Latest news with #ovarian
NDTV
05-06-2025
- Health
- NDTV
Can Laser Hair Removal Give You A Beard? We Asked Experts
Quick Read Summary is AI generated, newsroom reviewed. A viral video claims laser hair removal can cause paradoxical hair growth. The condition, known as paradoxical hypertrichosis, is a rare side effect of laser hair removal. Experts note that underlying hormonal imbalances can trigger unwanted hair growth after treatment. A viral video circulating on social media has sparked widespread concern after claiming that laser hair removal can, paradoxically, cause excess hair growth. In some cases, it may even lead to the development of a beard-like appearance. The Viral Video In the viral video, Instagram user Shraddha shared that a laser treatment triggered more noticeable and coarser growth of hair on her face. In the caption, she said, "I wasn't sure about posting this till I realised how many people are and could be in the same situation as me! Paradoxical Hypertrichosis is way more common that people realise, specifically amongst people that look like me". What Is Paradoxical Hypertrichosis Paradoxical hypertrichosis is a rare side effect of laser hair removal, which is an unexpected increase in hair growth, particularly in areas treated with laser or light-based hair removal methods. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Shraddha✨ (@shr9ddha) Now, while laser hair removal is considered one of the best treatments to remove unwanted hair from the face and body, it might, sometimes, result in a beard of sorts. According to the Mayo Clinic, laser hair removal is a medical procedure that uses a concentrated laser to remove unwanted hair. So, can it result in unwanted hair growth? NDTV asked experts to clear the air. Does Laser Hair Removal Lead To Unwanted Hair Growth? Dr Raina Nahar, Consultant Dermatology at PD Hinduja Hospital & MRC, Khar, Maharashtra, explains that there are different types of laser hair removal treatments, including diode and double wavelength lasers. These target hair growth, its thickness, and the colour of the roots. This would go as planned and will have satisfactory results unless you have an underlying problem. Laser hair removal works by using concentrated light energy to damage hair follicles, inhibiting future hair growth. So, what is the underlying problem we're talking about? Underlying Problems Dr Shareefa Chause, Dermatologist, Dr Shareefa Skin Care Clinic, Mumbai, says, "So, the problem is that people don't mention their underlying hormonal imbalances, including hypothyroidism, hypoandrogenism, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD), hyperprolactinemia, which will trigger the hair to grow again and again, that may cause unwanted hair growth. In such cases, fine facial hair may turn into terminal beard-like hair growth for women. So the underlying condition will stimulate the hair to keep growing back. It's not the laser that triggers hair growth but paradoxical hair growth." "The phenomenon of increased hair growth after laser hair removal is often referred to as 'paradoxical hypertrichosis'. It is important to note that this side effect is relatively rare and not universally experienced," adds Dr Chause. She adds that hormonal changes, pre-existing hormonal imbalances, and genetic predispositions can influence hair growth patterns. Additionally, if an inappropriate laser setting is used, it may stimulate hair follicles rather than inhibit them. Consulting Your Doctor Is Important As per the experts, the best way to avoid a negative outcome is by discussing your medical history with your doctor before you sign up for the treatment. If you don't, you will have "long-term problems that even after 10-15 sessions you may come back to square one. It is vital to go to the dermatologist and understand the reason for your facial hair growth and get the right treatment to get the best results," adds Dr Nahar. Experts emphasise the importance of consulting a certified dermatologist or technician before undergoing a laser treatment, especially for facial hair. You should get a proper diagnosis of underlying hormonal issues which are crucial to avoid unintended effects. While laser hair removal is generally safe and effective, this viral video highlights the need for personalised treatment plans and public awareness of the side effects, though uncommon, of laser hair removal.
USA Today
04-06-2025
- Entertainment
- USA Today
Around 1 in 10 women will develop ovarian cysts. Are they something to worry about?
