Pregnant Women Face Exposures to Dangerous Chemicals Daily

By By Steven Reinberg HealthDay Reporter, HealthDay Reporter (HEALTHDAY) TUESDAY, Aug. 30, 2022 (HealthDay News) -- Pregnant women are exposed to toxic chemicals in dishware, hair coloring, plastics and pesticides that can heighten their risk of cancer and harm child development, a new study warns. Recommended Videos Powered by AnyClip Pregnant Pakistanis face risky journey to give birth 722 Play Video Pregnant Pakistanis face risky journey to give birthNOW PLAYING Sri Lanka readies for oil spill from cargo ship Cher says Kaavan will no longer be a prisoner The tiny Alaskan island fighting for its future Sea of litter and tents left behind after Reading festival Melamine and its major byproduct, cyanuric acid, were found in nearly all the 171 women in the study and levels were highest among women of color and those exposed to tobacco. In addition, four aromatic amines that are used in dyes and pigments were also found in nearly all pregnant participants. "These chemicals are of serious concern due to their links to cancer and developmental toxicity, yet they are not routinely monitored in the United States," researcher Tracey Woodruff said in a news release from the University of California, San Francisco. She directs the university's Program on Reproductive Health and the Environment. Melamine is found in dishware, plastics, flooring, kitchen counters and pesticides. Cyanuric acid is used as a disinfectant, plastic stabilizer and cleaning solvent in swimming pools. Aromatic amines are found in hair dye, mascara, tattoo ink, paint, tobacco smoke and diesel exhaust, the researchers said. People can be exposed to the chemicals through the air they breathe, through ingestion or using products that contain plastic, dyes and pigments. When exposure to melamine and cyanuric acid happens together, they can be more toxic than either one alone, researchers said in background notes. For the study, the investigators measured 45 chemicals linked with cancer and other risks in urine samples from a diverse group of 171 women who were part of the U.S. National Institutes of Health's Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes Program. "It's disconcerting that we continue to find higher levels of many of these harmful chemicals in people of color," said study co-author Jessie Buckley, an associate professor at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health in Baltimore. For example, levels of 3,4-dichloroaniline (a chemical used in the production of dyes and pesticides) were more than 100% higher among Black and Hispanic women compared with white women. "Our findings raise concerns for the health of pregnant women and fetuses since some of these chemicals are known carcinogens and potential developmental toxicants," said co-author Giehae Choi, a postdoctoral fellow at the Bloomberg School of Public Health. "Regulatory action is clearly needed to limit exposure."

What happens at each stage of breast cancer?

