11 Best Mid Rise Jeans for Women Over 50 (That Actually Fit Right)

I stood in my bedroom last Tuesday morning, staring at a pile of seven pairs of jeans I’d just tried on. Every single one went back in the drawer.

Too tight in the thighs. Gapping at the waist. Digging into my belly when I sat down. And the worst part? These were the same brands I’d worn for years. Same size, same style. My body had changed, but I was still shopping like it hadn’t.

Sound familiar?

After 15 years working with women over 50, I hear this story at least once a week. Our bodies shift after menopause. High-rise jeans feel too constricting. Low-rise jeans create a muffin top we never asked for.

That’s when I started my search for the best mid rise jeans for women over 50. These jeans sit right at or just below your natural waist, giving you coverage and support without feeling like a corset. But not all mid rise jeans are created equal.

So I tested dozens of pairs to find the ones that actually work for our 50+ bodies. I recruited three longtime clients to help me test them in real life, doing actual activities like grocery shopping, walking the dog, and sitting through a two-hour dinner. (And if you need plus sizes, I have a separate guide for the best plus size jeans for big stomach.)

These are the 11 pairs that made the cut. Every single one is available on Amazon with reliable sizing and honest customer reviews.

Let’s find your perfect pair.

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🎯 Quick Picks at a Glance

Best Overall: Lucky Brand Sweet Straight – Classic fit, perfect stretch, all-day comfort
Best Budget: Amazon Essentials Skinny – Quality on a budget
Best for Petites: Lee Midrise 28″ – No hemming needed
Best for Curves: Lucky Brand Bootcut – Balances hips beautifully
Best Active Lifestyle: DUER Performance – Four-way stretch, wrinkle-resistant
Best Classic Mid Rise: Gloria Vanderbilt Amanda – Dependable, consistent sizing

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Best Mid Rise Jeans for Women Over 50 – Top Picks

My Top 11 Mid Rise Jeans (From Testing 30+ Pairs)

1. Lucky Brand Women’s Mid-Rise Sweet Straight-Leg Jeans (Best Overall)

Amazon Price: 59 – 85
Rise: 9.5 inches
Available Sizes: 00-16

These were the first jeans I tried, and honestly, I almost didn’t test any others. They fit like Lucky Brand remembered that real women have hips, thighs, and a belly that deserves respect.

The straight leg cut doesn’t cling to your calves like skinny jeans, but it’s not so wide that you look shapeless. The mid rise sits right at my natural waist without cutting in when I sit down. And here’s what I loved most: the stretch. It’s got just enough give that the jeans move with you, but they don’t bag out by lunchtime.

I wore these for a full day of errands, including a 30-minute car ride, and when I got home, there was no red line across my stomach. That alone makes them a winner.

Best for: Women who want a classic, everyday jean that works with everything from sneakers to ankle boots.

Skip if: You prefer a tighter, more contoured fit around the legs.

Fabric: 77% cotton, 14.4% polyester, 7.4% rayon, 1.2% elastane
Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low

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2. Lucky Brand Women’s Sweet Bootcut Mid-Rise Jeans (Best for Balancing Hips)

Price: 53-85
Rise: 9.5 inches
Available Sizes: 00-18

If you’ve got wider hips or a fuller figure, bootcut jeans are your secret weapon. The slight flare from the knee down creates balance and makes your whole silhouette look more proportional.

I tested these on my client Sarah, who’s 58 and carries most of her weight in her hips and thighs. She said, “These are the first jeans in five years that don’t make me feel like I’m wearing sausage casing.” High praise.

The bootcut style works beautifully with low heels, ankle boots, or even sneakers. And because they sit at a mid rise, you’re getting coverage without that uncomfortable high-waisted feeling when you bend over.

Best for: Women with pear-shaped or curvy figures who want to balance their proportions.

Skip if: You don’t like any flare at the ankle or prefer a completely straight leg.

