If you’ve noticed that your headaches have a “monthly timetable,” you’re not imagining it. Migraines are three times more common in women, and for many, they flare up right before periods, after childbirth, or around menopause. The reason? Hormones — especially estrogen — have a direct effect on the brain’s pain pathways. Why Women Get More Migraines Throughout a woman’s reproductive years, estrogen levels rise and fall. These fluctuations make the brain more sensitive to triggers. Here’s how hormones influence migraines at different life stages: 1. Around Periods (Menstrual Migraines) Right before your periods, estrogen levels drop sharply. This sudden fall can trigger: One-sided throbbing headache Light/noise sensitivity Nausea Many women notice migraines 1–3 days before periods or on Day 1. 2. Pregnancy During pregnancy, estrogen stays consistently high — that’s why many women experience fewer migraines, especially in the second and third trimesters. But for some, especially t...

“Doctor, I love wearing sleeveless… but my underarms are dark. Can you prescribe me a cream?” This is easily one of the most common questions women ask — and the honest answer is: it’s rarely just a “cream problem.” Dark underarms often signal what’s happening inside the body, not just on the skin. Why do underarms darken? Darkening can be due to friction, deodorants, shaving… but many women are surprised to learn that hormones and metabolism play a big role too. The most common hidden causes we see in clinic are: Insulin resistance – Often seen in PCOS, prediabetes or stubborn weight gain. Causes a velvety darkening called acanthosis nigricans . PCOS – High androgens + insulin resistance lead to pigmentation in underarms, neck, groin. Thyroid issues – Hypothyroidism can slow down skin turnover, making pigmentation more noticeable. Chronic friction – Tight clothing, frequent shaving, waxing. Product reactions – Deodorants and hair removers can irritate the skin over time. Why you ...

  Have you ever noticed a small, painless lump near the vaginal opening? It could be a Bartholin’s cyst , a condition many women experience but rarely talk about. The Bartholin’s glands , located on either side of the vaginal opening, produce fluid that helps lubricate the vagina. When the duct of one of these glands gets blocked—due to infection, thick mucus, or irritation—the fluid accumulates, forming a cyst.  Common Symptoms A small, smooth swelling near the vaginal entrance Discomfort while sitting, walking, or during intercourse If the cyst becomes infected (called a Bartholin’s abscess ), you may experience severe pain, redness, warmth, and even fever  Treatment Options Small, painless cysts often need no treatment and may resolve on their own. Warm sitz baths (sitting in warm water for 10–15 minutes, 2–3 times a day) can help the cyst drain naturally. Infected cysts (abscesses) require surgical care. Your gynecologist will make a small in...

  If you’ve been diagnosed with PCOS, you’ve probably already heard the usual advice — eat healthy, exercise, and manage stress. But let’s be honest, managing PCOS is way more than that. Here are 5 lesser-known hacks that can actually make a big difference: 1. Start your day with protein, not caffeine That morning coffee on an empty stomach spikes cortisol, which worsens insulin resistance. Instead, eat a protein-rich breakfast (like eggs or Greek yogurt) within an hour of waking up. Then enjoy your coffee guilt-free! 2. Walk after every meal — even 10 minutes helps A short walk right after eating improves insulin sensitivity and reduces post-meal sugar spikes. Think of it as your mini “medicine” after every meal. 3. Track your cycle — even if it’s irregular Use an app to note symptoms, mood, and flow. Over time, you’ll start seeing patterns that help you and your doctor adjust treatment more effectively. 4. Sleep is your hormone reset button Women with PCOS often underest...