Around 1 in 10 women will develop ovarian cysts. Are they something to worry about? Show Caption Hide Caption Hailey Bieber reveals she has two ovarian cysts Hailey Bieber is once again shedding light on her reproductive health. In an Instagram Story, the 28-year-old model and beauty entrepreneur revealed she's currently dealing with two ovarian cysts. unbranded - Entertainment Around one in 10 women will develop ovarian cysts at some point during their lives, and while the prospect of a cyst growing on your ovaries could set off alarm bells, they aren't something you need be super worried about, for the most part. There are a number of reasons why ovarian cysts could form, although they're usually related to your menstrual cycle. While most ovarian cysts are completely harmless, there is a small chance that complications could arise if larger cysts are left untreated. Here's everything experts need you to know about ovarian cysts, and the symptoms that should tip you off to see a doctor. What are ovarian cysts? Ovarian cysts are small, typically fluid-filled sacs that develop on the ovaries. 'Over 50% of cysts are benign, regardless of someone's age, (or) whether they're premenopausal or postmenopausal,' says Dr. Rebecca Stone, a gynecologic oncologist at John Hopkins Medicine and an associate professor in the Johns Hopkins Medicine Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics. 'The majority of them also resolve on their own, especially if they're smaller than 5 centimeters,' she says. Functional cysts (including follicular and corpus luteum cysts) are the most common type of ovarian cyst. They form around the time of ovulation, are almost always benign and usually resolve spontaneously, says Stone. Complex cysts are ovarian cysts that aren't related to your menstrual cycle. Most complex cysts aren't a cause for concern, though it's possible they could point to an underlying condition, such as endometriosis, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), according to Cleveland Clinic. Here are a few types to know: Cystadenomas . These benign tumors could arise due to a cellular change on the surface of the ovary, Stone says. They contain a mix of fluid, mucus and ovarian tissue, per Healthline. Unlike functional cysts, cystadenomas are less likely to resolve on their own, and may require surgical removal if they become bothersome. . These benign tumors could arise due to a cellular change on the surface of the ovary, Stone says. They contain a mix of fluid, mucus and ovarian tissue, per Healthline. Unlike functional cysts, cystadenomas are less likely to resolve on their own, and may require surgical removal if they become bothersome. Endometriomas . Typically associated with endometriosis, endometriomas form when the lining of the uterus (the endometrium) grows on the ovary's surface. Endometriomas are a particularly problematic kind of ovarian cyst, Stone explains, because during menstruation, as the endometrium sheds, the cysts continue to enlarge. They don't usually go away by themselves, and may need to be removed if they are causing pain. . Typically associated with endometriosis, endometriomas form when the lining of the uterus (the endometrium) grows on the ovary's surface. Endometriomas are a particularly problematic kind of ovarian cyst, Stone explains, because during menstruation, as the endometrium sheds, the cysts continue to enlarge. They don't usually go away by themselves, and may need to be removed if they are causing pain. Dermoid cysts (mature cystic teratomas). Dermoid cysts could technically appear anywhere in the body, though they're commonly found on the surface of ovaries, says Stone. It's a fluid-filled sac that's made of tissues from your skin, teeth, hair and other body parts, per Cleveland Clinic. Though they are generally benign, in rare cases they could become cancerous. Dermoid cysts are more likely to develop in younger women, and typically don't revolve spontaneously. Periods don't have to be painful. Here's how to find relief from menstrual cramps. What