The Election And Women’s Health

Retired pharmacist Marla Ahlgrimm says that, like it or not, politics play a huge role in people’s health. How? Keep reading for insight on how 2024 and other election years may have strong implications, particularly for women’s health and reproductive rights.

Abortion Access

According to Marla Ahlgrimm, abortion is a key point in any federal-level election. A nationwide ban or protection of abortion is possible, but it’s complicated to achieve. The 2022 Supreme Court decision in Dobbs Vs. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, which is widely known for overturning Roe Vs. Wade, returned abortion rights to individual states. However, a sitting president may recommend congressional acts that ban or allow abortion on the federal level.

Marla Ahlgrimm | Benefits Of Sleep In A Cool Room

If you and your spouse or partner constantly clash about the temperature in your bedroom, Marla Ahlgrimm says to hold up. According to the women’s healthcare expert, the ideal room temperature is between 60 and 67°.

Marla Ahlgrimm explains that sleep in a cool room offers many benefits including improved sleep quality, reduced night sweats, enhanced metabolism, better blood circulation, and a reduced risk of sleep apnea.

Cooler temperatures can and do help regulate your body’s internal clock. This can promote deeper and more restful sleep. While there’s a lot of science behind this statement, it essentially boils down to that the cooler temperatures signal your brain that it’s time to sleep. Marla Ahlgrimm also says that women in the throes of menopause can greatly benefit from turning the thermostat closer to the 60° mark. This is because the cooler room may help reduce night sweats to help minimize discomfort and interruptions to your sleeping patterns.

Marla Ahlgrimm A Pioneer Of Women’s Health

If you’ve made it to this website, you’ve likely heard of Marla Ahlgrimm before. But how much do you know about the retired pharmacist? Today, we offer a brief rundown of Marla Ahlgrimm, her career, and her accomplishments.

Marla Ahlgrimm has been active in the world of women’s health since the 1970s. After graduating from the University of Wisconsin School of Pharmacy, Marla Ahlgrimm began her career at a small pharmacy in Madison, Wisconsin.  It was there that she discovered a profound interest in women’s health and understanding of the impact hormones had over the mind and body.

Marla Ahlgrimm Discusses the Impact of Technology on Women’s Health

None of us are strangers to technology. After all, we carry computers, navigation systems, and communication devices in our pockets daily. According to Marla Ahlgrimm, technology has dramatically impacted women’s health over the past 50 years, in addition to revolutionizing communication.

Today, we share excerpts from a recent interview with the women’s healthcare advocate, self-help author, and retired compounding pharmacist.

What are some ways that technology has improved reproductive health over the last several decades?

Marla Ahlgrimm: Technology has been instrumental in developing various forms of contraception. From pills and implants to physical barriers, technology has reduced unwanted pregnancies. Moreover, it has enhanced prenatal care and helped women overcome infertility challenges.

Where Are Women Healthiest? Marla Ahlgrimm Discusses Top-Ranked Countries for Women's Health

According to Marla Ahlgrimm, women's health varies greatly depending on location. Some countries prioritize a heavier body type, while others believe a healthy woman avoids sunlight at all costs. However, Marla Ahlgrimm says true health is about making daily choices that benefit your body. 

 

But do some countries make that easier for women? The answer: yes. According to Marla Ahlgrimm, several countries consistently rank high in women's health, including Switzerland, Sweden, Japan, Iceland, Italy, and Spain. 

 

What do these places have in common? Marla Ahlgrimm says they are all high-income countries with strong overall healthcare systems. They offer universal access to preventative care, screenings, and treatment for various health issues, including pregnancy and hormone-related concerns specific to women. They also utilize advanced medical technology and, importantly, focus on maternal health, including pre- and postnatal care. Countries like Latvia prioritize preventative care, encouraging women to get tested for diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. Marla Ahlgrimm says these high-ranking countries also promote healthy eating, mental well-being, and physical activity initiatives. 

Marla Ahlgrimm |Myths And Realities of HRT

Hormone replacement therapy has long been used to address hormonal imbalances, says Marla Ahlgrimm. However, there are many misconceptions about hormone replacement therapy. 

 

About HRT 

 

Before Marla Ahlgrimm dives into the facts, it’s important to know what HRT is and how it works. 

 

HRT, or hormone replacement therapy, is simply the process of medically replacing hormones that naturally decline as a woman ages out of her menstruation phase. The onset of PMS can result in hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and a laundry list of other unpleasant side effects, says Marla Ahlgrimm. HRT intervention can help a woman’s body maintain its health and wellness as she slips into menopause. 

 

Myths 

 

Much is still misunderstood by the general population about hormone replacement therapy. Here are a few things that Marla Ahlgrimm says are myths and insight into the realities. 

Marla Ahlgrimm | Lyme Disease In Women

Even if you’re not a hiker, if you spend any time outdoors, you need to be aware of the potential to pick up hitchhikers in the form of tiny ticks. More than being just an occasional annoyance, some ticks carry diseases that can have a long-lasting effect on men and women alike. 

 

Today, Marla Ahlgrimm examines how the deer tick, one of the most common in the US, may pass along bacteria that can have serious health consequences. 

 

What Is Lyme Disease? 

 

Lyme disease is a bacterial infection transmitted through tick bites. It affects people of all ages and is most commonly spread by deer ticks.