Monthly Archives: July 2019

ECS Care CBD Oil By ECS Therapeutics

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Why we use ECS Care CBD Oil?

At the Couri Center, Dr. Couri proudly uses ECS Therapeutics CBD Oil because they meet the highest quality standards:

  • ECS Therapeutics uses organically grown, non-GMO whole hemp plants, gently extracted without harmful solvents.
  • ECS Care extracts are blended with organic hemp oil that is cold-pressed from hemp seeds for added synergy and nutritional benefits.
  • ECS Therapeutics products are rigorously tested to ensure they are potent, pure and safe.  In addition to the testing during manufacture in their GMP compliant facilities, every batch of their products is third-party assayed by an independent, ISO-certified laboratory.  As part of a full analysis, testing confirms that our products contain only trace amounts of THC that can stimulate and nourish the body’s endocannabinoid system, but without causing undesirable “euphoric” effects.
  • With ECS Care products, you’re getting not only hemp-derived CBD but also nature’s phytocannabinoid complex.  ECS Care full-spectrum hemp products stimulate the body’s endocannabinoid system and interact with cell receptors to support balance in many important areas of health.

What is CBD Oil Used For?

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Your provider can help you determine if CBD Oil is best for you and can guide you in determining the optimal dosage.  Schedule your visit today to learn more.

LEARN MORE

 

NIA24 Treatment Catalyst Facial Oil

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NIA24 Treatment Catalyst Facial Oil

Treatment Catalyst is supplied as a translucent oil which quickly penetrates the epidermal layers to significantly improve epidermal moisture levels and boost radiance. Essential fatty acids and antioxidants improve the health and condition of the epidermis. This skin fortifier strengthens the barrier function of the stratum corneum and improves the skin’s ability to produce natural collagen and assists with epidermal cellular renewal. It improves moisture retention necessary for epidermal equilibrium. The performance of other skincare therapies is greatly enhanced when used in combination with Treatment Catalyst.

Benefits:

  • Suitable for all skin types.
  • Improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
  • Enhances the performance of other skincare products.

Directions:

Use twice daily. Apply two to three drops of face oil to cleansed skin. Apply directly to skin or mix with preferred serum or moisturizer for optimum performance.

Purchase in store 8-4:30, M-F

 

SALE: Anti-Aging Skin Resurfacing Laser Treatments

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30% OFF Skin Resurfacing Laser Treatments now through August 30, 2019.

Stop concealing your skin’s imperfections and experience brighter, tighter and smoother skin with our 1540 Skin Resurfacing Laser Treatments.  In just a few short treatments and minimal downtime, you will see improvement in your skin’s texture, tone, fine lines, and wrinkles.

How it works:

  • Our 1540 Skin Resurfacing utilizes fractional laser technology to deliver specialized pulses of energy into your skin -targeting unwanted fine lines and wrinkles.
  • The heat generated by the laser promotes collagen production which causes the skin to tighten and look younger and healthier.
  • The package includes 6 full-face treatments; 90 minutes each.
  • Schedule your complimentary consultation to find out if 1540 Skin Resurfacing is right for you!

What are the benefits:

  • Improves skin texture, tone, and other irregularities of the skin.
  • Reverses the signs of aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and sun damage. Experience brighter, tighter, and smoother skin.
  • Skin Resurfacing laser treatment is a non-ablative treatment with noticeable results and minimal downtime.
  • Provides deep exfoliation of dead skin revealing a brighter complexion.

How much is the treatment?

Sale: $350/Reg $500 each.  Package(6): $2,100/Regularly $3,000.  SALE ends August 30, 2019.

Schedule your complimentary consultation with our Licensed Esthetician today or call 692-6838.

LEARN MORE

Feminine Wellness Quiz

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TAKE THE FEMININE WELLNESS QUIZ:

After menopause, when estrogen levels decline, many women experience changes that can really affect their quality of life.  Symptoms include:

  • Painful intercourse
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Burning
  • Itching

MONALISA TOUCH™ TREATS THESE COMMON FEMALE SYMPTOMS WITHOUT HORMONES OR SURGERY!