Fabric: Soft stretch denim with lycra
Care: Machine wash cold, hang to dry for best results

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3. Amazon Essentials Women’s Mid-Rise Skinny Jeans (Best Budget Pick)

Price: 25 – 35
Rise: 9 inches
Available Sizes: XS-XXL

Let’s be real. Not everyone wants to spend $60 on a pair of jeans. And you shouldn’t have to.

These Amazon Essentials jeans surprised me. At under $30, I expected them to feel cheap or fit awkwardly. They don’t. The fabric has a nice weight to it, the stitching looks clean, and they hold their shape throughout the day.

Now, they’re not as soft as the Lucky Brand jeans, and the stretch isn’t quite as forgiving. But for a budget-friendly option you can wear to run errands or meet a friend for coffee? They’re solid. (If you’re also looking for budget activewear basics, check out my guide to the best yoga pants for women.)

One tip: if you’re between sizes, size up. These run a bit snug.

Best for: Women who want an affordable, everyday jean without sacrificing quality.

Skip if: You need heavy-duty stretch or have a fuller midsection that requires more give in the waistband.

Fabric: Cotton blend with stretch
Care: Machine wash, tumble dry

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4. Lee Women’s Midrise Straight Jean (28-inch inseam) (Best for Petites)

Price: 25 – 35
Rise: 9 inches
Available Sizes: 4-18
Inseam: 28 inches

If you’re 5’4″ or under, finding jeans that don’t pool at your ankles is a struggle. These Lee jeans come in a 28-inch inseam, which means no expensive hemming trips.

My client Barbara is 5’2″ and has tried dozens of petite jeans over the years. These are the ones she came back to. The straight leg hits right at her ankle bone, and the mid rise sits comfortably without riding up.

The sustainable stretch fabric is also a nice touch. It has enough give to move with you, but it doesn’t stretch out and lose its shape.

Best for: Petite women who need a shorter inseam and a comfortable fit that doesn’t require alterations.

Skip if: You’re taller than 5’5″ or prefer a longer, stacked hem.

Fabric: Sustainable stretch denim
Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low

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5. Lucky Brand Women’s Sweet Mid Bootcut Jeans (Light Wash) (Best for Casual Style)

Price: 55-65
Rise: 9.5 inches
Available Sizes: 00-16

This is essentially the same cut as #2, but in a light vintage wash. And here’s why that matters: light-wash jeans have a more relaxed, casual vibe. They look great with white sneakers, a simple tee, and a denim jacket for weekend errands.

The soft stretch fabric feels broken-in right from the start. No stiff, uncomfortable “new jean” feeling. These are the jeans you want to wear on a Saturday morning when you’re running to the farmer’s market and then meeting a friend for brunch.

Best for: Women who love a laid-back, vintage-inspired look.

Skip if: You prefer darker washes that feel more polished or dressy. For a complete guide to choosing the right jean wash for your style and body type, see my article on best jean washes for women over 50.

Fabric: Soft stretch cotton blend
Care: Machine wash cold, hang or tumble dry low

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6. Levi’s 501 Jeans Women’s (Best Classic Icon)

Price: 60 – 80
Rise: 10 inches
Available Sizes: 24-34

The Levi’s 501 is the original. The classic. The jean that’s been around longer than most of us.

Now, I’ll be honest. These jeans have a more rigid, structured feel. They’re 100% cotton with no stretch, which means they fit differently than the other jeans on this list. You might need to size up, and they’ll take a few wears to break in.

But once they do? They’re incredibly durable. They hold their shape. They don’t sag or bag. And they have that timeless, effortlessly cool look that never goes out of style.

One note: the button fly takes a little getting used to if you’re used to zippers. But many women (myself included) find it more comfortable because there’s no zipper digging into your belly when you sit.

Best for: Women who love classic, durable denim and don’t mind a break-in period.

Skip if: You need immediate stretch and comfort or prefer a zipper closure.

