tissues. The caps are currently being tested for use in the United
States. (American Medical News, August 3, 1984, p. 20) Copyright Phylis Austin
BIRTH CONTROL/FIBROCYSTIC DISEASE OF THE BREAST
Women who have previously used oral contraceptives are more likely
to develop fibrocystic disease of the breast after menopause.
(American Journal of Epidemiology 120:87-96, 1984) Copyright Phylis Austin
CIRCUMCISION/CERVICAL CANCER
One of the arguments advanced to promote circumcision of males has
been the supposed lower rate of cervical cancer in the wives of
circumcised men. If this difference does indeed exist (many
researchers feel it does not) the lower rate of cancer may be due
to factors other than circumcision according to an Israeli study.
Drs. A. Schachter and E. Abraham of the Beilinson Medical Center
report that the traditional conservative life-style may be
responsible for the difference. A study of 30,000 women revealed
that in women aged 20 to 29 the cancer rate was approximately the
same as that observed in the United States. (Lancet 2:1150, 1984) Copyright Phylis Austin
SMOKING/CERVICAL CANCER
Dr. E. R. Greenberg of the Norris Cotton Cancer Center reports that
heavy smokers have at least a two-fold increase in the risk of
cervical cancer. (British Journal of Cancer 51:139-41, 1985) Copyright Phylis Austin
FIBROCYSTIC BREAST DISEASE/LOW FAT DIET
Women who have breast pain associated with fibrocystic breast
disease may be greatly helped by the use of a low fat diet. All ten
women placed on a low fat diet reported reduction in their breast
pain after three months on the diet. (American Journal of Clinical
Nutrition 41(4)856, April, 1985) Copyright Phylis Austin
HUMAN MILK/CANDIDA ALBICANS
This issue of SCIENCE/HEALTH/ABSTRACTS adds several items to the
long, long list of benefits from breastfeeding. Under no
circumstances should a baby be needlessly deprived of this most
important protective and developmental agency. Antibodies in human
milk may defend breast-fed infants from Candida albicans infection.
(Annals of Allergy 54:342, April 1985) Breastfeeding will reduce
the incidence of thrush. Copyright Phylis Austin
BREAST DISEASE/METHYLXANTHINES
In 1979 Dr. John Minton reported an association between the use of
coffee, tea, cola and chocolate, which contain methylxanthines, and
benign (non-cancerous) breast disease. A new study gives support to
his research. A study of 288 women revealed that women who drank
one to two cups of coffee per day were 4.1 times more likely to
suffer benign breast disease, and women who drank three or more
cups daily were 6.4 times more likely to report breast symptoms.
The longer women had consumed these food items the more likely they
were to suffer breast disease. Dr. Minton reported that women who
discontinued the use of methylxanthine-containing foods often had
resolution of their symptoms. (Journal of the National Cancer
Institute, 74:995-1000, 1985) Copyright Phylis Austin
COLD EXPOSURE/PAINFUL MENSTRUATION
Women who are exposed to cold are more likely to suffer from
dysmenorrhea (painful menstrual periods). (The Journal of
Reproductive Medicine 30(2)106-111, February, 1985) This points out
the importance of proper dress in preventing this common problem.
Dysmenorrhea is often referred to as the "neglected syndrome,"
perhaps because physicians understand so little about its causes or
prevention. Copyright Phylis Austin
DIET/FIBROCYSTIC BREAST DISEASE
John Minton, M.D. of Ohio State University, first reported a
relationship between diet and fibrocystic breast disease in 1979.
He has continued to study this relationship and makes new
observations in a recent report. He has shown that caffeine
produces an "explosive" discharge of catecholamines, which produce
large amounts of cyclic AMP and adenylate cyclase activity. Dr.
Minton writes that the breasts were designed to produce milk and
when they receive only part of a biochemical or hormonal stimulus
to make that milk, they cannot do it, which leads to fibrocystic
breast disease. Copyright Phylis Austin
TOXIC SHOCK/TUBAL LIGATION/VAGINITIS
A strong association between toxic shock syndrome and tubal
ligation has been demonstrated in a recent study. Women who have
had vaginitis recently are also apparently at increased risk.
(American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology 154(5)989-991, 1986) Copyright Phylis Austin
PAINFUL MENSTRUATION/ALLERGY
Dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation) may be due to food allergy. D.
