http://www.drurogyn.com/, https://linktr.ee/drurogyn

Dr. Alexandra Dubinskaya, MD, 421 N Rodeo Drive, Penthouse 1, Beverly Hills, CA (2025)

09/21/2025

Exploring your pelvic organ prolapse treatment options and curious about sacrocolpopexy? This video breaks down everything you need to know about this common surgery for uterine prolapse—explained in clear, simple terms.

We’ll cover:
✅ What sacrocolpopexy is and how it works
✅ When it’s recommended (and why)
✅ What to expect during surgery and recovery
✅ Benefits, risks, and long-term outcomes

If you’ve been told you have pelvic organ prolapse, or you’re researching treatment options, this video is here to help you feel informed, empowered, and prepared for the next step.

Watch now: https://vist.ly/47ke6

🩺 Subscribe for more pelvic health education, and drop your questions in the comments below!

09/14/2025

Perimenopause vs. Menopause: What’s the Difference?

Perimenopause and menopause are terms that often get used interchangeably, but they actually describe two very different stages in a woman’s life. Understanding the difference can help you make sense of the changes you’re experiencing and know what to expect for your health moving forward.

Perimenopause is the transition period leading up to menopause. During this time, your ovaries gradually start producing less estrogen and progesterone, the hormones that regulate your menstrual cycle. Because hormone levels don’t decline in a straight line, your cycle can feel unpredictable. You might notice periods that come closer together or much further apart, changes in flow from light to very heavy, and new symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, sleep problems, mood changes, or even va**nal dryness. Perimenopause can last for several years, typically beginning in a woman’s 40s, though it can start earlier for some.

Menopause, on the other hand, is officially reached when you’ve gone 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. At that point, your ovaries have stopped releasing eggs, and estrogen levels remain low. This is not a temporary phase but a permanent shift in your body’s hormonal balance. While hot flashes and other symptoms can continue into menopause, some women find that their symptoms lessen over time.

The distinction matters because perimenopause is a transition, while menopause is the destination. Perimenopause can feel like a rollercoaster of fluctuating hormones, while menopause is the new baseline your body settles into. Both stages can affect your health in different ways, from bone and heart health to va**nal and urinary comfort, and knowing which stage you’re in can guide the best treatment options.

For example, a woman in perimenopause might benefit from strategies to regulate cycles or smooth out hormone fluctuations, while someone in menopause may focus more on long-term health, va**nal comfort, or preventing bone loss. Both stages are natural, but that doesn’t mean you have to suffer through symptoms in silence.

The most important thing to remember is that every woman’s journey is unique. Some move through perimenopause with only mild changes, while others find it challenging and disruptive. Talking with your healthcare provider can help you understand what your body is going through, explore safe and effective options for symptom relief, and give you peace of mind as you navigate this transition.

Perimenopause and menopause mark different chapters, but they share one important truth: this is a stage of life, not the end of one. With the right support and care, it can be a time to prioritize your health, embrace self-care, and step into the next phase of life with strength and confidence.
❤
Dr. Alexandra Dubinskaya

09/07/2025

Running to the bathroom all the time? Feeling like your bladder controls your life? You’re not alone. Overactive bladder (OAB) is common—but the good news is, you can retrain your bladder.

In this video, I walk you step by step through bladder training, one of the most effective first-line treatments for OAB. You’ll learn:
✅ What bladder training is and how it works
✅ How to gradually increase the time between bathroom visits
✅ Tips to manage sudden urgency (without panic!)
✅ Common mistakes to avoid so you stay successful
✅ When to seek help if bladder training isn’t enough

Your bladder doesn’t have to call all the shots. Watch now to feel more confident, in control, and empowered about your pelvic health.

Watch the full video now to learn more: https://vist.ly/45xbm

08/31/2025

C-Section Recovery: What to Expect and How to Support Healing

If you’ve recently had a cesarean birth—or are preparing for one—you’re not alone. Cesarean sections, or C-sections, are one of the most common surgeries in the United States, accounting for nearly one in three births. While they can be life-saving for both mom and baby, it’s becoming increasing more common as an elective choice for delivery. However, it is important to remember that a C-section is major abdominal surgery, and the recovery process deserves just as much attention and care as the birth itself.

