Marla Ahlgrimm: What a CBC Might Reveal During Perimenopause

As a woman approaches her mid-40s, she may enter perimenopause, the transitional time of life when hormonal changes trigger the end of her reproductive years. According to Marla Ahlgrimm, there are many symptoms associated with perimenopause, and a doctor may recommend a complete blood count (CBC) test. 

But why?  Simply put, this test offers a detailed look at the different components of a woman's blood and can provide valuable insights into her well-being during this transition.

What Is a CBC?

Marla Ahlgrimm explains that a CBC test measures the quantity and characteristics of the three main types of cells in the blood: red, white, and platelets. Each of these components can tell a doctor a different story about what's happening inside a woman's body.

Red Blood Cells

Red blood cells are responsible for carrying oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. Marla Ahlgrimm explains that during perimenopause, some women may experience heavy menstrual bleeding, which can potentially lead to iron-deficiency anemia. Anemia, a condition where the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells, can cause symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and dizziness—symptoms that can be mistaken for perimenopause itself.

A CBC test measures hemoglobin and other indicators of red blood cell health. Marla Ahlgrimm says this can help a doctor determine if a woman's fatigue is caused by anemia and whether iron supplements or dietary changes might help.

White Blood Cells

White blood cells are the body's primary defenders against infection and inflammation. Marla Ahlgrimm says that high white blood cell levels might indicate an underlying infection or an inflammatory condition, both of which can have symptoms similar to those of perimenopause. Therefore, a CBC test can help a woman and her healthcare team detect these issues. Marla Ahlgrimm also says that checking the white blood cell count can help ensure that a woman's body is ready to effectively fight off illnesses as she gets older.

Platelets

According to Marla Ahlgrimm, platelets are tiny cells that play a vital role in blood clotting. As a woman's hormones fluctuate during perimenopause, her platelet levels may change, which could affect her body's ability to clot blood properly. An unusual platelet count can indicate a woman's risk for excessive bleeding or clotting. For a woman with heavy menstrual periods, knowing her platelet count is important for managing her symptoms and ensuring her safety.

Marla Ahlgrimm says that a CBC test can also reveal other important health information. By looking at a woman's blood through this test, a doctor can help differentiate between symptoms that are a natural part of the perimenopause transition and those that might indicate an underlying health condition. As a diagnostic tool, a CBC is a relatively quick, inexpensive, and invaluable way of understanding a woman's health. This simple blood test may not be all that's needed to make informed decisions about perimenopause care, but it is a powerful tool that should not be overlooked.

Marla Ahlgrimm | The Not So Sweet Truth About Sugar And Menopause

Menopause is a natural event in the life of all women. Unfortunately, it comes with side effects that we don't always (or ever) enjoy. One of these is the craving for sweet treats. Aside from weight gain, overindulging in sugar can have a negative effect on menopause. According to Marla Ahlgrimm, you might want to think twice before dessert.

How Sugar Affects Menopause

High sugar intake is linked to numerous negative effects on women’s health. Specific to menopause, overindulging can worsen many of the most uncomfortable symptoms, such as mood swings, fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. Marla Ahlgrimm further explains that blood sugar fluctuations caused by too much sugar can intensify or even trigger hot flashes.

Nurturing Your Health with Marla Ahlgrimm

From the vibrancy of youth to the wisdom of our senior years, our bodies undergo many transformations. Each stage of a woman's life brings about unique nutritional needs. Understanding these can have a profound impact on our overall well-being. According to women's health advocate and author Marla Ahlgrimm, it's helpful to tailor your diet to cater to these ever-evolving demands.

Early Adulthood

During a woman's early reproductive years, her body focuses on building bone density while she should be focused on establishing healthy habits. Marla Ahlgrimm stresses the importance of getting enough calcium and vitamin D, which are crucial for strong bones. Remember, peak bone mass is achieved around the age of 30, and milk, leafy greens, spinach, and fatty fish are all great sources of these vitamins. Marla Ahlgrimm explains that iron is also crucial, especially for women with irregular menstrual cycles, to help prevent iron deficiency anemia.