R. Smith, M.D. reported 12 cases of painful menstruation, vaginal
discharge, and irregular menstrual periods, who were tested
for allergies. The foods they demonstrated sensitivity to were
eliminated from their diets beginning one week prior to the
expected menstrual period. Eight of the 12 in the study received
complete relief of their symptoms; the remaining four had partial
relief. Milk, eggs, wheat, beef, nuts, chocolate, fish, beans,
cauliflower, cabbage and pepper were common allergens in this
study. (Journal of the Missouri Medical Association 28:382-384,
1931) Copyright Phylis Austin
ESTROGENS/FIBROCYSTIC BREAST DISEASE
Two different studies have revealed that estrogen use increases
rates of fibrocystic breast disease. A Massachusetts study reveals
increased rates of hospitalization for fibrocystic breast disease
during the first year of estrogen use, then during the fourth,
fifth and following years. As years of use increase so does risk.
None of the previously known risk factors for fibrocystic breast
disease (late age at menopause, no or few pregnancies, age, race,
and socioeconomic status) appear to influence fibrocystic breast
disease rates as markedly as does estrogen use. (American Journal
of Epidemiology 121:238-245, 1985; American Journal of Epidemiology
124(5)746-751, 1986) Copyright Phylis Austin
PASSIVE SMOKING/MENOPAUSE
Previous studies have revealed that smokers have earlier menopause
than do non-smokers. Now a study shows that women who are exposed
to the cigarette smoke of others may also undergo early menopause.
(British Medical Journal 293:792, September 27, 1986) Copyright Phylis Austin
CIMETIDINE/HOT FLASHES
One woman suffered hot flashes after starting the use of
cimetidine. The hot flushes stopped after the medication was
discontinued and appeared again after the drug was restarted.
(Ugeskr Laeg 147(46)3702-3703, 1985) Copyright Phylis Austin
MENOPAUSE ONSET
It has been known for some time that smoking induces earlier
menopause. A new study revealed that menopause is delayed in women
who have had periods of no menstruation (amenorrhea), in tall
women, overweight women, and those in professional occupations.
(Ugeskr. Laeg. 148(9)534-538, 1986) Copyright Phylis Austin
EXERCISE/PREMENSTRUAL SYNDROME
Still another study reports beneficial effects of a physical
fitness program on symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. Women who
participated in a three month study revealed that those who
exercised had improvement of symptoms. (European Journal of Applied
Physiology 55:349-355, 1896) Copyright Phylis Austin
SLEEP DEPRIVATION/PREMENSTRUAL SYNDROME (PMS)
Keeping women who suffer from premenstrual syndrome (PMS) awake all
one night was effective in improving their symptoms, according to
a National Institutes of Natal Health Study. Even reducing the
amount of sleep was helpful, particularly if the patient went to
bed early in the evening and arose early in the morning. In the
study patients instructed to sleep from 8:00 P.M. to 2:00 A.M. had
greater improvement than those who slept from 2:00 to 8:00 A.M.
(American Journal of Psychiatry 144(6)808-810, June 1987) Early, to
bed, early to rise. Copyright Phylis Austin
DIET/PREMENSTRUAL SYNDROME (PMS)
Over 150 symptoms have been attributed to premenstrual syndrome
(PMS). There are four different subtypes of PMS: PMT-A with
symptoms of nervous tension, irritability and anxiety; PMT-H with
breast congestion and pain, bloating, weight gain, and abdominal
tenderness, and sometimes edema; PMT-C with increased appetite and
craving for sweets, which is followed by headache, heart
palpitations, fatigue and fainting, and PMT-D with symptoms of
depression, suicidal thoughts and withdrawal. Extensive studies
have been done on nutrition in each of these types of PMS. Women
who suffer PMT-A symptoms consumed the most dairy products and
proteins. These women ate three times more animal protein than
vegetable protein. Women who suffer premenstrual tension syndrome
were shown to consume 200 percent more sodium (salt) and 100 mg
less magnesium than did normal woman.
PMT-A women were shown to consume excessive amounts of calcium,
particularly from dairy foods. Calcium hinders the absorption and
use of magnesium. Patients with premenstrual tension syndrome have
been shown to have low levels of magnesium in their red blood
cells.
Normal women take in twice as much zinc and iron as PMS sufferers.