are the signs of an ovarian cyst? Most ovarian cysts aren't a cause for concern, and when they're small, there are usually no symptoms present. You probably won't even realize you have one. An ovarian cyst could grow to be quite large before someone actually develops symptoms, says Stone. If it's large enough, you could notice a change to your waistline, feel a firmness on either side of your abdomen, experience bloating and decreased appetite, or have an increased urge to go to the bathroom (which could indicate the cyst is putting pressure on your bladder), she says. When symptoms become more severe, you could experience back pain, pelvic pain, painful periods and pain during sex, according to Cleveland Clinic. An ovarian cyst could be identified through a pelvic ultrasound, laparoscopy, pregnancy test or tumor marker test (if ovarian cancer is suspected), per Mayo Clinic. In case you missed: Florence Pugh froze her eggs after diagnosis that 'completely' changed her life When are ovarian cysts a cause for concern? It's possible that certain ovarian cysts might require intervention, especially if they are large in size, though generally speaking, complications are rare, says Dr. Joanna Forbes, an assistant professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at UT Southwestern Medical Center. If left untreated, here are a few potential complications. Ovarian torsion . When an ovarian cyst grows to be larger than 5 centimeters, there is an elevated risk of experiencing an ovarian torsion, which occurs when the ovary twists on itself, says Forbes. An ovarian torsion is often found incidentally when someone is experiencing sudden, severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and sometimes fever, says Stone. It's considered a surgical emergency, and quick intervention is critical. 'If that happens, then the ovary can die, and it can be very painful,' Forbes says. . When an ovarian cyst grows to be larger than 5 centimeters, there is an elevated risk of experiencing an ovarian torsion, which occurs when the ovary twists on itself, says Forbes. An ovarian torsion is often found incidentally when someone is experiencing sudden, severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and sometimes fever, says Stone. It's considered a surgical emergency, and quick intervention is critical. 'If that happens, then the ovary can die, and it can be very painful,' Forbes says. Ovarian rupture . An ovarian rupture is another complication of ovarian cysts. If the ovarian rupture is mild, you might not have any symptoms. When an ovarian rupture is severe, you could experience symptoms similar to an ovarian torsion (such as acute abdominal pain and vomiting), and it could be potentially life-threatening, says Forbes. A rupture of a dermoid cyst leaks an irritating fluid that could cause scar tissue, inflammation, a bowel blockage, infection or bleeding, says Stone. If bleeding persists, it could reduce blood flow to your organs, and in rare cases be fatal, per Johns Hopkins Medicine. . An ovarian rupture is another complication of ovarian cysts. If the ovarian rupture is mild, you might not have any symptoms. When an ovarian rupture is severe, you could experience symptoms similar to an ovarian torsion (such as acute abdominal pain and vomiting), and it could be potentially life-threatening, says Forbes. A rupture of a dermoid cyst leaks an irritating fluid that could cause scar tissue, inflammation, a bowel blockage, infection or bleeding, says Stone. If bleeding persists, it could reduce blood flow to your organs, and in rare cases be fatal, per Johns Hopkins Medicine. Cancer. In postmenopausal women, endometriomas are associated with a higher risk of underlying cancer, Stone says. The bottom line? The vast majority of ovarian cysts aren't anything to worry about, but if you're experiencing symptoms that are out of the ordinary, it's always a good idea to talk to your doctor. If they confirm your symptoms are being caused by ovarian cysts, they can offer individualized treatment options.