Let’s start with the basics. A C-section is a surgical procedure used to deliver a baby through incisions in the abdomen and uterus. C-section can be “planned” or scheduled ahead of time for medical reasons, baby in breech position, or on maternal request. They can also be urgent or emergent when done unplanned due to labor that isn’t progressing, or signs of fetal distress.

After surgery, you’ll typically spend two to four days in the hospital. Pain, fatigue, some bleeding, and soreness near the incision are completely normal. Most people take around six to eight weeks to feel closer to their pre-birth selves—but recovery timelines vary. It’s okay if your journey doesn’t look like anyone else’s.

So what can you do to support your healing?

In the first few days, gentle movement can go a long way. Try to get up and walk around in small doses—just short laps around the room or house. Movement improves blood flow, reduces swelling, and helps your body begin the healing process. As you begin to stand and move more, prioritize posture and gentle extension. Lying flat when possible helps stretch the scar area, and simply standing up straight or doing slight back extensions (while holding onto something sturdy for support) can gently encourage tissue mobility and alignment. Getting in and out of bed can be tricky, so use your arms and a pillow to help with transfers. Hugging a pillow against your incision adds support and comfort, especially during transitions. Support garments, like an abdominal binder, can help reduce pain and provide stability to your core during recovery. And don’t be afraid to use your pain medications—early on, managing discomfort can help you rest better and move more easily, which actually aids your recovery.

Even basic breath work can make a big difference. Deep breathing into your belly helps reconnect your core and pelvic floor muscles and promotes gentle scar mobility. You can also begin to lightly touch around (not directly on) the incision using soft fabric or your fingers to help with numbness or sensitivity. As your incision heals, you might consider tools like silicone strips or red light therapy to improve scar appearance and healing—but only once you’ve been cleared by your provider. Scar massage can also be beneficial in reducing adhesions, but again, make sure it’s safe to start before diving in.

Did you know that something as simple as chewing gum can help your body recover after C-section? Research shows that chewing gum acts like “sham feeding,” stimulating the digestive system and helping it “wake up” sooner after anesthesia. This can sp*ed up the return of bowel function, reduce bloating, and even lower the risk of postoperative ileus—a condition where the gut temporarily stops moving. It’s a small, easy step that can make a big difference in how quickly you feel back to normal.

Your nutrition also plays a big role in healing. Fuel your body with nutrient-dense meals high in iron and fiber, and be sure to hydrate. This supports tissue repair, helps replenish your strength, and eases common issues like constipation. Between pain meds and reduced movement, your digestive system may need some extra support. Use stool softeners as recommended by your doctor, chew gum to gently stimulate digestion, and drink plenty of water. When it’s time for a bowel movement, hug a pillow over your incision and breathe through the process to reduce strain. Remember, your uterus is still healing too—and postpartum bleeding continues for weeks regardless of whether you delivered va**nally or via C-section.

Most importantly, remember that healing isn’t linear. While movement is important, so is rest. In those first couple of weeks, give yourself permission to slow down. Your timeline may look different from someone else’s, and that’s completely okay. You are healing. You are progressing. Whether it’s day by day or minute by minute, you are moving forward. Listen to your body. Trust the process. And know that this phase—challenging as it may be—won’t last forever.

You’ve just done something extraordinary. Give yourself credit. Give yourself grace. You will get to the other side—and we’re cheering you on every step of the way.
❤
Dr. Alexandra Dubinskaya

08/24/2025

🤰 Having a planned or possible C-section? This video is for you!

As a urogynecologist (and a mom who’s been there), I’m sharing what I wish someone had told me before my C-section—from how to plan ahead, what items to purchase, and how to make your recovery easier. (And I've included a link to all of my recommended products in bio link or https://vist.ly/44ec7)

In this video, we’ll cover:
✅ How to prepare mentally and physically for your C-section
✅ Must-have items to buy before delivery to make recovery smoother
✅ What to expect during your hospital stay and the first few weeks at home
✅ Tips that no one talks about—from incision care to comfortable ways to get in and out of bed

Whether your C-section is scheduled or unplanned, these tips will help you feel confident and ready for birth and recovery.

