The Fourth Trimester – Postpartum Perks & Pains

November 14, 2019 by Dr. Lisa Masterson Filed Under: Ask Dr. Lisa, Baby & Kids, Health & Wellness, Uncategorized

In the first months after childbirth, your body is still going through a lot of changes. Many women feel unprepared for the physical trials of the postpartum period. I have a few tips and tricks for you to help you navigate the first few months after childbirth.

Perks: While the postpartum period can be really challenging, you’ll have so many good things to look forward to when your baby gets here.
 Meeting the baby: The most obvious is getting to meet the little one that you’ve been waiting to meet for nine months. If you have other children, you also get to look forward to them meeting their little brother or sister for the first time.

 Baby’s firsts: You’ll also feel a lot more mobile and be able to sleep more comfortably in different positions. There will be a lot of firsts for you and your baby during this time, so even though this time might be challenging, you have a lot to look forward to.

Pains: After you give birth, there are a few physical pains that your body will go through. You might be having pain if you had a c-section, or an episiotomy tear if you had a vaginal birth. Muscle aches are really common too, so here are a couple of tips to deal with those aches and pains.

 Your baby is most likely the center of your attention all the time now, but my advice is to make sure you don’t forget about yourself. Make sure to stock up on supplies that you’ll need. While it’s probably much more fun to pick out baby clothes than adult diapers, you’ll be much more comfortable if you have everything you need when recovering from a vaginal delivery or a c-section.
 Another thing that might be helpful is to find yourself a physical therapist. Feel free to visit a pelvic floor specialist, especially if you’re experiencing back pain, incontinence, or any feelings of instability. As always, it’s a good idea to consult your regular doctor about any aches or pains.

 Breast-feeding: It’s also really important to seek breastfeeding support. If you’re having trouble with breastfeeding, you’re not alone. It will help to speak with a lactation consultant if you’re in pain or you notice that your baby is not gaining weight. You’ll want to do what’s best for you and your family, even if that means having to use formula occasionally. While it’s really beneficial to breast-feed for as long as you can, there are other options that can help your baby gain weight if you’re struggling with production.

 Still look pregnant: After you give birth, don’t be startled if you still look pregnant. You may have stretch marks and saggy skin but these will resolve in 3-6 months. Otherwise, mommy makeovers can be a great thing.

 Fatigue: One of the best things you can do to help you through postpartum is to sleep as much as possible. I know this seems obvious and it may seem impossible with a newborn baby and a thrown-off sleep schedule, but sleep is one of the leading sources of stress during postpartum. It might be hard to find the time, but the best thing you can do is aim for four hours of uninterrupted sleep. If you’re having trouble falling asleep, make sure you’re practicing good habits, like sticking to a schedule and avoiding alcohol, caffeine and even screen time before bed.

 Get support: The biggest piece of advice I can give you is to get support. Use friends, family, services. Don’t expect to do everything on your own or even with just your partner. You will need help with cooking and cleaning, so you can nest and bond with your baby. So if you’re feeling overwhelmed, ask for help!

Thanks for joining me on Health in Heels, I hope this video was useful. Don’t forget to like and subscribe, and feel free to ask me a question or suggest a topic below in the comments. And for more information about the health and wellness services I offer, you can go to OceanOasisDaySpa.com

Until next time, This is Dr. Lisa reminding you to Be Well and Be Fabulous!

Riding That TamPony “Rap

September 17, 2019 by Dr. Lisa Masterson Filed Under: Ask Dr. Lisa, Beauty & Fashion, Health & Wellness, In the News, Uncategorized

As women, many of us struggle with our “Time of the Month.” It can be uncomfortable, inconvenient, messy, embarrassing and an all-around pain. But it’s also magical. The female reproductive system is nothing short of a miracle and I encourage my patients to embrace their menstruation proudly.

I wrote this rap to share with all of you. It is my hope that we can remove the “stigma” of our periods and embrace the power of our periods! Hope you enjoy!