Fabric: 100% cotton (rigid denim)
Care: Machine wash cold, line dry or tumble dry low

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7. DUER Performance Denim+ Mid Rise Slim Straight (Best for Active Lifestyles)

Price: 120 – 140
Rise: 9.5 inches
Available Sizes: 24-34

If you’re active, travel frequently, or just want jeans that can keep up with your busy life, these are worth the splurge.

DUER is known for performance denim, which means these jeans are designed to move with you. They have four-way stretch (meaning they stretch both horizontally and vertically), they’re breathable, and they have reinforced seams that won’t blow out if you crouch down or climb stairs all day.

I wore these on a hiking trip and then to dinner the same evening. They didn’t wrinkle, they didn’t smell, and they looked just as good at 7 PM as they did at 7 AM. If you live an active lifestyle, you’ll also want to see my recommendations for the best workout leggings for plus size women over 50.

The only downside? The price. At $129, they’re the most expensive jeans on this list. But if you wear jeans daily and need them to perform, they’re worth it.

Best for: Active women who want jeans that can go from yoga class to coffee date without changing.

Skip if: You’re on a tight budget or don’t need performance features.

Fabric: Performance stretch denim with moisture-wicking properties
Care: Machine wash cold, hang to dry

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8. MOTHER The Mid Rise Rambler Zip Ankle (Out Of The Blue) (Best Trendy Wide Leg)

Price: 220 – 250
Rating: Limited reviews (newer style)
Rise: 10 inches
Available Sizes: 23-32

Wide-leg jeans are having a moment, and if you want to try the trend without looking like you’re drowning in fabric, this is your pair.

The mid rise keeps them grounded and wearable. The wide straight leg adds a modern, fashion-forward touch. And the ankle zip? It’s a fun detail that makes them feel special.

These jeans are on the pricier side, but MOTHER is known for high-quality denim that lasts. The fabric has just enough stretch to be comfortable, but it’s structured enough that the wide leg holds its shape.

Pair these with a fitted top or tucked-in blouse to balance the volume on the bottom.

Best for: Women who want to try the wide-leg trend in a wearable, flattering way.

Skip if: You’re petite (wide legs can overwhelm shorter frames) or prefer a more traditional fit.

Fabric: Semi-rigid stretch denim
Care: Machine wash cold, hang to dry

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9. Gloria Vanderbilt Women’s Amanda Classic Tapered Jean (Best Classic Mid Rise)

Price: 25 – 35
Rise: 9.5 inches
Available Sizes: 4-24

If you want a reliable, no-fuss jean that just works, Gloria Vanderbilt’s Amanda jean is a classic for good reason. With over 18,000 five-star reviews, this is one of the most popular jeans on Amazon for women over 50.

The mid rise sits perfectly at 9.5 inches, giving you coverage without feeling high-waisted. The tapered leg is flattering without being too tight, and the stretch denim moves with you throughout the day. These jeans have a slightly more traditional, polished look than trendy styles.

What impressed me most? The consistency. Every pair fits the same way. No lottery system where you hope this batch runs true to size. And at $25, you can buy them in three colors without guilt.

My client Janet, who’s 62, said, “I stopped trying fancy jeans. These Amandas are all I wear now. They fit, they’re comfortable, and nobody knows they cost $25.”

Best for: Women who want classic, dependable jeans that fit consistently and won’t break the bank.

Skip if: You’re looking for trendy cuts, distressing, or fashion-forward details.

Fabric: Cotton blend with spandex for stretch
Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low

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10. Nautica Women’s Mid-Rise Straight Jeans (Best Classic Stretch)

Price: 40 – 50
Rise: 9 inches
Available Sizes: 2-16

Nautica isn’t the first brand you think of for jeans, but these surprised me. They have a clean, classic look with a straight leg and a comfortable mid rise. The stretch-cotton blend feels soft against the skin and moves with you without losing shape.

At around $40, they’re a great option if you want a second or third pair of jeans that you can rotate through the week.