AsiaOne
25-05-2025
- Health
- AsiaOne
Obesity rates are rising in Singapore, but is overeating the only cause?, Lifestyle News
Obesity is on the rise in Singapore, with recent studies revealing a worrying trend. The 2021/2022 National Population Health Survey by the Ministry of Health showed that the prevalence of obesity among adults aged 18 to 74 in Singapore had increased from 2020 to 2022. The World Obesity Federation has also reported that our nation now ranks third among Asian countries in terms of adult obesity percentage. According to the National University Health System (NUHS), obesity is a chronic disease caused by having too much body fat, and can increase the risk of several other medical conditions. An article by Harvard Health in 2019 explained that there are several factors that can contribute to a person becoming overweight — from genetic factors to diet, lifestyle and stress. Speaking to AsiaOne, Dr Wong Hui Mei, principal dietitian at Gleneagles Hospital, shared that one of the biggest dietary contributors to the rising obesity rates in Singapore is the increased convenience and affordability of ultra-processed food such as fast food, ready-to-eat meals and sugary beverages. "These foods are high in calories, high in fat and sugar, low in nutrients, and may lack balanced nutrition. They're also more affordable than healthier alternatives. This makes it harder for individuals to make nutritious choices," she stated. Her statement is echoed by Dr Koh Huilin, a consultant in Endocrinology at Woodlands Health, who told AsiaOne: "We have an obesogenic (tending to cause obesity) environment where local delights tend to be high calorie-density food with high carbohydrates and high fat, as well as ultra-processed foods that are available 24/7 and rather inexpensive." And other than diet and lifestyle, are there any other factors that could affect a person's weight? How Singapore's physical and cultural environment plays a part According to Dr Koh, there are several factors that come into play, including things like physical and cultural environment — especially in the context of Singapore. "Our humid weather makes it unattractive to exercise outdoors despite the many green spaces and park connectors being developed. Our stressful work culture with long hours take time away from self-care amidst other familial roles such as caregiving. It can also lead to poor quality sleep or insomnia. Poor sleep with inadequate hours or poor quality can lead to increased hunger, cravings and reduced metabolism," she explained. The impact of medical conditions on obesity In addition to these external factors, Dr Anuradha Negi, specialist in Endocrinology and senior consultant at Raffles Diabetes and Endocrine Centre, shares that there are also several medical conditions that contribute to obesity. "Several endocrine disorders such as hyperthyroidism, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), Cushing's syndrome and growth hormone deficiencies can lead to weight gain or make weight loss harder," she told AsiaOne. Mental health's part in obesity On top of that, mental health also plays a part, as explained by Dr Wong, who said that many often turn to overeating as a way to cope with high levels of stress — which often results in consuming excessive calories. This is also backed by Dr Precelia Lam, general practitioner at Raffles Medical, who shared with AsiaOne: "Stress, anxiety and depression can lead to emotional eating, binge-eating or poor food choices. Some people turn to food for comfort, especially high-sugar or high-fat options for the 'dopamine hit'." The role of prescribed medications The idea that certain medications can cause weight gain isn't just a myth, either. According to Dr Koh, some prescribed medications used to treat psychiatric and chronic conditions such as diabetes, autoimmune conditions or acute asthma attacks (steroids) may lead to weight gain, and chronic use of anti-histamines can also "make one susceptible for weight gain". She also noted that certain medications used to treat diabetes like insulin, sulphonylrea and thiazolidinediones can result in weight gain, but more as a "physiologic response rather than an abnormal weight gain". Dr Koh also added that conversely, some medications used in chronic disease management can help with weight loss. "That said, medications are selected and tailored by one's doctor to best treat the underlying condition, hence they should not be stopped without consultation with your doctor," the endocrinologist said. Genetic and ethnic factors At times, we might observe that some people tend to lose or gain weight easily while for others, it might be tougher — even when they seemingly consume the same amount of food. According to Dr Negi, this is because genetics also affect whether a person is more prone to obesity. "Genetics play a role in how the body regulates appetite, converts food into calories, and how your body burns calories during