A recent study, based on data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), has found that women who rarely engage in sexual activity have a 70% higher risk of dying compared to those who have sex at least once per week. Additionally, individuals with depression who had sex much less than once per week had a 197% higher risk of dying than those who had sex around once per week. These findings were published in the Journal of Psychosexual Health. Frequent sex has been shown to offer numerous health benefits. It helps reduce stress and improve mood through the release of endorphins and oxytocin. It can also boost the immune system, making the body more resistant to infections and illnesses. Regular sexual activity promotes cardiovascular health by increasing heart rate and circulation. It enhances sleep quality due to the release of the hormone prolactin, which is associated with relaxation. Frequent sex can also improve intimacy and strengthen relationships, contributing to overall emotional well-being. In this episode, Dr. Susan Oakley & Holly want to know do you: Schedule or Sizzle? How often do you get frisky? A) Daily B) A few times a week C) Weekly D) A few times a month E) Rarely/Never Tune in for some fun and fabulous insights. Thank you, ladies, for listening. Always feel free to ask Dr. Oakley any women’s health questions at any time. Please send in your comments, questions, and suggestions for future topics at TheLadyBodPod@gmail.com.

Periods can be annoying when they arrive unexpectedly, like when you’re all set for a beach day or a swim. Swimming on your period is one of those things we've all got questions about, right? And there's two big ones. Firstly: can you swim while on your period? And secondly: what should you wear to protect yourself while swimming on your period? • Is it safe to swim on your period? Swimming on your period is completely safe. Just choose a tampon or menstrual product that feels comfortable and fits your lifestyle needs. • Can I get a vaginal infection from swimming on my period? You can develop itchiness, a burning sensation, or a yeast infection from staying in a wet bathing suit for too long. It’s a good idea to change into dry clothes after you swim, and if you experience any of these symptoms, talk to your healthcare provider. • How often should you change it? Change your tampon as soon as you’re done swimming, or every 4 to 8 hours while you are swimming. A wet, used tampon can be a breeding ground for bacteria — which can lead to toxic shock syndrome (TSS). You’ll want to make sure you’re being safe and mindful. Ultimately, it is completely safe and hygienic to swim whilst on your period. Although there are some special considerations to think about before you go swimming - like taking extra tampons, pads, or period undies to change into after swimming - being on your period should not stop you from enjoying summer and taking a dip! Tune in for some fun and fabulous insights. Thank you, ladies, for listening. Always feel free to ask Dr. Oakley any women’s health questions at any time. Please send in your comments, questions, and suggestions for future topics at TheLadyBodPod@gmail.com.

If you’re a natural mosquito magnet, it makes sense to do what you can to lower the risk of being bitten. The foods you eat may play a role in how attractive you are to mosquitoes. So, what attracts Mosquitoes? Beer, bananas and ketchup as well as the smell of lotions, perfumes, and sweat draws mosquitoes in but supposedly there are certain foods that these pests don’t like. Mosquito-repelling foods: • Garlic, onions, and apple cider vinegar, when consumed, are said to change the way you smell and make you less detectable to mosquitoes. • Tomatoes, beans, and lentils as well as other foods rich in thiamine are said to release a smell that repels mosquitoes and other bugs. • Grapefruit, oranges, and lemons are all citrus fruits that mosquitoes apparently aren’t fond of smelling. Other ways to prevent mosquito bites include: • Wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants • Covering strollers and baby carriers with mosquito netting • Planning outdoor events when mosquito activity is low (they’re most active from dusk to dawn) • Make sure your window screens are not ripped or torn • Keep entry doors and garage doors closed when not in use It goes without saying but we’ll say it, anyway, speak with your doctor about which insect repellent they recommend for you and your family members before making a purchase. Tune in for some fun and fabulous insights. Thank you, ladies, for listening. Always feel free to ask Dr. Oakley any women’s health questions at any time. Please send in your comments, questions, and suggestions for future topics at TheLadyBodPod@gmail.com.