Best for: Women who want a simple, affordable, everyday jean.

Skip if: You’re looking for a more fashion-forward or unique style.

Fabric: Stretch-cotton blend
Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low

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11. Lucky Brand Women’s Mid Rise Boy Straight Jeans (Best Relaxed Fit)

Price: 95 – 105
Rise: 9.5 inches
Available Sizes: 00-16

If you like a loose, more relaxed fit, these boy straight jeans are perfect. They’re not tight in the thighs or hips, but they’re not baggy either. They just skim your body in a really comfortable, effortless way.

The hemp-cotton blend gives them a soft, broken-in feel from day one. And the subtle distressing adds just enough character without looking overly trendy.

I love these for weekends when I want to feel comfortable but still look put-together. If you’re embracing looser, flowy styles, you might also enjoy my guide to the best palazzo pants for women over 50.

Best for: Women who prefer a looser, more relaxed fit through the hips and thighs.

Skip if: You like a more tailored or form-fitting jean.

Fabric: Hemp-cotton blend with subtle distressing
Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low

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Jean Comparison at a Glance

Here’s a quick reference to help you compare all 11 jeans side by side:

Jean	Price	Best For	Rise	Fabric Type
Lucky Brand Sweet Straight	59	Everyday wear	9.5″	Stretch cotton blend
Lucky Brand Bootcut	54	Balancing hips	9.5″	Soft stretch denim
Amazon Essentials Skinny	28	Budget-conscious	9″	Cotton blend stretch
Lee Midrise Straight	25	Petites (5’4″ and under)	9″	Sustainable stretch
Lucky Brand Light Wash	59	Casual weekends	9.5″	Soft stretch cotton
Levi’s 501	98	Classic durability	10″	100% cotton (rigid)
DUER Performance	129	Active lifestyle	9.5″	Performance stretch
MOTHER Rambler (Blue)	220	Trendy wide leg	10″	Semi-rigid stretch
Gloria Vanderbilt Amanda	25	Classic dependability	9.5″	Cotton blend with spandex
Nautica Straight	40	Classic stretch	9″	Stretch-cotton blend
Lucky Brand Boy Straight	95	Relaxed comfort	9.5″	Hemp-cotton blend

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What Makes a Great Mid Rise Jean for Women Over 50?

After testing dozens of pairs, here’s what I’ve learned matters most.

The Rise Measurement Sweet Spot

Mid rise jeans typically measure between 9 and 10 inches from the crotch seam to the top of the waistband. This puts them right at or just below your natural waist.

Why does this matter? Because this is the most comfortable spot for most women over 50. It gives you coverage without feeling restrictive. You can sit down without the waistband digging into your belly. You can bend over without worrying about a wardrobe malfunction.

If you’re apple-shaped (meaning you carry weight in your midsection), a mid rise helps balance your proportions without drawing attention to your tummy. If you’re pear-shaped (wider hips and thighs), a mid rise sits comfortably on your natural waist and balances your silhouette.

Fabric Blend: Why Stretch Matters

Here’s something I learned the hard way: 100% cotton jeans might sound appealing, but they don’t work for most of our bodies anymore.

We need stretch. Specifically, we need at least 1 to 2 percent elastane or lycra in the fabric blend. This gives the jeans enough give to move with us, accommodate bloating, and stay comfortable when we sit for long periods.

But here’s the catch: too much stretch is a problem too. If jeans have more than 5 percent elastane, they tend to bag out and lose their shape by midday. You’ll find yourself constantly pulling them up.

The sweet spot? Look for jeans with 2 to 3 percent elastane. This gives you comfort and flexibility without sacrificing structure.

Waistband Design

The waistband is where most jeans fail women over 50. We deal with:

• Gapping at the back (when the waistband stands away from your lower back)
• Muffin top (when the waistband cuts into soft tissue and creates bulges)
• Digging (when the waistband feels too tight when you sit down)

The best mid rise jeans have a contoured waistband that curves slightly to match the natural shape of your body. This prevents gapping and creates a smoother fit.

