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Intimate partner violence and traumatic brain injury: An invisible public health epidemic

While post-concussive symptoms are common in women who have experienced intimate partner violence, many women hide their symptoms and little research has been done, meaning the long-term health risks of millions of women are unknown.

Can breastfeeding really prevent pregnancy?

New parents might want to wait awhile before considering having another child, and breastfeeding prevents ovulation, so some people use it as a natural birth control method during the early months of an infant's life. However, it's effective only if a mother is breastfeeding frequently and an infant is receiving only breast milk as food.

Can your diet protect against cancer?

Following a plant-based eating pattern, such as a vegetarian, vegan, or Mediterranean diet, helps manage cholesterol and lower the risk for heart disease. Studies have suggested that some elements of these diets also help protect against cancer, although the best approach is unclear. Experts suggest embracing an overall healthy diet that includes various fruits and vegetables, along with legumes and whole grains, along with cutting down on red meat, processed foods, and sugar-sweetened beverages.

How can I reduce lasting menopausal symptoms?

Menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats can last for years after menstrual periods stop. Strategies such as wearing layered clothing that can be removed easily, keeping a small fan nearby, and sleeping in a cool room can help manage symptoms.

Scoring highly on Alternative Healthy Eating Index lowers risk for many illnesses

Most of us know a healthy diet reduces the risk of heart disease but may not know it's possible to choose a combination of foods that help lower risks for many illnesses. An index created by researchers at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health grades food choices and it's easy to incorporate components of this into daily eating habits.

Paths to parenthood: Receiving an embryo donation

Paths to parenthood vary and people thinking about a pregnancy achieved with donated embryos or with donated eggs or sperm might also be considering adoption. Here are some key questions and issues to consider when thinking about these decisions.

When urinary tract infections keep coming back

Low-dose antibiotics can help women who are prone to UTIs. They can be used after sex, only when symptoms occur, or continuously.

FDA wants women to understand the risks and benefits related to breast implants

The FDA recently moved to help make certain that women considering breast implants have a clear picture of what implants involve before moving ahead with surgery. The agency announced a series of changes in October 2021. These include new labeling requirements for breast implant manufacturers, a requirement that facilities provide patients with a checklist outlining potential risks and benefits related to breast implants, and updated screening recommendations to detect leaks in silicone breast implants.

Regular solo dining may be linked to a higher risk of heart disease

A study found that women who regularly dine alone may be at elevated risk for heart disease, possibly because they were found to have less nutritional knowledge and ate less nutritious meals.

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