🩺 Subscribe for more compassionate, practical women’s health advice!
📩 Questions? Drop them in the comments—I’d love to support you.

Watch the full video here: https://vist.ly/44ec4

08/17/2025

The Science-Backed Benefits of S3xual Pleasure

When we talk about sxual health, the conversation often focuses on preventing disease or managing dysfunction. But what about pleasure? For too long, sxual pleasure has been dismissed as a luxury—something frivolous or even taboo. Yet science tells us a different story: sxual pleasure is not only natural but also a powerful contributor to overall health and well-being.

So let’s take a closer look at why sxual pleasure deserves its place in conversations about health, and how it benefits your body and mind.

Pleasure as a Vital Sign of Health

Sxual pleasure activates a cascade of physiological responses. During arousal and org@sm, your body releases a cocktail of feel-good hormones including oxytocin, dopamine, and endorphins. These chemicals are associated with reduced stress, improved mood, and even pain relief. In fact, studies have shown that sxual activity can alleviate menstrual cramps, headaches, and chronic pain conditions.

For women, regular sxual activity and org@sm promote blood flow to the pelvic region, which helps maintain healthy v@ginal tissues and may even protect against pelvic floor dysfunction. For men, there’s evidence suggesting that frequent ej@culation may lower the risk of prostate cancer.

Benefits for Your Brain and Mood

Beyond the physical, sxual pleasure is profoundly beneficial for mental health. Org@sms trigger the release of oxytocin—sometimes called the “love hormone”—which promotes feelings of closeness, trust, and bonding with a partner. This neurochemical boost can help combat anxiety and depression, acting as a natural mood stabilizer.

There’s even emerging research linking regular sxual activity with sharper cognition and a reduced risk of dementia later in life. The theory? Sxual pleasure may support brain health by improving circulation, reducing stress hormones like cortisol, and encouraging social connection—all known to benefit cognitive function.

Supporting Heart and Immune Health

Your heart also loves pleasure. The physical exertion of s3x—yes, it counts as mild-to-moderate exercise—can strengthen the heart and improve circulation. Sxual activity has been associated with improved cardiovascular health, including lower blood pressure and reduced risk of heart disease.

Even your immune system gets a boost. Studies have shown that people who have s3x more often tend to have higher levels of immunoglobulin A (IgA), an antibody that helps the body fight off infections.

It’s Not Just About Int3rcourse

Importantly, sxual pleasure doesn’t have to come from int3rcourse or even from a partner. Solo s3x and m@sturbation provide many of the same benefits, from stress relief to improved sleep. Devices like v!brators can enhance these effects, and for some women, they can also be therapeutic—helping with v@ginal dryness, pelvic pain, or difficulty reaching org@sm.

Sxual pleasure is a personal and diverse experience. What matters most is finding what feels good and empowering for you, free from shame or pressure.

The Bottom Line

Sxual pleasure is far from trivial—it’s a vital part of human health. From supporting your heart and brain to improving mood, immunity, and intimacy, the benefits are profound and backed by science. By embracing pleasure as a natural part of well-being, we not only reclaim joy but also promote a healthier body and mind.
So whether it’s with a partner or on your own, remember, prioritizing pleasure is prioritizing your health.
❤
Dr. Alexandra Dubinskaya

08/10/2025

🤔 Leaking when you laugh, sneeze, or exercise—but not done having babies yet?

You’re not alone—stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is incredibly common, and many women wonder if they can treat it before completing their families.

In this video, I explain:
✅ Why the gold standard surgery (a midurethral sling) can still be done, even if you plan on having more children
✅ What other treatment options are available —like urethral fillers and pessaries
✅ How to weigh the risks, benefits, and timing of treatment based on your personal goals

So let's talk about common concerns about surgery, safety, future pregnancies, and realistic expectations for each option.

Your symptoms matter, and you don’t have to put your life completely on hold while you grow your family. Watch to learn what’s right for you—and feel empowered to make the best choice for your body and future.