Breast cancer stages aim to describe how far cancer has progressed. The stage will affect the different symptoms and treatment options. Doctors use various ways to stage breast cancer. Four broad stages define where the cancer is, whether it is still in its original location or if it has spread to other parts of the body. However, a doctor will also use other systems and information to identify the stage and decide which treatment is most suitable and what the outlook is likely to be. It is worth noting that the stage is not the only factor that affects treatment and other decisions. Other considerations include markers such as hormone receptivity, the cancer grade, the type, the person’s overall health, and so on. Each case will be different. However, a doctor can help the individual understand how cancer will affect them and what to expect. The American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) oversees the staging of breast cancer. As a result, all cancer doctors describe and classify the stages of cancer in the same way. AJCC’s staging is the most commonly used method for breast cancer and allows all doctors to describe, classify, and stage cancer in the same way. It involves two systems: pathological staging and clinical staging. BEZZY COMMUNITY Shared Breast Cancer Stories and More Tap into community conversations discussing breast cancer diagnoses, backed by our powerful BC community. Bezzy BC: empowered by each other. Identifying the stage Iru Meladze/EyeEm/Getty Images One way to identify the stage is to look at body tissue and see how far cancer cells have spread. This gives the following broad stages: In situ: There is a change in cells that could become cancerous and invade other tissue over time. Localized: A tumor is present but has not spread. Regional: Cancer has spread beyond the original location to nearby lymph nodes. Distant or metastatic: Cancer has spread to other parts of the body and other organs beyond the original location. However, this description alone does not reflect the complexities of breast cancer. For this reason, doctors also use other methods and other informationTrusted Source. TNM staging Crucial to breast cancer staging is the TNM system. The letters TNM mean the following: T = tumor: This indicates the extent or size of the tumor and how much breast tissue it involves. N = nodes: This shows whether cancer has spread to the lymph nodes and how many it has affected. M = metastasis: This is when cancer has spread to other parts of the body, such as distant organs, tissues, and the bones. The TNM staging system also uses numbersTrusted Source. The numbers, from 0 to 4, describe the stage, and information from the TNM staging helps determine the number. Other factors affecting treatment options and outlook are the status and grade. Tumor status A doctor will use test results showing the presence and absence of specific biomarkers to assess the tumor status. They will ask one or more of the following questions while reviewing the results: Are there estrogen-receptor proteins (Is is ER+ or ER-)? Are there progesterone receptor proteins (Is it PR+ or PR-)? Does it produce high levels of a protein HER2 (Is it HER2+ or HER2-)? Is it triple negative, in other words, EE-, PR- and HER2-? What genetic patternsTrusted Source show up if genetic testing is done? Cancer grading The grade indicates how fast cancer is likely to grow and to what extent they look like normal cells. It can be: Grade 1 or low grade: The cells look similar to healthy tissue and will likely grow slowly. Grade 2 or intermediate grade: The cells looks somewhat different and will likely grow at a moderate rate. Grade 3 or high grade: The cells look very different and may be fast growing. Diagnostic tests To determine the stage, a doctor may perform tests, including: a physical examination blood tests biopsies CT and PET scans MRI X-rays, including a mammogram ultrasounds It is also worth noting that, while initial tests can help stage and grade cancer, the doctor may need to revise their decision as more information becomes available. Lab tests on a tumor after surgery, for example, may provide information that is different from the results of a biopsy because there is more tissue to analyze.