MonaLisa Touch™ addresses these problems without hormones or surgery. Dr. Michele Couri is thrilled to be the first physician in the greater Peoria region to offer this state of the art technology here at the Couri Center. It is ideal for menopausal patients, post-menopausal patients, and breast cancer survivors who are often unable to receive conventional treatments for these debilitating symptoms.

HOW IT WORKS:

MonaLisa Touch™ delivers gentle laser energy to the vaginal wall tissue that stimulates a healing response by generating new collagen, elastin, and vascularization. A typical course of treatment is three procedures over 18 weeks.

  • Painless
  • In-office procedure
  • Requires no anesthesia
  • No downtime
  • Minimal side effects
  • Each treatment is <5 minutes
  • FDA-cleared for gynecologic use
  • Thousands of women have been treated worldwide since 2012

If you struggle with these common symptoms, we can help. Schedule your consultation today to see if Monalisa Touch Treatment is right for you.

LEARN MORE

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

The Issue

Even with the passage of time, many women still retain their youthful energy and enthusiasm, but post-menopausal changes can affect a woman’s quality of life in unexpected ways. Now, there is a gentle laser therapy that can help millions of women who are silently suffering.

What is the MonaLisa Touch™?

The MonaLisa Touch™ is a gentle laser therapy that delivers controlled energy to the vaginal wall tissue. It restores vaginal health by generating new collagen, elastin, and vascularization. The MonaLisa Touch™ was first available outside the US where thousands of patients have been treated worldwide.

Are there clinical trials on the MonaLisa Touch™?

Dr. Mickey Karram, Director of Fellowship Program on Female Pelvic Medicine & Reconstructive Surgery at The Christ Hospital, Cincinnati, OH, and Dr. Eric Sokol, Associate Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Stanford University Medical Center has completed a multisite study.

The trial assessed the use of CO2 fractional laser therapy on 30 women with vaginal health issues due to natural or induced menopause.   All patients in the trial received MonaLisa Touch™ laser therapy. Results were:

  • Overwhelmingly positive and immediate
  • Highly statistically significant improvement in symptoms after the first treatment
  • Escalation of progress with each subsequent treatment
  • *Women in the study either experienced natural menopause or induced menopause as the result of hysterectomy or drug-induced suppression of ovarian function (chemotherapy, radiations, and anticancer drugs such as Tamoxifen).

Dr. Stefano Salvatore*, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vita- Salute San Raffaele University completed a study to assess the feasibility of fractional C02 laser in the treatment of 50 women suffering changes in their gynecologic health.

84% showed significant improvement in their physical and mental quality of life scores over baseline and were satisfied with the treatment.
In addition to the multisite study, there are currently eight published studies with six ongoing studies.

Where can I have this done?

The MonaLisa Touch™ is an in-office procedure that Dr. Michele Couri can perform right here at the Couri Center for Gynecology and Integrative Women’s Health, in Peoria, IL. Dr. Couri is the first physician in Central Illinois to offer this treatment.

Does the procedure hurt?

The procedure is virtually painless and requires no anesthesia. Some patients may experience some discomfort when the probe inserted the first time, but the actual treatment is not painful. Many patients report that it feels like a gentle vibration.

How long does MonaLisa Touch™ take?

Patients receive three treatments, spaced six weeks apart, which each take less than five minutes to perform.

For which patients is this treatment appropriate?

The MonaLisa Touch™ is appropriate for any female suffering from issues from a decline in estrogen, as well as those who are experiencing symptoms as a result of a hysterectomy or breast cancer treatments, for any woman with vaginal atrophy due to physiological hormone changes, which become inevitable over time. In particular, MonaLisa Touch™ is the ideal treatment for those who are looking for a less invasive procedure, compared to traditional surgical or pharmaceutical treatments. Remember, no one can advise you better about MonaLisa Touch™ and what is best for you to achieve your best results than your doctor.

When will I see results?

Most patients feel improvement after the very first treatment, although the procedure calls for three sessions spaced over an 18-week period.

How long does MonaLisa Touch™ therapy last?

Patients should expect to come back annually for their maintenance treatment to ensure results last over the course of time.*

*Your doctor will determine if follow up treatments are required.

