I’ve spent a lot of time over the past few months in rooms with HR and benefits leaders. At conferences, dinners, one-on-ones. And lately, the conversation has shifted.

A few years ago, much of that conversation was about making the case — that women’s health benefits were essential for recruitment and retention; that fertility coverage isn’t a perk but a clinical need. That argument has largely been won. These benefits are now table stakes.

The conversation today is different. With healthcare costs continuing to rise — and CFOs scrutinizing every line of spend — the question is no longer should we offer these benefits? It’s how do we know they’re working?

Is a benefit working if it’s “sticky” and employees like it? If utilization is high? Or does working mean something more specific — that members are getting the right care, that clinical outcomes are improving, and that the investment is delivering measurable economic value? Because those are very different standards. And right now, too few benefits are being held to the right one.

It’s Time to Rethink and Redefine “Value”

Progyny recently partnered with global survey leader Dynata to find out the latest priorities of employers, and the results from the 200 employers reflect the tension of this inflection point. Women’s health and family-building benefits are clearly going mainstream, with most employers now offering core benefits and planning to prioritize them in 2026.

But while 51% say their benefits meet employee needs “very well,” nearly as many (48%) report lingering gaps in depth, coordination, and consistency across different life stages. Employers have adopted solutions to cover discrete moments — fertility, maternity, occasionally menopause — but the full journey, as experienced by members, often remains fragmented.

61% point to lack of ROI as a persistent problem, and 74% report moderate to high point solution fatigue. The data shows employers plan nevertheless to keep adding solutions — but what I’m hearing on the ground is something different: growing impatience and demands for clear value.

Which raises the central question: what does “value” actually mean here?

I owe my working definition of value to Jim Winkler, chief strategy officer of the Business Group on Health, who captured it most succinctly: value means clinical outcomes that drive an economic impact that work well for the member. Three requirements, each essential:

1. It’s not enough for a benefit to be “sticky” and liked by members — though member experience is critical.
2. It’s not enough to point to enrollment numbers or app downloads.
3. What matters is whether the benefit produces better clinical results, whether those results translate into real economic impact, and whether the experience is good enough that members engage when it matters most.

At Progyny, value starts with clinical outcomes validated for every patient: a 23% higher live birth rate, 41% fewer retrievals per live birth, a 61% lower multiples rate — driving roughly 30% in employer cost savings. Results that are repeatable, backed by the industry’s largest sample size, and grounded in a decade of relentless commitment to the member experience.

And, while compounded costs for sponsored plans in the US rose 27% from 2022–2025, Progyny’s rose just 5% over the same timeframe. So, with HR leaders being called to the mat by their CFOs, I understand the pressure — but I feel confident Progyny’s clients are getting the year-over-year outcomes and value they’ve come to expect from us.

We’ve Seen This Pattern Before in Digital Health

This moment in women’s health and family building benefits should look familiar to anyone who’s watched digital health evolve. First comes early adoption. Then proliferation of offerings as vendors stake out their piece of the lifecycle, and employers assemble best-of-breed portfolios hoping the whole adds up to more than the sum of its parts.

And then the evidence catches up.

One of the most instructive examples comes from outside women’s health. In 2024, the Peterson Health Technology Institute assessed eight widely used digital diabetes management tools. Their conclusion was stark: most failed to deliver meaningful clinical benefits and even increased healthcare spending. Only one demonstrated genuinely differentiated clinical impact.

Among employers and health plans, the report validated what many had already suspected: engagement metrics are not outcomes. Member satisfaction is an important goal, but it is clinical impact that drives economic value. In a reality where employers are investing in health solutions to achieve a sustainable cost equation for their benefits, the burden of proof needs to be fundamentally higher.

After years of explosive growth, women’s health is now in a similar spotlight. And despite nearly 3 out of 4 employers reporting point solution fatigue…roughly the same number (76%) are looking to add point solutions with proven results.

How Vendor Sprawl Opens Accountability Gaps

So, what’s the reality of how this plays out for an employer? Here’s one scenario I’ve seen more than once. A large employer invests in myriad solutions — a fertility benefit here, a maternity or parenting solution there. On paper, it looks comprehensive. In practice, costs keep climbing. And when they ask their vendors why, no one can tell them.

Why? The answer is as simple as it is complicated. When multiple vendors touch the same population, accountability diffuses. Whether outcomes are good or bad, it can be difficult to attribute the source of impact and the levers driving results. Despite all the investment.

The same dynamic compromises member experience. I’ve talked to employers sending hundreds of benefit-related communications a month — each vendor optimizing for its own engagement metrics, with no coordination. When everything competes for attention, what matters most gets lost. The member experience becomes noise.

Women’s health and family building are not episodic or transactional experiences. They are deeply personal lifelong journeys that require a whole-person, relationship-based approach to care. At Progyny, that differentiation shows up not just in our member-centric focus across the full journey — from preconception through menopause — but in how we measure and report it. Because you can’t improve what you don’t track, and you can’t be accountable for outcomes you don’t own.

Delivering Value Requires Aligning Every Part of the Care Journey

It’s worth stepping back to recognize what this industry has accomplished. When Progyny was founded a decade ago, comprehensive fertility benefits were rare. Postpartum care was an afterthought. Today these benefits are mainstream and expanding into every corner of the economy. As our survey reveals, even slower moving sectors like manufacturing these benefits have increased in importance by 85% since just last year.

But sustaining that progress requires going deeper. Solutions can’t deliver patient-level outcomes if they don’t go deep enough to align all the stakeholders and components of the care journey. The clinical model, the member experience, the provider network — every piece has to be deliberately reworked and aligned for the cost equation to actually work. That’s what Progyny has spent a decade doing, and it’s why we can stand behind our outcomes and cost trend data with confidence.

The conversation in the rooms I spend time in has shifted because something real is changing. The reckoning is here — and for the women and families these benefits are meant to serve, that’s not a reason for alarm. It’s a reason for optimism, if we rise to meet the moment.

The post Women’s Health Benefits Have Gone Mainstream. It’s Time for a New Standard of Accountability. appeared first on Progyny.