Riding That Tampony (Rap)

There’s no shame in it,
It’s only nature’s way
I’m here to tell you girl:
“Woman up, it’s ok”
Your period is a power
You bloomin, like a flower
But when you hide your phone
Cuz you feeling “stay at home-y”
Just know you’re not alone
Cuz we all ridin that TamPony

Granny’s stuck in traffic
It’s Strawberry week today
Mother Nature wrote a rain check
Aunt Flow is here to stay
There’s no taboo, there’s no sin
I’m just Checkin’ in the red roof inn
You know the Brits are landin’ again
Red badge of courage from my monthly friend
Calling it girl flu doesn’t make any sense
More like a time for scheduled maintenance

There’s no shame in it,
It’s only nature’s way
I’m here to tell you girl:
“Woman up, it’s okay”
You’re period is a power
You bloomin, like a flower
But when you hide your phone
Cuz you’re feelin “stay at home-y”
Just know you’re not alone
Cuz we all ridin that TamPony

Call it moon time, crimson tide, let Moses time begin
Say Communists are in the funhouse
Say I’m havin the painter’s in
Don’t say riding a red moose
Cut those hater terms loose
So No “on the rag”, no it’s the curse, no ketchup cooch,
No shark week, no monstration, no jammy clam
Say I’m a woman, that’s what I am

Thanks so much for checking out my first music video ever! Please like, subscribe and share!

Written by The Masterson Family. Performed by Dr. Lisa Masterson. Special thanks to Megan Smith

Edited by: Ruben Valle

Produce by Gabe Harder and Will Armstrong

Until next time, be well and be FABULOUS!

Pregnancy Perks & Pains for The 2nd Trimester

August 5, 2019 by Dr. Lisa Masterson Filed Under: Ask Dr. Lisa, Baby & Kids, Health & Wellness, Uncategorized

Between 14 and 28 weeks, you’ll be in your second trimester, also called the “feel-good” trimester. This trimester is often accompanied by a burst of energy and a growing appetite.

Perks:

You’ll have so many perks to look forward to.

 Anatomy ultrasound: One of the biggest ones is the anatomy ultrasound, which happens around 20 weeks. This ultrasound is when you typically find out the sex of the baby, if you and your partner decide you want to know. This is a good time for a baby reveal. There are a ton of creative and fun ways to do a baby reveal. If you’re planning a fun baby reveal, send in your story, I’d love to hear how you do it.

 Feeling baby move: One of the most exciting firsts is when you feel the baby move for the first time. If you’re feeling butterflies in your belly, it could be your baby kicking. Most moms experience this first between 16 and 20 weeks. Your baby is also starting to develop their hearing. This is the time you’ll want to start talking to the baby since they can hear all sorts of sounds outside the womb. Feel free to go ahead and sing, tell stories, and play music for your baby. Bonding with your baby during this time will be really important for you and your partner.

 More energy: Now that you’re gaining energy, you can also start taking the opportunity to fit in some light exercise into your day. And since your baby bump will be starting to show, you might have fun picking out maternity clothes for the next few months.

 Preparing/Nesting: The “feel-good” trimester is all about preparing for your baby while you have the energy. It’s a good time to check out the hospital and take a tour of the birthing center, where you will deliver, and even find your pediatrician. The earlier you get these details squared away, the less stress you’ll have as your due date approaches.

Pains:

 Testing: While the perks outweigh the pains, you do still have to do glucose testing for gestational diabetes. Typically, you drink the sugary drink and it tastes horrible, but it only takes a few minutes. There are other options out there such as the gummy bears or the jelly beans that you can take instead. Hopefully, after the testing is over and the results come back, you won’t need to do the three-hour testing. If you pass the first test, that doesn’t mean you can eat anything and everything. During the second trimester, you’ll also have the option to do genetic testing.

 Tip – baby calendar: One tip to help organize all the tests and appointments is to create a baby calendar. That way, you have everything you need to do for the baby in one spot.