Some jeans also feature no-gap technology with elastic panels at the back of the waistband. This keeps the jeans snug without being tight. If you’re specifically looking for jeans that provide extra coverage and support in the lower belly area, you might also want to read my guide on the best jeans to hide FUPA.

Recovery: Does It Keep Its Shape?

This is the test most jeans fail. You put them on in the morning and they feel great. By noon, they’re sagging in the seat and knees.

Good denim has what’s called “recovery” or “shape retention.” This means the fabric bounces back to its original form even after stretching. The elastane fibers in the denim provide what’s known as mechanical stretch, allowing the fabric to expand and contract without permanently deforming.

When you’re trying on jeans, do a simple squat test. If the knees bag out and don’t bounce back within a few seconds, the denim has poor recovery. Keep looking. Quality jeans with good shape retention will snap back into place almost immediately, maintaining their structure throughout the day.

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How to Find Your Perfect Fit

Take Your Measurements

Before you order jeans online, grab a soft measuring tape and take these three measurements:

1. Waist: Measure around your natural waist (the narrowest part of your torso, usually around your belly button)
2. Hips: Measure around the fullest part of your hips and rear
3. Inseam: Measure from the crotch seam down to where you want the hem to hit (usually your ankle bone)

Write these down. Different brands size differently, and knowing your measurements helps you compare sizing charts.

Read Customer Reviews Strategically

Don’t just look at the star rating. Read the actual reviews and look for patterns:

• Do multiple people say “runs small” or “runs large”?
• Do reviewers mention specific fit issues like gapping or tightness in certain areas?
• Are there photos of real women wearing the jeans? (These are gold.)

Pay special attention to reviews from women in your size range and body type.

Order Two Sizes If You’re Between Sizes

If you’re between sizes or unsure, order both. Most Amazon orders qualify for free returns, so there’s no risk. Try both sizes at home, do the sit test, walk around, bend over, and see which one feels better.

Don’t be surprised if you’re different sizes in different brands. Sizing is not standardized across the industry.

💡 Sizing Comparison Tip:
Different brands run differently. Here’s what I’ve found from testing:

• Lucky Brand: True to size, occasionally runs slightly large
• Levi’s 501: Runs small (rigid denim), size up one size
• Lee: True to size with generous stretch
• Amazon Essentials: Runs slightly small, size up if between sizes
• DUER: True to size, athletic fit
• Gloria Vanderbilt: True to size, very consistent across orders
• MOTHER: Runs small, check size chart carefully

When in doubt, check the “fit” section in Amazon reviews. Sort by “Most Recent” to see current manufacturing runs.

The Sit Test

This is the most important test. Put the jeans on, button them up, and sit down on a chair or your bed. Do they:

• Dig into your stomach?
• Gap at the back?
• Feel comfortable enough to wear for a two-hour dinner?

If you can’t sit comfortably, they’re not the right jeans. Period.

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Common Fit Issues (And How to Fix Them)

Gapping at the Waistband

If there’s a gap between the waistband and your lower back when you stand, you have two options:

1. Try a contoured waistband: Look for jeans specifically designed to prevent gapping
2. Use a belt: A simple leather belt can cinch the waistband and eliminate the gap
3. Consider tailoring: A good tailor can take in the waistband for $15 to $20
4. Try drawstring jeans: For ultimate comfort and adjustability, check out my guide to the best drawstring jeans for women over 50

Thigh Tightness

If the jeans fit everywhere except the thighs feel too snug, try these fixes:

1. Size up: Go up one size and see if it solves the problem without being too loose in the waist
2. Try a different cut: Bootcut or wide-leg styles have more room in the thigh
3. Look for “curvy fit” options: Many brands now offer curvy fits with more room in the hip and thigh

Length Issues

If the jeans are too long or too short:

1. Check for different inseam options: Many brands offer short, regular, and long inseams
2. Hem them: Taking up jeans costs about $10 to $15 at most tailors
3. Cuff them: A simple cuff at the ankle can take up an inch or two and looks stylish

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is considered mid rise for jeans?