This webinar featured:

• Lissa Kline, LCSW, Senior VP at Progyny
• Dr. Georgia Witkin, Clinical Psychologist, Director of Member Services Development at Progyny

• Dr. Reem Sabouni, MD, REI, Aspire Fertility
• Nena Glass, Client Onboarding Manager at Progyny

Preparing for the early stages of family building

When thinking about growing your family, it’s important to remember that the journey isn’t always linear. Finding a clinician you can trust and communicating with them to confirm a care plan that feels right for you can set you up on a more confident path, even if your plan is adjusted along the way. While many people seek out a fertility specialist after trying to conceive for a period of time, you can see a clinician at the beginning of your family building journey to stay informed and ask questions, even if there are no immediate barriers to conceiving. Taking a proactive approach to family building can help you feel more prepared and empowered.

Starting the family building process can bring feelings of uncertainty and stress. Shifting your mindset to approach yourself and your experience with more compassion can help ease some of the emotional burden. A way to try to shift your mindset is by consciously reframing challenges and setbacks. For example, instead of looking at an unsuccessful cycle as the end of your journey or a failure, you can try to look at it as more information and another data point for your doctor to help you get closer to achieving your goals. Everyone’s experience is unique in its own way, and there are many paths to parenthood.

Moving further into the journey, and the many paths to parenthood

Individuals, including single parents by choice or those who identify as LGBTQ+, have a range of different options when deciding how to build their families, including IUI, IVF, donor eggs, donor sperm, gestational carriers, and adoption. Your provider will help tailor your path to your individual goals and circumstances. When first talking to a fertility provider, key factors like age, diagnosis, timelines, financial considerations, personal values, and health considerations can all play a role in determining the best path forward. Open and honest communication with your provider allows them to better understand your personal goals and values so they can give their best guidance for your care path.

As you go deeper into the family building journey, remember to set aside time for yourself or plan activities with friends or family. One of the common challenges that comes with each type of family building path is its ability to take over different aspects of your life. Setting time on your calendar for a fun plan, or just some needed alone time, allows you to look forward to stress-free activities and remind yourself that you are allowed to enjoy life as you embark through each stage. Another way to distract yourself from family planning is to find community at work. Maintaining your routine at work can offer structure, distraction, and a sense of normalcy, as well as a group outside of your immediate circle. It can create space to connect with others without the pressure of discussing your journey, helping to reduce feelings of isolation or stigma.

Taking care of you or a loved one’s mental and emotional well-being

Taking care of your emotional health is just as important as navigating the physical aspects of family building. Practicing resilience and maintaining a hopeful mindset can be powerful tools throughout the process. Approaching your emotions with kindness is important, and reminding yourself to stay present can help shape your experience. Hoping for the best does not “jinx” the journey but can help you to move through it with greater ease and intention.

At times, additional support may be helpful. Seeking guidance from a mental health professional can provide a safe space to process your thoughts and emotions. Even a few sessions can offer valuable perspectives, helping you reframe your mindset and develop tools you can carry into your day-to-day life.

Support from partners, friends, and family is also essential. Key ways you can be a point of support for someone on this journey is to:

1. Ask open-ended questions
2. Repeat back what you hear so they feel understood
3. Ask what would help them feel better
4. Avoid trying to “fix” the situation
5. Simply be present.

It’s also important to remember that individuals going through this journey may act a little differently than before. Fertility and family building can be a big point of stress for those going through it, and putting additional pressure on a loved one to feel or act a certain way, even with good intentions, can cause more stress. Entering conversations with patience, compassion, and understanding are most helpful.

Building a strong support system, whether through loved ones or professional resources, can also make a meaningful difference. It’s important to allow yourself time to socialize, while also setting boundaries when needed. For example, social settings with pregnant family or friends, or with young children present, may be triggering for some. Giving yourself permission to avoid these settings and communicate with your loved ones on what’s best for you at this time can help to protect your emotional wellbeing.

If you are a Progyny member, know that Progyny is always here to support you across life’s milestones, and you can access additional resources at progyny.com/education. 

Progyny members can contact Progyny at 888.597.5065 or via their employer specific phone number to learn more about your employer-specific benefit and available care options.

The post What to Expect on a Family Building Journey appeared first on Progyny.

This webinar featured:

• Lissa Kline, LCSW, Senior VP at Progyny

• Dr. Whitney Booker, MD, MS, Maternal & Fetal Medicine

• Melanie Silverman, IBCLC, RD, Chief Clinical Officer at Pacify

• Rachel Carbonneau, CD, CPD, VP of Doula Programs at Pacify

Understanding Care Specialties

Each care specialty serves a different purpose with one shared goal: to ensure you and your baby are healthy, safe, and comfortable.

Your OB and picking the right one for you:

An OB is responsible for monitoring the health of both the birthing parent and the baby, identifying complications, and helping families understand what’s normal versus what’s concerning. Beyond medical checks, OBs also play a vital role in emotional reassurance and mental health support. When searching for an OB, finding a provider who you trust and can have open communication with is key. If something doesn’t feel right, getting a second opinion or choosing to switch providers is normal.

It’s important to note that there are different types of providers you may engage with, each bringing their own strengths and backgrounds. These include different levels of physicians (residents and attendings), nurse practitioners, physician assistants (PAs), and midwives. Understanding the strengths of each provider and how they’re supporting you can help you feel more confident and at ease. Your OB and clinical providers are also there to continue supporting you in the postpartum phase.

The role of a doula and the different types:

There are a wide range of doulas depending on the type of care you’re looking for and what part of your journey you’re in. From fertility, pregnancy, and birth to postpartum, doulas can provide both in-person and virtual services. Doulas offer emotional, mental, and physical support across your journey. They help families navigate the healthcare system, prepare questions for providers, clarify goals at each stage, and build confidence.

Doulas do not serve the same purpose as midwives. While midwives are clinical providers, doulas do not provide medical checks. Instead, they act as coaches who advocate for the birthing parent and families throughout each stage. They are compassionate guides who help clarify goals, and choosing a doula you trust and connect with is vital to feeling heard and supported.

The role of a lactation consultant:

Lactation consultants support families even before feeding begins by providing guidance on feeding basics, setting expectations, and connecting families to the right resources. Feeding can be an emotional experience, and having a compassionate professional guide can ease the mental burden. After birth, unexpected challenges may arise, and lactation consultants can help with latching issues, pain, milk supply concerns, and formula-related questions.

Lactation consultants are trained to support weaning and formula feeding and should never shame families for choosing a path different from breastfeeding.

Pregnancy: What should you expect and how can you prepare?

