Original Air Date:
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Guest's Publications:
Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom: Creating Physical and Emotional Health and Healing
The Wisdom of Menopause: Creating Physical and Emotional Health and Healing During the Change
Audience Members Ask Questions:
Oprah trusts Dr. Christiane Northrup because she treats the whole person, with the ability to "uncover the physiological, psychological, emotional, and spiritual reasons behind your symptoms."
With this being said, Oprah proceeded through pre-chosen questions, allowing the audience to ask their own submissions.
Is there Viagra for women?:
Shirley from Illinois was interested in possible medications to increase sex drive as she aged. Dr. Northrup expressed that sex for women is multi-sensory and isn't just related to hormones. She suggested that Shirley turn herself on to life, practice self-cultivation, and learn to re-wire herself for maximum pleasure. She described how every woman has her own pleasure profile and that women need to see themselves as incredibly sexy.
What can I do for Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)?:
Carol from Utah was concerned about her mood changes during long winters in Utah, and wondered what she could do to help. Dr. Northrup suggested that Carol use a light box or natural light bulbs to brighten her indoor spaces and replace the natural sunlight. Natural light increases serotonin in the body and can improve your mood.
Should I get the HPV vaccine?:
Dr. Northrup explained to Colleen that there are over 100 HPV types and the vaccine only targets 4 of those which are associated with cervical cancer. She went on to describe how 3500 women die from cervical cancer each year, but that the number is on the decline. Dr. Northrup stated that the best way to prevent HPV and cervical cancer is to maintain a health immune system.
Are kegel exercises really that important?:
Dr. Northrup explained to Tiffany from DC that everyone should learn how to do the exercise properly and practice them regularly. Dr. Northrup expressed that kegels offer increased pelvic power, improve your sex life and have the ability to turn you on. Dr. Northrup added that the exercises are good for overall health.
How can I stop burping and passing gas?:
Patty from Michigan noticed when she reached her 50s that she had trouble controlling her burping and passing gas and wondered how she could help stop. Dr. Northrup explained that as women age they have trouble producing gastric acid and can supplement with digestive enzymes 30 minutes before a meal to help the natural process. Another step to aid in controlling gas is to reduce grains after 50 -- limiting wheat and sticking to millet, buckwheat, brown rice, oatmeal, etc.
Other Questions Asked on the Show:
- "Is increased calcium intake of value after your 20s?"
- "Will my night sweats ever end?"
- "Did a hysterectomy ruin my sex life?"
- "How can I stop leaking when I sneeze or laugh?"
- "What can I do to stop my hair from thinning?"
- "What causes strong vaginal odor?"
- "Could I be menopausal at 35 years old?"
- "Should I have my ovarian cyst removed?"
- "What should I do about all my fibroids?"
Visit Oprah.com for more information from Dr. Christiane Northrup.
