Wellness Optimizing Warrior M.D.
Our healthcare system is run and dominated by Big Pharma and for-profit health insurance companies. No one is fighting for you! Getting great medical advice is expensive, and not enough professionals spend time educating their clients. Entering the healthcare system for anything can be a struggle. I want to fight for you and be your wellness warrior. Join me in creating a community that educates, empowers, and nourishes optimal wellness. Our healthcare system needs a revolution. We need change; we need better and easier access to a healthcare system that promotes wellness and is not fixated on disease and merely alleviating symptoms. Let’s take back our health and own it!
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096 - Independence Day Special: Becoming Independently Healthy
07/04/2025
096 - Independence Day Special: Becoming Independently Healthy
Many of us are familiar with the idea of being independently wealthy, but what does it mean to be independently healthy? Health independence is the ability to maintain your physical and mental wellbeing without relying on external support. If you want to be independently healthy, you need to eat well, exercise often, sleep soundly, and manage your stress. Having this knowledge is one thing, but using it is another. The reality is that 40% of Americans suffer from two or more chronic illnesses, and 3 out of 4 Americans are overweight or obese. It’s also much easier to be independently healthy when you’re young, whereas when we’re older we need more support. Your medical insurance company does not exist to help you be independently healthy. For many, an expensive plan can mean throwing money into a black hole, never to be seen again. You could instead invest in a less expensive plan and save extra on the side so that you have that additional cost if and when you need it. Your insurance likely won’t cover a lot of the preventative and proactive measures that keep you healthy like vitamins, hormone replacement therapy, and more. Your insurance will probably cover you for a significant medical event—like a heart attack—but waiting for the worst case scenario isn’t an ideal use for insurance money. The medical insurance industry tends to over promise and under deliver. I’m not saying to forgo any medical coverage at all, but I am highlighting the importance of considering your health costs and encouraging you to think about budgeting for your health care differently. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu
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095 - Beyond Statins: Holistic Cholesterol Management
06/27/2025
095 - Beyond Statins: Holistic Cholesterol Management
Today we’re continuing our conversation about cholesterol and debunking the myths around it. In their 50s, approximately 40-50% of men have some degree of coronary artery disease. This risk only increases as age advances. Poor food choices, sedentary lifestyle, and exposure to toxins also increases this risk. Half of men who experience a heart attack don’t even have any symptoms prior to this event. For the men who don’t make it through the heart attack, they will never get the chance to do anything about it. This highlights the importance of early detection of heart disease, especially in men. So, low cholesterol isn’t healthy, but neither is excessively high cholesterol. It’s time to start seeking support and get evaluated by your doctor. If you have high cholesterol, you will need to change your diet (low in saturated fats and high in vegetables, fiber, and protein). You also need to engage in regular activity. Statins are widely used to help manage cholesterol levels, however they come with a fair amount of side effects. The most commonly reported side effect is muscle pain and weakness. It can also lead to constipation, bloating, and liver damage. Statins may also cause dizziness and could increase the risk of rhabdomyolysis. If you want to improve your nutrition and lower your cholesterol, include more soluble fiber in your diet. Omega 3 fatty acids (found commonly in fish) offer heart-protective benefits. Vitamin B3 increases good cholesterol while lowering bad cholesterol, but this should be taken with supervision. COQ10 supports heart health and is especially helpful if you’re taking a statin. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu
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094 - The Cholesterol Secret: Essential Building Block for Your Well-Being
06/20/2025
094 - The Cholesterol Secret: Essential Building Block for Your Well-Being
We all have men in our life that we care about, and it’s important to keep their health at the top of our mind. One factor that can greatly impact men’s health is his cholesterol, however the way cholesterol works is greatly misunderstood. In this episode we’re debunking cholesterol myths and shedding light on what matters when it comes to cholesterol and men’s health. 70% of heart attacks are first time events, which means those who have one never knew they had heart disease in the first place. If you experience a heart attack, it’s really important to make diet and lifestyle changes. You will likely also be given medications by your doctor to help manage your heart health. But here’s what you need to know: cholesterol is not the enemy. It’s actually an important molecule that serves many vital functions. It helps maintain the integrity of your cell membranes, plus supports hormone production (estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, cortisol, and more), and many of these hormones are vital to men’s optimal health. Without cholesterol, you can become deficient in vitamin D. Cholesterol turns into vitamin D when we’re exposed to sunlight, and this vitamin is very important for maintaining bone health. Cholesterol is also needed to produce bile acids which help digest and absorb dietary fats in the digestive system. A lack of cholesterol, specifically due to malabsorption, has been linked to neurodegenerative diseases like dementia. It’s indispensable for brain health and cognitive function. This doesn’t mean high cholesterol is the answer. When it comes to your levels, balance is key. You deserve a doctor who can take the time to guide you through balancing your cholesterol holistically. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu
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093 - Beyond Testosterone: Uncovering the Real Threats to Men's Cardiovascular Health
06/13/2025
093 - Beyond Testosterone: Uncovering the Real Threats to Men's Cardiovascular Health
