May is a smart time to reset your healthcare checklist. National Women’s Health Week 2026 runs from May 10 through May 16 and encourages women to prioritize their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. If you have been putting off routine care, this is a strong time to get back on track.

Preventive screenings matter because many important health conditions do not cause obvious symptoms early on. A screening schedule should always be personalized, but there are several key services many women should review with their provider this month.

Start With Your Well-Woman Visit

A yearly well-woman visit is one of the best places to begin. The Office on Women’s Health describes this as a yearly preventive checkup and a time to review your health, concerns, goals, and prevention plan.

A well-woman visit helps make sure the rest of your preventive care stays coordinated. It is also the right time to discuss symptoms such as:

• Irregular bleeding or pelvic pain
• Vaginal dryness or menopause changes
• Questions about fertility and birth control

Cervical Cancer Screening

Cervical cancer screening remains one of the most important preventive services in OB/GYN care. The USPSTF recommends:

• Ages 21 to 29: Screening every 3 years with cytology (Pap test) alone.
• Ages 30 to 65: Cytology every 3 years, high-risk HPV testing alone every 5 years, or cotesting every 5 years.

If you are not sure when your last Pap test or HPV screening was completed, May is a good time to check. Staying current matters, even if you feel fine.

Mammograms

Breast cancer screening guidance has changed in an important way. The USPSTF now recommends biennial screening mammography for women ages 40 to 74. This means many women should start routine mammograms at 40 and continue every other year through 74.

Women with a higher-than-average breast cancer risk—such as those with a strong family history, prior abnormal imaging, or dense breasts—may need a more individualized screening plan.

Blood Pressure Screening

Blood pressure screening is a vital part of preventive women’s health. The USPSTF recommends screening for hypertension in adults 18 years or older. High blood pressure may not cause symptoms early, making routine screening essential during:

• Pregnancy and postpartum care
• Menopause transition
• General annual wellness exams

Diabetes Screening

The USPSTF recommends screening for prediabetes and type 2 diabetes in adults ages 35 to 70 who have overweight or obesity. This is especially relevant for women with a history of:

• Gestational diabetes
• PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)
• Metabolic concerns or menopause-related weight changes

STI Screening When Indicated

Screening needs vary based on age, sexual history, and risk factors. The USPSTF recommends screening for chlamydia and gonorrhea in:

• All sexually active women age 24 and younger.
• Women 25 and older who are at increased risk (including pregnant persons).

Bone Density Screening

Bone health is a priority, especially for postmenopausal women. As of January 2025, the USPSTF recommends:

• Women 65 and older: Routine screening for osteoporosis with bone density measurement.
• Postmenopausal women under 65: Evaluation for those who have specific risk factors.

Prevention Works Best When It Is Personalized

Not every woman needs every screening at the same age. Your plan should reflect your age, medical history, and personal goals. A preventive visit is also a chance to review emotional well-being and pelvic floor concerns.

At Women’s Health and Menopause Center, we help women build a prevention plan that supports health at every stage. Stop delaying the care you meant to schedule months ago—make this May about you.

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The Women’s Health & Menopause Center is proud to welcome Dr. Samah Arsanious to our growing team of dedicated healthcare professionals. As a board-certified OB/GYN, Dr. Arsanious brings a compassionate, patient-centered approach to our practice. She maintains a strong commitment to education, wellness, and empowering women through every stage of life.

Extensive Training and Expertise

Dr. Arsanious completed her OB/GYN residency training at Wayne State University and Detroit Medical Center (DMC). During this time, she gained extensive experience caring for women with diverse healthcare needs. Later, she expanded her skills by completing a Cosmetic Surgery Fellowship in Little Rock, Arkansas. This additional training enhanced her expertise in women’s wellness and aesthetic care.

A Strong Educational Foundation

Her educational journey reflects a deep passion for healthcare and women’s advocacy. Dr. Arsanious earned her Bachelor’s degree in Molecular & Cellular Biology from the University of California, Berkeley. She also holds dual Master’s degrees in Public Health from Loma Linda University. Her concentrations included Maternal & Child Health as well as Health Promotion & Education. She then earned her medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine.

Compassionate, Patient-Centered Care

Patients appreciate Dr. Arsanious for her clinical expertise and her warm, empathetic nature. She creates a supportive environment where women feel heard and informed. She believes every woman deserves to feel comfortable discussing all aspects of her health. This includes concerns that are often overlooked or difficult to talk about.

