Experts Offer Answers to Sensitive Questions About Women's Health
- Details
- Written by Joanne Wallenstein
- Hits: 3048
Dr. Anisha Kumar, Dr. Michelle Giannone and Dr. Karin Blecher PazAs women’s bodies rapidly change in the decades after the age of thirty, maintaining our well-being -- from our faces to our figures, fitness, sex lives and ultimately our psyches – can feel like an uphill climb. With a variety of physical changes, from thinning hair to a bulging waistline, caused by hormonal fluctuations and aging, the question becomes, “What are the most urgent symptoms to address?”
That’s what a panel of experts from White Plains Hospital set out to discuss in a candid conversation focused on women’s health on Thursday, April 27 at Quaker Ridge Golf Club. The event, the second of its kind, is the brainchild of Scarsdale resident and White Plains Hospital Foundation Board Vice Chair Dara Gruenberg, who also served as moderator.
Gruenberg posed a wide-ranging array of health questions, submitted anonymously by the attendees, to the six panelists for answers. Gruenberg opened the panel explaining the intent was to remove some of the stigma of aging, to recognize we are not alone in this, and to help women get answers to their questions and to help them navigate and advocate for their physical and emotional well-being as they age.
The Panelists
The discussion opened with endocrinologist Dr. Kay Lovig providing an overview of how pre- and peri-menopause impact the body, comparing to the hormonal changes to a “reverse puberty.” Anxiety and depression, she explained, are incredibly common as a result, as the brain is highly sensitive to the change in hormone levels.
The first audience question went to Melissa Ferrara, a nurse practitioner with an expertise in sexual health. She addressed a question about falling libido and what can be done to increase sexual desire in long-term relationships. She explained that as we age and our hormone levels fall, testosterone levels drop to half the amount at age 40 than what they were at age 20, leaving many women without the same natural sex drive. She proposed a wealth of solutions from reading erotica to trying two FDA-approved medications and counseled women to seek professional help if needed. She also discussed the importance of open communication with your partner about your needs.
An ever-present concern is weight gain. One attendee asked, “Why is it so hard to maintain our weight as we get older?” Nutritionist Elizabeth DeRobertis explained that, in menopause, weight shifts to the abdominal area as women develop insulin resistance and become more sensitive to carbohydrates. She suggested spacing out food intake during the day and eating healthy snacks such as almonds, yogurt, hummus and cottage cheese that take longer to metabolize and don’t cause an insulin spike. She highlighted Dave’s Killer Bread, thinly sliced, as among her favorite recommendations for carb-conscious patients.
Discussing the impact of aging on appearance, ENT and Facial Plastic Surgeon Dr. Anisha Kumar underscored several key changes to the face. “Everybody’s face changes as we age. We lose muscle tone and collagen. There is hollowing of the temples, the fat pads fall, and we develop sun spots.”
Dermatologist Dr. Karin Blecher Paz echoed Dr. Kumar’s assessment, adding that as we age, skin elasticity decreases and the skin loses its vibrancy. She underscored the importance of sun protection and highlighted the benefits of retinol and a vitamin C serum for younger-looking skin.
For addressing visible signs of aging, Dr. Kumar cited advancements in laser technology for non-invasive treatment of fine lines and wrinkles and highlighted the benefits of a comprehensive skincare routine using products with clinically proven ingredients, such as elastin, as beneficial for many patients.
Another question, also submitted in advance, asked “How important are regular orgasms to health? Do they help your mood and mental health?”
Frances Bordoni, Dara Gruenberg and Susan Fox
Ferrara said, “an orgasm is a stimulation of a nerve ending in the genitals – that sends a signal to your brain which releases dopamine and oxytocin. Some people use orgasms to try to get to sleep. As we age, they can take longer and be harder to have. Orgasm from penetration is a myth – most women need clitoral stimulation. I don’t think one kind of orgasm is better than another. Only 30% of women orgasm from penetration.”
Ferrara warned women not to let a loss of desire prevent them from remaining sexually active. She said, “You need to continue to use your vagina. As you age, the tissue becomes dryer and thinner and the entrance can get smaller. If you have discomfort, don’t wait to get treatment.”