This month we’re taking a few episodes to explore things to keep top of mind for men’s health. Even if you’re not a man yourself, the men in your life may have some unique needs and health issues you’ll want to know about. In the United States, heart attacks kill about 325,000 men per year. So, why are men so prone to heart disease? It can develop due to a combination of lifestyle, genetic, and environmental factors. A sedentary lifestyle contributes to high blood pressure and an unfavorable lipid profile, among other things. Heavy drinking can also weaken the heart muscle and impair its ability to function effectively. Many people believe vaping and smoking helps with stress, when in reality the damage it does to your body adds to your physical stress and further strains the heart. High cholesterol can lead to the buildup of plaque, which can narrow arteries and reduce the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the heart. While sometimes shrugged off as “normal,” sleep apnea can contribute to high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. Repeated episodes can damage your blood vessels and decrease your vascular health. Low testosterone can also contribute to heart disease through various mechanisms. The symptoms of heart disease in men vary greatly, but the most common are chest pain and discomfort (angina) and shortness of breath. You may experience pain in your neck, chest, or arm accompanied by fatigue, dizziness, or light-headedness. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, don’t push them aside—call for help immediately. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu
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092 - Demystifying Health Coverage: What Your Monthly Insurance Premium Actually Buys You
06/06/2025
092 - Demystifying Health Coverage: What Your Monthly Insurance Premium Actually Buys You
We’re continuing our conversation about insurance coverage today, specifically how it impacts your access to wellness procedures and therapies. All insurance companies are positioned in a particularly advantageous position. People tend to have unrealistic expectations about what they’re being offered, and this usually comes to light when they get denied. Oftentimes, insurance is a lose-win situation, and only becomes a win-win for you when something unfortunate happens and you need high-cost medical care. Each medical insurance company has their own version of a formulary, which is an approved list of cheapest medications they are willing to pay for—only with proven medical necessity. Our bodies are complex machines, and issues can arise even when you’re seemingly in good health. Doing what it takes to maintain your health can give you the additional support you might need and wish you’d had when illness strikes. If you value your health, you must pay attention to what you eat, how you exercise, and the nutrients you provide yourself with. Many men and women fail to value their health and demand other people—like their doctors or their insurance company—to carry the responsibility for it. But in reality, we should call health insurance “medical insurance,” because that’s what it actually is. Your insurance is designed to help you get back to baseline, but not to restore optimal health. Remember when visiting your doctor that they do not know the specifics of your insurance plan. It is your responsibility to understand your insurance plan and what is actually covered. No matter your budget looks like, your medical professionals should be able to provide some options to help you move forward. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu
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091 - Why Your Vitamins Aren't Covered by Insurance
05/30/2025
091 - Why Your Vitamins Aren't Covered by Insurance
In this episode we’re discussing vitamins and what insurance coverage looks like for them. IV vitamin therapy is beneficial to your health for so many reasons, but some types may be covered and some may not. Additionally, hospitals also have very specific policies and protocols about what they will offer, and typically they do not offer IV vitamin therapy. Hospitals often cite a lack of scientific evidence for IV vitamin therapy. Yet the truth is that there is actually more scientific support for the vitamins administered during IV therapy than there is for any drug administered in any hospital. Vitamins support healthy immune function, normal cell function, and DNA synthesis. Drugs are not designed to do this. Drugs can alter and destroy DNA, but only the vitamins, nutrients, and hormones we have support healing. Insurance companies look at vitamins as not medically necessary, yet many hospitalized patients are too sick to eat and therefore do need this nutritional support. I often get asked if vitamins are covered by health insurance, and the answer is always no. Vitamins are considered dietary aids, which puts them outside of the realm of medical interventions. If you’re interested in IV vitamin therapy, you’re best off seeking it out at a clinic that supports their patients through additional measures outside of traditional western medicine. Patients in our clinic always go through a consultation process, and as a part of this process, they are asked to bring in their vitamins. Once we review their blood test results, we personalize their vitamin packs based on what they actually need. IV vitamin therapy can play an extremely important role in reaching your optimal health. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu
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090 - Recharge and Rejuvenate: The Essential Guide to IV Vitamins and Amino Acids
05/23/2025
090 - Recharge and Rejuvenate: The Essential Guide to IV Vitamins and Amino Acids
Today we’re continuing our discussion about IV vitamin therapy, especially regarding how administering vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, and amino acids through IV can be beneficial for you. Vitamin C supports a healthy immune system, and injectable forms provide a rapid increase. If you feel exhausted or stressed, whether from life changes, travelling, or everyday stresses, a vitamin C administration through IV can help protect you from getting sick. It can also reduce damage and stress to tissues. Vitamin C is also essential for collagen production and plays an important role in healing. And thanks to this collagen benefit, it can also support healthy looking skin. High-dose vitamin C injections can also be used as a complementary therapy to cancer treatments. It also reduces fatigue, which can be particularly beneficial for those with chronic fatigue syndrome. Calcium isn’t commonly given intravenously, but it is important in specific situations—for example, during a blood transfusion or for electrolyte support in acute situations. Magnesium is important for key functions like energy function, nerve transmission, and muscle contraction. It is often recommended as part of restorative IV plans, especially for those who struggle to absorb magnesium. ALA, or alpha-lipoic acid, is an antioxidant that neutralizes free radical damage and helps with blood sugar regulation. It supports healthy cognition and may slow down the effect of aging. Amino acids, the building blocks of protein, can also be given intravenously. They are essential for nutrient absorption, tissue growth, and so many other crucial processes of the body. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu
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089 - Amazing Benefits of B Vitamins with IV Therapy
05/18/2025
089 - Amazing Benefits of B Vitamins with IV Therapy