Her approach focuses on building trust. She helps patients feel confident in their healthcare decisions. Dr. Arsanious provides thoughtful, personalized care during pregnancy, routine gynecologic visits, and menopause transitions.

Beyond the Clinic

Outside of medicine, Dr. Arsanious is passionate about community involvement and mentorship. She empowers women through education and outreach. She also values faith, family, and wellness.

At Women’s Health & Menopause Center, we are excited for our community to meet Dr. Arsanious. Please join us in welcoming her to the practice!

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Understanding Vaginal Dryness

Vaginal dryness frequently occurs during perimenopause and menopause due to declining estrogen levels. It may also develop postpartum or while breastfeeding.

Symptoms include irritation, discomfort during intimacy, and increased urinary sensitivity.

Women experiencing multiple menopausal symptoms may benefit from exploring our comprehensive Menopause Care Services (/menopause-care).

Why Consider Non-Hormonal Options?

Some women prefer non-hormonal treatment due to personal preference or medical history. Others begin with conservative measures before considering hormone therapy.

Non-Hormonal Treatment Solutions

Vaginal Moisturizers

Regular application improves hydration and elasticity.

Lubricants

Water-based or silicone-based lubricants reduce friction and discomfort during intimacy.

Hyaluronic Acid Therapy

Hyaluronic acid supports tissue hydration and improves vaginal comfort.

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

Pelvic floor therapy strengthens muscles and improves circulation, which may reduce discomfort. Learn more about our Pelvic Floor Therapy Services (/pelvic-floor-therapy).

Energy-Based Therapies

Certain non-hormonal in-office treatments stimulate collagen production and restore tissue health.

When to See a Menopause Specialist

Persistent dryness may signal broader hormonal changes. A consultation with a menopause specialist ensures a comprehensive evaluation and personalized plan.

If you are also experiencing hot flashes, sleep disruption, or mood changes, explore our full Menopause Management Program (/menopause-care).

Restore Comfort and Confidence

Vaginal dryness is common, but effective treatment options are available. With individualized care and modern therapies, you can regain comfort and protect long-term vaginal health.

Schedule your consultation with Women’s Health and Menopause Center today.

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Why Sleep Disruption and Night Sweats Are Common

Sleep disruption and night sweats are among the most common concerns women experience during hormonal transitions, especially perimenopause and menopause. Fluctuating estrogen levels can affect the body’s ability to regulate temperature and sleep cycles, leading to frequent awakenings and discomfort throughout the night.

While occasional sleep changes are normal, persistent night sweats and poor sleep can affect energy, mood, and overall quality of life.

How Hormones Affect Sleep

Hormonal changes influence the body’s internal thermostat and sleep regulating hormones. Sudden drops or fluctuations in estrogen can trigger hot flashes and night sweats, often waking women from deep sleep. Over time, repeated disruptions may lead to chronic fatigue and difficulty falling or staying asleep.

Stress, lifestyle factors, and underlying health conditions can also contribute to sleep challenges during this stage.

Strategies to Support Better Sleep

Improving sleep often requires a combination of lifestyle adjustments and medical guidance. Helpful strategies may include maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, keeping the bedroom cool, and avoiding triggers such as caffeine or alcohol close to bedtime.

Relaxation techniques, gentle evening routines, and breathable bedding can also help reduce nighttime discomfort.

When to Seek Medical Guidance

If night sweats or sleep disruption are affecting daily life, it may be time to speak with a women’s health specialist. Ongoing symptoms can sometimes signal the need for further evaluation or individualized treatment options.

Personalized care can help identify contributing factors and create a plan that supports both symptom relief and long term health.

Prioritizing Rest for Overall Wellness

Sleep plays a critical role in physical and emotional wellbeing. Addressing sleep disruption early helps support energy, mood, and overall health during hormonal transitions.

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Introduction

Hormonal changes affect more than just your body—they impact your relationships, communication, and emotional well-being. Whether you’re in your 30s managing PMS or navigating menopause in your 50s, it’s time we talk openly about how hormones shape our interactions—and how to support both yourself and your relationships.

Hormonal Changes and Emotional Health

Shifting levels of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone can affect:

• Mood stability

• Irritability or anxiety

• Libido

• Sleep quality

These changes can lead to increased conflict, emotional distancing, or intimacy issues—but understanding the root cause can change the conversation.

Communication Is Key

Be honest about what you’re experiencing, and when. Consider:

• “I’ve noticed I’m more sensitive during this part of my cycle.”