What are my limitations following the procedure?

Patients should refrain from sexual activity for 2-3 days. Your doctor will determine a post-procedure regimen that is right for you.

Is this MonaLisa Touch™ safe for women with breast cancer?

Yes, the MonaLisa Touch™ therapy is particularly well suited for patients who cannot, or prefer not to receive estrogen therapy.

How much will the procedure cost?

Patients should schedule a consultation or call 309.692.6838 for additional information.

Will insurance cover MonaLisa Touch™?

There is no processing code for this procedure.  We believe this is an investment in yourself and your quality of life.  We gladly accept CareCredit.

Are there any risks?

There are some minimal risks. MonaLisa Touch™ is an outpatient treatment. Most women report temporary side effects, slight redness or swelling, some discomfort that usually disappears in one or two days.

The MonaLisa Touch™ Laser system has been FDA-cleared as safe for gynecologic use; however, it has not explicitly been FDA-approved for treatment of genitourinary syndrome of menopause (vulvovaginal atrophy) or painful intercourse. MonaLisa Touch™ laser therapy is documented as an appropriate and efficacious treatment for vaginal symptoms due to menopause in the medical literature.

Be an Influencer

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Tell Us What You Think

What would YOU like to hear about in our weekly Couri Girl Insider? Your providers offer educational articles about a constellation of women’s health topics. From gynecologic concerns and breast health; cancer prevention; integrative wellness and food sensitivities to aesthetics and skincare, our goal is to keep our patients in tune with the best of modern women’s health care.

Be an influencer and share your ideas on relevant topics you would like us to cover.

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How to Apply Current Health Trends to Your Lifestyle By Leslie Rusch-Bayer, RD, LDN, CPT

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Just like fanny packs, brass fixtures, jelly sandals, and fitness trackers, the health and wellness industry tends to be just as trendy as fashion, architecture, and home decor. This year has proven no different with trending topics like macronutrient counting, avocadoes, the ketogenic diet and intermittent fasting each becoming the main topics found in many forms of media, research journal publications, and marketing. None of these topics are wrong, however, are they right for you? The downfall of trending topics is as individuals, we never know how, when, and if the trend will actually provide the proper or intended improvements to our health, lifestyle or diet.
Trends may be popular, yet they are not always the right choice. People often forget the power food has on the human body. Just like medication, if a diet is not working, or the side effects make you feel worse when following, it is not the right diet for you.

Here are some tips when trying out new trends:

• Listen to your body. A healthy body does not feel bad. Do not ignore or try and justify symptoms. Symptoms are signs that something is wrong. A simple change in dietary intake can resolve many symptomatic problems.
• Implement small changes. Completely changing your intake or frequency of intake tends to decrease the chance you maintain compliance with the diet. Start with small, sensible changes.
• Who is recommending the change? Are they a trained medical professional with a nutritional background? Is someone trying to sell you something? Do they know about your medical history or current medications? Do you actually need to change? Ask questions. Do not assume.
• What are you changing? Are you giving up eating real food for “health products”? No amount of powder, bars or pills will replace the true power of a healthy diet.
• Investigate. Research. Look for reputable sources who have research to back up the health claims you are implementing.
• Realize you are an individual. No one diet should be recommended for everyone. We are not all the same. Every diet does not benefit everyone.
• Keep common sense attached. There is no one food, macronutrient, or supplement that is going to fix everything. Ask yourself if this dietary change is going to hurt you or help you in the long run. There are health benefits to most whole foods. Do not overuse or overeat anything. Too much of a good thing rarely is a good thing.
I regularly work with patients who are trying new products or diets. Some experience great success with weight loss, improved labs or the ability to eliminate medications, while others find themselves frustrated, fatigued, and fat (their words, not mine).

Finding the right dietary approach takes a few steps:

• An open mind. Most of the time, my recommendations for patients do not match their own thoughts. With an open mind, together, we can create the right plan for you.
• An integrative approach. Instead of focusing on a single-dimensional problem like losing weight or lowering blood sugar, let us help you look at your body as a whole. A full lab panel will not only help you understand your body; it will provide us with what we need to help you improve your health and outlook. Losing weight is not worth losing your health.
• Time and proper expectations. Losing 10 pounds each week is not realistic. Weight loss is generally estimated at one half to two pounds weekly, depending on the size, frame, and health of a patient.