exercise," she explained. She also added that ethnicity also has a hand in it all, with certain ethnic groups such as South Asians and East Asians having a tendency to have higher visceral fat at a lower BMI. Dr Abel Soh, endocrinologist at Woodlands Health, also seconded that genetics and ethnicity are contributing factors to obesity. "At least 15 genes have been found that can contribute to a person becoming obese. In Singapore, ethnic groups like Malays and Indians have higher rates of obesity compared to the Chinese, likely due to a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors," he stated. Health implications of obesity Regardless of the cause — obesity often comes with health implications which can significantly increase the risk of serious and chronic conditions. Speaking to AsiaOne, Dr Tham Kwang Wei, senior consultant in Endocrinology at Woodlands Health, said that obesity is currently associated with 265 medical conditions and diseases, which reflects "the degree to which excess body fat can cause havoc to one's body". And while it affects everyone differently to a certain extent because of how fat is distributed, how the body reacts to excess fat and different lifestyles, it doesn't mean that the risks that come with obesity are any less significant. "If one does not have any medical issues at present related to obesity, that person still remains at risk," she warned. According to Dr Lam, some chronic health problems associated with obesity include: High blood pressure High cholesterol Type 2 diabetes Cardiovascular disease Stroke But that's not all. "One growing concern is sleep apnoea, which causes trouble breathing and poor overall health. Joint and mobility problems [also] arise from extra weight being put on joints, causing osteoarthritis and lower back pain. Obesity is also linked to higher risk of certain cancers like breast, colon and liver cancer," the GP warned. Additionally, Dr Wong shared that fatty liver is also one of the health conditions associated with obesity. Experts' advice on tackling obesity For those struggling with obesity, it's not only important to get to a healthy weight — but to lose the weight healthily and in a safe manner to reduce the health risks. Dr Wong suggests calorie counting to lose weight — explaining that it's an important factor even when consuming nutritious foods as it's still possible to take in more calories than the body needs when doing so — which would ultimately hinder weight loss. "It's also crucial to focus on sustainability and practicality. The best approach is one that you can maintain in the long term without feeling overwhelmed. Extreme calorie restriction or over-exercising can be difficult to sustain and might lead to burnout," she added. She also explained that if you continue to struggle with losing weight despite that, "it's a good idea to consult a healthcare professional" as "they can help identify any underlying health conditions" and "offer personalised advice and support" in order to help reach your weight loss goals safely and effectively. To those who are struggling to lose weight, Dr Lam also advises that it's important to recognise that "weight loss is often non-linear". She stated that plateaus happen when trying to lose weight, and it's okay — because "the goal is not perfection, but progress and persistence." "You're not alone, and you're not a failure. Obesity is a complex, chronic condition, and treating it requires support, compassion and realistic strategies. You don't have to run marathons. Dancing, walking, swimming or even gardening counts. Movement should feel energising, not punishing. Consistency beats intensity," she encouraged. The GP also warned against buying into fad diets and pseudoscience online. "If something sounds to good to be true, for example, losing 10kg in a week, it probably is," she said. For those who aren't sure where to start, Loh Win Nie, vice president of the Singapore Nutrition and Dietetics Association, also shared simple tips that may "make a difference in managing weight and building healthier habits without needing a total lifestyle overhaul", including: Asking for more vegetables when eating out (make at least half your plate plant-based) Choosing plain drinks more often (go for plain or sparkling water, or ordering less-sugar versions of your favourite drinks) Eating slower to feel fuller as it takes time for our brains to register fullness Not waiting until you're starving to eat as it's more likely to lead to overeating or unhealthy fast fixes Watching portions, not just food choices as even healthy food can lead to weight gain in excess Moving in short bursts throughout the day (take the stairs, brisk 10-minute walks after meals or stretch between meetings) Finally, she expressed that it's also crucial not to be too hard on yourself on your weight loss journey. "Last but not least, be kind to yourself. Change takes time. It is okay to enjoy your favourite food once