Some acne patients have been shown to have low zinc levels, and
acne may worsen prior to the onset of the menstrual period.
Women who suffer PMT-D should avoid smoking, as it is known to
depress estrogen levels. Foods containing methylxanthines (coffee,
chocolate, tea, colas) should avoided because of their
physiological effects on the breasts. Women with PMT-C symptoms
should carefully avoid alcohol, which causes a drop in blood
glucose. (Journal of Reproductive Medicine 32:405-422, June, 1987) Copyright Phylis Austin
PREMENSTRUAL SYNDROME (PMS)
A study from Yale University School of Medicine reports that
premenstrual breast pain appears to increase with age, while
bloating, weight gain and cramps tend to decrease. Women with large
bra cup sizes are more likely to suffer from breast tenderness or
pain. White women report premenstrual weight gain more after than
non-whites and are more likely to suffer moodiness than
irritability. (American Journal of Public Health 77:349-350, 1987) Copyright Phylis Austin
BIRTH CONTROL PILLS/CERVICAL CANCER
There has been a marked increase in the incidence of cancer of the
cervix in the under-35 age group. There is some suggestion that
this increase may be due to changes in the cervix which are
associated with the use of birth control pills. (British Medical
Journal 295:1446-1447, December 5, 1987) Copyright Phylis Austin
INACCURATE PAP SMEARS
A Washington D.C. television reporter who investigated East Coast
medical laboratories told a senate committee that many lab tests
are inaccurate. Pap smears, which women may depend upon for early
detection of cervical cancer, may be inaccurate if improperly taken
by the physician or improperly interpreted by laboratory staff.
According to a Wall Street Journal report one in four specimens
with abnormal cells may be incorrectly read, giving the patient a
false sense of security. Cytotechnologists, who are trained to read
pap smears may read an excessive number of smears, not spending
adequate time to assure accuracy. It has been estimated that up to
half of pap smear samples taken by physicians are inadequate, and
even the best laboratory cannot obtain an adequate reading from a
poor specimen. Two recent Mayo Clinic studies suggest that as many
as 60 percent of incorrectly negatively read pap smears are due to
physician error. (American Medical News, February 12, 1988, p. 2,
48,50) Copyright Phylis Austin
CANDIDA/UNDERWEAR
Women who are being treated for vaginal Candida infections may be
reinfected by underwear which still contains Candida after
laundering. It has been shown that the thermal death point for
Candida albicans is between 154 and 163 degrees F. (68-73 degrees
C). Many water heaters are incapable of heating water to this high
level. It has been suggested that ironing the underwear may be
necessary to prevent reinfection. A preliminary report
demonstrates that Candida-contaminated underwear may be sterilized
by placing it in a microwave set at the high setting. Damp fabric
was sterile after five minutes of microwaving, but dry fabric still
contained live Candida albicans despite microwaving. The
researchers suggest that microwaving underclothing still wet after
routine washing may be an effective method of decreasing the risk
of reinfection. (Journal of Reproductive Medicine 33(5)421-422, May
1988) Use great care in microwaving underwear. Several reports
have appeared in the newspapers of women who have set their homes
on fire. Copyright Phylis Austin
TEA/PREMENSTRUAL SYNDROME
A study from the People's Republic of China revealed that tea consumption causes
premenstrual syndrome, and that symptoms are more severe as tea intake increases.
(American Journal of Public health 79(1)67-69, January 1989) Other suspected
causes of premenstrual syndrome include hormonal imbalance, progesterone
deficiency, dietary deficiencies, refined sugar use, high fat foods, tobacco or
alcohol use, insufficient exercise, use of oral contraceptives and caffeine use. Copyright Phylis Austin
MALE PELVIC CONGESTION/"BLUE BALLS" OR "STONEACHE"
Painful testes due to congestion can be relieved spontaneously
after two to three hours of sitting or lying quietly. But Dr. Ray
McIntrye reports dramatic relief in 15 to 30 seconds by squatting
or stooping, hooking the fingers under an immovable object such as
piano or car, and straining with all the might for three or four
seconds. The pain is quickly relieved. (Medical Aspects of Human
Sexuality 23(9)51, September, 1989) Copyright Phylis Austin
MARITAL RELATIONS DURING MENSTRUAL PERIODS/ENDOMETRIOSIS
New Jersey Medical College infertility specialists report that
marital relations during menstrual periods may increase the risk of
developing endometriosis (the growth of endometrial tissue in
abnormal locations), which may contribute to infertility in women.