Marla Ahlgrimm | How Women Have Broken Barriers In Medicine

Just a short century ago, the medical field was overwhelmingly dominated by men. Marla Ahlgrimm states that women who dared to pursue a career in medicine faced more than just skepticism but discrimination in a world designed to exclude them. However, with persistence, women have used their natural nurturing ability to aid in medicine and pharmaceuticals and have reshaped the industry over the last 100 years.

The Early 20th Century

In the early days of the century, the path to medicine was full of obstacles specifically for women. Not only did most medical schools outright refuse to admit women, but those who were admitted faced hostile environments. Further, Marla Ahlgrimm notes that even progressive institutions at the time offered few opportunities for women, as the overall societal belief was that a woman's place was at home. Fortunately, Elizabeth Blackwell set a precedent in 1849 when she became the first woman to receive a medical degree in the U.S. Using her inspiration, many women physicians pushed through, even if they were relegated to pediatrics, obstetrics, and other fields considered more "suited to women's sensitivities."

Marla Ahlgrimm | RIngworm Doesn’t Have To Keep Your Daughter On The Sidelines

As the parent of a young female athlete, you're no stranger to accidents and injuries. However, there are other hazards that our daughters have to contend with, and these can be even more embarrassing than a black eye or bloody nose. Ringworm is one of these.

What Is Ringworm

According to Marla Ahlgrimm, ringworm, unlike its name might suggest, is not a worm but a fungal infection. It is not a serious condition, but one that’s highly contagious and can show up anywhere on the body, causing young female athletes to be self-conscious of their appearance. Girls who wrestle are especially prone to ringworm.

Recognizing Ringworm

According to Marla Ahlgrimm, ringworm usually looks like a scaly, circular rash with slightly raised edges. You can find it anywhere on the body, including the face, limbs, and scalp. Ringworm may cause itching, burning, dry, cracked, and scaly skin. Female athletes experiencing ringworm on the scalp may also experience temporary hair loss.

Understanding Women's Cardiovascular Health with Marla Ahlgrimm

For many generations, heart disease was considered a "man's disease." And while Marla Ahlgrimm says that men are certainly at risk of cardiovascular events, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women worldwide. However, women's heart health presents unique challenges and requires a deeper understanding.

Why Are Women Different?

According to Marla Ahlgrimm, women's and men's heart health varies for many reasons. First and foremost are hormonal influences. Estrogen, the key female hormone, does offer some protection against heart disease. This, however, is only applicable during her reproductive years, and as estrogen levels decline during menopause, women's risk of a cardiovascular event significantly increases.

Autoimmune Diseases In Women | Marla Ahlgrimm

Around 8% of the population of the United States lives with an autoimmune disorder, says Marla Ahlgrimm. Many of these are women who may find they face new challenges with their health during menopause.

What is an autoimmune disorder?

An autoimmune disorder/disease is a condition where the immune system attacks the body’s own tissues. According to Marla Ahlgrimm, it can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life at any age. These conditions can appear during any stage of life, but the aging process can exacerbate symptoms for some women.

The Role of Hormones

Hormones play a role in everything to do with our bodies, says Marla Ahlgrimm. And estrogen tends to be the lead player when it comes to immune regulation. Estrogen has anti-inflammatory and immune-stimulating properties. Marla Ahlgrimm says that some autoimmune diseases may become “imbalanced” as estrogen declines throughout menopause. This can lead to greater disease activity as well as systemic inflammation.

According to Marla Ahlgrimm, there are a few autoimmune disorders that hormone levels may have a greater impact on. Rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus are examples.

Menopause? Here Are Marla Ahlgrimm’s Tips For Prioritizing Your Body’s Needs

Menopause. This significant life transition comes for us all, but it does more than just mark the natural ending of our childbearing years. According to Marla Ahlgrimm, menopause also brings with it a laundry list full of hormonal changes that can impact all aspects of our health.

Today, women’s health expert, self-help author, and retired compounding pharmacist Marla Ahlgrimm offers up insight on how you can prioritize your body’s needs at this expected stage of life.

Marla Ahlgrimm’s Top 10 End-of-Year Health Tips for Women

The end of the year is almost here, and Marla Ahlgrimm says there’s never a better time to prioritize your health. Although we are all busy with holiday cheer, the real celebration is making it through the winter with your health intact. Here are Marla Ahlgrimm’s top 10 ways that you can make sure your 2025 puts you in a position to live your healthiest, best life. 