Let’s dig deeper into IV vitamin therapy. Specifically, we’re exploring how to administer vitamin therapy and going further in depth with the vitamins themselves. Generally, IV vitamin therapy lasts about 60 minutes, especially if you are getting more than a few vitamins at once. Rushing your infusion is probably not a good thing. Even if you’re eager to save time, it’s much better to dilute the vitamins appropriately and give them time to be administered. The amount of times per month you’ll need an infusion depends on your individual needs and goals. Vitamins are either water soluble (like vitamin C and B) or fat soluble (like vitamin A and D). Water soluble vitamins are not stored in the body, so they must be consumed regularly as part of your diet. Fat soluble vitamins can be banked, stored, and utilized by the body as needed. B vitamins are crucial for a healthy functioning body. B1, thiamine, is important for energy production and nerve function. B12, or riboflavin, supports energy production, too, and also plays an important role in metabolism. B3 is also called niacin, and this helps with DNA repair and promotes healthy skin. Vitamin B5, or pantothenic acid, helps convert food into energy and supports healthy hormone production. Vitamin B6, also called pyridoxine, helps regulate the production of hemoglobin and plays a crucial role in fighting infections. B7, biotin, supports healthy hair and clear skin. It also supports nerve communication and function. B8, or inositol, supports cellular health and integrity. B9, or folate, is absolutely essential in creating new DNA and repairing existing DNA. Lastly, B12, or cobalamin, is important for red blood cell formation and cell division. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu
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088 - Revitalize Your Body: The Power of IV Vitamin Therapy
05/10/2025
088 - Revitalize Your Body: The Power of IV Vitamin Therapy
Although IV vitamin therapy is far from mainstream, it’s a great alternative therapy for many reasons. There are many hours that doctors and healthcare professionals have to put into self-education about IV vitamin therapy before they can be comfortable offering it. As a restorative anti-aging practitioner, I believe in allowing the body to heal by providing it the nutrients it needs. IV vitamin therapy allows for the administration of vitamins and minerals directly into the bloodstream. This method of delivery allows for immediate 100% availability to your cells. This is especially helpful for those who suffer from severe nutrient deficiencies, especially if they cannot take them orally. This includes those who suffer with malabsorption syndromes. If you’ve had a gastric bypass or gastric sleeve, or have used antibiotics for a long time, you may also have nutrient deficiencies that can be addressed with IV vitamin therapy. IV vitamin administration can also improve quality of life in cancer patients, while reducing the side effects of their treatments. Specifically, high doses of vitamin C seem to work well to keep cancer cells in check. Our immune systems also need certain vitamins and minerals to operate optimally, especially those in cancer treatment. IV fluids can also be used to hydrate patients effectively. This allows yet another application of IV therapy in a variety of serious situations. In fact, this plays a part in what launched IV therapy into the wellness industry: hangover clinics. Hopefully, sometime in the future, IV vitamin therapy will be more widely offered in the health and wellness industry. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu
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087 - NAD: The Secret Miracle Molecule Behind Health and Vitality
05/03/2025
087 - NAD: The Secret Miracle Molecule Behind Health and Vitality
In this episode we’re discussing how the body works and why nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, or NAD, might be a miracle molecule. You may have heard of NAD before and be aware that it has benefits, but feel unclear about what those actually are. By the end of this episode, you’ll feel confident in discussing this topic. The human body is very complex—we have about 78 organs that keep us alive. The brain has 86 billion nerve cells, and then our bodies produce 50 hormones and thousands of enzymes crucial for various processes. But what would it look like to replenish a universal essential molecule to optimal levels? That’s where NAD comes in. If we can naturally or artificially improve NAD levels, it is possible we can improve health, wellness, and even lifespan. It’s primarily known in substance abuse and addiction recovery, having been used to help minimize cravings. It can also help with neurodegenerative diseases and cognitive decline. Due to NAD’s ability to speed up metabolism, it can also be used to help chronic fatigue. NAD can be made in the body from scratch using tryptophan. There is another pathway using niacin, as well as a third pathway—called the salvage pathway—which is the most efficient. Lifestyle changes and supplementing with substrates can also help increase natural production of NAD. It can also be injected into the body, but each type (IV, intramuscular, and subcutaneously) has their own benefits and downsides. An adequate dose of highly bioavailable NAD can have significant impacts on your cellular function, helping you feel less tired and sharper cognitively. It can also improve your mood. That said, NAD is relatively new in the supplement space, so you may be choosing a manufacturer with a lot of unknowns. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu
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086 - WarmSculpting Tech to Shape Your Body for Ageless Beauty and Confidence
04/25/2025
086 - WarmSculpting Tech to Shape Your Body for Ageless Beauty and Confidence
Today we’re talking about WarmScuplting platforms as a non-invasive option for reducing fat cells. Using it in my practice, we use laser-generated heat that destroys fat cells in 25-minute treatment sessions. It is also highly customizable, and the treatment is designed to keep your skin cool. There is another type of treatment that uses radiofrequency (RF), and this is also non-invasive. One specific option, called TempSure, uses an applicator to apply RF deep into the skin. However, it doesn’t destroy fat cells. Rather, its primary use is reducing the appearance of cellulite and tightening the skin. You may have heard of a body contouring procedure called Vanquish. It uses heat at a specific temperature and length of time. The device emits energy that heats the skin and underlying fat, but it does not touch your body. With Vanquish, you do need more treatments (six or more) to achieve desired results). What about radiofrequency microneedling? Morpheus8 uses this combination to mainly remodel your skin through micro injuries that promote collagen and elastin production. It is imperative to take good care of your skin post-procedure, due to the needle puncture wounds. Of all the options available, EmSculpt Neo is the most unique It utilizes HIFEM energy, and it can be used almost anywhere on the body. It can accomplish three things at once: destroying fat, growing and strengthening muscle, and tightening skin. It’s not just a body contouring device—its regenerative features make it an excellent option to explore. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu
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085 - Body Sculpting Truths Unveiled: Comparing WarmSculpting and CoolSculpting
