Over the past decade there has been growing interest in natural childbirth. As part of that debate many have questioned whether doctors should dispose of a placenta after birth. Many mammals consume their placenta — referred to as placentophagy — and there are proponents who argue that humans should also engage in this practice. What is the science of placentophagy? Is it safe to consume a placenta? Is it beneficial? The placenta is an organ shared by a pregnant mother and her growing fetus, functioning as the lungs, gastrointestinal system, liver, and kidneys of the developing child. Proponents... Read More

The average age of menopause in the United States is 51.  Perimenopause, which can start as early as age 35, begins several years before menopause. It’s the time when the ovaries gradually begin to make less estrogen. For women experiencing menopause, there are many known symptoms that affect some, but not all women.  Hot flashes, insomnia, and night sweats plague about half of American women over 45.  There are some other, less common, symptoms that you might not associate with menopause. Road rage! Almost half of all menopausal women report mood swings and anger among their symptoms.... Read More