1. Schedule a Checkup. Pick up the phone, contact your doctor’s office, and schedule a routine physical exam. Marla Ahlgrimm says that women should make sure this includes screenings for breast cancer, cervical cancer, and other relevant health conditions. If you are at the age of menopause, consider asking about hormone testing. 
2. Prioritize Mental Health. If the world is weighing down on you, Marla Ahlgrimm says that this is a great time to schedule a therapy session. Short of that, you can also engage in mindfulness practices, such as yoga or meditation. These can help relieve the stress and anxiety that go along with the holidays. 
3. Review and Update Your Medications. If you’re currently taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, Marla Ahlgrimm says to consult with your healthcare provider to make sure that everything is still necessary, effective, and up-to-date. Remember, medication labels and warnings may change from one year to the next, and it never hurts to have an understanding of the latest insights into anything you put into your body.  
4. Set Realistic Fitness Goals. Come New Year’s, it’s easy for us to run out, get a gym membership, and say we’re going to work out five days a week. The reality is that this rarely happens. Instead, Marla Ahlgrimm says to create a workout plan that actually fits your lifestyle. Make a point to gradually increase your physical activity until it becomes a natural part of your day. 
5. Nourish Your Body. Focus on a diet that’s full of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and, of course, lean proteins. It’s also important to drink plenty of water every day. 
6. Get Enough Sleep. Although it sounds cliché, Marla Ahlgrimm says that you should truly aim for about 8 to 9 hours of sleep every night. Although this can be difficult for women going through menopause, Marla Ahlgrimm says that the better you sleep, the better you will feel overall. 
7. Take Notes. It sounds simple, but take notes of how you feel each day. Consider journaling. This is especially helpful, says Marla Ahlgrimm, to help you track your body’s response to certain stimuli or foods. 
8. Limit Screen Time. Put the phone down at least an hour before bed to improve sleep quality and reduce eye strain. It can also help to step away from social media. Marla Ahlgrimm says that our never-off connectivity can send our brains and bodies into overdrive. 
9. Connect with Those You Love. Holidays are a time to spend quality moments with friends and family. But, Marla Ahlgrimm says that December 25th should not be your cutoff date for having one-on-one time with those you love. Spending time with people who make you feel like the best version of yourself can improve your mental and physical health in ways that no other health ritual could. 
   
10. Prioritize Self-Care. As moms, wives, business owners, educators, and all of the many roles we fill as women each day, we often put ourselves on the back burner. But, Marla Ahlgrimm says that we must learn to prioritize self-care so that we can be the best for us and for those that rely on us. Even if you only take a warm bath or read a chapter of a book each day, make sure to incorporate self-care activities into your daily routine. 

2025 can be your best year yet, says Marla Ahlgrimm. By following the above tips, you can improve your health and wellness all year.

Testosterone: It’s Not Just For Men

Women’s health expert Marla Ahlgrimm explains why we need this misunderstood androgen.

Testosterone. We all know it is the hormone that makes our men hairy, muscular, and tall. But Marla Ahlgrimm says that women need testosterone just as much as men, just in a much smaller quantity.

So what, exactly, does testosterone do for women? Find answers from Marla Ahlgrimm below.

Bone Health

Brittle bones are not an unheard-of subject for women. As we enter menopause, our body's hormone levels change. Marla Ahlgrimm says that hormones are directly responsible for much of our bone health, and testosterone helps to maintain our bone density. As our testosterone levels change with age, we are at a higher risk of bone brittleness.

Bone Health: Marla Ahlgrimm’s Guide To Strong Bones For Women

As we age, it becomes increasingly essential to pay attention to our bone health. According to Marla Ahlgrimm, women over 40 are at risk of osteoporosis, a condition characterized by weak and brittle bones. Understanding the factors that contribute to this type of bone loss and taking proactive steps can help us all maintain strong bones and reduce our risk of fractures as we age.

Factors That Affect Bone Health

Marla Ahlgrimm says that there are many different factors that influence bone health. These include age, genetics, lifestyle, medical conditions, and medications.

Is There A Connection Between Perimenopause And Mood Swings? Marla Ahlgrimm Says Yes

Perimenopause, which is the transitional period leading up to full menopause, is almost always prepackaged with a roller coaster of emotions. And, according to Marla Ahlgrimm, mood swings are a common symptom of perimenopause. But what causes seemingly uncontrollable fluctuations in a woman’s disposition? None of us would be surprised to learn that the answer is hormones.

