The menstrual cycle is a repeating series of hormonal and physical changes that prepares the body for a possible pregnancy. It has four main phases: menstrual, follicular, ovulation, and luteal. Each phase is driven by shifting levels of hormones including estrogen, progesterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH). A cycle is counted from the … Read more

A cold sore is a small, fluid-filled blister that usually forms on or around the lips. It is caused by the herpes simplex virus, most often type 1, and there is no product that removes the virus from your body. What you can do is treat the symptoms and, in some cases, shorten how long … Read more

Columnar cell change is a benign finding in breast tissue. It means that some of the cells lining the milk ducts have taken on a taller, more columnar shape than usual. It is not cancer, and by itself it does not raise your risk of breast cancer. Most women who have this finding never know … Read more

That white coating on your tongue is usually a buildup of dead cells, bacteria, and debris trapped between tiny bumps called papillae. In most cases, it clears up on its own or with simple home care like gently brushing your tongue and staying hydrated. But sometimes it signals an infection, a medication side effect, or … Read more

Your neck is designed to hold your head up and let it move in many directions. When the bones, joints, muscles, or nerves in that area stop working together smoothly, you may notice stiffness, a limited range of motion, or pain. The clearest signs of a neck that is out of alignment are reduced ability … Read more

You can stop a cavity from growing, and in its earliest stage you can reverse it. The key is timing and minerals. A cavity begins as a microscopic loss of minerals from enamel, a process called demineralization. At that point, the surface is still intact. Fluoride, saliva, and minerals from your diet can rebuild it … Read more

Most adults with Level 1 autism were not diagnosed as children. They spent decades being told they were “too sensitive,” “too literal,” or “just shy,” and they learned to mask the traits that made them stand out. The signs of Level 1 autism in adults are usually social and communicative differences that have been present … Read more

Testicular retraction is the temporary upward movement of one or both testicles toward the body. It is usually a normal reflex caused by cold, arousal, or physical activity, and it typically resolves on its own within minutes. You cannot and should not try to stop the cremaster reflex itself. What matters is knowing when retraction … Read more