Blog Archive

A Pap test (or Pap smear) is a safe, effective, and accurate method of determining if a woman may have or be at risk for cervical cancer. But receiving an abnormal test result doesn’t mean you have cancer; instead, it just means you need to have an additional evaluation —...

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal disorders among women and a frequent cause of infertility. Yet, despite its prevalence, this condition in which women produce too many androgens (aka male hormones) and too much insulin, is often misunderstood and underdiagnosed.  Between 6% to 12% of...

The COVID-19 pandemic has triggered dramatic changes throughout everyday life — and in the medical community as well. Not only are providers across the country postponing elective procedures, but many are also encouraging people to avoid in-office appointments to reduce their risk of exposure to this highly contagious coronavirus.But what...

As you get older, you know you're approaching menopause. But you might need clarification about whether you're there yet and the signs that you've arrived. Many women share your confusion. This is because entering menopause doesn't happen quickly, like flipping a light switch. It's a process, and this process is...

The momentum at the start of a new year is perfect for turning your goals into a reality. But if you're a woman approaching menopause and losing weight has been on your list, you may find it hard to shed those extra pounds.  That's because weight gain is often linked...

Sexual intercourse should please you, not hurt. If you're experiencing painful sex, it's a sign that something isn't quite right. Many issues can lead to painful sex, including physical problems and psychological challenges.  Board-certified OB/GYN Shamsah Amersi, MD, is committed to helping women of all ages maximize their reproductive health....

Are you often left wondering if your fluctuating mood and energy levels are more than just the usual suspects of PMS and the stress of a busy schedule? You might be dealing with a hormone imbalance. Hormones play a key role in how our body functions. From mood regulation to...

Is your daily diet genuinely providing you with everything your body needs? In today's world of quick meals and processed foods, many fall short of getting all the essential vitamins and minerals our bodies require. You're not alone if you're concerned about the essential vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients you...

Have you or someone close to you ever been concerned about sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)? You're not alone. Each day across the globe, over one million adults get an STD. Every year, over 20 million new STD cases are reported in America.  At the private practice of board-certified OB/GYN provider...

You're not alone if you suffer from urinary incontinence and the embarrassment and frustration that comes with it. Millions of women deal with this common condition. But did you know that less than 25% of these women seek help from their medical team? At her private practice in Santa Monica,...

Health issues related to menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause can happen to women and girls of all ages at any time. And with a higher risk than men of getting urinary tract infections, yeast infections, and other issues, sometimes it can be hard to get into the office for a visit...

As a practicing obstetrician who has delivered over 12,000 babies I take pride in achieving healthy pregnancies and healthy babies through a combination of very detailed medical and holistic care, compassion and guidance. The partnership forged between a patient and the doctor is essential to the success and joy of...

Are you struggling to lose weight? You’re not alone: Nearly 74% of American adults are overweight or obese.  Women with hormone imbalances are at a higher risk of weight gain. This is because hormones help regulate many vital body functions, including your appetite regulation, fat accumulation, and metabolism.  Thanks to recent advances in...

Most women experience the uncomfortable symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI) at least once. These symptoms include burning, bloody urine, pain, and the frequent urge to urinate. Unfortunately, for 25% of women, these UTIs become a recurring part of their life.  Board-certified OB/GYN Shamsah Amersi, MD, specializes in diagnosing...

It’s been a journey… Let’s back up – in early 2021, I started thinking about stopping my hormonal birth control, which I’d been on for nearly ten years. It was one of those things that became as routine as brushing my teeth, but one night as I popped the little...

Women develop an ovarian cyst each month as part of their normal cycle. But for some women, hormonal imbalances and genetics cause many cysts to develop. This condition, called polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), creates frustrating symptoms and can lead to additional health complications, including infertility.  Board-certified OB/GYN Shamsah Amersi, MD, and the team...

If you’re a woman transitioning to menopause, you might be familiar with some of the less-than-pleasant side effects your changing hormones can bring. Hot flashes, vaginal dryness, mood swings, and other frustrating symptoms are often caused by changes or imbalances in your hormone levels.  The good news is there are...

Menopause is a normal part of aging in women, but you may not realize until menopause occurs that the process can affect not only your physical body but also your mental health. You should know that this is normal and that your health care provider can help you work through...

Perimenopause In the simplest terms, what happens to a woman’s hormones during perimenopause-- Perimenopause often begins with irregularities in a woman’s cycle starting as early as 35. Most women enter perimenopause in their early to mid 40s.  Our body goes through a very delicate hormonal dance not dissimilar to puberty....

1. Meditation helps everything The benefits of meditation are long-established. Meditation creates a deep level of mental rest that is very soothing for both the mother and baby during pregnancy and birth. When implemented daily, an inner silence and space for confidence is created, which teaches you and your baby...