With this integrative approach, I can help direct patients toward dietary choices and changes that will not only improve health, symptoms, and outlook but will also eliminate much of the confusion that comes with trying to understand dietary and lifestyle trends. If you are confused or are struggling with understanding your health, please call and schedule a free consultation to see how the Couri Center can help.

 

Leslie Rusch-Bayer, RD, LDN, CPT

What’s Your Daily Routine? By Leslie A. Gilstrap, Licensed Esthetician

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What’s Your Daily Routine?

What’s that, you don’t have a skincare routine?  Well, let me help you with that.  Our skin works 24/7 to protect our face and body from weather, UVA/UVB rays, injuries, disease, and aging. So taking a small amount of time twice a day to tend to your skin is very beneficial.  If you have any question of where to begin or in what steps products should be applied, the following should help you.  As always if you’d like to sample products or discuss your skin concerns, please schedule a complimentary skincare consult.

CLEANSE

Properly cleaning your skin is an essential step in taking care of your skin.  This step will remove impurities from makeup and daily environment. Try NIA24 Gentle Cleansing Cream.

TONE

Applying a low-grade solution to absorb excess oil or to speed up the ph balance level of the skin. Which, in turn, will cause products to absorb faster.  However, your skin will balance out on its own.

SERUMS

Serums help target specific concerns, (dull complexion, breakouts, pigmentation issues) and nourish the skin, promoting healing and fighting the signs of aging.  Here are some staples to try: NIA24 Rapid D Tone Correcting Serum, NIA24 Rapid Exfoliating Serum, NIA24 Intensive Moisture Double Serum, NIA24 Intensive Retinol Repair, SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic or SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF.

EYE CREAM

The orbital skin is more thin and delicate than the rest of the skin on the face.  It’s essential to use a cream that is specific for the eye area. Most will target puffiness, fine lines, and dark circles.  Try NIA24 Eye Repair Complex.

MOISTURIZER

It is essential to choose a moisturizer that isn’t too heavy for your skin type.  You want one that will offer optimal moisture for dryness. Here are two favorites: NIA24 Skin Strengthening Complex and NIA24 Intensive Recovery Complex.

SPF

The best care for the skin both on your face and body is preventive care.  As I’ve told you before the sun is the #1 ager of the skin. ALWAYS wear sunscreen and don’t forget to reapply.  Try NIA24 Sun Damage Mineral Sunscreen.

 

Happy product picking! Just start with two or three products that fit your lifestyle.  It is that simple!

 

To healthy skin,

Leslie A. Gilstrap, LE

Creamy Kale and Broccoli Salad

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Creamy Kale and Broccoli Salad

By Dr. Michele Couri

Serves: 4

Dressing:

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

2 tablespoons honey mustard

Salt and pepper to taste

6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

4 tablespoons Nonfat or 2% Greek yogurt

1-2 teaspoons pure maple syrup

 

Salad:

1 organic Gala or Pink Lady apple — washed, cored and thinly sliced (May place in 8 oz of water with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice so they won’t turn brown while assembling the rest of the salad) — may substitute an Asian pear if desired.

2 scallions — chopped

1 bunch of organic lacinato kale — washed, stems removed and kale torn into bite-size pieces

2 cups of organic broccoli — washed and cut into small florets

1 cup organic blueberries — washed and allowed to dry

¼ cup chopped walnuts

 

  1. Make the dressing:  In a large bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, honey mustard and salt and pepper.  Then, whisk in the olive oil, Greek yogurt, and maple syrup.
  2. Assemble the salad: Place all the salad ingredients into a large bowl and toss with the dressing to mix well. Cover and keep refrigerated until ready to serve.