Thanks so much for joining us on Health in Heels today! I hope this video was useful. For more information about the health and services we offer, go to OceanOasisDaySpa.com and until next time, this is Dr. Lisa reminding you to be well and be fabulous!

Will Armstrong |
Founder, Armstrong Public Relationsc. 310.237.8506 | o. 323.813.5880[email protected]

Dr Lisa Explains Infrared Therapy

July 28, 2019 by Dr. Lisa Masterson Filed Under: Health & Wellness, Uncategorized

Far infrared therapy may seem far out but have you ever felt better just after sitting out in the sun?

So not so far out maybe!

Aside from what we can see (visible light) , a large portion of the sun’s energy is in the invisible or infrared part of the spectrum and the effect is even more marked beyond the red end of the spectrum or the far infrared band. And far infrared doesn’t damage the skin. Far infrared and it’s therapeutic properties have been studied in China and Japan for over 30 years and can be helpful for enhancing blood circulation, reducing pain, strengthening the cardiovascular system, using joint stiffness and inflammation and revitalizing skin cells. And when you combine far infrared therapy with Jade stone it helps the heat to to penetrate deeper while producing soothing negative ions.

At Ocean Oasis, I use heating pads combining far infrared therapy with jade stone to increase flexibility, relieve discomfort, boost circulation and relieve stress and fatigue.

Dr. Lisa’s Vaginal Health Quiz

July 3, 2019 by Dr. Lisa Masterson Filed Under: Ask Dr. Lisa, Health & Wellness, Uncategorized

Dr. Lisa’s Team go Head to Head to Discuss Feminine Wellness

On Today’s Health in Heels we are doing something a little special. I am sitting down with 2 very special young ladies to have a frank discussion about vaginal health, and since one (Katlyn) is a medical student from my very own college and the other (Megan) is a medical assistant I thought it would be fun to put them head to head in a vaginal health stand off to see who knows their stuff.

In the video we discuss what level and color of discharge should cause concern down there. It might be surprising, but some discharge is normal. A light clear discharge is totally normal, but if there is color or odor, you need to see your physician.

In regards to hygiene, you want to be careful what you put in your vagina. You want to keep foreign objects out and avoid using over the counter feminine washes and cleaning products with strong fragrances or color.

Washing your vagina with plain unscented soap and water is your best bet to overall vaginal health.

PH Balance is also very important, so be careful when using new products. You’ll want to read the labels carefully and make sure that they will not effect and unbalance your PH Levels.

With regards to healthy sex and your vagina, protected se is important. Not just for preventing pregnancy but also keep unwanted germs and bacteria away leading to better vaginal health in the long run.

You’ll also want to make sure to remove your athletic apparel after working out. You want to make sure you are clean and dry after a workout and don’t stay sweaty for too long, especially if you are wearing tight active wear. (A good idea is to wear loose fitting clothing or all natural fabrics, like cotton.)

While we’re on the subject of exercise, it is also helpful to practice your vaginal exercises called kegels. Working your muscles help with vaginal health. A great way to recover from pregnancy and assist with incontinence or hemorrhoids. (There are simple exercises you can do on your own or you can use things like vaginal weights. it is important to remember to use clean gear to avoid infection.)

My ladies did a great job and were very helpful. I hope you enjoyed this video and learned something too.

Virtual Reality Therapy

June 20, 2019 by Will Armstrong Filed Under: Ask Dr. Lisa, Beauty & Fashion, Categories, Health & Wellness, Uncategorized

Dr. Lisa Masterson Explains the Power of VR.

Have you ever wanted to just escape?

This new technology can take you anywhere you want to go. And it’s not just for video Gamers, It is also being used to help people meditate and treat certain mental issues and possibly diagnose some medical conditions. Patients receiving virtual reality therapy navigate through digitally created environments and perform certain tasks often tailored to treat a specific disorder. It is most often used currently for phobias, PTSD, body dysmorphia, to help stroke patients and those diagnosed with autism and improve social skills.