(Journal of Reproductive medicine 34(11)887-890, November 1989) Copyright Phylis Austin
VAGINAL DOUCHING/ACUTE PELVIC INFLAMMATORY DISEASE
Many women douche routinely in an attempt to "clean out" the
vagina. A study from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
at the University of Washington Medical School shows that douching
may lead to acute pelvic inflammatory disease. The more frequently
a woman in the study douched the more likely she was to have pelvic
inflammatory disease. (Journal of the American Medical Association
263(14)1936-1941, April 11, 1990) Douching should probably be
reserved for the treatment of disease, rather than used as a
cleaning procedure. The body has its own cleaning mechanisms and
douching interferes with this function. Copyright Phylis Austin
PELVIC INFLAMMATORY DISEASE
Sexual activity before 16 years of age may double the risk of later
pelvic inflammatory disease. The frequency of pelvic inflammatory
disease increases as does the frequency of sexual activity. Barrier
contraceptives, such as condoms or the diaphragm, have been shown
to reduce the risk of pelvic inflammatory disease. (Contraception
41(5)475, May 1990) Copyright Phylis Austin
MAMMOGRAM SAFETY AND EFFECTIVENESS
The American College of Radiology has recently established an
accreditation program for mammography units. More than one-third
of the units which applied for accreditation failed the initial
test. Accreditation standards include control of the amount of
radiation delivered to the patient, training of technicians in
regard to proper positioning of the patients, and quality of the
resulting image. About ten percent of the units which failed were
delivering excessive radiation doses. Some units were found to be
delivering excessive doses of radiation, but still producing a poor
quality image, which decreases the possibility of an accurate
reading.
Almost all of the units studied were using modern mammography
equipment.
The Registry of Radiologic Technologists is currently setting up
a program to certify technologists in mammography. No such program
has existed previously, and the skill level of technicians has
varied greatly.
About 20 percent of mammography units in the United States have
applied for certification. (Oncology Times 12(2)1, 7, February,
1990) Copyright Phylis Austin
CAFFEINE/PREMENSTRUAL SYMPTOMS
Women who suffer symptoms of premenstrual symptoms may have some
improvement with the elimination of caffeine-containing foods and
beverages. As caffeine intake levels increase symptoms become more
severe. PMS sufferers need to remember that tea and many soda
drinks, as well as coffee, contain caffeine. (American Journal of
Public Health 80(9)1106-1110, September 1990) Further, the
decaffeinated varieties of these beverages may not be the full
solution as other harmful components of these drinks may also
irritate the nerves of premenstrual syndrome sufferers. Copyright Phylis Austin
PREMENSTRUAL SYNDROME (PMS)/SUGAR INTAKE
Women who consume foods high in sugar content, or who have a sweet
tooth, are more likely to suffer from premenstrual syndrome.
(Journal of Reproductive Medicine 36(2)131-136. February, 1991) Copyright Phylis Austin
VAGINAL DOUCHING/CERVICAL CANCER
Douching may increase the risk of cervical cancer by changing the
normal vaginal chemical environment. Women who douche more than
once a week are at increased risk of developing cervical cancer.
(American Journal of Epidemiology 133(4)368-375, 1991) Copyright Phylis Austin
MAMMOGRAPHY
Numerous studies have indicated that the value of mammography in
the detection of breast cancer varies with age. The greatest value
is clearly in the 50 to 74 year old group, while women less than 40
years of age receive much less benefit from routine mammography.
The authors of a recent study suggest that mammography use among
young women may be excessive. (Cancer 67:2010-2014, 1991) Copyright Phylis Austin
BREAST BIOPSIES
A study from the University of California School of Medicine
suggests that breast biopsies may be performed far more frequently
than they are needed. Many physicians order biopsy to prevent
malpractice claims, and American women undergo far more surgical
biopsies than women in other countries. However, their biopsies
are more likely to be negative.
Edward A. Sickles, M.D., a radiologist, carried out a eight-and-
a-half year study of over 3,000 mammograms. Of those with
mammography abnormalities, Dr. Sickles recommended another
mammogram of that breast six months later, followed by regular
mammographic follow-up of both breasts.