Watch Now: https://vist.ly/32vx4

"

08/03/2025

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy: Why It Matters More Than You Think

When most people hear the word “physical therapy,” they imagine rehabbing a sprained ankle or recovering from back surgery. But did you know that physical therapy can also help with issues like bladder leaks, pelvic pain, and even painful s*x? Pelvic floor physical therapy is a specialized and powerful tool that many women don’t know about—but should.

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles at the base of your pelvis that supports your bladder, uterus, and re**um. These muscles help control your p*e and p**p, keep your pelvic organs in place, and play a big role in s*xual function. Just like any other muscle group, your pelvic floor can become weak, tight, or uncoordinated—and that’s when problems can start.

Pelvic floor physical therapists are specially trained to evaluate and treat the muscles, nerves, and tissues of the pelvic region. They don’t just hand you a sheet of Kegel exercises and send you on your way. Instead, they take the time to understand your symptoms, assess how your pelvic floor is functioning, and create a plan that’s tailored to your specific needs.

So, what kinds of issues can pelvic floor PT help with?

One of the most common is urinary incontinence—those frustrating leaks when you laugh, cough, or exercise. For many women, especially after childbirth or during menopause, the pelvic floor muscles weaken or lose coordination. A therapist can help you retrain those muscles so they support your bladder better and reduce or even eliminate leaks.

Pelvic floor PT is also incredibly helpful for pelvic organ prolapse, which happens when the bladder, uterus, or re**um starts to drop or press into the va**nal wall. This can create a sensation of heaviness or bulging, especially after standing for long periods. Strengthening and supporting the pelvic muscles can make a big difference in how these symptoms feel—and in some cases, help you avoid or delay surgery.

If you’ve ever experienced pelvic pain—whether it’s pain with s*x, tampon use, or just sitting for long periods—pelvic floor therapy might be the missing piece. Tight, overactive pelvic muscles can be just as problematic as weak ones. A therapist can help gently release tension, teach you how to relax those muscles, and improve blood flow and flexibility in the area.

Even bowel issues like constipation or accidental stool leakage can be related to how well (or not well) your pelvic floor is working. Physical therapy can help you learn better coordination between your abdominal and pelvic muscles, improve your ability to empty your bowels, and reduce embarrassing accidents.

Pelvic floor therapy is also helpful before and after childbirth. Pregnancy and delivery—whether va**nal or C-section—can stretch, strain, or injure the pelvic muscles. Many new moms experience bladder leakage, pelvic pain, or a feeling that things just don’t feel “normal” anymore. Pelvic PT can help your body heal and get you back to feeling strong and confident again.

What’s a visit like?

A pelvic floor PT session typically includes a conversation about your symptoms and goals, a movement and posture assessment, and often (but not always) an internal exam to check the pelvic muscles. Everything is done with your full consent and comfort in mind, and you’re always in control of what happens during the visit. Therapy may involve exercises, stretches, biofeedback, relaxation techniques, or hands-on manual therapy—all tailored to your body and your needs.

The length of pelvic floor physical therapy varies from person to person, depending on the symptoms, underlying cause, and how your body responds to treatment. Some patients notice improvement after just a few sessions, while others may need several months of therapy for lasting results. Typically, visits are once a week or every other week, with personalized exercises to do at home in between. Your therapist will regularly reassess your progress and adjust the plan as needed, with the goal of helping you build strength, coordination, and confidence over time—not keeping you in therapy forever.

Is it hard to get an appointment?

Pelvic floor physical therapy is a valuable part of the healthcare system, but access to it can sometimes feel confusing or limited. In many cases, you’ll need a referral from your primary care provider, OB-GYN, or specialist like a urogynecologist to get started, though some states allow direct access without a referral. Insurance coverage varies—some plans cover it fully or partially, while others may limit the number of visits or require pre-authorization. It's a good idea to call your insurance company and ask specifically about coverage for pelvic floor physical therapy. Unfortunately, access can also be a challenge depending on where you live. In some areas, especially rural or underserved communities, there may be a shortage of pelvic floor therapists, or you may need to travel to find a specialist. That said, awareness is growing, and more clinics are offering this service, including virtual visits for certain conditions.

The bottom line?