VRT uses specially programmed computers and visual immersion devices and artificially created environments to give the patient a simulated experience that can then be used to diagnose and treat certain conditions. We have it in the spa for patients to relax with but give it a try. I think it is a whole new frontier. Exciting!

Oasis by Dr. Lisa Masterson – Skincare for Moms

June 13, 2019 by Dr. Lisa Masterson Filed Under: Ask Dr. Lisa, Beauty & Fashion, Categories, Health & Wellness, Uncategorized

I have big news!

For years I have been advising my patients how to take care of themselves while they were expecting. Let’s face it, pregnancy is hard on your body and it’s important to be mindful of what you are using to help keep your skin beautiful and with a healthy glow. So, here at my Ocean Oasis Day Spa I developed “Oasis by Dr. Lisa Masterson” a line of Doctor Approved skincare especially for anyone who wants to keep their skin Radiant and glowing.

This is Refreshing: my Botanical Cleansing Oil –

Now this is for All Skin Types:

So if you have Dry, Dehydrated, Oily, Mature, or Sensitive skin, this Lightweight oil-to-lotion cleanser rinses away both oil- and water-soluble debris leaving your skin refreshed and awake.

• Perfect for heavy makeup, waterproof mascaras, deeply embedded impurities & environmental pollution

• I like to use this as a pre-cleanse

Here we have Nourishing:

my Vitamin A,C & E Moisturizing Cream

Designed to promotes collagen production, it locks in hydration and promotes skin normalcy during pregnancy. this formulation helps with the mask of pregnancy. Stable Vitamin C ensures maximum benefit and delivery • Vitamins A & three forms of E protect from aging free radicals • its Long-lasting moisture reservoir penetrates in between skin cells to make your skin feel ready for anything.

my Gorgeous: Pumpkin & Pumice Body Prepping Exfoliate

Made to exfoliate body skin to absorb moisture better. best for mamas belly hips thighs and arms. use before applying the ‘Confidence’ Nipple & Body Firming lotion.

This organic, vegan, paraben free lotion, cures rough skin, locks in moisture, and promotes collagen production which wont erase stretch marks but can minimize appearance of new ones. i recommend you start using this pre-pregnancy during and post. It’s made with avocado & Q10

My Illuminating: Brightening Serum

Loaded with Vitamin c which i believe is the bee’s knees of ingredients because it gobbles up the skin damaging free radicals while giving brighter, ( like way brighter ) smoother and hydrated skin, fresh skin

Noticeably smooths lines & wrinkles – discourages blackheads • Fades the appearances of discoloration mask of pregnancy • the No-sting, stable formula prolongs vitamin action

Empowering: Botanical Zinc Mask

This is made to spot treat hormone based pregnancy breakouts also perfect for women’s cycle breakout. You’re going to want to keep this handy!

All of these amazing products are available at oceanoasisdayspa.com

Yeast vs BV (Bacterial Vaginosis)

June 10, 2019 by Dr. Lisa Masterson Filed Under: Ask Dr. Lisa, Health & Wellness, Uncategorized

This is the ultimate vaginal war!

How do you determine if it is a yeast infection so that you can battle it with an anti-fungal or bacterial vaginosis in which case you need an antibiotic? There are 2 total and completely treatments and many patients self diagnose incorrectly.

We diagnose by looking at symptoms, discharge and pH.

Yeast is associated more often with symptoms of itching and burning whereas BV typically may have some burning or not much of symptoms at all, however BV typically has a fowl yellow, or grey discharge. Yeast usually has no odor and a white cottage cheesy discharge.

Normal vaginal pH is 3.8 -4.2. And ph > 4.5 is found in 80% – 90% of patients with BV. The ph usually remains normal with yeast infections.

So treatment is easy it’s just determining if you need anti-funginal or antibiotic.

Until next time, This is Dr. Lisa reminding you to Be Well and Be Fabulous!

