We’re Listening
It’s November and we’ve started our end of year reflection early. And we need your help.
As we think about the future for Eve Was Framed, we’ve looking at the ways in which we can bring this information to you in the ways that make sense for you. We’d like your feedback through a one question poll that also has room for open ended feedback. Please take a minute or two to help us shape the future.
Thanks!
- Maggie Ruvoldt & Stephanie Majercik
The Tasting Menu
ADHD in Adult Women
RSV and the Vaccine 5 Facts
Libido - What Is It and Where Does It Come From?
ADHD in Adult Women
ADHD is a neurotypical disorder that is typically caught in early childhood – at least for boys. Because symptoms manifest differently in girls, an ADHD diagnosis is not usually received until adulthood. And these diagnoses are on the rise – from 2007-2016 research showed that adult ADHD diagnoses almost doubled. Most women don’t receive their ADHD diagnosis until their 30s or 40s.
There are different subtype symptoms of ADHD – hyperactivity and inattention. For those assigned female at birth, those symptoms can come through as:
Hyperactivity
Constant fidgeting
Restlessness or inability to sit still
Impatience
Difficulty restraining yourself during conversations (i.e. not thinking before you speak)
Inattention
Prone to losing or misplacing items
Problems getting focused
Absentmindedness or forgetfulness
Easily distracted
Undiagnosed ADHD can impact many aspects of daily life – making relationships challenging, causing poor performance at work or in school, it can also lead to emotional and mental challenges like loneliness or depression, and can also impact physical health.
The Attention Deficit Disorder Association recommends therapy and medication as the best form of treatment for ADHD. If you recognize some of these symptoms in yourself, we liked Healthline’s self-assessment as a starting point. It could be worth speaking with your therapist or other professional if you feel like these symptoms describe you.
RSV and the Vaccine 5 Facts
In September, the CDC recommended the first RSV vaccine for pregnant people aimed at protecting their newborn. Unfortunately, there are concerns about supply as we head into the season when the illness is on the rise. Here are 5 facts about RSV and the vaccine to keep you in the know.
RSV stands for Respiratory Syncytial Virus. It specifically targets the human respiratory system. It presents a significant health threat, especially to infants, the elderly and folks with underlying health conditions. It often leads to severe respiratory complications.
It’s to be taken very seriously. It has been linked to critical respiratory conditions such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia. Infants, in particular, frequently require hospitalization due to RSV infections, while the elderly may face life-threatening consequences.
There’s a vaccine. In May of 2023, the FDA approved the first RSV vaccine. It was approved for folks 60 years and older. In August, the CDC recommended it for infants with guidelines depending on age. In September, the CDC recommended the vaccine for pregnant people to protect their child after birth. There is an article in The Latest about the current supply concerns.
The symptoms are a complicated picture. While it often manifests as a common cold in healthy adults, it can lead to more severe respiratory symptoms in infants, such as coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. The elderly and individuals with weakened immune systems may also experience more pronounced symptoms. Recognizing this wide range of symptom severity is crucial in both diagnosing and addressing RSV infections effectively.
It can make some chronic conditions worse. Although there are no long term effects after recovering from RSV, it can make some chronic conditions worse like asthma, COPD and heart disease.
Libido - What Is It and Where Does It Come From?
In the mood
Sex drive
Turned on
Feeling frisky
Whatever you call it, it’s all tied to the same thing – libido.
The libido is a complex and multifaceted aspect of human sexuality. Understanding libido requires a holistic perspective.
Let’s start with biology. Hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, fluctuate throughout our menstrual cycle and can affect sexual desire. They also fluctuate at different times in our lives like perimenopause and postmenopause. Additionally, neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, which influence mood and arousal, can impact libido. Medical conditions, hormonal imbalances, or medications can affect the biological aspects of sexual desire.
The brain is an important organ in sexudal desire. Our psychological state and experiences can greatly influence libido. Stress, anxiety, depression, and body image concerns can all affect a woman's interest in sex. Conversely, positive emotions, emotional connection, and self-confidence can enhance it. Past experiences, traumas, or relationship dynamics can also play a significant role in shaping sexual desire.
Society and culture also play a vital role in shaping libido. Cultural norms, values, and expectations around sexuality can impact how we perceive our own desires. Taboos, stigmas, or unrealistic media portrayals can influence our comfort with our own sexuality and the expression of our desires.
Relationship Dynamics are a huge factor. The quality of our relationship with a partner can significantly affect libido. Trust, communication, emotional intimacy, and physical attraction are important elements in maintaining a healthy sexual desire within a relationship.
In essence, the libido is an intricate interplay of biological, psychological, social, and personal factors. It's not something that can be attributed to a single source or origin. Understanding and nurturing your sexual desire often involves a combination of self-awareness, open communication, and a supportive environment that addresses the various facets of sexuality. We loved this piece from VeryWellHealth for a deeper dive.
Medical Term of the Week
Our bodies are a complex set of organs, cells, muscles, tissues and more. Ever wonder how they communicate?
Well, one way is through neurotransmitters. These are the chemical messengers of the nervous system. They play a role in controlling everything from breathing to aging.
When activated by an electrical charge in a nerve cell, they move in the fluid space between our cells to carry the message along. They fit like a lock and key with a target cell. Pretty cool, if you ask us.