About 0.5 percent of the women with lesions were later found to
have breast cancer, which was detected by changes in the follow-up
mammograms.
Of the 17 women who developed cancer, none had systemic spread of
the cancer, and none have had recurrences during a five year
follow-up. (Journal of the National Cancer Institute 83(17)1207-
1208, September 4, 1991) Copyright Phylis Austin
CERVICAL CANCER/VAGINAL CANCER/PESSARY USE
Long-term use of a vaginal pessary for vaginal prolapse may cause
irritation, which in turn, may lead to cancer. A study of 68
patients in France revealed that the mean interval between pessary
insertion and the development of cancer was about 18 years. (Cancer
69:2505-2509, 1992) Copyright Phylis Austin
PELVIC INFLAMMATORY DISEASE/SMOKING
Pelvic inflammatory disease is more common in smokers than non-
smokers, and more frequent in women who have had children. Low-
income women are also at increased risk of pelvic inflammatory
disease. (Clinical and Investigative Medicine 13(3 Suppl)B35,
August 1990) Copyright Phylis Austin
MAMMOGRAMS
Stefano Ciatto, M.D., a radiologist at the Center for Cancer Study
and Prevention in Florence Italy, commented that women under the
age of 40 do not need mammograms every two years. He told the Sixth
European Conference on Clinical Oncology that there was no evidence
that mammography every two years reduces the risk of death from
breast cancer in this age group. He said that many women in this
age group are falsely reassured by a mammogram read as negative.
Young women have dense breast tissue which appears white on the
mammogram, and which may hide a growing tumor. (Oncology Times
14(2)42, February 1992) Copyright Phylis Austin
MAMMOGRAMS
Stefano Ciatto, M.D., a radiologist at the Center for Cancer Study
and Prevention in Florence Italy, commented that women under the
age of 40 do not need mammograms every two years. He told the Sixth
European Conference on Clinical Oncology that there was no evidence
that mammography every two years reduces the risk of death from
breast cancer in this age group. He said that many women in this
age group are falsely reassured by a mammogram read as negative.
Young women have dense breast tissue which appears white on the
mammogram, and which may hide a growing tumor. (Oncology Times
14(2)42, February 1992) Copyright Phylis Austin
PREMENSTRUAL SYNDROME
Approximately 40 percent of American women suffer from premenstrual
syndrome (PMS). Lifestyle seems to play a major role in minimizing
symptoms. Marked weight change (gain or loss) over a year's time
increased PMS. A diet high in carbohydrates lowered the risk,
while a diet high in fats increased it. (Research Quarterly in
Exercise and Sports, March 1993 (Suppl) Copyright Phylis Austin
ENDOMETRIOSIS/MENSTRUAL CYCLE
Women under 30 years of age who have a menstrual flow which exceeds
six days in length, who have a heavy menstrual flow or suffer
severe cramps are at increased risk of developing endometriosis
(abnormal tissue implantation in the abdomen). Younger women who
had used tampons for many years were also at increased risk. The
women in the study who were most likely to have endometriosis had
started the use of tampons before sixteen years of age, had used
them for about 14 years, and slept with them in place.
(Epidemiology 4(2)135-142, March 1993) Copyright Phylis Austin
SMOKING/CERVICAL CANCER
Cigarette smoking has been linked to cervical dysplasia. Other
risk factors include early age of first intercourse, the number of
sexual partners, diet, viral agents, and socioeconomic status.
(Physician Assistant, March 1993, p. 57-60) Copyright Phylis Austin
ANTIBIOTICS/CANDIDA/INFANTS
Infants (and adults) given antibiotics are at increased risk of
developing a systemic candida infection. As the duration of
antibiotic treatment increases, so does risk of systemic infection.