• “I’m going through perimenopause, and it’s impacting my energy and sleep.”

• “This isn’t about you—I just feel off, and I want to work through it.”

Sharing your experience reduces shame and invites support, rather than resentment.

Partner Tips

• Be patient and present. You don’t have to fix it—just listen.

• Learn about hormonal health together. It builds empathy.

• Stay connected physically and emotionally—even small gestures help.

Self-Care for Stability

• Track your symptoms to notice patterns.

• Prioritize sleep, nutrition, and movement.

• Practice stress management techniques like mindfulness or journaling.

When to Seek Help

Mood swings or libido loss that affect your quality of life aren’t “just part of being a woman.” A supportive provider can offer:

• Hormone testing

• Counseling

• Medical or natural treatment options

Final Thoughts

There’s no shame in feeling “off.” But there is power in naming it. When you open the door to conversation—about hormones, relationships, or mental health—you make space for healing and connection.

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Hormones regulate everything from mood to metabolism to reproductive health. What many don’t realize is that nutrition plays a powerful role in supporting hormone balance, especially for women navigating menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or menopause.

Your body needs specific nutrients to produce hormones and keep them in balance. For example:

• Healthy fats (like omega-3s in avocados, nuts, and fish) support estrogen and progesterone production

• Protein helps stabilize insulin and keeps cortisol in check

• Leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables help detox excess hormones

• Fiber aids digestion and hormone elimination

• B vitamins (especially B6 and B12) support mood, energy, and estrogen metabolism

Poor nutrition, on the other hand, can trigger hormonal imbalances. Diets high in sugar, caffeine, and processed foods can lead to inflammation, disrupt insulin levels, and worsen PMS, PCOS, or menopausal symptoms.

Simple ways to support your hormones naturally:

• Eat balanced meals with protein, fat, and fiber

• Drink plenty of water

• Limit refined carbs and added sugars

• Avoid hormone-disrupting chemicals in plastics and personal care products

At different life stages — puberty, pregnancy, postpartum, or menopause — your nutritional needs change. Speak with your provider about how diet can support your personal health goals.

What you eat truly does influence how you feel. Your hormones will thank you.

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Hot flashes are one of the most common—and uncomfortable—symptoms women experience during menopause. While hormone therapy may be an option for some, many women prefer to explore natural strategies to find relief.

Start with your wardrobe. Wearing light, breathable layers allows you to adjust quickly during a hot flash. Cotton and moisture-wicking fabrics can help regulate temperature. Avoid synthetic materials that trap heat.

Staying cool at night is equally important. Use light bedding, keep your bedroom well-ventilated, and consider keeping a fan or cooling towel nearby. Drinking cold water regularly and avoiding spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol may also help minimize triggers.

Cold water therapy is gaining popularity as a natural approach to symptom relief. Gentle cold showers, splashing your face with cold water, or even cold plunges (if medically safe) can help reset body temperature and calm the nervous system.

Mindfulness practices like meditation, deep breathing, and yoga may reduce stress, which can intensify hot flashes. Keeping a symptom journal can also help identify personal triggers and patterns.

While natural methods can be helpful, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider to discuss what’s right for your body and health history. There are personalized options—including non-hormonal medications and lifestyle changes—that can offer relief without compromising safety.

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Menopause is a natural phase in a woman’s life, but the hormonal changes it brings can significantly impact mental health. Many women experience mood swings, anxiety, irritability, and even depression during this transition due to fluctuating estrogen levels. Understanding these changes and taking steps to manage emotional well-being is essential for a smoother menopause journey.

How Menopause Affects Mental Health
Estrogen plays a role in regulating neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which affect mood and emotions. As estrogen declines, many women experience heightened anxiety, irritability, or difficulty concentrating—often referred to as “brain fog.” Additionally, sleep disturbances caused by night sweats can contribute to fatigue and mood changes.

Managing Mental Health During Menopause

• Stay Active: Regular exercise, such as walking or yoga, can boost endorphins and improve mood.
• Prioritize Sleep: Develop a bedtime routine and consider cooling bedding to help with night sweats.
• Mindfulness & Stress Reduction: Meditation, deep breathing, and journaling can help manage stress.
• Consider Hormonal & Non-Hormonal Treatments: Talk to your doctor about options like hormone therapy or natural supplements.

Menopause is a significant life transition, but with the right support and lifestyle changes, you can maintain emotional well-being. If you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional guidance. Schedule a consultation today to explore your options!

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