in a while. The goal is not to restrict, but to find a healthier rhythm that works for you in the long run. Small, consistent changes make the biggest impact. It's not about dieting; it is about learning what works for your lifestyle and taking steps that are realistic and sustainable," she concluded. As for those who are struggling to lose weight on top of certain medical conditions and medications, Dr Koh advised that it's a good idea to consult a doctor or healthcare professional. "Best to seek help from medical professionals for guidance as one's overall health condition, along with the obesity, needs to be managed comprehensively and holistically. For example, some medications may not be suitable for people on certain medications or [with] certain conditions," she stated. [[nid:620048]]
Forbes
15-04-2025
- Health
- Forbes
The Founder Who Turned A Near-Death Experience Into A PCOS Solution
'When I moved to the U.S., I never questioned my doctors. I believed the American healthcare system was the best in the world—so if something was prescribed, I took it,' explained Mila Magnani. The result was a flurry of pills that she took throughout her teen years: antibiotics for acne, antidepressants for mood regulation, birth control for her cycle, and spironolactone for facial hair. Milamend's CEO and Co-Founder, Mila Magnani Rather than helping Ms. Magnani, though, those treatments caused the former model to hit a 'breaking point—financially, emotionally, physically'. She went on, 'My symptoms got worse, so I turned to what I knew: my doctors. Their answer was more—more pills, higher doses. Before I knew it, I was taking medications to manage the side effects of other medications.' As she chronicled in a video, her doctors kept telling her that her worsening symptoms – like gaining 30 pounds out of nowhere, feeling bloated, having acne – were due to stress, were something that their own wives had experienced, were no reason for her to complain, and were just 'part of being a woman'. But 'everything shifted' after Ms. Magnani lost a loved one to medical negligence and, in a separate incident, nearly lost her own life as well; she contracted sepsis when she had her wisdom teeth removed and ended up in the hospital. Afterward her recovery, she remembered, 'For the first time, I stood in front of that medicine cabinet and saw it differently. It forced me to ask the questions I'd never asked: 'What does my body feel like without medication? Can I even have a natural cycle? Do I actually need any of this?'' Still a believer in science and medicine, Ms. Magnani kept seeing doctors – but, this time, refused to accept any dismissals. 'I kept pushing, demanding tests, and digging through referrals until I left the U.S. system entirely. It took a French endocrinologist to finally give me the answer no one else had: I had PCOS.' PCOS, or polycystic ovarian syndrome, is a hormonal condition that affects an estimated6-13% of girls of women of reproductive age worldwide. Due to this hormonal imbalance, which includes elevated levels of androgens or male hormones (such as testosterone), those with PCOS often experience acne, excessive hair growth on their body, face, and/or scalp, high blood pressure, periods that are absent, infrequent, or irregular, thinning hair or male-pattern baldness, and weight gain. Long-term risks of PCOS include endometrial cancer, heart disease, infertility, sleep apnea, strokes, and an elevated risk of Type 2 diabetes. And yet, the World Health Organization estimates that up to 70% of PCOS cases go undiagnosed. An estimated 70% of girls and women with PCOS go undiagnosed. One of the reasons is that the main ... More conditions that can help diagnose PCOS can all be a result of another health issue: from stress to premature organ failure. As is, to be diagnosed, a patient must have at least two of three conditions: oligo/anovulation, hyperandrogenism, and polycystic ovaries. However, oligo/anovulation could be due to certain medications, premature organ failure, rapid weight loss or gain, stress, or thyroid issues. Hyperandrogenism could be due to adrenal disorders, certain medications, or ovarian tumors – or it could be idiopathic and have no known cause. And polycystic ovaries can be found in women without PCOS and in women without PCOS. Potential diagnostics, such as a physical exam, a blood test to check hormone levels, and a pelvic ultrasound to check for ovarian cysts, can subsequently lead to inconclusive results and/or additional tests to rule out other medical conditions, like sepsis in Ms. Magnani's case, that may present similar or identical symptoms. Even if a diagnosis is made and made correctly, PCOS has no cure: only treatments such as lifestyle changes (balanced diet, healthy body weight, and regular exercise), medications (including clomiphene to induce ovulation, metformin to treat high blood sugar levels, and spironolactone to block the effects of androgens), and fertility treatments for those looking to conceive. In fact, Ms. Magnani recalled thinking that 'the [PCOS] diagnosis was the solution—until I was offered the same treatment all over again: birth control, spironolactone, or metformin. That was my breaking point. I didn't want to be medicated again. I wanted a way forward.' Her response was, together with her partner Lucas Labelle, to create Milamend which is both a science-backed supplement for hormone support and, in Ms. Magnani's words, a solution 'for every woman who's ever felt trapped between being dismissed or prescribed medications they can't tolerate.' Unlike other PCOS solutions, Milamend is not limited to those struggling to conceive. 