Pregnancy is a different experience for everyone, and the experience also differs for each pregnancy. Building your care village with a team of professionals is important but talking to trusted friends and family if you’re struggling emotionally, or talking to a therapist or counselor is valuable to support your holistic care. Check in early for your mental health and well-being, or if you’re the supportive partner, friend, or family member, offer a compassionate hand or listening ear when they need it.

What to expect at your first OB appointment, and throughout pregnancy:

Your first visit can be information-heavy, so bringing something to write with or coming in with questions can be helpful. Your provider will review medical history, explain testing options, ultrasound schedules, and set expectations for care. Being comfortable with your provider and not being afraid to openly communicate with them and ask what the purpose of a lab or test is for can help ease anxiety.

After the first appointment, your provider will monitor you and your baby’s health, including your mental and emotional well-being. New parents may develop anxiety or mood swings as a symptom of hormone fluctuations, sleep disturbances, or reminders of past grief. Along with routine blood pressure checks, ultrasounds, and labs, monitoring your emotional well-being is just as important as the physical.

How can families advocate for equitable, respectful care?

Advocacy starts with asking questions, requesting clarification, and speaking up when something doesn’t feel right. Key strategies include bringing a support person to visits, requesting a translator when needed, writing down questions between appointments, finding a provider who you feel comfortable and safe with to ask questions when something doesn’t feel right, and incorporating a doula who will help advocate for you throughout your journey.

Translating your birth preferences with the help of a doula:

Doulas help families figure out what their birth preferences are: whether that’s more intervention earlier, more medical oversight, delaying procedures that aren’t immediately necessary, and so on. A large part of the doula role is communication with your care team, who will help translate your preferences so you can receive care that feels good to you. There might be additional cultural barriers, language barriers, etc. where your doula can step in and make sure you are fully heard.

How expecting parents can prepare for feeding:

Getting the right resources and reliable education while pregnant is essential for managing expectations while feeding. Understanding milk physiology and newborn feeding patterns helps to alleviate early worries.

Postpartum: What should families expect in the fourth trimester?  

What postpartum medical care looks like, and acknowledging postpartum depression:

The postpartum experience varies widely based on delivery and number of births, and physical recovery may take anywhere from weeks to months. Your OB can help manage expectations and make sure you’re recovering well.

Having a newborn can bring a whirlwind of emotions. You might be sleep deprived, feel physically exhausted, feel overwhelmed, or feel isolated. If you’re struggling postpartum, reaching out to a mental health professional is completely normal, and letting your care provider know what’s going on can help you determine if you’re struggling with postpartum depression.

The doula’s role in postpartum:

Doulas are often recognized for the birth, but they’re here for every phase through pregnancy and postpartum. You can reach out to your doulas for virtual appointments, where they can offer encouragement, give you resources, help you connect with other resources within your community, and validate the feelings that you’re having. Postpartum doulas can also provide in-home care in certain cases, and help with guidance on newborn care, overnight support, and more.

Lactation support after birth:

After birth, lactation consultants help families take feeding “one session at a time.” They normalize early challenges, help parents problem‑solve, and prioritize mental health. Sometimes reassurance or flexibility, such as pausing breastfeeding or adjusting methods, brings significant relief. If you’re having anxiety about feeding your baby, going to your OB and pediatrician visits to know your baby is at a healthy weight can help ease unnecessary mental stress.

If you are a Progyny member, know that Progyny is always here to support you across life’s milestones, and you can access additional resources at progyny.com/education.

Progyny members can contact Progyny at 888.597.5065 or via their employer specific phone number to learn more about your employer-specific benefit and available care options.

The post Your Pregnancy and Postpartum Care Village appeared first on Progyny.

This webinar featured:  

• Janet Choi, MD, MSCP, Chief Medical Officer at Progyny  

• Rebecca Dunsmoor-Su, MD, MSCE, MSCP, FACOG, Chief Medical Officer at Gennev  

• Claudia Zimmerman, RNC-OB, Sr. Director, Network Management at Progyny (Moderator)

What is Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT) and how does it work?  

Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT) is a treatment option for menopause symptoms that replaces the hormones in the body the ovaries no longer produce during this phase, including the transition periods known as perimenopause and post-menopause. These hormones, most commonly estradiol and progesterone, mimic what the body naturally produced before menopause to help manage symptoms like hot flashes, sleep disturbances, brain fog, and more. 

MHT is FDA approved to treat hot flashes and as a prevention treatment for osteoporosis. However, your provider may prescribe MHT to help relieve other common symptoms of menopause, such as mood swings, brain fog, and vaginal health. 

MHT is available in various forms, such as patches, gels, pills, sprays, and vaginal rings. There are many other various combinations of MHT patients can be prescribed in addition to estradiol and progesterone, and you can work with your provider to discuss which option may be the best for you.

Who is MHT recommended for? 

There aren’t certain tests someone has to pass to determine if MHT is right for them. Instead, deciding if MHT is beneficial to a patient is a decision that varies from patient to patient and is decided along with your trusted healthcare provider. Your provider will consider a range of factors to help weigh the potential benefits against any risks, such as your medical history, current health conditions, family health risks, and the severity of your symptoms. Your provider will review your menstrual history and symptoms, and may recommend routine screenings like mammograms, pap smears, and possibly bone density scans before starting therapy. 

After MHT is taken, hot flashes or night sweats can improve within 1-2 weeks. More subtle symptoms such as sleep and brain fog may take anywhere from weeks to months to see improvement. You may experience light side effects such as breast tenderness, bloating, or light spotting. Some side effects may come from certain MHT routes, such as getting a skin irritant from the patch or experiencing mood changes from progesterone (which affect a very small percent of women who experience mood swings during their menstrual cycle). 

Deciding to take MHT is not a lifetime decision, although some patients may choose to be on MHT through post-menopause. Every case is individual, and the choice is always discussed with your doctor to determine what is best for you. If you choose to stop taking MHT, you may experience some hot flashes or other common symptoms which will typically disappear quickly after stopping.

What are the myths and common misconceptions of MHT? 

Does MHT cause breast cancer?

Early studies from the WHI (World Health Initiative) caused a lot of fear among the public surrounding MHT. However, more recent research shows the risk is much smaller than believed two decades ago when the study first came out. MHT does not cause breast cancer, and risk factors of MHT are dependent on the type you take, duration of use, and your medical history and personal risk factors. If you start MHT, you will typically be prescribed a combination of estrogen and progesterone. This is because progesterone counteracts the stimulatory effects of estrogen on the uterine lining, which may reduce the risk of uterine cancer. You may not be prescribed the full systemic menopausal therapy if you are a survivor of breast cancer, have an active hormone-related cancer, liver disease, blood clots, or a cardiovascular disease. Deciding to take MHT is an individual decision made with the help of your menopause provider, who will help you weigh the benefits and risks to decide if MHT may be right for you.  

