Latest news with #Mumma'sBlessingIVF
Indian Express
a day ago
- Health
- Indian Express
Ozempic vulva: Experts clear the air on ‘rare side effect' causing vaginal dryness in women taking weight loss drugs
Social media has been abuzz with concerns about 'Ozempic vulva,' a condition seemingly affecting women trying to lose weight with GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide. According to many reports, the usage of such drugs may cause 'rare' side effects like changes in the labia, along with dryness or even urinary incontinence. But what exactly is it? 'While these medications can help shed significant weight, some women have reported a troubling and less-discussed side effect, now colloquially referred to as 'Ozempic vulva or Ozempic vagina',' said Dr Karuna Malhotra, aesthetic physician, Cosmetic Skin and Homeo Clinic in New Delhi's Rajouri Garden. 'Weight loss through GLP-1 therapy leads to a reduction of fat in multiple areas of the body, which may change physical contours, but there is no medical evidence to support that this causes pathological drooping of the labia. On the contrary, obesity is a well-known risk factor for urinary incontinence, and weight reduction, whether through lifestyle, surgery, or medications like semaglutide, has been consistently shown to improve bladder control,' said Dr Kovil. Many of my patients report better mobility, confidence, and sexual satisfaction after weight loss, he said. 'As for dryness, there is no current evidence directly linking semaglutide to vaginal dryness. Hydration, hormonal status, and menopausal changes remain the primary factors influencing this,' said Dr Kovil. Notably, Dr Malhotra said the vulva is composed of fatty tissue, and when this volume decreases rapidly, it may give a hollowed or aged appearance. For many women, this leads to a mismatch between their slimmer body and the way their intimate area looks, said Dr Malhotra. According to Dr Shobha Gupta, medical director and gynaecologist, Mother's Lap IVF Centre, New Delhi and founder, Mumma's Blessing IVF and Birthing Paradise in Vrindavan, changes in the vulva may not just be cosmetic. 'Loss of fatty padding in the vulva can sometimes lead to discomfort, increased sensitivity, or even pain during physical activities and intimacy,' she said. Dr Gupta emphasised that the vulvar tissues are hormonally sensitive, and significant weight changes can alter the balance of estrogen and fatty tissue support. This may sometimes result in dryness, irritation, or a higher risk of infections due to friction, said Dr Gupta. *Speed matters: Rapid weight loss is more likely to cause skin laxity than gradual, sustainable weight loss, said Dr Gupta. *Corrective treatments exist: Aesthetic options (fillers, PRP, radio frequency) and medical support (lubricants, hormonal balance if required) can help, said Dr Malhotra. *Holistic care is important: Weight loss journeys should include skin care, hydration, and pelvic health awareness. DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
Indian Express
30-06-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
Why Twinkle Khanna's wry take on hot flushes strikes a chord with menopausal women
Twinkle Khanna's wit is unmatched. The former actor-turned-author's tongue-in-cheek comment on this menopause symptom recently struck a chord with many in that age bracket. The 51-year-old shared a picture of herself with her pet dog. 'Both of us are suffering. Me: Hot flushes. Him: Itchy ears. One of us is, as usual, chasing their own tail. Guess who,' she wrote. Soon, the comment on her Threads post gathered like-minded responses. 'Hot flushes are the worst. Hang in there Twinkle. Mood swings & all the other symptoms have to be endured……one day you will be just fine. Take care', one wrote, while another shared, 'Try Ayurveda Twinkle, worked for me like magic! Keep rocking as always'. Taking a cue from her admission, let's understand what hot flushes are and why they happen once menopause sets in. Twinkle Khanna's candid revelation brings attention to a natural yet often overlooked aspect of women's health, stressed Dr Shobha Gupta, founder, medical director and IVF specialist at Mumma's Blessing IVF and Birthing Paradise in Vrindavan. Sweating and skin reddening may result from hot flushes, which are abrupt sensations of warmth frequently strongest across the face, neck, and chest. 'Hormonal changes during menopause, especially the drop in oestrogen levels, are the main cause of them. The hypothalamus, which regulates body temperature, is impacted by this hormonal change and perceives the body as being overheated, which sets off cooling processes including vasodilation and perspiration,' said Dr Gupta. She emphasised the importance of understanding these symptoms. She explained, 'Hot flashes or hot flushes are a hallmark of menopause. Women experiencing such symptoms should consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate management plan tailored to their specific needs,' said Dr Gupta. Management strategies for hot flashes include lifestyle modifications such as wearing breathable clothing, avoiding known triggers like spicy foods and caffeine, and practicing stress-reduction techniques. 'In some cases, medical interventions like hormone replacement therapy or other medications may be recommended,' said Dr Gupta. Dr Gupta also highlighted the need for increased awareness and research on menopause and its symptoms. She noted, 'Many women suffer in silence due to a lack of information and support. It's crucial to have open conversations and provide resources to help them navigate this phase of life,' said Dr Gupta. DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