Invasive lobular breast cancer: Prognosis and statistics

Invasive lobular carcinoma is the second most common type of breast cancer. It affects the lobules of the breast, which are the structures that contain the glands that produce breast milk. According to the American Cancer SocietyTrusted Source, about 10 percent of people who get invasive breast cancer have invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC). Approximately 80 percentTrusted Source of people with invasive breast cancer have invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC). It is the most common type of breast cancer, and it affects the ducts that carry milk through the breast. If a lobular breast cancer is invasive, this means that it has spread beyond the lobule to other parts of the breast. In some people, it spreads beyond the breast tissue into other parts of the body. ILC can develop at any age, but it tends to be more common in older people. Some evidence suggests that using hormonal replacement therapy after menopause may increase the riskTrusted Source. In this article, learn more about the prognosis and survival rates for ILC, as well as how doctors treat the disease. BEZZY COMMUNITY Shared Breast Cancer Stories and More Tap into community conversations discussing breast cancer diagnoses, backed by our powerful BC community. Bezzy BC: empowered by each other. Prognosis Laurent Hamels/Getty Images The prognosis (future outlook) after a cancer diagnosis depends on several factors, including: the size of the cancer whether the cancer has spread and where it has spread to a person’s age a person’s general state of health the effectiveness of the treatment the cancer grade, which measures how abnormal the cells appear at a microscopic level the results of certain markers, including estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, and HER2/neu The prognosis also varies depending on the stage of the cancer. A lower number means that the cancer is in an earlier stage, while a higher number means that the cancer has advanced. Survival rate A survival rate can show how many people with the same type and stage of cancer are still living 5 or more years after receiving the diagnosis. These statistics do not take age or overall health into consideration. In general, if doctors diagnose and treat cancer in the early stages, survival rates tend to be higher. If cancer has advanced, for example by spreading beyond the breast tissue, survival rates are likely to be lower. Depending on the stage of breast cancer, the general 5-year survival rates for women are: Stage 0 or 1: nearly 100 percent Stage 2: about 93 percent Stage 3: around 72 percent Stage 4: approximately 22 percent Treatment Doctors can treat ILC in two ways: locally and systemically. Local treatments for ILC target the tumor and the area that immediately surrounds it. These treatments can include surgery, such as a lumpectomy or mastectomy, or radiation therapy that directly attacks the cancer. Systemic treatments for ILC attack cancer cells that have spread beyond the breast tissue. Chemotherapy and hormonal therapy are the two main systemic treatments for ILC. Targeted therapies such as palbociclib or verzenio are often used for advanced stages, particularly stage 4 breast cancer. Depending on how advanced the cancer is, a doctor may recommend a combination of local and systemic treatments. Most invasive breast cancers (even stage 1) can be treated with a combination therapies such as surgery and hormonal therapy or surgery and radiation. An oncologist, or cancer specialist, will help determine the best treatment plan for each person. They will take several factors into account, including the person’s general health and the grade and stage of the cancer. BEZZY COMMUNITY Shared Breast Cancer Stories and More Tap into community conversations discussing breast cancer diagnoses, backed by our powerful BC community. Bezzy BC: empowered by each other. Remission If treatment cures cancer, this means that it destroys all of the cancer cells, and they do not return. Although this is the goal of treatment, it is not always possible. Often, cancer goes into remission, meaning the patient has no evidence of cancer. A person may have few or no clinical symptoms, but cancer cells still exist in the body. Some doctors consider someone whose cancer has been in remission for 5 years or more. Cancer cells can survive in the body for many years. If a cancer recurs after the initial treatment, most tend to do so within the first 5 years of diagnosis. During remission, a doctor carefully checks for any indications of the cancer’s return, as well as for any late side effects of treatment. Summary Receiving a cancer diagnosis can be stressful, and many people worry about the outcome. When doctors diagnose ILC in early stages, survival rates are higher. There are several treatment options for ILC, depending on the stage and nature of the cancer. Joining a support group and talking to loved ones can help a person cope with the challenges of a cancer diagnosis. Article resources Breast cancer stages. (2022). https://www.breastcancer.org/pathology-report/breast-cancer-stages Invasive breast cancer (IDC/ILC). (2021). https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/about/types-of-breast-cancer/invasive-breast-cancer.htmlTrusted Source Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC). (2022). https://www.breastcancer.org/types/invasive-lobular-carcinoma Li, C. I.,et al. (2015). Use of menopausal hormone therapy and risk of ductal and lobular breast cancer among women 55–74 years of age. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4075765/Trusted Source Survival rates for breast cancer. (2021). https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/understanding-a-breast-cancer-diagnosis/breast-cancer-survival-rates.htmlTrusted Source Understanding cancer prognosis. (2019). https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/diagnosis-staging/prognosis

What happens when a woman has low testosterone?