Is MHT only used for hot flashes?

No, MHT is not only used for hot flashes. Although MHT is approved by the FDA to treat hot flashes and prevent osteoporosis, MHT can be used for other symptoms decided by your doctor.  

What are the side effects of MHT?

Side effects of MHT are usually mild and manageable, and may include breast tenderness, bloating, or mood changes, especially with progesterone. More serious side effects, such as blood clots or cardiovascular issues, are extremely rare but should be discussed with your provider, especially if you have a personal or family history of these conditions. 

Are “natural” alternatives safer than MHT?

MHT treatments are FDA approved and prescribed by menopause trained specialists. The most commonly prescribed forms are bioidentical, meaning they are molecularly identical to the hormones your body naturally produced pre-menopause. While it is always an individual’s decision whether they want to be on MHT or not, taking MHT can be a very beneficial and safe treatment option for women having trouble managing symptoms.

What are non-hormonal treatment options for menopause symptoms?

There are other available options that can treat menopause symptoms if a patient is uncomfortable or not the right fit for MHT. Prescription medications such as SSRIs are seen to improve hot flashes and night sweats. Newer FDA-approved treatments, such as fezolinetant, work at the control center of your brain to help regulate and minimize your vasomotor symptoms (hot flashes and night sweats).

Lifestyle changes can also help alleviate perimenopause and menopause symptoms for those who don’t want to take MHT or those in a higher risk category, such as breast cancer survivors. Treating sleep disruptions can be helped psychologically with cognitive behavioral therapy, or physically, such as keeping your room cool or having a cold pad in your bed. Many women also experience weight changes, which can be helped by adjusting the amount of protein and fiber in your diet and exercising to build muscle.

MHT is not the only available option for menopausal women wanting to manage their symptoms. If you ever have questions around symptoms you’re experiencing and want to discuss treatment options, always consult your healthcare provider to understand the best next steps for you.

If you are a Progyny member, know that Progyny is always here to support you across life’s milestones, and you can access additional resources at progyny.com/education.

Progyny members can contact Progyny at 888.597.5065 or via their employer specific phone number to learn more about your employer-specific benefit and available care options. 

The post Managing Menopause: Understanding Menopausal Hormone Therapy appeared first on Progyny.

This webinar featured:

• Janet Choi, MD, MSCP, Chief Medical Officer at Progyny (Moderator) 

• Samantha Dunham, MD, at NYU Langone Health

• Yashika Dooley, MD, MS, FACOG, Urogynecologist, Pelvic Specialist, at Gennev

• Liz Miracle, MSPT, WCS, Head of Clinical Quality and Education at Origin Physical Therapy

• Jillian Aeder Kleiner, PT, DPT, ATC, Clinical Solutions Lead at Hinge Health

What we mean when we talk about pelvic floor physical therapy (PFPT)

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that support the bladder, the bowel, and the uterus – functioning as a sort of supportive sling that plays a crucial role in bladder and bowel function, sexual function, and overall stability. Every human has a pelvic floor, which means everyone can also suffer from pelvic floor disorders, and it’s not just limited to people who’ve just had babies. Pelvic floor disorders can impact people across all life stages (e.g., puberty, pregnancy and postpartum, gender-affirming care, perimenopause) and concerns (e.g., those who’ve had pelvic surgeries, issues with sexual pain, or chronic constipation). That’s where pelvic floor therapy comes in.

Pelvic floor physical therapy (PFPT) is a subspecialty within physical therapy (PT) that focuses on how the pelvic floor muscles interact with the rest of the body. Pelvic floor therapists assess the patterns across the entirety of your body’s ecosystem – such as your breath, posture, core mechanics, nervous system, and hormones – and are trained to assess (through both internal and external exams) your pelvic floor muscles directly. The complexity of pelvic floor issues also means that care plans are individualized to your specific needs.

PFPT can be administered effectively both in-person and virtually. Despite common misconceptions that PFPT must be in-person to be effective, many issues can be effectively managed through virtual care. In fact, many find that virtual sessions are more comfortable, private, and convenient. What’s most important is there is a strong connection of trust between the therapist and the patient.

Who is PFPT for, and how do I know if I’m one of them?

One of the population groups who can benefit from PFPT are those who are pregnant (or preparing to be pregnant) or postpartum. Symptoms may look like muscle aches or spasms in the pelvic or back area, pain during sex, or postpartum issues with bowel movements or stress incontinence. Pelvic floor therapists can help patients prep for birth and help ensure proper postpartum recovery.

For patients experiencing perimenopause and menopause, PFPT can be beneficial for helping with sexual pain, incontinence, and Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM), a common chronic condition stemming from decreasing levels of estrogen that affects the tissues and muscles around the pelvis. PFPT may be used either on its own or in conjunction with interventions like vaginal estrogen to help improve elasticity, blood flow, and muscle and tissue relaxation to help abate the symptoms.

However, it’s important to note that pelvic floor dysfunction isn’t limited to specific life stages. Symptoms like pelvic pain, pain during sex, incontinence, and constipation affect a large swath of the population, to the point where a lot of people who could benefit from PFPT don’t even realize that there’s a solution out there for them.

For those who may not be sure if PFPT is right for them, a quick virtual consult can help confirm if they may benefit from treatment, and if so, whether they may be a good candidate for virtual PFPT. While in-person care may be better suited for treating more severe conditions, for most mild to moderate conditions virtual pelvic floor therapy can be effective. Skilled therapists can even guide you through conducting detailed self-assessments and self-administering therapy. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, always talk to your doctor to determine the best next steps.

PFPT and its impact on key life stages

Here are some ways in which pelvic floor health and therapy can impact key stages in someone’s reproductive and hormonal journey: 

• Conception and fertility: If you are trying to conceive and experience pain or anxiety related to penetrative sex or vaginal exams (such as the insertion of a speculum or ultrasound wand), you may be a great candidate for PFPT. Additionally, if you have scar tissue or tissue restrictions resulting from previous abdominal procedures (like laparoscopies or C-sections), manual therapy can help improve mobility and reduce discomfort. PFPT often also incorporates strategies like breathwork and gentle movement to help support overall well-being and reduce stress. 