(Pediatric Research 33(4 Pt 2)288A, April 1993) Copyright Phylis Austin
PREMENSTRUAL SYNDROME (PMS)/AEROBIC EXERCISE
Women who participated in an aerobic exercise program reported
improvements in many of their premenstrual symptoms, particularly
premenstrual depression. (Journal of Psychosomatic Research
37(2)127-133, 1993) Copyright Phylis Austin
DOUCHING/PELVIC INFLAMMATORY DISEASE
Vaginal douching may increase the risk of pelvic inflammatory
disease reports Delia Scholes, Ph.D., of the Center for Health
Studies, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound, Seattle,
Washington. Women in the study group who douched at least once a
week had higher rates of pelvic inflammatory diseases than those
who douched less often. Women who douched to treat an infection
were at greater risk. (Obstetrics and Gynecology 81:601-6, 1993) Copyright Phylis Austin
SEXUAL ACTIVITY/PELVIC INFLAMMATORY DISEASE
Women who have more than four sexual partners are over three times
more likely to require hospitalization for pelvic inflammatory
disease than are those with only one partner. Frequency of
intercourse, even with only one partner, also increases the risk of
pelvic inflammatory disease. Those who had intercourse six or more
times a week were 3.2 times more likely to develop pelvic
inflammatory disease than those who had intercourse less than once
a week. (Obstetrics and Gynecology 77(3)425-430, March 1991) Copyright Phylis Austin
EVENING PRIMROSE OIL/PREMENSTRUAL SYNDROME (PMS)
Various studies of the effectiveness of evening primrose oil in the
treatment of premenstrual syndrome have shown conflicting results.
Some demonstrated improvement; others demonstrated no benefit. Of
the study groups which did report improvement in symptoms the
improvement did not persist over a long period of time. Evening
primrose oil capsules are expensive, and women who are receiving no
benefit may wish to consider stopping their use. Further studies
need to be done to evaluate the effectiveness of evening primrose
oil in the treatment of PMS. (Medical Journal of Australia
153:189-192, August 20, 1990) Copyright Phylis Austin
MAMMOGRAMS/BREAST CANCER SPREAD
Compression of the breasts during mammograms may rupture tiny
cancers, encouraging the spread of cancer cells throughout the
body. (The Lancet 343:979-980, April 15, 1994) Copyright Phylis Austin
CERVICAL CANCER/SMOKING/PASSIVE SMOKING
Smokers are at increased risk of developing cervical cancer.
Cervical cancer risk is also increased by passive smoke (inhaling
the smoke of other smokers). (Journal of the American
Medical Association 261(11)1593, March 17, 1989) Copyright Phylis Austin
CANDIDA EXPOSURE IN HOSPITALS
Health care providers may transmit candida to already critically
ill hospitalized patients, according to a report from the American
Society for Microbiology. A study done in a surgical intensive
care unit revealed that 35 percent of nurses and 27 percent of
physicians carried candida on their hands. (Internal Medicine News
and Cardiovascular News 27(22)19, November 15, 1994) Copyright Phylis Austin
MAMMOGRAM INTERPRETATION
Radiologists who read mammograms vary in their interpretation and
follow-up recommendations. The researchers had 10 radiologists read
the same 150 mammograms; they agreed in about 78 percent of cases.
In some cases the radiologists did not even agree on which breast
they were viewing. (New England Journal of Medicine 331:1493-9,
December 1, 1994) Copyright Phylis Austin
ESTROGEN REPLACEMENT THERAPY/SYSTEMIC LUPUS
ERYTHEMATOSUS
Women who are taking postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy are
at increased risk of developing systemic lupus erythematosus. The
risk increases as the length of time the hormones are taken
increases. (Arthritis and Rheumatism 37(Suppl 9)S211, September
1994) Copyright Phylis Austin
POSTMENOPAUSAL ESTROGEN USE/LUPUS
Women who use estrogen are at increased risk of developing systemic
lupus erythematosus. The risk increases as length of time the
estrogen is used increases. The risk drops as estrogen use is
discontinued. (Medical Tribune 35(22)8, November 17, 1994) Copyright Phylis Austin
ENDOMETRIOSIS/DIOXIN
Endometriosis (the spread of endometrium-like tissue to parts of
the body other than the womb lining) may produce such symptoms as
painful ovulation, painful sexual intercourse, painful menstrual
periods, irregular or heavy menstrual periods, bloating,
constipation, diarrhea, depression, insomnia and fatigue.
Several recent studies have reported an association between
endometriosis and dioxin. The United States Environmental
Protection Agency reports that there is a close relationship
between body dioxin levels and the incidence and severity of
endometriosis.
Animal fats, such as those found in dairy and meats, are the
most common source of dioxins.
Endometriosis symptoms typically disappear after menopause, but
may be reactivated in women who are given hormone replacement
therapy.
