At Winx Health (formerly known as Stix), we know how stressful it can be to find products, experts, and resources you can trust. That’s why we are excited to introduce you to our newest medical advisor, Dr. Carolyn Ross, MD. Keep reading to learn more about Dr. Ross, her background, more.

What is your educational background?

Dr. Ross: I attended college at Columbia University in New York City and went on to medical school at Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University. After medical school, I completed my residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center. I then went on to complete a fellowship in Family Planning at Northwestern University.

What type of medicine do you practice?

Dr. Ross: I work as an OBGYN generalist and Family Planning specialist at Cooper University Hospital in Camden, New Jersey.

What is your favorite part of being a doctor?

Dr. Ross: I love establishing trusting relationships with my patients and being able to help them through both joyous and difficult times. Whether that means a pregnancy loss or delivery of a new baby, I want to be there for it all!

What inspired you to join the Winx Health team as a medical advisor?

Dr. Ross: I'm inspired by Winx Health's mission to empower women to take charge of their health. I am looking forward to any help that I can provide to further this goal of making confident health decisions.

What’s one thing you want the Winx Health community to know about their vaginal, urinary, or reproductive health?

Dr. Ross: I recommend that you keep track of your periods with a tracker app, like Clue or Flo. If you notice any change, such as periods becoming heavier or irregular, it's important to talk to your OBGYN about the changes you’ve experienced. They can help you determine the root of the issue and provide treatment when necessary.

Do you have any advice for those trying to conceive?

Dr. Ross: Start taking a prenatal vitamin at least a month before you start trying to conceive. There's a common misconception that you should start your prenatal vitamin after you get pregnant, but it’s more beneficial to begin your prenatal prior to pregnancy. The most important time to have the extra folic acid and other vitamins in your body is before you get pregnant. prenatal-multi-dhaI also recommend that you make a preconception appointment with your OBGYN to discuss any medications that you may need to stop taking and to further optimize your health before you get pregnant.

What about advice for those trying not to conceive?

Dr. Ross: Talk to your gynecologist about all of the methods available to you to prevent pregnancy. There are many options! My personal favorites are LARCs (long-acting reversible contraceptives) because once they are placed you do not have to worry about them.