Mid rise jeans typically measure 9 to 10 inches from the crotch seam to the top of the waistband. They sit at or just below your natural waist, which is usually around your belly button. This is higher than low-rise jeans (which sit below the hips) but lower than high-rise jeans (which sit above the belly button at your natural waist). If you’re looking for more tips on finding jeans that flatter your midsection, check out my guide on how to hide lower belly fat in jeans.

Should women over 50 wear high rise or mid rise jeans?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on your body type and personal comfort. Mid rise jeans work well if you have a fuller midsection because they don’t constrict your stomach as much as high-rise styles. They’re also more comfortable for sitting for long periods. High-rise jeans are great if you want maximum coverage and support, especially if you carry weight in your lower belly. The best approach? Try both and see which feels better on your body.

How do you know if jeans are the right rise for you?

The right rise should feel comfortable when you sit, stand, and move. Here’s a quick test: put the jeans on and sit down. If the waistband digs into your stomach or creates a muffin top, they’re too low. If they feel restrictive or uncomfortable when you bend over, they might be too high. The perfect rise should feel like it’s sitting naturally on your body without any pulling, digging, or gapping.

What type of jeans are most flattering for older women?

The most flattering jeans are the ones that fit your individual body type. Generally, mid rise or high-rise jeans with a bit of stretch (1 to 3 percent elastane) work well for women over 50. Straight-leg and bootcut styles tend to be the most universally flattering because they create a balanced silhouette. Dark washes are also more slimming and versatile than light washes. But the most important thing? Choose jeans that make you feel comfortable and confident.

Do mid rise jeans give you a muffin top?

Not if they fit correctly. Muffin top happens when jeans are too tight or sit in the wrong place on your body. The key is finding mid rise jeans with the right amount of stretch and a contoured waistband that follows the natural curve of your body. If you’re getting a muffin top, try sizing up or looking for jeans with a higher percentage of stretch in the fabric.

What’s the difference between mid rise and regular rise?

“Regular rise” is actually a vague term that different brands use differently. Some brands use “regular rise” to mean mid rise (9 to 10 inches), while others use it to mean a slightly lower rise (8 to 9 inches). When shopping, always check the actual rise measurement in inches rather than relying on the term “regular rise.”

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Final Thoughts: You Deserve Jeans That Fit

Here’s what I want you to remember: your body hasn’t betrayed you. The jeans have.

For too long, the fashion industry has told women over 50 that we should just make do with whatever fits. That we should be grateful if we can button a pair of jeans at all. That’s nonsense.

You deserve jeans that fit your body as it is right now. Jeans that don’t dig in when you sit down. Jeans that don’t gap at the waist or create a muffin top. Jeans that make you feel like yourself.

Mid rise jeans are a great place to start because they offer that sweet spot of coverage and comfort. Finding flattering jeans over 50 isn’t about hiding your body, it’s about honoring it with the right fit. But remember: not every pair on this list will work for your body. And that’s okay. That’s why I gave you 11 options.

Try a few. Order two sizes if you need to. Do the sit test. Walk around your house. And most importantly, trust how you feel in them.

The perfect pair of jeans is out there. And when you find them? You’ll know.

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Want more style tips for women over 50? Check out these related articles:

• Best White Jeans for Cellulite
• Best Denim Bermuda Shorts for Women Over 50
• Best Joggers for Women Over 50
• Best Wide Leg Pants for Women Over 50
• 15 Tips How to Hide Lower Belly Fat in Jeans

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Affiliate Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products I’ve personally tested or would recommend to my clients.

Medical Disclaimer: Always consult with your doctor before starting any new fitness routine or if you have existing health conditions. The information in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice.

Last update on 2025-11-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API