• Pregnancy: Pregnancy brings about many changes, impacting everything from your hormones, muscles and ligaments to your overall gait and posture. Especially for those who are more petite or have a smaller pelvis, the physiological changes that come from pregnancy can lead to issues like chronic pain, muscle spasms, incontinence, or constipation. When pregnant, you should seek out PFPT care from a licensed clinical provider who is specifically trained in pelvic health and prenatal care to safely support you throughout each trimester.  Always consult your doctor to determine what care is safe for your specific situation. 

• Postpartum: The body goes through a lot during pregnancy, and this can lead to postpartum pelvic floor dysfunction regardless of whether someone’s had a vaginal birth or a C-section. In addition to vaginal pain and issues with incontinence/constipation, C-sections can also lead to additional complications due to scar tissue. Any concerns or questions can be flagged during one’s postpartum doctor visits, where they should also be able to examine whether the tissues have healed properly and determine if further intervention like PFPT will be required.  

• Menopause: It’s not uncommon for those going through perimenopause and menopause to experience issues with pelvic pain, and often that comes from increased tone of the pelvic floor muscles. PFPT can be very effective for reducing this discomfort and vastly improving quality of life.  

I think I’m ready to seek care – what should I expect?

Individuals interested in seeking care for pelvic floor dysfunction can access care in a couple of different ways. The first way is to receive a referral from your primary care provider. You can share the symptoms you’re experiencing with your PCP, who can conduct a pelvic floor exam and provide you with a referral to a pelvic floor therapist. The second way is to self-refer, i.e., go directly to a pelvic floor physical therapist.  

There is no one right way to seek care, but we recommend doing your research to determine whether you have coverage for pelvic floor physical therapy through your employer or your health insurance plan. Check whether there are any pelvic floor physical therapists in-network with your health insurance, or whether you have access to networks dedicated to physical therapy (including PFPT).  

A big component of PFPT is education. If you do decide to seek care, your therapist will speak with you in detail about the physiological changes taking place in your body and provide a lot of guidance on behavioral strategies and actionable changes you can make. Depending on whether your PFPT is in-person or online, they may also administer manual physical therapy or teach you how to self-administer manual physical therapy. The most important role of a pelvic floor physical therapist, however, is helping you regain a sense of control over your body. They will work with you to create a highly individualized care program and help you adjust as needed to ensure you’re making progress. A good pelvic floor therapist will also encourage you to stay connected with your primary care doctor, to make sure that they are also informed and able to provide you with necessary care if any issues arise. 

Those who do PFPT may experience improvements to overall wellbeing that can also make a world of difference for people’s emotional health and empower them to take back control of their life. If you ever have questions around symptoms you’re experiencing and want to discuss treatment options, always consult your healthcare provider to understand the best next steps for you. 

If you are a Progyny member, know that Progyny is always here to support you across life’s milestones, and you can access additional resources on our website at progyny.com/education. Progyny members can contact Progyny at 888.597.5065 or via their employer specific phone number to learn more about your employer-specific benefit.

The post Progyny Webinar: Pelvic Floor Therapy Explained: What is it and How Can it Help? appeared first on Progyny.

Every parent — and anyone on the family-building journey — relies on consistent, evidence-based guidance to navigate and lighten the burden of complex healthcare decisions. When that guidance abruptly shifts, it sows uncertainty, undermines trust, and puts health access and outcomes at risk. That’s why recent decisions by the HHS Secretary to remove COVID-19 vaccines from the recommended schedule for healthy children and pregnant women and dismiss the CDC vaccine advisory panel have led to widespread opposition from healthcare professionals and leading medical organizations. HHS’s recent actions not only have the potential to erode public confidence in vaccines but also jeopardize the health of women, children, and communities. 

At Progyny, we recognize the vital role vaccines play in safeguarding health before, during, and after pregnancy. Our Progyny Care Advocates (PCAs) follow evidence-based guidelines from leading organizations like The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and American Academy of Pediatrics, educating our members about the importance of vaccines such as RSV, COVID-19, TdAP, and influenza to protect both mother and baby. These vaccines are proven to reduce risks of preterm birth, severe respiratory illness in newborns, and a host of other maternal complications. As the president of ACOG aptly stated in response to the HHS decision to retreat on COVID-19 vaccine guidelines, “the science has not changed.” The COVID-19 vaccine remains safe during pregnancy and protects both mothers and infants through pregnancy and well beyond birth. 

But the impact of reversing vaccine guidance extends far beyond individual families. What happens, for example, if declining trust in vaccines leads to more parents opting out of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine? A resurgence of preventable diseases could have devastating public health consequences. For example, mumps can lead to orchitis and testicular atrophy in young men, increasing the risk of male infertility. Similarly, rubella infection during pregnancy can cause severe birth defects, miscarriage, as well as intrauterine fetal demise (often called stillbirth). If mistrust in vaccine guidance expands further and leads to declining use of Gardasil, the HPV vaccine, it could undo decades of progress in cervical cancer prevention and lead to a resurgence of a disease that remains the fourth leading cause of cancer death among women worldwide. None of these risks are hypothetical; they are real, preventable scenarios that would disproportionately impact vulnerable populations. 

At Progyny, we stand with healthcare professionals and organizations calling on HHS to reconsider these recent decisions. As these policies and their implications play out, our approach and commitments remain unchanged: to support our members with timely, accurate, and science-backed guidance on vaccines and reproductive health. Every parent and child deserve access to the best possible care, and we will continue to advocate for policies that protect and strengthen the health of families and communities everywhere. 

To learn more about vaccine efficacy and your health, visit this website and always talk with your trusted doctor.

The post We can’t afford to go backwards on vaccine education and guidance  appeared first on Progyny.

This Endometriosis Awareness Month, in addition to connecting you with the support you need to manage your condition and achieve your lifestyle goals, we’re also offering up ways your colleagues, managers, and HR teams can help create an environment where you feel seen, heard, and supported at work. 

What is endometriosis, and why does it take so long to diagnose? 