04/18/2025
085 - Body Sculpting Truths Unveiled: Comparing WarmSculpting and CoolSculpting
Today we’re diving into more specific surgery-free options for achieving fat removal results: WarmSculpting (also known as SculpSure) and CoolSculpting. Both of these target pockets of fat using extreme temperatures to get rid of them permanently. The first time I tried CoolSculpting, I wasn’t sold on it, so I had decided not to bring it into my practice. But later, when the MonaLisa Touch came out, I had a completely different experience. I had no discomfort, no lumps, and 2-3 weeks later I noticed the fat on my belly shrinking. Convinced of the effectiveness and ease of procedure, I would then use it for the next decade for my patients. CoolSculpting has some significant downsides to be aware of. There can be redness, swelling, bruising. The biggest problem you need to know about is skin damage, including a possible loss of sensation for 6 months (and even permanently in some cases). WarmSculpting also comes with its share of risks, but generally it is safer than CoolSculpting. Where CoolSculpting can leave an uneven appearance, this is a non-issue with WarmSculpting technology. When you use heat to destroy fat, there is always a cold counteractive mechanism to protect the skin. Paradoxical adipose hyperplasia is a serious complication of CoolSculpting. This happens when the fat cells you try to destroy actually increase in size and firm up. There are a few people whose fat cells react like this too cool sculpting specifically, and it can be disfiguring. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu
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084 - Modern Technology vs Liposuction: Unveiling the Future of Body Shaping
04/11/2025
084 - Modern Technology vs Liposuction: Unveiling the Future of Body Shaping
Today we’re exploring body contouring, including what exactly it is, the pros and cons, and the various ways you can achieve it. The first thing you need to know is that body contouring is not at all similar to weight loss. The goal, more specifically, is to change the shape of your body, not necessarily the number on the scale. The best candidates for this type of treatment are those dealing with stubborn pockets of fat that seem to be resistant to weight loss. These areas are usually around the stomach, hips, and upper arms, and it more commonly bothers women than men. As a woman, it’s important to understand the risks and benefits to body contouring and other options like liposuction so you can make an informed decision on whether or not they are right for you. While liposuction can offer quick results, that’s not always a good thing, and it can be very expensive as well. Body contouring is less expensive, and there is much less recovery time. Liposuction is invasive; it’s considered a major surgery and does come with a risk of infection. There’s also a risk of nerve damage, rippling, and loose skin. If you want no pain, no down time, and no risks, body contouring technology is a better option, even if it takes a little longer to get the results you want. Body contouring devices destroy fat cells by exposing them to either too much heat or too much cold, and the results aren’t temporary. Once the cells are destroyed, they are gone for good. Just remember that the key is maintaining a healthy relationship with food and exercise if you really want your body contentment to last. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu
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083 - Mastering Aesthetic Transformations: Fillers, Trends, and Your Beauty Plan with Meghan Morrissette
04/04/2025
083 - Mastering Aesthetic Transformations: Fillers, Trends, and Your Beauty Plan with Meghan Morrissette
In today’s episode we’re welcoming Meghan Morrissette as a guest. Meghan is a dedicated aesthetics nurse of 15 years, and she’s here to share her knowledge on filler injections and more. She specializes in facial balancing and contouring with injectables. It takes a lot of skill, experience, exposure, and an artistic eye to master the craft of injecting filler. You always want to focus on enhancing someone’s natural features in a way that’s subtle and undetectable. Many women begin losing the youthful volume in their face in their mid-thirties. If you don’t recognize the woman you see in the mirror and you are ready to do something about it, scheduling an assessment is the first place to start. A curated treatment plan that includes lasers and fillers can go a long way in improving skin texture, pigmentation, and face balance. While filler can result in light bruising and swelling, there is typically very little downtime involved. One of the issues that can arise with filler—especially if you don’t choose the right provider—is overfilling. As a provider, Meghan knows how important it is to say “no” to maintain her honesty and integrity. There are a lot of different applications for both filler and Botox. Botox can reduce lines and give the skin a smoother look. Filler can be added in different parts of the face and body, including the lips, hands, buttocks, and more. No matter which you use, you should do an assessment first and the outcome should always look natural. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu
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082 - No More Secrets! Everything You Should Know About VAGINAL REJUVENATION LASERS
03/28/2025
082 - No More Secrets! Everything You Should Know About VAGINAL REJUVENATION LASERS
Today we’re discussing vaginal laser technology in detail and which options should be considered for best results. The MonaLisa Touch was the first vaginal laser technology introduced in the US—but previously, the same technology has been used for fine lines and wrinkles. The purchase of any laser for a woman’s intimate wellness isn’t a decision to be taken lightly. Your medical professional should always refer to what the research and studies have said, not what the sales rep is telling them. Still, investing in new technologies for vaginal wellness was a no-brainer for me as a doctor who cares about bringing the best possible tools to the women’s wellness space. The MonaLisa Touch was designed to treat vaginal atrophy that occurs with aging. It can also be used for vaginal infections or even surface issues like marks and scarring. It has even been used for interstitial cystitis to reduce the frequency and urgency of bladder pain. There is another treatment called Viveve that can be used for vaginal wellness. This treatment uses cryogen-cooled monopolar radiofrequency (CMRF) energy, and by employing two different technologies, it can penetrate energy deeper. This can help with vaginal laxity through the stimulation of collagen production. You can also microneedle the vagina. Despite the name, this treatment is not painful. Morpheus8 V is a non-invasive treatment that uses both microneedling with radiofrequency energy to improve vaginal health, tighten tissue, and encourage collagen production. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu
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081 - The Future of Optimizing Intimacy for Women: Laser Technology Can Be a Safe and Effective Solution!