Pelvic floor issues are common, but they’re not “just part of being a woman” and they’re certainly not something you have to live with. If you’re dealing with bladder leaks, pelvic pressure, pain during s*x, constipation, or any kind of discomfort in your pelvic region, there is help—and pelvic floor physical therapy might be the missing piece you’ve been looking for. You deserve to feel good in your body, to move through your day without worry, and to enjoy intimacy without pain. If something feels off, talk to your doctor or urogynecologist. Pelvic floor therapy isn’t just about muscles—it’s about restoring function, confidence, and quality of life.
❤
Dr. Alexandra Dubinskaya

07/27/2025

🚽 Burning, urgency, frequency—classic UTI symptoms—but your urine culture keeps coming back negative?

You’re not imagining it, and you’re not alone. Many women experience UTI-like symptoms without an actual infection.

In this video, I explain why this happens, including:
✅ A hypertonic (too tight) pelvic floor that mimics UTI symptoms
✅ Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), when hormonal changes affect the bladder and va**nal tissues
✅ Other common, overlooked causes of bladder discomfort

I also share what you can do about it—treatments, pelvic floor therapy, va**nal estrogen, and more.

Your symptoms are real, and you deserve answers. Watch now to learn how to get the right diagnosis and start feeling better.

Watch the new YouTube video out now: https://vist.ly/3zbwz

🩺 Subscribe for more pelvic and bladder health tips!
📩 Drop your questions in the comments—I’m here to help.

07/20/2025

Bladder Instillation for Interstitial Cystitis

If you live with interstitial cystitis—sometimes called IC or painful bladder syndrome—you already know how much it can disrupt your life. The constant need to urinate, the burning or aching pain, and the discomfort during intimacy or even just sitting for long periods can feel overwhelming. While there is no single cure for IC, there are many treatments that can help manage symptoms and improve your quality of life. One of these options is called bladder instillation.

Bladder instillation means placing medication directly into your bladder, where it can work right at the source of the problem. During this treatment, your healthcare provider gently inserts a thin, flexible catheter through the urethra (the small opening where urine exits) and into the bladder. A liquid medication mixture is slowly instilled—meaning the bladder is filled with it—and it stays inside for about 1-2 hrs or as long as you able to hold it. The idea is to coat the inside of the bladder and calm the irritated tissues.

The specific medicines used in bladder instillation for IC are chosen to target inflammation, pain, and the damaged protective layer of the bladder lining. Often, the solution includes a numbing medicine such as lidocaine, which can help relieve pain fairly quickly. It may also contain medications like heparin, hyaluronic acid, or chondroitin sulfate—ingredients that act like a soothing barrier to help protect the bladder lining and prevent irritants in the urine from triggering more inflammation. In some cases, a mild steroid or other anti-inflammatory medication is added to help settle down the immune response. Your doctor will decide on the combination of medicines based on your symptoms and treatment goals.

Many women wonder whether bladder instillation is painful. While everyone’s experience is a little different, most people find the procedure causes only mild discomfort or pressure, especially during the catheter insertion. You may feel a slight burning sensation while the medication is going in or when you urinate afterward, but this usually goes away within a few hours. Relaxing your pelvic floor muscles and taking slow breaths can help make the process easier.

Bladder instillation is not a cure for interstitial cystitis, but it can be an effective way to ease symptoms over time. Some women notice improvement after just a few treatments, while others need a series of instillations—sometimes weekly or every other week—to get the most relief. Your doctor will work with you to create a treatment plan that fits your life and your needs.

It’s important to remember that bladder instillation is usually used together with other strategies for IC. This may include changes to your diet, pelvic floor physical therapy, stress management, oral medications, or gentle bladder training. Combining approaches can often lead to the best results.

If you’re thinking about bladder instillation, take time to talk openly with your urogynecologist about your symptoms and any questions or worries you have. Make sure to share if you have any allergies, active infections, or if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Your care team will help you decide whether this treatment is right for you and will guide you through each step.

Living with interstitial cystitis can feel isolating, but you are not alone, and there are options to help you feel better. If you’d like to learn more about bladder instillation or other treatments for IC, consider scheduling a visit with a healthcare professional who specializes in bladder health. Together, you can build a plan to reduce pain and reclaim more comfort and confidence in your everyday life.
❤
Dr. Alexandra Dubinskaya

07/13/2025

Ever looked at your urinalysis report and thought, “What does any of this mean?”