Several drugs have also been implicated as possible causes of
endometriosis. (What Doctors Don't Tell You 5(10)1-3, February,
1995) Copyright Phylis Austin
SOY FLOUR/HOT FLASHES
Japanese women, who consume soy products frequently, are known to
have fewer hot flashes and menopausal symptoms than other groups.
A study from Australia revealed that simple soy flour decreased hot
flashes and improved menopausal symptoms. Phytoestrogens,
estrogen-like substances found in plants, are felt to be
responsible for this reduction in symptoms.
The women in the study were instructed to consume 46 g. of
debittered soy (or unbleached wheat) flour each day. They were
encouraged to consume it raw in a drink or added to cereal. If the
subjects could not tolerate it raw they were allowed to cook it or
to make it into muffins. The researchers gave some women soy flour
and the others whole wheat flour. The two flours looked alike and
the study subjects were unaware of which flour they were given.
Women using the soy flour reported a significant reduction in their
hot flashes over a six week period, with a further reduction over
a twelve week period. The wheat flour group also showed a
reduction, but their reduction took longer (6 - 12 weeks)
and was less pronounced than the soy flour group.
Soy contains genistein and daidzin which is converted to
daidzein. Wheat contains zearalenone and enterolactones. Milling
removes most of these phytoestrogens from the wheat.
Earlier studies have shown that soy flour, linseed (flaxseed)
and red clover have a beneficial effect on vaginal cytology in
postmenopausal women. (Maturitas 21:189-195, 1995) Copyright Phylis Austin
VULVAR VESTIBULITIS/PELVIC MUSCLE EXERCISES
Pelvic floor exercises may relieve vulvar vestibulitis, pain which
occurs during sexual intercourse or the insertion of a tampon. The
exercises are done twice a day. After 16 weeks of exercises the
women in the study group reported an 83 percent reduction in pain.
Vulvar vestibulitis is a very perplexing problem for many women and
treatment is often ineffectual. (Journal of Reproductive Medicine
40:283-290, April 1995) Copyright Phylis Austin
EXERCISE/MENOPAUSE SYMPTOMS
A study presented at the Society of Behavioral Medicine meeting in
San Diego revealed that exercise helps to control the mental and
physical symptoms associated with menopause. Christina Lee from
the Department of Psychology at the University of Newcastle,
Australia, observed that women who exercised regularly had less
stress and fewer menopause related symptoms than non-exercisers.
Those who participated in exercise reported less depression and
anxiety, fewer hot flashes, fewer night sweats, and better sleep
patterns. Interestingly, even those women who were on hormone
replacement therapy showed benefit from exercise. (Medical Tribune
36(8)20, April 20, 1995) Copyright Phylis Austin
ESTROGEN REPLACEMENT THERAPY/OVARIAN CANCER
Women who use long-term estrogen replacement therapy are at
increased risk of developing fatal ovarian cancer according to a
study from Emory University and the American Cancer Society.
(American Journal of Epidemiology 141(9)828-35, 1995) Copyright Phylis Austin
WEIGHT/MENOPAUSE
Caloric restriction delays the onset of menopause according to a
study from Turkey. A study of over 1,000 women indicated that
obese women enter menopause 1.7 years earlier than thinner women.
They also observed that women who lived in rural settings had later
menopause. Women who have never had children enter menopause about
one year sooner than women who have had five or more children.
(Gynecology and Obstetrical Investigation 37:40-42, 1994) Copyright Phylis Austin
ESTROGEN REPLACEMENT THERAPY/FATAL OVARIAN
CANCER
The long-term use of estrogen replacement therapy may increase the risk of developing
fatal ovarian cancer according to a recent study from the American Cancer Society and the
Emory University School of Public Health. Risk increases as duration of use
increases.
Previous studies on the relationship between estrogen use and ovarian cancer did not study
duration of use.
The authors of this study point out that the women in this study group were given higher
doses of estrogen than are given today.