'One of my greatest frustrations,' Ms. Magnani shared, '[is that] PCOS care today is entirely fertility-focused…the [healthcare] system finally pays attention when you're struggling to conceive.' Ovulation disorders, such as those caused by conditions like PCOS, do account for 30-40% of female infertility cases. But, as Ms. Magnani pointed out, 'What about the student battling acne, brain fog, weight gain, and irregular cycles? The mom who's already had children? Or the woman who never wants kids? They are left with no answers.' And PCOS has adverse effects beyond infertility. Those with PCOS are three to six times more likely to have an eating disorder, four to seven times more likely to have depression and anxiety, and 8.47 times more likely to attempt suicide than those without. PCOS Challenge, a non-profit, additionally found in a survey of 900 respondents, that 62.15% reported high to severe mental health impacts caused by PCOS. The biological factors behind PCOS can be a direct or indirect reason for the increased mental ... More health conditions in those with PCOS than those without. These mental health issues might be either due to biological factors, a result of biological factors, or both. For example, chronic inflammation associated with PCOS is linked to depression and anxiety, elevated androgen levels can potentially lead to mood disturbances, and insulin resistance, another common symptom of PCOS, can disrupt the balance of dopamine which also can affect mood regulation and lead to depression. Both elevated androgen levels and insulin resistance can lead to acne, excess facial and body hair, weight gain and difficulty losing weight - and, consequently, low self-esteem and negative body image, both of which are significant predictors for mental health issues. For additional context, PCOS typically develops after puberty (through the age of 18) – and girls and women, even without PCOS, already tend to have more body images issues than boys and men, especially during young adulthood (ages 18 to 29). In addition to physical, mental, and emotional burdens, those with PCOS also can face challenges ... More with their relationships, career, and more. But in the current healthcare landscape, women's hormonal health is normally tied to fertility rather than understood as a standalone condition. As Ms. Magnani revealed, 'Too often, doctors don't even check hormone levels unless you're trying to conceive. I know because I heard it firsthand—more than once: 'We'll run full hormone tests when you're ready to have a baby'.' She hopes to see hormonal screenings regardless of someone's reproductive status, 'better testing, earlier intervention, and care designed to support women before symptoms spiral or get dismissed', and more research and funding devoted to women's health, especially women's hormonal health. Ms. Magnani hopes to see hormone screenings - that can help diagnose a condition like PCOS - as ... More standalone, standardized health procedures, rather than ones that are performed only around fertility. To point, the National Institutes of Health didn't include PCOS as a line item in its funding estimates — that is, it didn't fund research, treatments, or anything else related to PCOS —until 2022. PCOS then received a total of about $9M in NIH funding in 2022, $11M in 2023, and an estimated $11M in 2024. (Infertility, in contrast, received $189M in NIH funding in 2022, $216M in 2023, an estimated $216M in 2024, and an estimated $222M in 2025.) Out of the 321 medical conditions receiving NIH funding in 2024, only 21 received a smaller estimate of NIH funding that year than PCOS did. Put another way: in terms of NIH funding received in 2024, PCOS was in the bottom 7.5%. In terms of NIH funding received collectively over the last ten years (2015 to 2024), PCOS was in the bottom 10%. Hormonal health in general isn't even among the NIH-funded conditions, even though 'hormones influence everything', as Ms. Magnani summarized. Scientists have identified over 50 hormones in the human body, all of which are constantly changing or can be changed: by age, environmental factors, genetics, gut health, lifestyle choices (diet, exercise, sleep, stress), medications, and medical conditions. Hormones, in turn, affect 'how we look—our