Let's go step by step through everything your urinalysis measures—and what it means when those numbers are too high, too low, or just a little out of range.

You’ll learn:
✅ What’s considered normal for pH, specific gravity, protein, glucose, ketones, leukocytes, nitrites, and more
✅ How to interpret common findings like blood, bacteria, or white cells
✅ Which results might indicate a UTI, dehydration, kidney issues, or other concerns
✅ When to follow up with your healthcare provider

Watch now: https://vist.ly/3xqyk

07/06/2025

Painful S*x After Birth?
It Might Be Genitourinary Syndrome of Lactation

Pain during s*x after childbirth is more common than most people realize—and it’s not just due to healing from delivery. For many breastfeeding mothers, a condition called Genitourinary Syndrome of Lactation may be the culprit.

What Is Genitourinary Syndrome of Lactation?

Genitourinary Syndrome of Lactation (GSL) refers to a collection of symptoms caused by estrogen deficiency affecting the v***a, va**na, urethra, and bladder. While this term was originally coined for postmenopausal women (Genitourinary syndrome of menopause – GSM), recent research showed a similar pattern in lactating postpartum women.

During breastfeeding, estrogen levels drop significantly—a normal hormonal response that helps support milk production. But this hormonal state can cause symptoms like va**nal dryness, burning or irritation, decreased lubrication, pain with pe*******on (dyspareunia), urinary frequency or urgency and increased risk of va**nal infections.

A 2023 commentary in The Journal of S*xual Medicine proposed the term “lactation-related GSM” to describe this estrogen-deficient state that mirrors menopause, particularly in women who are exclusively breastfeeding. Up to 60% of breastfeeding women experience some form of vulvova**nal atrophy or painful s*x in the first three months postpartum, with nearly a third still reporting symptoms at 12 months.

The Role of Estrogen in Vaginal Health

Estrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining va**nal health by promoting the growth of lactobacilli—beneficial bacteria that help keep the va**nal environment acidic (low pH). This acidic environment inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria.

When estrogen levels drop during lactation, the number of lactobacilli decreases, leading to a higher va**nal pH. This shift creates a more favorable environment for the overgrowth of harmful bacteria, such as Gardnerella va**nalis, which can lead to bacterial vaginosis (BV).

Why Is It Overlooked?

Postpartum pain is often normalized or dismissed—especially in breastfeeding women, where the focus is understandably on the baby’s feeding and weight gain. Unfortunately, this means many women are told “it’s just part of healing,” or they hesitate to bring it up at all.

But this isn’t just about discomfort—it can affect body image, relationship satisfaction, and overall well-being. And most importantly, it’s treatable.

What Can You Do About It?

1. Topical Estrogen Therapy
Low-dose va**nal estrogen (in the form of creams, tablets, or rings) is considered safe during breastfeeding. It acts locally with minimal systemic absorption and can significantly improve va**nal moisture, elasticity, and comfort.

2. Non-Hormonal Vaginal Moisturizers and Lubricants
Over-the-counter products like hyaluronic acid-based moisturizers can provide temporal relief, and use of the lubricants can help during s*x. These don’t treat the underlying hormonal cause, but they can improve day-to-day comfort.

3. Gentle Pelvic Health Practices
Although pelvic floor dysfunction is a separate issue, but GSL can lead to involuntary muscle guarding or tension. Consider gentle pelvic stretches, breathing exercises, and pelvic floor physical therapy to help with that.

4. Normalize the Conversation
If you’re experiencing symptoms, you are not alone and you are not overreacting. Pain is not just “part of the process,” and there are effective treatments available. Open up the conversation with your provider—ideally one familiar with postpartum and s*xual health.

Bottom Line
Painful s*x while breastfeeding isn’t just a healing issue—it might be GSL. Understanding this condition can help you get the care you deserve. Just like we support breastfeeding moms with lactation consultants and feeding plans, we should also support them in reclaiming their comfort, confidence, and s*xual wellness.
❤
Dr. Alexandra Dubinskaya

Dr. Alexandra Dubinskaya, MD

09/21/2025

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