Here’s a quick overview of endometriosis —aka “endo” for short—for the uninitiated: Each menstrual cycle, the lining of the uterus, aka endometrium, is shed through the vagina. In a woman experiencing endometriosis, that same type of endometrial tissue is found outside the uterus creating painful inflammatory implants. These inflammatory implants can lead to cysts that grow within the ovaries (“endometriomas”); scarring and/or scarring and blockage of the fallopian tubes; endometriosis lesions can form over the bladder, bowel, even within the lungs for some affected individuals. Symptoms include:  

• Pelvic pain (often not just during the menstrual periods) 

• Irregular spotting between periods 

• Painful bowel movements or difficulty with bowel movements 

• Bladder pain and/or urgency 

• Blood in the urine 

• Lower back pain 

• Chronic fatigue 

Endometriosis can be associated with an increased risk for infertility. The cause of endometriosis is unknown, and many conditions have similar symptoms. Endo can be confused for everything from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) to sciatica—and many of these potential diagnoses are easier to check out. Although pelvic exams and imaging tests can offer clues, the only current way to confirm endometriosis is through a laparoscopic surgical procedure. This procedure is expensive and invasive, so it’s generally not a physician’s first stop. 

An endometriosis diagnosis is categorized as one of four stages: minimal, mild, moderate, and severe—staging is performed at the time of surgery. Interestingly, the stage of endometriosis does not always correlate with the degree of pain the person experiences.  

Treatments to help manage endometriosis symptoms include: over the counter pain medication (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or mefenamic acid; hormonal suppression either with a birth control pill or progestin IUD.  If these methods are not effective, your provider might suggest other forms of hormone suppression (i.e., GnRH agonist or GnRH antagonists).  Bear in mind that these hormonal treatments are not indicated if you’re actively trying to conceive (though the GnRH agonists /antagonists may sometimes be prescribed for certain fertility treatments in combination with other fertility medications).   

If medication does not help improve endometriosis symptoms, your physician may discuss the possibility of surgery to try and resect (remove) endometriosis implants/scarring. Pelvic physical therapy as well as acupuncture have been shown to be useful in managing endometriosis symptoms for some women. 

How you can find support for endometriosis 

It can be distressing to live with endometriosis, and finding support from those around you can be life changing. 

• Know you’re not alone. Explore resources such as Progyny’s educational library and the  “This Is Infertility” podcast, which tells the stories of many women with endometriosis. Additional educational resources can be found at American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and American Society for Reproductive Medicine. 

• Find other women in your shoes. Check out the dozens of endo support groups on Facebook; some are even geographically based. You may also want to explore the several online endometriosis-focused communities active on other social media networks, like Reddit, and through advocacy organizations. These groups can help you cope with the physical pain as well as offer safe spaces to talk about endo’s effect on your sexual health and fertility. 

• Advocate for your employer to provide a health benefit with a network of experienced providers who will take a holistic approach to treatment. The physical pain of endometriosis significantly impacts a person’s whole being, so it’s important you have access to resources that support your mental and financial health in addition to your physical health. For example, Progyny Care Advocates (PCA) work with members to connect them with resources that support any aspect of a women’s health journey, whether it’s finding a reproductive endocrinologist, navigating family and medical leave, or addressing the financial stresses of fertility treatments. 

How workplaces can provide support for endometriosis 

Cultivating supportive work environments can make a world of a difference for those with endometriosis. Whether you suffer from the chronic condition yourself or just want to make sure those around you feel supported – here are a few things you can do. 

• Normalize the conversation. Creating a culture of openness around reproductive health issues can help break the stigma. Encouraging discussions about workplace flexibility for health needs benefits all employees. 

• Be an ally. Even if you don’t have endometriosis, you can be an advocate. Offer support, listen without judgement, and help colleagues navigate workplace policies that may help them.  

• Provide comprehensive women’s health benefits. Many employees suffer in silence because their health benefits don’t cover specialized care. Employers can provide benefits that include access to endometriosis specialists, fertility support, and mental health resources so women can perform their best at home and at work.  

Explore Progyny’s endometriosis resources 

Addressing endometriosis isn’t as simple as popping an aspirin, using a heating pad, or indulging in some dark chocolate—the “normal” coping mechanisms for that “time of the month.” Managing endometriosis requires knowledge and support, and Progyny is here for you. Learn more about endometriosis and explore related resources, including infographics, podcasts, and blogs. 

• What is Endometriosis?  

• This is Infertility – Fertility 101: Endometriosis 

• Understanding How Endometriosis Impacts Your Fertility 

• Endometriosis 101 

• Battling Endometriosis; A Decade Later 

• This is Infertility – Endometriosis & Fertility: Jessica Smith-Payne   

• This is Infertility – Endometriosis and Fertility: Trying IVF Before Being Diagnosed   

• This is Infertility – Endometriosis and Fertility: Promoting Awareness through Endo What?   

• This is Infertility – Endometriosis and Fertility: Finding Support Through a Facebook Group: Nancy’s Nook   

• This is Infertility – Endometriosis and Fertility: The Purpose of the Endometriosis Foundation of America  

• This is Infertility – Endometriosis and Fertility: The Intersection Between Endometriosis and Sex 

The post If you have endo, you’re not alone—and you shouldn’t have to navigate it alone appeared first on Progyny.

This webinar featured: 

• Shannon Coleman, BSN, RN: Menopause Progyny Care Advocate (PCA) and Pregnancy and Postpartum Coach (PPC), Progyny 

• Laura Korin, MD, MPH: Primary Care Provider (PCP), One Medical 

• Janet Choi, MD, MSCP: Chief Medical Officer, Progyny 

• Kate Saunders, LCSW: Vice President of Clinical Strategy, Progyny

What’s preventing women from getting the care they need?

Every stage of women’s health – from fertility and family building, to pregnancy and postpartum, through midlife care & menopause – is marked by stigma that can pose significant barriers to your pursuit of health and well-being. Health issues that predominantly affect women, or those with ovaries, are often subject to social taboos, under researched, and misunderstood, even within the medical system. These negative effects can be even more pronounced for women of color and those who belong to marginalized communities.  

Unfortunately, this lack of understanding and stigma can lead to negative effects that start early, from the onset of your first menstrual cycle in your pre-teen or teen years. As this continues through the different stages of life, many women end up suffering in silence because they haven’t received education on how common certain conditions are or how they can advocate for themselves. For women experiencing menopause, the widespread stigma against aging women adds another challenge. This might mean you’re more hesitant to seek care from a provider let alone a properly trained specialist, even when you’re dealing with major disruptions to your well-being which impact both your work as well as home life.  

That’s why it’s so important to draw attention to these topics surrounding women’s health and be willing to have open conversations like this one. These are issues that affect so many people – you deserve the help that meets your personalized needs.