A woman’s testosterone levels naturally change throughout her life, her menstrual cycle, and even at different times of the day. A woman with low testosterone does not contain enough to help produce new blood cells, maintain sex drive, or boost levels of other reproductive hormones. Testosterone belongs to a group of hormones known as androgens. Testosterone levels affect: fertility sex drive red blood cell production muscle mass and fat distribution Most people think of testosterone as a male sex hormone, but everyone requires a certain amount. While males have more testosterone than females, female adrenal glands and ovaries produce small amounts of this hormone. According to the University of Rochester Medical Center, a woman should have a total of 15–70 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dl) of testosterone in her blood. At this time, there are no conclusive guidelines for what should be considered “low” testosterone levels in women. Symptoms A woman with low testosterone may feel tired and lethargic. Low testosterone can cause one or more of the following symptoms in women: sluggishness muscle weakness fatigue sleep disturbances reduced sex drive decreased sexual satisfaction weight gain fertility issues irregular menstrual cycles vaginal dryness loss of bone density It is important to note that research in this area is still limited. Because the symptoms linked to low testosterone are so common, a doctor will look for signs of other issues or conditions before making a diagnosis. The doctor may check for: depression anxiety chronic stress thyroid disease transition to menopause Causes Testosterone levels naturally reduce with age and the menopause. The two main causes of low testosterone are: diminishing levels of the hormone as a normal result of menopause and aging problems with the ovaries or the pituitary or adrenal glands. Testosterone decreases naturally as a woman ages. Levels of other hormones, such as estrogen, also reduce over time, especially when a woman reaches menopause. Around the time that menopause begins, a woman may be more likely to have less testosterone because the ovaries are producing fewer hormones. Also, medications that combat the side effects of menopause can lower testosterone levels. One such medicine is oral estrogen. Problems with the ovariesTrusted Source and adrenal glandsTrusted Source can also cause lower levels of testosterone. A woman may have reduced levels if her ovaries have been removed, for example, or if she has adrenal insufficiency, which means that the adrenal glands do not work correctly. Diagnosis There is currently a lack of research into the treatment of low testosterone in women. Many doctors are much more concerned about testosterone levels that are too high. In 2014, a task force recommended against routinely measuring testosterone levels in women, as research has yet to prove a link between testosterone levels and symptoms. If a woman reports any of the symptoms listed above, a doctor will likely check for other, more common, conditions first. To diagnose low testosterone in women, a doctor will start with a physical exam and ask about any symptoms. If the doctor suspects low testosterone, they will order a blood test. If a woman has not yet reached menopause, the doctor will likely advise on the best time to test the testosterone levels. This is because they fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle. Treatment Improving sleep quality may help the symptoms of low testosterone. Some estrogen replacement drugs contain testosterone. However, the quantity of testosterone in the drugs may not be enough to raise levels, or the body may not be able to absorb them sufficiently. A doctor may administer testosterone injections or pellets, expecting these treatments to have the same effect on women as on men: raising energy levels, decreasing fatigue, and increasing the sex drive. However, many doctors advise women not to take testosterone. Likewise, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have approved few testosterone-based treatments for women. This is because the side effects can include: hair loss acne excess facial hair a deepening voice an enlarged clitoris The 2014 task force advised against treating low testosterone levels in women due to a lack of research. However, they noted as an exception that women with a condition called hypoactive sexual desire disorder should receive treatment. A doctor may instead recommend alternative therapies to treat the symptoms of low testosterone in women. These treatments and lifestyle changes can include: sex therapy taking steps to manage stress getting enough sleep eating a healthful diet taking over-the-counter dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) supplements DHEA is a steroid hormone that is also produced by the adrenal glands. Supplements are also available to purchase online. The Endocrine Society advise against routine supplementation with DHEA, however, as researchers have yet to prove that supplementation is safe and efficient in the long term. The side effects of DHEA supplementation can be similar to those of excess testosterone. Takeaway Doctors and researchers still do not fully understand how low testosterone levels affect women or how best to treat the deficiency. Testosterone levels change as a person ages, and they may drop as a woman approaches menopause. If a woman experiences symptoms of low testosterone, the results of a blood test can help a doctor to make a diagnosis. Never take testosterone replacement therapy without a doctor’s recommendation. Supplements and replacement therapies may cause more unpleasant side effects than they relieve.

What causes high testosterone in women?