03/21/2025
081 - The Future of Optimizing Intimacy for Women: Laser Technology Can Be a Safe and Effective Solution!
The most recent breakthrough launched in the last decade for vaginal health improvement has been laser technology. This new approach comes from an emphasis on looking for ways to promote health and healing (as opposed to destroying disease). There is a demand for safe treatment for serious medical conditions that cause vaginal discomfort and pain. Generally, our medical system has fallen short of meeting women’s sexual health and wellbeing needs. The friction that occurs during intercourse can be intolerable and downright painful if a woman is struggling with sensitive tissues and decreased lubrication. Women experiencing fibroids, adenomyosis, and other estrogen sensitive conditions (like an estrogen sensitive cancer) aren’t able to utilize the benefits of estrogen therapy. Laser therapy gives these women another option to explore. The cosmetic industry has been using lasers in various applications for a long time. While some laser therapies delivered to other areas, like the face for example, can be harsh, the only way to treat the vagina with lasers is to use a gentle approach. Keep in mind that this treatment isn’t available everywhere, as it can come with certain risks for the medical professionals offering it. We need to change the idea that a woman’s vaginal wellness is purely related to sex. The truth is that vaginal health is interconnected with other health systems (the urinary system, quite closely, for instance). Check in with your healthcare professionals, especially if you’re experiencing a loss of elasticity, atrophy, or other changes to your vaginal area so you can be proactive in addressing it. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu
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080 - What Your Doctor Won’t Tell You: Treating Painful Sex Caused by Endometriosis With Testosterone
03/14/2025
080 - What Your Doctor Won’t Tell You: Treating Painful Sex Caused by Endometriosis With Testosterone
Endometriosis can make intimacy difficult for women to enjoy—and that’s not just for young women, but women of all ages. Endometriosis is when the uterine lining (the endometrium) grows outside the uterus. The cause of this is unknown, however it causes inflammation, scarring, and pain. Research regarding treatment is severely lacking when it comes to this condition, in part because it is not considered a life-threatening illness. Another reason is that the potential for money-making is limited. That said, it does highly impact a woman’s quality of life and her experiences, and therefore deserves more attention than it’s gotten. Endometriosis is also difficult to diagnose as this requires surgery under anesthesia. The approach by conventional medicine in terms of treatment is offering medication that drastically decreases estrogen, for example birth control pills. It can help with some symptoms, but it doesn’t reduce pain during intercourse and can come with some side effects. Testosterone inhibits the growth of endometrial cells in-vitro, so there is some research to support that testosterone therapy can counteract the overactive growth of uterine lining associated with endometriosis. Testosterone isn’t recommended as a first line therapy for women with this condition, but it should be. The key with testosterone therapy is using bioidentical hormones. Synthetic testosterone products can come with significant side effects like facial hair growth, voice changes, and acne. Women and health care providers need to educate themselves on the benefits of testosterone for endometriosis and the best way to use it. Regardless of their condition, women deserve to enjoy intimacy just as much as men. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu
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079 - Overcoming Painful Sex and Modern, Safe, Effective Solutions Your OB/GYN Will Not Tell You About
03/07/2025
079 - Overcoming Painful Sex and Modern, Safe, Effective Solutions Your OB/GYN Will Not Tell You About
There are two conditions that can impact a woman’s sexual wellness regardless of their age: vulvodynia and vaginismus. These conditions can be painful and limit a woman’s desire for intimacy—all while they suffer in silence. This is why it’s so important to open up a conversation about these conditions and the options available for treatment. Vulvodynia is a disturbance at the nerve endings of a woman’s delicate tissues. It can feel sensitive even when a woman sits down, rides a bike, or engages in other activities. It’s easy to diagnose, and there are various options for treatment that dampen the excessive pain response of this issue. There are laser platforms and technologies that can also be applied for women’s intimacy needs, offering support where conventional medicine fails to provide relief. The application of energy to tissues can rewire and reset nerve endings, helping relieve pain. Vaginismus affects many women both younger and older. Yet, so many who are diagnosed with this condition have no idea what it is or how they’ve developed it. It happens when pelvic floor muscles suffer involuntary contractions, which narrows the vaginal canal and can make initiating intimacy difficult and unenjoyable. Pelvic floor therapy and relaxation techniques can be effective in supporting vaginismus, especially when the root cause has been resolved. If pain during intercourse is not addressed early on, a woman may begin to associate intimacy with her partner with pain. This experience of anticipating pain can make the condition even more difficult to deal with, and eventually she may avoid intimacy altogether. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu
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078 - The Hidden Truths of Perimenopausal Sexuality - Part 2
02/28/2025
078 - The Hidden Truths of Perimenopausal Sexuality - Part 2
In this episode, we’re continuing our discussion about sexual wellness during perimenopause. This stage of life can be extremely difficult for women who are sensitive to changes in mood. They may look to outside sources to alleviate this stress. For example: sweet and salty foods or alcohol. This stress, and the weight gain that comes with it, makes a woman feel anything but sexual. Stress is the enemy of intimacy and fertility, which can be disruptive to women who desire a healthy sexual relationship with their partner and those who want to have kids later in life. For women, as we age, it gets even more difficult to maintain our weight. It can even feel impossible to lose weight during perimenopause and beyond. A decline in testosterone levels is part of the reason behind this, as it’s an important hormone when it comes to building and maintaining muscle. Early intervention is critical in combating weight gain issues and the other issues that accompany perimenopause. A simple blood draw can provide lots of insight into hormone levels, but a deeper blood evaluation is more reliable and provides even greater information. This depth of care isn’t easy to find unless you seek out a doctor who appreciates more holistic methods. As a woman, it’s important to understand that testosterone is your feel-good hormone. It’s the hormone that keeps you feeling lean, fit, and sexy. It can also help boost mood and can help with mood issues like PMDD and depression. Testosterone replacement can support significant improvement with certain hormonal-based problems, but knowing which type to use is key. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu
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077 - The Hidden Truths of Perimenopausal Sexuality - Part 1
02/21/2025
077 - The Hidden Truths of Perimenopausal Sexuality - Part 1
How can women find optimal intimacy in all stages of life, including during perimenopause? Most women experience perimenopause around their early forties, and a woman’s body goes through a lot of changes at this time, some of which greatly impact their desire to be intimate with their partners. Taking steps early on is a woman’s best tool for navigating these changes. However, it’s important to note that the solutions for a woman in menopause are not the same as those experiencing perimenopause. While there is a decline in estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone, there is not a complete loss of estrogen. During perimenopause, it’s not abnormal for women to act out of character or behave differently than normal. This may be due in part because estrogen is an agitating hormone—and fluctuations can have a significant impact on a woman’s life. If you’re a woman who’s been feeling especially anxious, angry, and frustrated, having sex is going to be at the bottom of your priority list. You may also feel like your partner is the enemy as your body deals with these intense hormonal ups and downs. At the same time, you may also feel an increased craving for sweet and salty foods. As if dealing with these changes weren’t difficult enough, changes to hormones and diet can also influence insulin resistance and weight gain, which may lead you to feel even less sexy. If you haven’t been through perimenopause yet, remember it’s something all women have to go through. Be proactive in your approach to these changes if you want to be prepared. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu
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076 - Sexual Wellness and The Key to Revitalizing Intimacy for Women After Menopause
02/14/2025
076 - Sexual Wellness and The Key to Revitalizing Intimacy for Women After Menopause
If you’re a woman who struggles with pain and discomfort during intimacy, you’re not alone. There are a multitude of conditions that limit women in terms of intimacy, and they suffer in silence. In this episode, we’re diving into this topic and sharing possible solutions. As women age and go through menopause, they experience significant shifts in their hormones. These shifts, such as the loss of estrogen, can lead to vaginal dryness and other issues of sexual dysfunction. The good news is that estrogen deficiency is easily addressed through a cream or vaginal insert. Once a woman loses her estrogen, it does not come back. This is important to note for women looking to balance their hormones when balance is no longer an option. Once the ovaries have run out of eggs, we have to deal with the reality of final estrogen loss in women and the difficult symptoms that come along with this change. Most women will need to try various hormone replacement methods until they find the perfect one for them. There’s no reason to fear it either. Any concern about the relationship between estrogen replacement and cancer is unfounded—cancer rates naturally rise as we get older no matter what. If you want to restore intimacy, there is help out there. Estrogen replacement is worth trying, even if you’ve tried it before and the method you used didn’t work for you. You should feel encouraged to try a different method of delivery with a doctor who is well versed in hormone replacement therapy. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu
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075 - Doctors vs. Corporations The Fight to Redefine Patient Care Part 2
02/07/2025
075 - Doctors vs. Corporations The Fight to Redefine Patient Care Part 2
We’re continuing our conversation about concierge medical practices this week. There were a few reasons I decided to go with a membership practice; the first one being financial survival. Our healthcare system has been compromised, and something has to change. Doctors have almost no choice but to go cash and stop accepting insurance or go concierge to survive. The membership fee isn’t put in place for profit, it’s there for necessity. In an insurance-driven healthcare market, medical providers are penalized if they decide to spend a longer amount of time with patients. Providers are compensated more greatly if they see four patients over one hour, rather than seeing one patient for that full hour. This is just one example of how the healthcare industry is driven by greed. You may have visited medical offices where the practice hasn’t invested in growing their team or adding the latest supportive technology. These are two things we do invest in to make our services the best they can be. We have even made it possible for our patients to text us so they can reach us more easily. It’s additions like this that make it easy for patients to choose to pay the membership fee. We focus on education, but this takes an investment in training and equipping our staff with the information they need. Ultimately, only you can decide if a membership practice is right for you. If you value your health, it may be worth it to you. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu
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074 - Doctors vs. Corporations: The Fight to Redefine Patient Care Part 1
01/31/2025
074 - Doctors vs. Corporations: The Fight to Redefine Patient Care Part 1
Do you know what the benefits of a concierge medical practice are? There are a few to cover for both doctors and patients. In today's economy, our purchasing power has been reduced. So, everyone wants to know: is a medical practice membership really worth it? The simple answer is that if you can get the same services—quantity and quality—from someone else who does not require a membership, it’s not a good deal. But all medical practices are unique and will provide their own specific services. It really depends on the quality of service and the type of services you need. Many medical practices must go concierge to keep their doors open. If you feel frustrated about not being able to afford the care you want, consider the root cause. It’s not the doctor’s fault. Behind the curtain, doctors themselves have very little options unless they want to be at the mercy of the insurance companies. The vision for my practice has been in the works for a very long time. For 12 years, I have been building and developing my team, technology, and services while making minimal profit. I would love to be able to help my patients out of the goodness of my heart, but that’s not feasible if I want to continue helping clients achieve hormone optimization while restoring their highest level of health. I love my job, my team, my patients, and all that we can do for them. It’s worth more than money, and it makes it easy to get out of bed in the morning. If you take anything from this episode, remember that in most cases, your doctor and their team are truly there to help you. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu
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10 Essential Anti-Aging Markers Your Annual Wellness Check Should Include - Part 2
01/24/2025
10 Essential Anti-Aging Markers Your Annual Wellness Check Should Include - Part 2
Let’s get back into part two of our discussion about valuable markers to look for when it comes to anti-aging. In the first episode, we covered markers such as a cardiovascular assessment, body composition, and cancer screenings. Both men and women should be undergoing regular colonoscopies to screen for cancer. If possible, opt for a whole-body MRI to screen for various cancers—many can be caught before they become symptomatic. There are also blood tests that can help test for cancers in the very early stages. A bone density evaluation is also important when it comes to aging. This scan should be done as a baseline when you are 50. By testing early, you can identify your level of risk for problems down the road. For women specifically, it’s very important to do regular mammograms and annual pap tests. Men should be doing regular prostate checks. The importance of vision and hearing testing is often overlooked, but it should also be considered as a marker of health as you age. Of course, you will have to seek an outside provider (like an ophthalmologist and a hearing specialist) to complete these exams. You may also need to seek out blood testing in separate facilities too. This all can add additional time and effort to getting a comprehensive view of your health, which is why there aren’t many people over 50 who seek out a full view of their anti-aging markers. In our wellness exams, we take our time to cover all of the important aspects of aging. It is crucial at this age to have health professionals on your side who are committed to walking the journey with you. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu
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10 Essential Anti-Aging Markers Your Annual Wellness Check Should Include - Part 1
01/17/2025
10 Essential Anti-Aging Markers Your Annual Wellness Check Should Include - Part 1
What are the most valuable things to focus on when making an anti-aging plan with your doctor? In this episode we’re discussing just that. Everyone’s body changes over time, but you can make aging easier if you get support sooner rather than later. Over time, you may start to notice your energy levels decline—and perhaps you are softer in areas than you were before. Weight loss or even maintaining your weight becomes more difficult as we age, and your mood may also change too. Some of these changes are subtle, but they are bound to happen as a part of aging. The most important part of your anti-aging wellness exam is the time spent assessing your current state of health. This should be a thorough interview that covers every system in the body. A comprehensive blood test should be ordered, even if you have zero signs and symptoms or generally feel great. Your doctor should also do an in-depth cardiovascular assessment. The reality is there aren’t always signs and symptoms when you have a heart problem. Heart disease gives no warning, which is why preventative care of your cardiovascular health is essential. A cancer screening is also crucial—the statistics show that digestive cancers and respiratory cancers are the most dangerous as we age. Abdominal visceral fat is also a key marker for wellness as we age. Your metabolic health is important too, so make healthy choices when it comes to what you include in your diet. In the next episode, I’ll share even more anti-aging markers to prioritize with your health professionals. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu
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The Invisible Chains: 10 Ways Stress Silently Destroys Your Health
01/10/2025
The Invisible Chains: 10 Ways Stress Silently Destroys Your Health
Chronic stress is recognized as a major stress of disability and mortality worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, stress is a state of worry or mental tension caused by a difficult situation. Stress is a natural response, and it prompts us to take action under certain circumstances. However, when stress becomes chronic, it can be very damaging to our health. Chronic stress is associated with many different health consequences. What you do, what you think, and how you feel when you’re stressed matters—and it greatly impacts your body. If you want to live a long life, you have to be able to manage stress when it comes up. If you’re stressed for a long time, cortisol will be released for a prolonged duration. This can lead to adrenal dysfunction, which means your body is releasing too much cortisol or not enough. Chronic stress can also lead to maladaptive coping, for example drinking alcohol. This will negatively impact your liver, hormones, and more. Stress zaps your energy, and it can make you feel fatigued no matter how much rest you get. It also damages and weakens your immune system, leaving you prone to illness and infections. Long-term stress damages your gut lining, resulting in a cascade of symptoms that can heavily impact your gut health, and it could even lead to autoimmunity. Stress hurts your sleep, which keeps your body and brain from recharging when it needs it most. Chronic stress plays a significant role in the onset of serious psychiatric conditions. It can also accelerate aging. Make time for family, friends, fun, and physical activity regularly to ease your stress levels and stay healthy. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu
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How to Prepare for Menopause: Strategies and Survival Tips Your Doctor Won’t Tell You - Part 2
12/27/2024
How to Prepare for Menopause: Strategies and Survival Tips Your Doctor Won’t Tell You - Part 2