Asked how to “freshen the face,” Dr. Kumar recommended investing in a quality skincare brand, such as Alastin, and to be consistent with use. Whether it be aesthetic medicine or a comprehensive skincare routine, Dr. Kumar, who performs facelifts, neck lifts and other procedures, emphasized that there is no one-size-fits-all solution for each patient’s unique concerns and goals. “It’s for you to decide what makes you feel comfortable.”
About thinning hair, Dr. Paz said, “hair loss is complicated. Some women go bald as they grow older. For hormonal hair loss, there is no cure.” She did say she prescribes Rogaine and supplements such as Vitamin D and Nutrafol. She also recommended the oral medication Minoxidil and injections into the scalp of PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma.)
The conversation turned to hormone replacement therapy. OBGYN Dr. Michelle Giannone said that the results of studies on the use of HRT have been confusing. However, she believes that being on HRT is safe for the majority of patients in the early stages of menopause, in their fifties, and that it can help with symptoms such as hot flashes, mood and sleep.
Dr. Giannone recommended the use of vaginal estrogen cream. Asked who should use it and for how long she said, “Use it until you’re not planning to use your vagina anymore.” That got a big laugh.
In a discussion about the symptoms of menopause it was noted that each woman has an individual experience — night sweats, hot flashes, thyroid issues, brain fog, anxiety, depression, genital/urinary issues. Though menopause is not a mental health issue but it mimics one.
With so many issues around aging in the mix, how can patients decide what to prioritize? The consensus among the experts was to identify what is most important to address, and to build long-term relationships with their physicians to work on finding the right treatment.
The good news is that more treatment options than ever before, from medications to therapies and surgeries, are available to address a variety of women’s health issues. The first step to finding relief is the ability to speak openly with your physician.
To learn more about the physicians and products featured at this event, visit wphospital.org/wthexperts.
Authorities Seize Illegal Products at Smoke Shops
- Details
- Written by Joanne Wallenstein
- Hits: 2262
Though the sale of marijuana has been legalized in New York State, it’s still illegal to sell or display many tobacco products and smoking paraphernalia in Greenburgh. In addition these products cannot be sold within 750 feet of a school with students below the age of 21 or a public park.
These laws caused the closure of Scarsdale Convenience Store at 455 S. Central Avenue when members of the Greenburgh Drug and Alcohol Task Force along with the New York State Office of Cannabis Management (OCM), White Plains Police Department Intel Unit, and the Town of Greenburgh Building Department conducted multiple inspections of smoke shops on April 24, 2023.
Here’s what they found at the store:
-Approximately 676 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) products, which the store was not licensed to sell.
-Approximately 395 packs of untaxed cigarettes.
-1 package of psilocybin infused candy.
Additionally, the Town of Greenburgh Building Department issued approximately 84 building code violations resulting in the store being temporarily closed until further notice. Due to the serious nature of the Building Department code violations, Con Edison was contacted and all power to the business was shut off.
The group also issued building code violations resulting in the temporary closure of other smoke/vape shop locations including 205 East Hartsdale Avenue (Hartsdale Tobacco), 760 S. Central Avenue (Cloud House Convenience), and 1088 S. Central Avenue (#1 Convenience and Tobacco). Additional summonses were also issued at three other locations (74 S. Central Avenue, 610 S. Central Avenue, and 1000 S. Central Avenue) for tobacco-related violations.
New Leaders Sworn in at Scarsdale Village Hall
- Details
- Written by Joanne Wallenstein
- Hits: 1546
Scarsdale’s newest leaders were ushered into office at Village Hall at noon on Monday April 3, 2023. Three trustees and the Mayor were sworn in by Village Clerk Taylor Emanuel, surrounded by their families, parents, friends, Village staff and volunteers.
The group ran in an uncontested election and the transition from one Village Board to the next was calm and celebratory. All four of the newly elected group have extensive resumes of volunteer service to the Village and are well known around town.
Village Manager Rob Cole opened the ceremony by thanking these volunteers who, he reminded the group, spend countless hours working for the benefit of residents, without pay.