While testosterone is considered a male sex hormone, females produce small amounts in the ovaries and adrenal glands. High levels can be caused by certain conditions and may affect physical appearance and overall health. Together with the female sex hormone estrogen, testosterone plays a role in the growth and maintenance of female reproductive tissue and bone mass. These hormones also influence behavior. In this article, learn about conditions that cause high testosterone in females, as well as about symptoms and treatment. A note about sex and gender Sex and gender exist on spectrums. This article will use the terms, “male,” “female,” or both to refer to sex assigned at birth. Click here to learn more. ‘Normal’ testosterone levels According to the American Urology Association, average blood levels of testosterone in males are at least 300 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL). Females secrete much lower amounts, with average levels considered to be between 15 and 70 ng/dL. The level of hormones produced in the body varies each day and throughout the day. However, testosterone levels are generally highest in the morning. Symptoms of high testosterone in females may include mood changes, a deep voice, thinning hair, and acne. Image credit: iStock Testosterone imbalances in females can affect their physical appearance and overall health. Symptoms of high testosterone in females includeTrusted Source: acne deep voice excess hair on the face and body increased muscle mass irregular periods larger-than-average clitoris loss of libido mood changes reduction in breast size thinning hair Severely high levels of testosterone in females can cause obesity and infertility. Causes of high testosterone in females High testosterone in females is usually caused by an underlying medical condition, such as: Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) CAH is the term given to a group of inherited disorders that affect the adrenal glands. These glands secreteTrusted Source the hormones cortisol and aldosterone, which play a role in managing metabolism and blood pressure. The adrenal glands also produce the male sex hormones DHEA and testosterone. People with CAH lack one of the enzymes necessary to regulate the production of these hormones, so they secrete too little cortisol and too much testosterone. CAH may be mild (nonclassic CAH) or severe (classic CAH). Symptoms in females includeTrusted Source: deep voice early appearance of pubic hair enlarged clitoris excess body hair facial hair irregular or absent menstrual periods severe acne shorter height as an adult after rapid childhood growth While there is no cure for CAH, most people with the condition can receive treatment that will reduce symptoms and improve their quality of life. Hirsutism Hirsutism is characterized by unwanted hair growth in females. It is a hormonal condition thought to be linked to genetics. Symptoms include male-pattern hair growth that is dark and coarse. It typically affects the: back chest face In cases of excessively high testosterone, other symptoms will also be present, includingTrusted Source: acne balding deepening voice enlarged clitoris increased muscle mass reduced breast size Home remedies and medical treatments help many people control the symptoms of hirsutism. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) PCOS is a common hormonal disorder that affects females of reproductive age. It is estimated that PCOS affects between 6–12%Trusted Source of people in the United States. People are not usually diagnosed until they are in their 20s and 30s. However, children as young as 11 years old can be affected. Symptoms of PCOS includeTrusted Source: enlarged ovaries that develop follicles and do not release eggs regularly excess body hair irregular, infrequent, or long menstrual periods PCOS may leadTrusted Source to several health complications, including: depression heart disease infertility miscarriage obesity sleep apnea type 2 diabetes Doctors do not know what causes PCOS, although excess insulin and genetics may playTrusted Source a role. Diagnosis of high testosterone in females A doctor may order a blood sample to diagnose high testosterone in females. Image credit: Shutterstock A doctor can diagnose high testosterone in females based on the following: Physical examination During a physical examination, the doctor will look for symptoms such as: acne excess body hair facial hair growth They will also inquire about: libido menstrual cycle abnormalities mood changes If PCOS is suspected, the doctor may visually and manually examine the pelvic region to look for abnormalities. Blood test If symptoms suggest high testosterone levels, the doctor will take a blood sample and have hormone levels tested. They may also check glucose and cholesterol levels. Usually, the blood will be drawn in the morning when testosterone levels are highest. Ultrasound To check for PCOS, the doctor may perform an ultrasound of the ovaries and uterus. Treatment of high testosterone in females The treatment recommended for high testosterone will depend on its underlying cause. Typically, a doctor will recommend both lifestyle changes and medication. Some treatments may also be used to control unwanted hair. Medication High testosterone and associated conditions can be treated with the following medications: Eflornithine: This is a cream applied directly to the skin that slows the growth of new facial hair. Glucocorticosteroids: This is a type of steroid hormone that reducesTrusted Source inflammation in the body. Metformin: This is a treatment for type 2 diabetes, which is sometimes used to lower blood sugar and insulin levels in people with PCOS. Progestin: This is a hormone that may regulateTrusted Source periods and improve fertility. Spironolactone: This is a diuretic that helps balance water and salt levels and reduces excessive female hair growth. Oral contraceptives may also be prescribed, as this treatment helps to block excess testosterone. According to a 2019 review, pairing oral contraceptives that contain estrogen and progestin with antiandrogens and metformin may be most effective for the treatment of hirsutism. However, keep in mind that oral contraceptives may not be suitable for people who are trying to get pregnant, and they can also cause adverse side effects. Hair removal treatments Laser therapy may help to control unwanted hair. Image credit: Gilaxia/iStock Both electrolysis and laser therapy may be used to control unwanted hair. However, these treatments will not resolve an underlying hormonal imbalance. Electrolysis: This involves inserting a tiny needle into each hair follicle. A pulse of electric current travels through the needle and damages the follicle so that it cannot grow new hair. Multiple treatments may be required. Laser therapy: During this treatment, laser light is applied to the hair follicles to damage them. Again, multiple treatments may be required. Note that these hair removal treatments can cause adverse reactions and may have other associated risks. Anyone with a hormonal imbalance should speak with a doctor before trying medical treatments for excess hair growth. Lifestyle changes Some lifestyle changes can reduce high testosterone in females, while others simply manage symptoms. Here are a few lifestyle changes that may be beneficial: Reach and maintain a moderate weight: Some research shows that losing even 5–10%Trusted Source of body weight can improve fertility, help to balance menstrual cycles, and reduce symptoms in people with PCOS. Follow a balanced diet: A person can improveTrusted Source symptoms of PCOS by following a nutritious, well-rounded diet and limiting their intake of foods high in sugar, refined carbs, saturated fat, and trans fat. Manage unwanted hair growth: A person can choose to treat their facial and body hair growth by plucking, shaving, waxing, or using chemical depilatories. Others bleach their hair to make it less visible. Takeaway High testosterone in females can cause a range of symptoms, from excess facial hair to infertility, and is usually caused by an underlying medical condition. Treating the underlying disorder will often reduce symptoms and improve a person’s quality of life. People who are or think they may be experiencing high testosterone symptoms should consult a doctor to determine the cause and to determine the best course of treatment.