What do we mean when we talk about ‘wellness’?

‘Wellness’ as a word is often used to describe many things, so a good starting point is to agree on what it is. First, it’s important to recognize that it’s more than just an absence of disease, although you wouldn’t be alone in thinking that’s all there is to it. If you want to take a holistic approach to supporting wellness, there are four basic pillars you should be addressing: nutrition, physical activity, sleep, and mental health.  

Another important factor many people forget to consider are hormones, which are closely connected with all the above pillars. Your hormonal health is integral to your overall wellness, with far reaching impacts on areas like your reproductive health, metabolism, bone health, cardiovascular health, and brain function. 

When it comes to thinking about our health and wellness, it’s easy to get stuck in the present. But it’s just as important, if not more, to think about how you can optimize your present-day health to prevent future state problems. This includes taking preventive measures, like getting regular screenings and vaccines, with recommendations which will change as you age, and working to mitigate new risk factors which may arise. If you have access to your family genetic history, it’s important to pay close attention to it and share this information with your healthcare provider so that you can be proactive in identifying early signs of certain conditions.  

Tips for nutrition and lifestyle habits

Nutrition and lifestyle choices play a pivotal role in women’s health throughout the reproductive years, from trying to conceive and pregnancy to postpartum recovery, to navigating menopause, as it helps support hormonal balance and overall well-being during these phases of life. While we always recommend consulting with your healthcare provider to flesh out a plan that’s tailored to your unique needs, here are some general guidelines that you can follow.  

• Exercise and movement: Aim for 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity in a week. Implement strength training 2-3 times a week to maintain your muscle mass and bone density, especially as you age. Stretching and flexibility is also very important.  

• Nutrition: Focus on whole foods (vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, healthy fats, whole grains), aiming to incorporate as much color into your diet as possible. As you age, adequate protein is key for preventing muscle loss. Certain nutrients are also more important at different stages of your life, so you should always consult with a medical professional and/or nutritionist.  

• Sleep: Prioritize getting enough quality sleep every night – 7-9 hours is the general recommendation. Good sleep hygiene is so important for the continued maintenance and repair of your body. 

• Drinking and smoking: Moderation is good, none (especially in the case of smoking) is even better. Smoking can lead to issues with both fertility and cardiovascular health, and even moderate drinking is associated with an increased risk of breast cancer in women. Of course, for those considering trying to conceive or already pregnant – optimize health by avoiding any alcohol and other substance use. 

• Stress management: Chronic stress can impact everything from your hormonal balance to your immunity and your cardiovascular health. Regular stress reduction practices (such as meditation, yoga, breathing exercises) can help offset the negative effects. 

Many women particularly struggle with issues surrounding weight gain, even when it’s completely normal or expected. Even if we don’t want to, it’s almost impossible to not have internalized expectations for how our bodies “should” look. As a result, it can sometimes feel like a betrayal when our bodies change in ways that we may not expect or like. 

One mental health tool that can be really helpful to employ in moments like these is to change the way you talk to yourself. This might look like going from focusing on how your body looks, to instead focusing on how your body feels and what it can do. It can take a lot of time and continuous practice to change our negative self-talk, especially when it has been ingrained in us since we were young. It is okay to seek the support of others, whether it’s a therapist or a trusted friend, as you go on this journey.  

Managing mental health and strengthening support systems

The different stages of life can each bring about their own share of challenges for your emotional and psychological well-being. The specific challenges that come with each stage will differ, but the common thread that connects all of them is the importance of having a strong support system, especially one that understands what you’re going through.  

It can be incredibly helpful to work with a mental health professional who can arm you with tools and direct you to any additional help you may need. But the help doesn’t have to stop with a therapist. If you don’t have people in your life who are experiencing similar challenges or you don’t feel comfortable talking about it with people you know, there are also plenty of support groups (in person and online) that you can seek out.  

If you’re a Progyny member or have access to the Progyny benefit, your benefit also comes with access to mental health support and guidance from a dedicated Progyny Care Advocate (PCA). In addition to helping navigate care and treatment options, your PCA can be another part of your support system as you tackle the challenges that can come with your different life stages.  

If you have any other questions related to this webinar, please don’t hesitate to reach out to education@progyny.com. If you are a Progyny member and have any questions about your benefit or coverage, please call 888.597.5065.   

The post Women’s health milestones: Prioritizing wellness across reproductive life stages appeared first on Progyny.

At Progyny, we’ve seen firsthand the health equity issues that contribute to ongoing disparities in care for Black women, especially during pivotal life moments. Our benefit is designed to ensure everyone has access to the support and guidance they need throughout their family-building journey and beyond. 

A closer look at healthcare issues among Black women 

Disparities in healthcare for women who identify as Black are exacerbated by persistent social, economic, and historical injustices. Studies show that Black women are twice as likely to experience infertility as other groups and half as likely to seek treatment. A study from the Kaiser Family Foundation sheds light on this reluctance: 

• Approximately one in five Black women (21%) report being treated unfairly in a healthcare setting because of their race or ethnicity—a higher rate than all other adult demographics. 

• Reports of unfair treatment are even higher among Black women whose self-reported skin tone is “dark” or “very dark.”  

• Twenty-two percent of Black women participating in the study said they were refused pain management medication while pregnant or during childbirth. 

These barriers to accessing healthcare are even more alarming considering health and environmental and societal factors that uniquely impact this community: 

• Black women are disproportionately affected by uterine fibroids, common and benign pelvic tumors linked to miscarriage, preterm delivery, and other birth complications. In one study, fibroids were found to be three times more prevalent in Black women than in white. 

• Cardiovascular disease kills more than 50,000 Black women each year, according to the American Heart Association. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in 365 Black babies is born with sickle cell disease, and more than 90% of the people in the U.S. affected by sickle cell disease are Black. 

And this alarming statistic from the CDC: Black women are three times more likely to die from a pregnancy-related issue than white women. 

But, with the right care at the right time, we can close the health equity gaps that lead to increased rates of adverse outcomes for Black individuals. 

“The first step is to increase awareness that these disparities exist. Providers must acknowledge their own biases and understand how these influence their decision making, referral practices and patient care. BIPOC women should be screened for high-risk conditions in their early reproductive years, so that chronic conditions may be managed or prevented. We must also consider social determinants of health such as community and work conditions, social norms, economic policies, and systems within healthcare which may have an equal or greater impact on the health of BIPOC women.”