The Hormone Connection

Marla Ahlgrimm explains that the two primary hormones that control a woman’s sexual maturity are estrogen and progesterone. These hormones play a critical role in regulating mood and emotions throughout a woman’s lifetime. But, during perimenopause, estrogen levels begin to decline, which can disrupt the balance of hormones within the brain. This can lead to a wide variety of moods with seemingly no explanation for a sudden change.

Estrogen and progesterone also influence the production of serotonin, dopamine, and other neurotransmitters linked to mood and well-being. Marla Ahlgrimm notes that any changes in these neurotransmitters can also contribute to mood swings during perimenopause.

Does Living In A Higher Elevation Affect Women’s Health? | Marla Ahlgrimm

On average, most US citizens sit at an altitude of around 2500 feet above sea level. But, living at 3000, 4000, 5000 feet and above is not uncommon, especially in states such as Colorado and Utah. And, according to Marla Ahlgrimm, living at a higher elevation may potentially affect women's health.

Health and a higher elevation

Marla Ahlgrimm says that everyone can feel the effects of living at a higher elevation. This happens in many ways. First, the body learns to compensate for lower oxygen levels by increasing its production of red blood cells, which work to carry oxygen throughout the body. This may also lead to improved cardiovascular health. Some studies suggest that people living in mountainous areas have lower rates of heart disease.

Marla Ahlgrimm on Sex and Menopause

When a woman reaches a certain age, her body undergoes many changes. Marla Ahlgrimm, a women's health expert and author, laments that many of these can negatively affect a woman's sexual desire. Fortunately, however, there are many ways that a woman can continue to enjoy a positive and fulfilling sex life into her 50s, 60s, and beyond. 

 

Communication and Openness 

 

According to Marla Ahlgrimm, the most important thing women can do to keep their sex lives positive during menopause is to be communicative with their partners. She recommends open communication and freely discussing any changes being experienced. This opens up many opportunities to explore ways that sex can be more enjoyable for both partners. Marla Ahlgrimm also recommends exploring new intimacy options and not limiting the experience to intercourse alone. Physical and emotional connections and affection can bring just as much pleasure as a physical connection alone. 

Stress And Your Health | Marla Ahlgrimm On How Stress Takes A Toll

We all experience stress now and again, says Marla Ahlgrimm. And you know that stress can cause anxiety and irritability. But, according to Marla Ahlgrimm, the strain you feel each day may affect your overall health in many more unusual ways. 

 

Stress And The Skin 

 

Marla Ahlgrimm explains that stress hormones, such as cortisol, can trigger the release of inflammatory chemicals throughout the body. This inflammation can worsen existing skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis, and may also lead to flare-ups. Additionally, Ahlgrimm notes that stress can increase oil production in the skin, creating an environment that is conducive to acne breakouts. 

 

Stress and Hair Loss 

 

When the body is under chronic stress, every system suffers. This includes the tiny hair follicles, which may shift prematurely from a growth phase to a resting phase. Marla Ahlgrimm notes that this can increase hair shedding, leading to noticeably thinning hair or bald patches in extreme cases. 

Understanding the Impact: Marla Ahlgrimm Discusses How Endocrine Disruptors Can Affect Women

Many women run straight for a warm bath after a stressful day. This is often coupled with the soft and soothing light of their favorite scented candle. But do these artificial odors affect a woman’s hormone cycle? To shed light on this, we turn to women’s self-help author and PMS expert Marla Ahlgrimm. 

 

What is an endocrine disruptor (EDC)? 

 

Marla Ahlgrimm: An endocrine disrupter is essentially a chemical that can have a negative impact on your body’s endocrine (hormone) system. 

 

What are some ways endocrine disruptors can affect a woman’s hormones? 

 

Marla Ahlgrimm: EDCs can mimic some of the body’s natural hormones, such as estrogen. This may confuse the body’s internal hormone messaging system, leading to imbalances in the many body systems regulated by the hormones. 

 

What is hormone disruption? 

 

Marla Ahlgrimm: Hormone disruption happens when an EDC (or other invader) causes a hiccup in a woman’s natural hormone production. 