Sworn in were:
Mayor Justin Arest: A former two term trustee, Arest received the nomination of the Citizens’ Nominating Committee after completing his four years in Village Hall in March 2022. Well versed in the issues before the Board he appeared poised to hit the ground running.
Trustees Sameer Ahuja and Karen Brew were re-nominated to serve additional two-year terms, having completed their first two year terms this month. They have both been active and engaged members of the Village Board and were enthusiastic about continuing to serve.
Newly minted Trustee Dara Gruenberg has already put in years of service to the Village. As the Co-Chair of the Scarsdale Library’s Capital Campaign she played a pivotal role in raising the funds and planning the extensive renovation and expansion of the Scarsdale Library. She has also served on the Advisory Council on Communication, on the Foundation of White Plains Hospital and as Vice President of Westchester Reform Temple. With years of experience on many Village committees she has in-depth knowledge of how the Village is run and is familiar with many of the challenges Scarsdale will face over the next two years.
Most notable on Monday, were the children of three of the Board members who came to cheer on their parents. Check out they photos of the next generation of leaders with their proud families.
Scarsdale in Bloom
- Details
- Written by Joanne Wallenstein
- Hits: 2417
Spring has finally sprung - and magnolias, cherry blossom and forsythia are in bloom. Scarsdale looks dazzling this time of year and as you walk, bike or drive around town you're sure to notice the colorful display.
Here are photos of some beautiful trees, the first four from former Scarsdale Mayor Jon Mark and the balance from yours truly. Kids were clearly happy with the warmer temperatures too. Check out the bottom photo of a bunch of enthusiastic climbers in a tree on Brite Avenue.
Share your photos of springtime in Scarsdale. Email us at [email protected] and we'll publish your pictures on Scarsdale10583.com.
Magnolia on Fenimore Road by Allyn Dunn
Nelson Road by Mark Mathias
Candidate Dara Gruenberg Sets Her Sights on Scarsdale Village Hall
- Details
- Written by Joanne Wallenstein
- Hits: 2324
Candidate for Village Trustee Dara Gruenberg already has a long resume of volunteer service to Scarsdale and beyond. In fact, in 2018, Dara received the Scarsdale Family Counseling Rising Star Award for her leadership within the community and volunteerism. In 2021, New York State Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins selected Dara as one of her three Women's History Month honorees in recognition of her Covid relief efforts.
Now she has turned her focus toward Scarsdale Village Hall, where she is on the ballot for her first term as Village Trustee in an election to be held on Tuesday March 21, 2023 at Scarsdale Public Library.
We sent Gruenberg the following questions in an effort to get to know her better:
Tell us about yourself – including your past volunteer work and your professional life.
I moved to Scarsdale almost 12 years ago with my husband Jon and our very young children. I immediately started volunteering at my daughter’s school which blossomed into a career of volunteerism here in Scarsdale and in Westchester.
I am completing my sixth year as the President of the Friends of the Scarsdale Library. During my tenure, I concurrently co-chaired the Library’s Capital Campaign for the renovation, a public private partnership that, after a decade in the making, has resulted in a beloved resource for the community. I also have the honor of chairing the Village’s Advisory Council on Communications (ACC) and serving as a member of the Village Board of Ethics. Additionally, I am wrapping up my second term as a Vice President at Westchester Reform Temple where I have been on the board of trustees for the last 8 years.
In recent years, I served as a board member of the Scarsdale Forum and the League of Women Voters Scarsdale and was a member of the Scarsdale Bowl Committee. I was also a member of the Citizens Nominating Committee and was co-chair of the Scarsdale Citizens Non-Partisan Party Campaigns in 2018 and in 2020.
Outside of Scarsdale, I am the Vice Chair of the Foundation Board at White Plains Hospital and a board member of Feeding Westchester.
Prior to moving to Scarsdale, I worked as an administrator, advisor, Director of Community Service (K-12) and Latin teacher at an independent school in Manhattan. I have a B.A. in Classics from Barnard College, Columbia University and a Master of Education in School Administration from Bank Street College of Education.