IV Therapy

May 29, 2019 by Dr. Lisa Masterson Filed Under: Beauty & Fashion, Health & Wellness, Uncategorized

In this day and age, when our food is processed or so lacking in vitamins and people are on fad diets or faced with digestive issues and gut bacteria issues, IV therapy may be a real way to get the vitamins that you need to feel good or give you that edge.

The Vitamins and nutrients In the IVs are involved in almost all processes in our body.

What is IV vitamin therapy? IV stands for intravenous. A small plastic tube is inserted into the vein using a needle that is quickly removed once the plastic tubing is advanced into the vein.

IV drips usually take about 45 – 60 min to infuse.

Some people also chose to get a vitamin shot along with their IV Therapy. An IM shot is a quick injection into the gluteal (buttock)or deltoid(shoulder) muscle.

IV Vitamin therapy works by administration of vitamins, minerals and amino acids directly into the bloodstream, by bypassing the digestive system (stomach).

This provides increased cell absorption and 100% bioavailability of vitamins through IV infusion.

Booster shots are administered via intramuscular (IM) injection so there is no Gi metabolism , which also allows for increased absorption.

With oral supplements you only get about 20% absorption after it goes through the digestive system. IV vitamins remain in your system and maintain your levels for 2 – 3 weeks and an IM shot is equivalent to taking one week of oral vitamins.

So let’s start in my Ocean Oasis Spa in the Ocean Room with IV therapy. Most people think of it for hangovers but depending what unique blend of vitamins you get in your IV cocktail it is possible to boost metabolism, so fantastic as a weight loss assist! And a well kept secret are other additions like Glutathione, huge antioxidant, that can make the skin appear brighter and radiant!

You can get this here all while looking at the Ocean, maybe even catch a romantic Sunset!

Until next time, This is Dr. Lisa reminding you to Be Well and Be Fabulous!

Vaginal Rejuvenation

May 18, 2019 by Dr. Lisa Masterson Filed Under: Health & Wellness, Uncategorized

Vaginal rejuvenation. It’s wonderful but it may sound awkward! It sounds like the vagina needs resuscitation!

Well ,sometimes it does and luckily there is help out there. However, there are a lot of myths and things to be wary out there too.

So, today we are going to tell you what you need to keep it pretty down there and what to stay away from!

I have seen articles on sheet masks for the v- zone, acne treatments, v – lightening and tightening and I will give you all the answers, tips and tricks.

The key is to not be tricked into what you think it should look like down there but to love and care for beautiful unique you.

1: Sheet Masks for the Vagina – Yes, that’s a thing! I know! I am totally for a vulvar skincare regimen or routine as long as it appreciates the very sensitive nature of the area. Also a great time to review anatomy down there.

2: Vulva beauty yes! But the vagina is a no fly zone! Hormones, pregnancy, weight fluctuations, and aging (yes, you can get wrinkles down there too.) can cause discolorations and wagging skin. Gentle exfoliations can help skin with acne, ingrown hairs and aging.

3: Bikini acne or vulvar acne can be treated with a 10% benzoyl peroxide wash on the bikini area. However, I strongly don’t recommend vajacials which can cause infections. Vajacial at home with a warm soak in Epsom salts are much better.

Also Gentle moisturizers like coconut oil are great for skin texture and a natural v – perfume if you are looking for one. It’s a two for one! We have a great line at Ocean Oasis! You want to feel pretty everywhere including down there. Remember nothing goes in vaginally, especially douches because the vagina does it all by itself! The self cleaning oven!

5: Now lightening and tightening have given rise to controversy but if it makes you feel better about yourself without risk to you emotionally or physically then we all want to feel good about ourselves. Discolorations that can occur over time and pregnancy can be alleviated with gentle Kojic acid or hydroquinone and lasers.

6: Now tightening/toning can also be achieved with high intensity focused ultrasound which can be more gentle than lasers and more effective for this area of the body than lasers. I love using this treatment on my patients because they love the results and that is what counts to me! So of course I have this beautiful machine in my office and my patients usually notice results right away and love them. If they happy then it makes me happy!