Another interesting finding in this study was that menarche after 12 years of age is
associated with a reduced risk of later ovarian cancer. (American Journal of Epidemiology
141(9)828-35, 1995) Copyright Phylis Austin
CERVICAL ADENOCARCINOMA RISK FACTORS
The incidence of cervical adenocarcinoma in women under 35 years-of-age has more than
doubled since the 1970s. Los Angeles researchers studied nearly 600 women in an attempt
to understand the factors which contribute to this disease. They report that the number of
sexual partners before the age of 20, weight gain, and long-term use of oral contraceptives
increase the risk. Women of low educational attainment and lower economic status also
appear to be at increased risk. (Cancer Causes and Control 7:391-401, 1996) Copyright Phylis Austin
LOW FAT DIET/BREAST DISEASE
Women who suffer from benign breast disease may have a significant reduction in
symptoms with the use of a low fat diet according to a study from India. The researchers
placed a group of women on a diet which provided less than 15 percent of fat-derived
calories. After six months on the diet 12 of the 17 women in the reduced calorie group
reported less pain, a reduction in the size of breast masses, and less breast discharge.
(National Medical Journal of India 7(2)60-62, March-April 1994) Copyright Phylis Austin
NATURAL TREATMENT FOR HOT FLASHES
Some herbs have been shown to be helping in relieving symptoms. Black Cohosh
(Cimicifuga racemosa) is known to be both safe and effective for hot flashes, as well as
some other menopausal symptoms. It has estrogenic activity which is very similar to that
of estrogen replacement therapy. It should not be used by women who have heart
disease.
Dong quai (Angelica sinensis) is used for a wide variety of gynecologic problems. It is felt
to have both an estrogenic effect and to benefit blood vessels. It is high in iron and vitamin
E.
Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) assists in balancing the estrogen-progesterone ratio, and
is a good source of chromium and niacin.
Chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus) is used for a wide variety of menopausal
discomforts.
Regular exercise, stress management, vitamin E and bioflavonids are all felt to be
beneficial in hot flash reduction. (Alternative and Complementary Therapies 2(6)348-353,
November-December 1996) Copyright Phylis Austin
ESTROGEN USE/MAMMOGRAPHY ACCURACY
The use of estrogen may reduce the accuracy of mammography by
increasing breast density. The increased density may lead to more
biopsies and follow-up studies, causing unnecessary mental anxiety.
This study suggests that 40 out of each 1000 current estrogen users
may have a false positive mammogram. (Journal of the National
Cancer Institute 88:643-649, 1996) Copyright Phylis Austin
ESTROGEN REPLACEMENT
Jacques Rossouw, M.D., from the National Institutes of Health
Women's Health Initiative told the National Cancer Institute's
advisory board that physicians are "rushing to judgement" regarding
the use of estrogen. He points out that as baby boomers age more,
more of them are being given estrogen replacement replacements, but
it has not yet been proven that they actually are effective in
preventing osteoporosis or heart disease. The FDA has approved the
use of estrogen only for the treatment of menopausal symptoms and
diagnosed osteoporosis; not for the prevention of these
diseases.
Estrogen supplements increase the risk of breast cancer.
(Journal of the National Cancer Institute 88(10)637-638, May 15,
1996) Copyright Phylis Austin
MENSTRUAL CRAMPS/LIFESTYLE
Women who suffer menstrual cramps may have improvement in their
symptoms with modification of their lifestyle. A study of 165
women revealed that smoking, using alcohol, and being overweight
increase the level and duration of menstrual pain. Those who
started their menstrual periods by 11 years-of-age or younger and
those who had long menstrual periods were also more likely to
suffer menstrual pain. (British Journal of Obstetrics and
Gynecology 103:1134-1142, 1996) Copyright Phylis Austin
DOUCHING/PELVIC INFLAMMATORY DISEASE
Douching increases the risk of pelvic inflammatory disease,
ectopic pregnancy, and cervical cancer according to a 30-year
study. The researchers urge that women be told that douching is
unnecessary for hygiene. It disrupts the natural vaginal
environment and may carry bacteria into the vagina.
Earlier studies have suggested that commercial douches increase
risks more than do simple water and vinegar douches. (American
Journal of Public Health 87:1207-11, 1997) Copyright Phylis Austin
BAKER'S YEAST/CANDIDA ALBICANS YEAST INFECTION
Women who do not wash their hands thoroughly after baking bread
or using baker's yeast for any purpose may transfer the yeast to
their vaginal area, where it may cause a yeast infection. (Medical
Tribune: Obstetrician and Gynecologist Edition 4(6) 1997) Copyright Phylis Austin