Desireé M. McCarthy-Keith, MD, MPH, Board Certified Reproductive Endocrinologist | Medical Director-Atlanta, Shady Grove Fertility 

Removing barriers with Progyny 

Progyny’s member benefits offerings are designed to support women from preconception through pregnancy, postpartum, and menopause. These benefits are valuable to women of any demographic, but they’re particularly important when addressing issues of equity and barriers to access. Highlights include: 

• Progyny’s 1:1 member matched/concierge support, which offers culturally competent member support and care. Our Progyny Care Advocates (PCA) are clinical experts who are versed in the challenges of equitable access to care. They understand the importance of feeling seen and proactively reach out to ensure each member gets the whole-person care needed to drive successful outcomes—nurturing that critical connection between physical care and mental health. 

• A credentialed, vetted network of top fertility and women’s health specialists across the country. Living in a healthcare “desert” shouldn’t be a barrier to accessing the care you need. 

• Fertility coverage that includes screening for monogenic disorders that can disproportionately affect specific racial and ethnic groups. 

• Comprehensive benefits that acknowledge and address the physical and mental impacts of menopause, including destigmatizing education on the topic and understanding of menopausal symptoms. (Did you know that, on average, Black women begin experiencing menopause symptoms more than eight months earlier than white women—and their symptoms can last nearly twice as long?) 

Progyny’s mission is to empower healthier, supported journeys, with comprehensive care that addresses the specific needs of each and every woman’s journey.

The post Spotlight on Black women’s health equity appeared first on Progyny.

We’re all seeking quick solutions to better health. Look at weight loss. Prescription injectables have become the go-to in recent years. For many, it’s working, and it’s being monitored in partnership with a trusted care provider. But it’s not just primary care physicians prescribing these injectables. Virtual providers, some with questionable training in specialty areas, are also commonly prescribing these medications without access to a full patient history that provides much-needed relevant context. The desire for a quick fix to optimal health can also come with confusion on what sources to trust. With health and medical advice coming from sources on social media including non-medical professional bloggers, it’s a true but alarming fact that many times the information is not medically accurate. It’s personal preferences and biases that are not substantiated with clinical studies. This can pose significant risks. 

Take supplements, for example. This is something we see a lot of in women’s health and family building, yet it’s another area with significant questions around medical advice and proven effectiveness. Whether you’re looking or not, you likely can’t seem to avoid seeing advertisements and promotions for supplements everywhere, and for health conditions you may have as well as those you never thought about. What you may not know is that supplements, vitamins, and herbs are not regulated or approved by the FDA, and they are not tested for quality, consistency, or safety.  

Particularly in menopause and fertility, many women find themselves eager to find that cure all or boost to help them quickly achieve their goal. With conditions so personal and emotional like infertility, repeated pregnancy loss, or menopause symptoms, which can be hard to manage, many women are eager to try anything promoted to help. But without trusted medical advice, there could be more harm, including emotional disappointment, than is ever necessary. 

How do you know what supplements to trust and what can add value? When patients ask me (and they often do), this is what I share. 

Tried and true

For women who are trying to get pregnant or who are already pregnant, I always recommend folic acid. Even though it’s found in some foods, your body may not absorb enough from food alone. Taking at least 400 mcg of folic acid each day is important to help reduce the risk of spinal cord defects in a developing baby. Many studies and professional health guidelines recommend folic acid for pregnancy health.

Calcium and vitamin D are also well-researched supplements that help keep our bones strong, especially when combined with weight-bearing exercise. I encourage my patients to take them regularly. Since I’m post-menopausal, I even try to take these myself to help with my bone health, though, to be honest, there are days—and sometimes even weeks—when I forget. Keeping these supplement bottles by my toothbrush (because, thankfully for my teeth/gums and for the people I talk with every day, I do remember to brush twice a day) has helped me stay on track with the supplements I need to take.

On the fence? Ask the experts

That said, when I’m thinking about myself as a patient or consumer, I do explore and sometimes try supplements. How do I decide which ones to try? Luckily for me in my personal circle and profession, I have a group of trusted healthcare and research friends to ask for advice. If you don’t have the benefit of that, you can rely on another of my verification methods – published research studies on supplements in PubMed, Google Scholar or at the NIH Website. When looking for myself, I think about the possible benefits versus the risks or side effects. If the side effects are mild—like nausea—but the risks of serious problems, like blood clots or organ damage, are low, I might try it. I also try to check out the manufacturer. Since the FDA doesn’t regulate supplements, I look for ones that are tested for quality by independent groups like USP, NSF, or ConsumerLab.com. 

Then, I give it some time. For example, when I was dealing with hair loss from perimenopause, I tried some hair supplements for 6-9 months because as a doctor and from research, I knew that on average it can take time to see results. I didn’t have any side effects, but I also didn’t notice any changes, so I stopped. The same thing happened when I tried collagen supplements for my joints and skin. After 6 months of daily use, I didn’t see any improvements, so I stopped. Again, because supplements are not FDA regulated and we don’t necessarily have rigorous clinical research to rely on, not everyone is going to respond the same way/get the same desired result. If there is a question in your mind, always consult your physician and, if you do decide to trial a particular supplement, document your start date and see if you are noting changes (whether good or bad).  

Trusted information and discernment over non-verified hawking

At the end of the day, when people ask me about the safety of supplements, I stick to what I said at the beginning—they’re not FDA regulated, and most of them haven’t been tested enough to prove their effectiveness. In fact, if a supplement claims to “treat” or “cure” a medical condition, it should be reported to the FDA. I also understand how frustrating it can be for people with infertility or menopause symptoms, like brain fog or sleep problems, when medical treatments aren’t helping. If someone asks me about a specific supplement for fertility or brain health, I’ll talk about the studies I know, including any risks, especially if they are pregnant or trying to get pregnant. 

I also share resources, like the FDA’s supplement ingredient directory, where people can look up a supplement to see if there are any safety warnings. And I can’t emphasize this enough, I always recommend that patients talk to their primary care doctor before trying a supplement to make sure it won’t interfere with any medications they’re already taking. Ultimately, the best way to achieve our goals for better health is through a balanced diet, exercise, and good lifestyle habits, but it’s hard to ignore the appeal of supplements. That’s why it’s important to be an informed and careful consumer, and partner with a trusted medical provider. 

The post Friend or foe? A best practice guide for optimal supplement health appeared first on Progyny.