 

Are there specific EDCs that women should be cautious of? 

 

Marla Ahlgrimm: There are many, yes. BPA, for example, which is found in many plastic bottles, may have an effect on a woman’s menstrual cycle. It’s theorized that BPA might even increase a woman’s risk of endometriosis and certain cancers.

Unique Ways Women Can Care for Their Health by Marla Ahlgrimm

Women have unique health needs, and no two women are exactly alike. However, Marla Ahlgrimm, a self-help author and women's healthcare entrepreneur, offers some ideas that go beyond the basics of eating well and getting enough sleep to help us all live our healthiest lives. 

 

Beyond the Gym 

 

Even if you're a regular gym-goer, Marla Ahlgrimm emphasizes the importance of pelvic floor exercises. These exercises, especially beneficial for women who have given birth, can help prevent pelvic organ prolapse, improve bladder control, and enhance sexual function. 

 

While Kegels are important, Marla Ahlgrimm reminds us not to neglect the rest of our muscles. She recommends incorporating bodyweight exercises, light weightlifting, or resistance bands into your routine alongside cardiovascular training. 

 

Embrace Your Body 

 

Not all women are a size 2 with a perfect waist-to-hip ratio, and that's okay! Marla Ahlgrimm encourages women to appreciate their bodies as long as they're healthy and make an effort to maintain that health. Obsessing over appearance is counterproductive, and Marla Ahlgrimm reminds us that a world where everyone looked the same would be visually unappealing. 

Marla Ahlgrimm Explores The Myths And Potential Benefits Of Lemon Water

Lemon water, a simple mixture of lemon juice and water, is a popular drink that’s touted for its various health benefits. And while Marla Ahlgrimm says it’s not a cure for any type of disease or condition, it does offer some advantages over sugary drinks. 

 

Today, Marla Ahlgrimm discusses this refreshing alternative to soda. 

 

Hydration 

 

Water is crucial for overall health and well-being. Drinking plenty of water helps to contribute to body regulation, including nutrient transportation, body temperature, and digestion. While adding lemon does not significantly enhance water's hydrating properties, Marla Ahlgrimm notes that it may encourage some individuals to drink more and more often. 

Marla Ahlgrimm : Relationships – Good And Bad – Affect Your Health

Humans are social creatures, and Marla Ahlgrimm says that means we need other people. We also need love, and that means having a supportive partner. Unfortunately, in our quest to couple up, we often accept less than we deserve. 

 

According to Marla Ahlgrimm, toxic relationships can and do have an impact on your mental and physical health. The negativity, stress, and anxiety involved in maintaining these relationships takes its toll in many ways. 

 

Mental Health 

 

For your mental health, Marla Ahlgrimm says that toxic relationships can trigger depression and anxiety. The feeling of constantly being on edge, having to walk on proverbial eggshells, or bracing for criticism (or worse) can weaken your mental health. 

 

Being in a negative situation can also chip away at your self-esteem. When you’re constantly led to believe that you aren’t good enough, you begin to believe it’s true. Marla Ahlgrimm says that this can cause issues in other parts of your life, including relationships with friends and family and your job as well. 

 

Seriously toxic relationships can even cause PTSD. If you experience violence and constant negativity, it can take months to years to fully recover. 

 

On the reverse side of this coin, healthy relationships can improve your mental health. When you have a partner that you can rely on for emotional and other types of support, you are more at ease in life. You have a rock to lean on when things get tough and a partner to enjoy life with during the good times. 

Marla Ahlgrimm Discusses “Phantom” Pregnancies

According to hormone specialist Marla Ahlgrimm, pregnancy is a time in a woman’s life when her body changes rapidly thanks to a combination of a growing fetus and increasing hormone levels. However, there have been many documented cases of women experiencing what they thought was pregnancy only to go into “labor” to find there was never a fetus. 

 

So What Causes These Phantom Pregnancies? 

 

Marla Ahlgrimm says phantom pregnancies are rare. However, hormonal changes are often the culprit. As a woman’s hormones fluctuate throughout her menstrual cycle, she may mistakenly believe she’s pregnant, especially when she is more bloated and irritable than normal. Women who don’t typically experience breast tenderness during their cycles may also suspect pregnancy when this occurs for the first time.