“Each wave is different, so you always have another chance to try again”
My family spent our spring break in the rainforest and beaches of Costa Rica. One afternoon we learned to surf under the hot sun and rolling waves of the Pacific Ocean. Naturally my 3 sons popped up on their boards while my husband and I were less agile! Our surf instructor Hector offered the simple inspiration above to keep trying when the waves knocked us down. Perhaps this month you can find some meaning or inspiration from our surf attempts to persevere when learning something new isn’t easily mastered. Lastly, if you’re looking for adventure off the beaten path; I highly recommend Costa Rica!
Practice updates:
May is national Osteoporosis Awareness month and our practice is hosting an educational and movement class with our very own local, experienced Bone fit certified trainer Cris Persico. Join us for fun, community, bone healthy snacks and a raffle!
When: Friday May 9th 11AM- 12 PM Winnetka Community House in the East Garden Room(111ABC). Please RSVP to Susan at [email protected], call or Spruce message by May 5th.
Dr. DeSapri in the news:
How the Mediterranean diet and exercise can protect bone health in older adults
Mark your calendar! Dr. DeSapri and Dr. Mary Claire Haver will discuss bone health optimization through menopause and beyond. Hop on our Instagram Live on Wednesday May 14th at 4:30 PM CT. All are welcome!
Midlife must know!
What we know
In the PRESIDE study, a large population-based survey of 50,000 women the most common sexual concern reported by more than 37% of women was low desire.
Most of you who attended our October member event know that testosterone is not FDA approved for women however it used “off label” to treat HSDD (low libido/low sexual desire) Testosterone can be compounded or dosed with male gel formulations. Most women are surprised to know in the US we have 2 products that are FDA approved for HSDD– Addyi (filbanserin) and Vyleesi (bremelanotide.
For pre-menopausal women Addyi (filbanserin) was FDA approved in 2015 after being studied in more than 3,500 women showing significant increases in sexually satisfying events and decreased distress about low libido. It is nonhormonal, mixed multifunctional serotonin agonist and antagonist taken once orally at night and is commercially available through a specialty pharmacy. Sounds to good to be true right? Unfortunately, even though studies demonstrate efficacy in postmenopausal women, it is not yet FDA approved. But can be prescribed “off label” and we have this prescription available for direct purchase at Bone and Body Women’s Health.
For a deeper dive here is the global position statement on testosterone use in women. An update will be published soon.
What’s good to know?
Testosterone has been FDA approved in men for “classical” hypogonadism ( medical conditions leading to absent or low testosterone) since 1950s. Theoretically there were concerns that testosterone caused heart disease stems from this hormones impact on cholesterol and its impact on hemoglobin (red blood cells that carry oxygen) A recent largescale trial called the Traverse trial in 5,200 men randomized to Androgel (testosterone gel) 1.62% or placebo for 21 months and followed for additional 33 months did not show an increase in heart attack, stroke or cardiovascular mortality. The FDA recognized this study and recently removed language from the Boxed Warning and no longer attributes increased risk of adverse cardiovascular outcomes for all testosterone products.
How does this apply to women?
Testosterone has a reputation for being a ‘male’ hormone, but women also produce it. And testosterone secreted from the ovary and adrenal glands declines starting at age 30. There is correlation between low testosterone levels and HSDD. However not every woman with low testosterone has a diagnosis of HSDD. We have more to learn about how testosterone impacts female physiology at many organs including bone, muscle and breast.
What does this mean for me?
Low libido and low sexual desire is one of the most common concerns that emerge during perimenopause and menopause. And for many women this impacts their quality of life, self-esteem and relationship. Treatment options do exist, and the menopause revolution is paving the way for women to challenge the status quo. Testosterone and Addyi are available both require more research and better access. There are calls to remove testosterone from the list of “controlled medication.” Stay tuned!
With spring around the corner, we can’t wait to celebrate at our osteoporosis awareness event with all of you! We highly value our Bone and Body Women’s Health community and appreciate you sharing a Google review to help more women find us.
Lastly, whether you are surfing or just learning something new remember life is a beach. Try and enjoy the waves!
Dr. Kristi DeSapri