What are some medications for edema?

Edema refers to swelling caused by liquid trapped in the body’s tissue. It can occur anywhere in the body, but a person is more likely to notice it in the hands, feet, arms, or legs. Edema can have many causesTrusted Source, such as heart failure, diabetes, pregnancy, liver disease, and kidney disease. Some cases of edema do not require treatment. However, when they do, a doctor will typically treat the underlying cause to help the condition. They may also prescribe medications to help reduce fluids in the body. This article reviews some of the medications doctors may use to treat edema. Learn more about edema here. Prescription medications at a glance Westend61/Getty Images Treatment may include either prescription diuretics or anticoagulants. The tables below outline common medications to treat edema. What is the first-line medication to treat edema? Treatment for edema can vary widely basedTrusted Source on the underlying condition. People over the age of 50 may develop edema due to poor circulation. Younger people can develop the condition due to pregnancy, heart failure, liver failure, renal failure, or trauma. When treating edema directly, the first-line medication choice tends to be loop diuretics. In some cases, a doctor may recommendTrusted Source using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to treat pain and swelling. A person who experiences swelling for unknown reasons should talk with a doctor about it, particularly if it lasts longer than a few days. Learn more about NSAIDs here. Over-the-counter medications Over-the-counter (OTC) medications are not available to treat edema. A person can buy OTC diuretics, but they are primarily for helping a person lose water weight associated with their menstrual cycle or other mild conditions. If someone has unexplained swelling and puffiness, they should inform a doctor. A doctor mayTrusted Source perform a thorough physical exam and order blood tests and ultrasounds to determine the cause. They may also review a person’s current medications. Certain medications can trigger edema, includingTrusted Source: certain vitamins NSAIDs hormone treatments calcium channel blockers A closer look at loop diuretics A doctor may prescribe medication to treat the underlying cause of edema. They may also prescribe either loop diuretic or anticoagulant medication. Loop diuretics include: Furosemide (Lasix) Furosemide is a type of loop diuretic. Doctors may prescribe it for various conditions that can cause edema, includingTrusted Source congestive heart failure, liver failure, or renal failure. The brand name is Lasix. It comes in several doses based on the formulationTrusted Source: oral tablet: 20, 40, and 80 mg injectable solutions: 10 mg/ml oral solutions: 8 or 10 mg/ml If a person experiences the following side effects from furosemide, and they are persistent and severe, they should tell a doctor: frequent urination blurred vision headache constipation diarrhea If a person experiences the following side effects, they should seek immediate medical treatment: decreased urination dry mouth thirst nausea vomiting weakness drowsiness confusion muscle pain or cramps pounding or fast heart rate fever ringing in the ears loss of hearing rash hives blisters or peeling skin itching difficulty breathing or swallowing yellowing of the skin or eyes Learn more about furosemide here. Bumetanide (Bumex) Bumetanide is a diuretic that doctors prescribeTrusted Source to treat edema caused by kidney, liver, or heart failure. The brand name is Bumex. Bumetanide comes in several doses, includingTrusted Source:

9 of the best multivitamins for women 2022

and overall health. Some multivitamins are targeted toward females specifically to meet their unique nutritional needs. Multivitamins can benefit pregnancy and overall health, though they may not contain the daily amount of each vitamin or mineral recommended. Sex and gender exist on spectrums. For the purposes of this article, we use “male” and “female” to refer to a person’s sex assigned at birth. Learn more. A quick look at the best multivitamins for women Best for traceable ingredients: Ritual Essential for Women: Multivitamin 18+ Best personalized: Care/of Multivitamins Best sustainable: Persona Best low cost: Nature Made Women’s Multivitamin 50+ Softgels Best organic: Garden of Life mykind Organics Women’s Multi Best for older adults: Thorne Women’s Multi 50+ Best prenatal and nursing: Rainbow Light Prenatal One Best for athletes: Optimum Nutrition Opti Women Multivitamin Best chewable: OLLY The Perfect Women’s Multi When researching multivitamins to try, a person may wish to look for independent tests of the product they are interested in taking. These test standards include the United States Pharmacopeial Convention (USP), which tests products for purity. This is because the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)Trusted Source does not evaluate the safety of multivitamin products before they become available for sale. This article explains why a person may need to take multivitamins, what ingredients they typically include, and some multivitamin brands to try. Males and females often benefit from differing vitamin and mineral types, quantities, and combinations. With this in mind, some pharmaceutical companies develop specific formulas of supplements, vitamins, shakes, and health bars to benefit either male or female biology. A person should discuss their options with a doctor or healthcare professional who can help them decide, and choose the product they feel works best for them and their needs. What are multivitamins? When a person talks about multivitamins, they may be referring to those that people typically take once daily. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH)Trusted Source, these multivitamins often include all the essential nutrients an individual needs daily. Experts have linked vitamin deficiencies to several chronic conditions, including: coronary heart disease cancer osteoporosis A 2017 studyTrusted Source states that vitamin D deficiency may lead to chronic disorders, such as bone metabolic disorder, tumors, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. The National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) notes that multivitamins may help reduce a person’s risk of developing eye disease and type 2 diabetes. However, it is important to note that the studies it references are around 15 years old. More recent studies do not confirm the benefits of taking multivitamins. For example, in a 2020 study, the researchers stated that although participants self-reported improvements in their health after using multivitamins, there were no measurable health changes. The authors conclude that the participants’ positive expectations and views on their health contributes to use of multivitamins.