The Benefits of the HPV Vaccine By Dr. Michele Couri, MD, FACOG, ABIHM

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With all the ongoing controversy about vaccines that continues to circulate, I wanted to share some compelling evidence about the benefit of the vaccination against HPV or Human Papilloma Virus.  HPV is the primary cause of cervical cancer as well as a significant factor in the development of anogenital warts, anal cancer and oropharyngeal cancer (cancer of the mouth and throat). HPV causes abnormal cellular growth, including condyloma (warts) and precancerous tissue changes known as dysplasia. More than 9 out of every 10 cases of cervical cancer are caused by HPV. HPV does not only affect women. Roughly 4 out of every 10 cases of HPV-related cancer occur among men. 70% of oropharyngeal cancers are caused by HPV.   In fact, genital HPV infection is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States.

Fortunately, many of these cases of cancer can be prevented by the vaccine against HPV.  There is a recent study in the journal Lancet (June, 2019) that showed a significant reduction in HPV type 16 and 18, two virulent HPV strains that are most commonly associated with cervical, anal and oropharyngeal cancers.  This study also showed a significant reduction in anogenital warts among young men and women who had received the vaccination against HPV. Cervical dysplasia or “precancer” rates decreased among those women vaccinated.  There was a significant 51% reduction in CIN2 (moderate cervical dysplasia or precancer) in girls aged 15-19 years and a 31% reduction in women aged 20-24 years.  It also found that after eight years post vaccination, the prevalence of HPV 16 and 18 had significantly decreased by 83% among girls aged 13-19 years and by 66% in girls aged 20-24 years.  The prevalence of genital warts among vaccinated females decreased significantly as well — 67% reduction in 15-17-year-olds, 54% reduction in, and a 31% reduction among women aged 25-29 years.  Among boys, the rates of genital warts decreased as well — 48% decrease in 15-19-year-olds and by 31% among men aged 20-24 years.

These findings support the recommendation of The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) for routine HPV vaccination for females and males aged 9-26 years.  In fact, ACOG recommendations are further outlined as below:

ACOG Recommendations:

  • The target age for HPV vaccination is 11–12 years for girls and boys, but the HPV vaccine can be given to both genders through 26 years of age. However, as of October, 2018, the CDC approved the HPV vaccine for adults up to age 45.
  • For girls and boys who receive their first dose of HPV vaccine before 15 years of age, only two doses are needed. The timing of the two doses is 0 (baseline) and 6–12 months. If the interval between the two doses is less than five months, a third dose is recommended. If females or males receive their first dose at 15 years of age or older, three doses are needed and given at 0 (baseline), 1–2 months after the first dose, and six months after the first dose.
  • Testing for HPV DNA is not recommended before vaccination. Vaccination is recommended, even if the patient is tested for HPV DNA, and the results are positive.
  • Even if a patient previously has had an abnormal Pap test or history of genital warts, vaccination is still recommended.

 

To your health,

Dr. Couri

 

Sources:

Population-level impact and herd effects following the introduction of human papillomavirus vaccination programmes:  updated systemic review and meta-analysis.  The Lancet.  June 26, 2019

About HPV.  https://www.cdc.gov/hpv/parents/cancer.html

HPV Vaccination.  ACOG Committee Opinion.  Number 704, June 2017

 

 

 

 

 

 

NIA24 Intensive Retinol Repair

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NIA24 Intensive Retinol Repair

Retinol-powered moisturizer targets key signs of aging without irritation and increases cell turnover for stronger, fortified skin.

 

Key Ingredients:

  • Pro-Niacin® to strengthen and nourish the skin barrier.
  • Pro-Niacin® is clinically shown to visibly improve skin tone, texture, dark spots, sun spots and discoloration.
  • Retinol increases cell turnover to improve texture, tone, smoothness, firmness.
  • Botanical Complex of Enteromorpha Compressa Extract (seaweed) and Caesalpinia Spinosa Gumactive promotes a more youthful complexion.
  • Hexapeptide reduces the appearance of wrinkles.
  • Sodium Hyaluronate is a potent humectant that hydrates skin and locks in moisture.

Usage:

Use in the morning and at night on clean, dry skin. Apply over
entire face, concentrating on areas of concern.
Caution: Avoid contact with eyes. For external use only.