What were your most significant achievements as a community volunteer?
Some of the achievements that standout the most are helping transform Scarsdale Public Library for the 21st century; connecting resources to needs for Scarsdale’s COVID Relief efforts; and fundraising for White Plains Hospital, particularly during COVID. I have also taken great pride in chairing the Village’s Advisory Council on Communications (ACC) as it has restructured and enhanced the processes by which our Village engages residents. The ACC also helped rebrand the Village’s interfaces, to optimize communications between residents and Village staff. This work has given me unique and valuable insight into every Village department and how they operate.
I have been most fulfilled by the relationships made with fellow volunteers and professionals. Scarsdale can be a welcoming place to get involved, and I can honestly say that as much as I have given, it is only a fraction of what I have received from the friendships I have made and the satisfaction I have felt from collaborating with others.
Why do you want to serve as Village Trustee? How do you think you can contribute?
I am grateful to the Citizens Nominating Committee for their nomination and their faith in my ability to serve this community as a trustee. I have spent most of the last decade involved civically in Scarsdale and this feels like the next natural step. Because I have spent so much time working with residents and Village staff, both in my roles on the ACC and with the Library, I feel ready to take on this new role. My time with both the Scarsdale Forum and League of Women Voters Scarsdale have also contributed to my depth of understanding about Scarsdale’s budget, our municipal services and operations, and what our residents value most about living here.
The Village has significant infrastructure needs and capital projects on the immediate horizon. These issues are going to require thoughtful solutions and the ability to balance competing demands and interests. We are fortunate to have such capable members of Village staff as well as a talented board and resident volunteers on boards and councils to think through these problems and find solutions. I look forward to continuing to support the village in this dynamic but in a new role.
My favorite part of all of my volunteer work, and I suspect serving as a trustee will afford me the same opportunities, is the ability to collaborate with others and to problem solve. I listen carefully to all sides of an issue and seek to find a path forward that is thoughtful and can integrate multiple viewpoints. I think this will help me greatly as a Village Trustee and has prepared me to be tactical in how I help solve problems.
There are many initiatives pending before this Village Board that are controversial including the pool renovation, the traffic study and changes to the Village Center. How would you prioritize these projects and what would be your process for reaching consensus so that we can move forward?
Investing in infrastructure is essential both for quality of life and also our property values. I am eager to meet with the board and Village staff to discuss the current status of the pool project and next steps. Regarding the Village Center, we have a tremendous opportunity to pilot projects before making any permanent changes. We need to be methodical in our approach as well as conscious of how we spend taxpayer dollars. Traffic issues are chronic. We need to continue to focus on them and continue in our efforts to improve the traffic safety of our village. We must also be cognizant that we have limited resources and I look forward to having prioritization conversations with the board, staff, residents and the business community.
Each year, setting the Village budget becomes more and more challenging. There is increased demand for services, rising costs and on the other hand, pressure to keep tax increases to a minimum. Explain your views on paying for everything we would like.
As you know, approving the annual Village budget is one of the most important duties of the Board. Our Village professionals work extensively with the Board, spending a great deal of time scrutinizing spending rationales and seeking savings opportunities as well as balancing service expectations against overall costs to the taxpayer. I have seen great process improvements made over the last several years that have improved transparency and have allowed for more input.
I do not see a scenario where we can pay for everything we would like, which is why effective communications between village government and residents is so essential. We always have to start with what we need and then figure out how to pay for that and then figure out what we want and how to prioritize those wants.
Scarsdale Citizens Non-Partisan Party cordially invites community members to stop by for a candidate meet and greet on Sunday, March 19th from 3:00 - 4:30pm at the Scarsdale Public Library. This is an opportunity for residents of the village to meet the candidates for an informal gathering. The candidates are Justin Arest for Mayor; Sameer Ahuja, Karen Brew and Dara Gruenberg for Village Trustee; and Cynthia Dunne for Village Justice. The event will take place in the Scott Room. Refreshments will be available. As a reminder, the Village election is on Tuesday, March 21st at the Scarsdale Public Library from 6am to 9pm.
