I see patients with hysterectomies almost every day. It’s not a big deal right? Very common surgery, people are so glad they don’t have to deal with a pesky uterus anymore, you know the deal. But, some people don’t know the deal.

Even as a women’s health nurse practitioner, there were some things that surprised me, and some things I wish I could have done better in my pregnancy. Let’s talk about it.

There are a lot of things that I wish someone would have told me before I became a nurse. So here are a few.

One immediate change I saw after the news of Roe v. Wade being overturned was an influx of questions about sterilization. People who never want children, or any more children, are in a position to make that decision permanent with sterilization. Both men and women can choose sterilization as their birth control method, so let’s talk about both. 

You're over taking the pill everyday. Or you had a pregnancy scare. Or you are definitely not ready for a (or more) kids right now. So you think you're ready for an IUD, but now which one?

Yes. A very fancy name for early puberty. This post will address early puberty in both males and females. So let’s get into all the reasons why puberty may start early, and things to consider if it does happen.

The medication known as Flibanserin, Addyi, or “The Female Viagra” was released on the market in 2015. The initial excitement was high. Pop a pill, get your sex drive back, easy as pie. But nothing is ever that easy.

Are you sure I can put THAT in my vagina?

I wish it had a different name that was less terrifying, but yes, you CAN put Boric Acid in your vagina.

My partner wants to, but I just . . . Don't.

I think there's something wrong with my hormones.

Isn't there a female Viagra?

As healthcare providers we can make off-handed comments about NORMAL aspects of someone's body. When you have been doing something so long, it's difficult to remember that not everyone has the same knowledge as you, and may be confused or terrified about a random medical term you throw out. Let’s break down some things about your anatomy that can be tilted or asymmetrical, and are totally normal.

It is no longer your mother’s tampon aisle. We have so many options for period care now, but too many options can feel overwhelming.

Yikes! That’s no one’s idea of a good time. Let’s figure out why it might be happening.

Infertility affects 10% of couples. We are doing a better job about discussing it more openly, but it can be difficult to know where to start. So let’s start here.

Discharge is a normal part of being an owner of genitals. Congratulations. Now let’s talk about what is normal and what is not.

This list is here for a reason. Please read before inserting anything exciting.

What are those letters behind my name? How am I qualified to talk about sexual health? Good questions!

Sometimes love hurts. . . but sex shouldn’t.

This dog knows what’s up. There are questions to be asked and you deserve the answers.

Let’s talk about it.