skin, our hair, our weight—[…] how we store fat, where acne shows up, hair growth or loss, energy, sleep, even mental health,' Ms. Magnani listed. Acne, bloating, mood swings, and painful periods can all be signs of hormonal imbalances too. She added, 'Understanding hormones feels impossible when you're starting out. And hormonal health is deeply personal—and complex. It doesn't fix itself overnight.' Based on the collective funding that it received from the NIH from 2015 to 2024, PCOS is in the ... More bottom 10% of conditions funded; it didn't even receive a full percent of what genetics (the top condition funded by the NIH during this time) received. But, for those with PCOS who might not have been diagnosed or who don't have a treatment available – a 2023 survey found that 10% of those with PCOS wait over five years for treatment and 7% wait over 10 years – a quick and easy solution offers a tantalizing prospect, as Ms. Magnani encountered herself. 'I've been that desperate girl, spending every penny on products promising to 'fix me' in two weeks or erase years of symptoms overnight. And when it didn't work, I blamed myself,' she said. 'Now that I'm in this industry, I see it clearly. There's little regulation and even less accountability.' She continued, 'What most women don't realize is that supplements aren't required to be approved by the FDA before hitting the market…anyone can say almost anything, and it's hard to know what's real.' Some supplements, for instance, contain only a quarter of the effective dose, some 'hide behind trendy herbs or misleading serving sizes', and other sell 'hope wrapped in beautiful packaging, backed by inflated promises and sky-high price tags'. For patients navigating this space, Ms. Magnani recommends looking for 'brands that share their certifications: NSF certified, GMP compliant, made in an FDA-registered facility. Look for logical dosing, fair pricing, and a real founder story rooted in solving a problem—not just chasing a trend.' With that principle in mind, Ms. Magnani prioritized science over marketing when it came to Milamend. 'I assembled a team of medical experts and regulatory officers to ensure every claim we make is safe, compliant, and honest. Because women deserve that…No woman should ever feel like she's defective when it's the industry failing her, not her body.' she explained. And Milamend has seen the positive results that come from supporting women with both science and community. 'Milamend was never meant to be a company—it happened by accident,' Ms. Magnani described. 'I shared the supplement formula that worked for me, for free, on social media. Thousands of women tried it, saw real results, and pushed me to turn it into something bigger.' That 'something bigger' is the company's Hormone Balance product, which can help those with PCOS, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), thyroid conditions, and more. At first, it was available only in limited quantities – each of which sold out in under a minute. Today, it has expanded organically to all 50 states in the United States and to over 83 countries worldwide. Milamend's Hormone Balance supplement is meant for women with PCOS, PMS, thyroid conditions, or any ... More other hormonal imbalance 'Personally, my focus right now is growth—not just as a founder, but as a leader. I want to keep building a company culture that truly lives and breathes our mission. Our community deserves a brand that shows up for them—not just with high-quality products, but with education, care, and integrity every step of the way,' Ms. Magnani noted. Milamend does have 'exciting innovations brewing behind the scenes' and is starting its first clinical trial this year, but, for both the short- and long-term, it is focused on 'what matters most…staying accessible, continuously improving, and always listening closely to the women who trust us.' The milestones that Ms. Magnani believes are the most personally meaningful are testimonials of Milamend users, which include women revealing that they finally feel like themselves again or sharing how they finally got pregnant after years of trying. 'That's everything to me,' she said. Ms. Magnani shared that her biggest point of pride with Milamend is the women who reach out and tell ... More her how the supplement has improved their lives. Some, like her, struggled for years. But she understands that there's still more to do and more to come. 'We know there's still so much to test, so much to learn, and so much to prove about how far we can take Milamend,' she shared. Milamend was built by and for women – but it also takes women 'in government, healthcare, media, and communities pushing together' to enact positive change for women's health overall. Through this collaboration, society can start to change the status quo of dismissal and despair that dominate the lives of those with PCOS or another hormonal imbalance – just as they once dominated Ms. Magnani's.