Let’s continue our deep discussion on preparing for menopause. In part one, we talked about the changes you can expect in perimenopause and menopause, and explored the importance of awareness around this hormonal shift. In this episode, we’re exploring specific ways you can support this transition. If you want to improve your experience going through perimenopause and menopause, you should first consider how you feel about hormones. If you think you’d like to explore hormone replacement therapy, you’ll want to align yourself with a doctor who has expertise in that area. It’s important to remember that a loss of hormones has a significant effect on your body, whether that loss brings you to an average rate or not. Just because you still have expected rates of hormones present doesn’t necessarily mean you’re producing the optimal amounts for you. Estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone are not dangerous. They do not suddenly cause cancer after you turn a certain age. The naysayers are usually missing out on crucial information, leaving them considerably misinformed. Hormones administered at the correct dosage and with the proper consideration for hormonal balance are perfectly safe. So, what’s the magic hormone for menopause? Testosterone can do wonders for your mood, energy, and sex life. There are different methods you can try, and if you give it some time to get your dosing right, you could get a boost that makes you feel like you’re decades younger. Menopause can look however you want it to. The choice is yours. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu
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How to Prepare for Menopause: Strategies and Survival Tips Your Doctor Won’t Tell You - Part 1
12/20/2024
How to Prepare for Menopause: Strategies and Survival Tips Your Doctor Won’t Tell You - Part 1
Is there such a thing as preparing for menopause? This is a topic not many people are discussing, but they should be. Menopause impacts women, but that impact will also have an effect on the other people in their lives, like their partner and children. Many women struggle with procrastination when it comes to prioritizing themselves. However, the best thing we can do for ourselves is prepare for menopause early on so we can have the tools to make this transition easier. The first thing you need to prepare for menopause adequately is awareness. Ignoring it won’t make it go away. Perimenopause is the transition into menopause, and it can last anywhere from two to ten years. This is when hormones decline, and so does egg quality as well as egg quantity. All women should know this, especially those in their 30s who still desire to have children. The more eggs you have, the longer you will produce natural progesterone and estrogen. Understanding and knowing what is happening in your body is crucial for a smooth navigation through this time in your life. Perimenopause brings a lot of hormonal fluctuations, and therefore a lot of ups and downs. There will be changes to your metabolic rate, desire for intimacy, and more. The changes in hormones can also alter the way you react to stress. In fact, one might see a possible correlation between hormonal changes in men and women and the breakdown of marriages when a couple reaches their 40s or 50s. Hormone therapy can help couples deal with some of these issues and symptoms, but lifestyle changes that support a healthy, balanced body should be the first priority. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu
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Wellness Exam, Heart Health and Key Longevity Predictors in Your 40s - Part 2
12/13/2024
Wellness Exam, Heart Health and Key Longevity Predictors in Your 40s - Part 2
In this episode, we’re continuing our conversation about wellness checks in your 40s. Last time we discussed weight, height, body mass composition, and cardiovascular health. Blood pressure, specifically hypertension, is a silent killer and is another very important aspect of your health that you should know about. Most doctor’s visits are brief. They spend about 15 minutes with you, and they may order some simple blood tests—but they don’t often invest in your longer health journey. Comprehensive wellness checks should include an in-depth analysis of all the important markers. Keep this in mind if you’re choosing a new doctor in your 40s. Men are experiencing a low testosterone epidemic, and this is regardless of age. This is something that men in their 40s should address with their doctor. For women in their 40s, it’s common to experience perimenopause, a stage in which estrogen and progesterone production declines. Women should be able to share details of their cycle to their doctor during a visit. If you’re overweight or obese, you’ll want to have your doctor check your fasting insulin and fasting glucose. Insulin resistance is the beginning of diabetes, and if you catch this during the pre-diabetes phase, it is reversible. Cortisol isn’t that important to look at in your 40s unless you’re concerned about adrenal dysfunction. Many cancers manifest at this stage in life, making this a good time to be diligent and check your family history for cancer. Focus on your essential wellness markers and create a starting point so you’re walking into your 50s as healthy as you can be. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu
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Wellness Exam, Heart Health and Key Longevity Predictors in Your 40s - Part 1
12/06/2024
Wellness Exam, Heart Health and Key Longevity Predictors in Your 40s - Part 1
What is important when it comes to your health in your 40s? The 40s is an important decade of life because it’s one of subtle decline; the beginning of widespread changes to come. While you might feel like you’re in good health, there are still some key things to pay attention to. The sooner you make these things a priority, the better. In your 40s, look for a doctor that has the energy, time, and dedication to create an aging plan with you. It might cost you to find a physician that can work with you on this, but it’s worth it—especially if you can add on bloodwork that will give you even greater insights into your health status. A health checkup at this age should include your weight, height, blood pressure, and circumference of your abdomen. It’s also critical to look at your body mass composition. If you’re avoiding having these numbers checked with your doctor, you’re choosing to stay in the dark, but it won’t change the reality you’re facing. There are also many devices that can be used as tools to help you with anti-aging. Some of these can even help you with subcutaneous fat, which is extremely difficult to get rid of. When you’re working towards greater health, don’t get discouraged that you’re not where you want to be. Keep moving forward, because the effort you put in now counts. For men, elevated resting heart rates is something to pay attention to. It should never be over 80. Your exercise heart rate should also be within a healthy range. Investing in your health now matters if you want to feel well in your 50s, 60s, 70s and beyond. Connect with Dr. Cernaianu
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