Period 101

You have probably seen commercials for sanitary napkins, or “pads.” These products help keep you clean when you are going through your period. There are many different types available for your specific flow and preference. There are also some smaller and lighter pads that you can use during the lighter days of your period. Tampons are another product that can be used during your period. Because tampons need to be inserted into your body, I would only recommend that you use them after talking to an adult female that you trust.

Help! I started bleeding and I’m in school.

Sometimes your period can come when you least expect it. If you’re not prepared, relax and find an adult teacher, friend, or coach and ask them if they have a pad that you can borrow. If it stained your clothes, look for a sweater or garment that you can tie around your waste while you find a change of clothes.

Why do I feel funny during my period?

Because your body is producing hormones during your menstruation, you might experience Premenstrual Syndrome, or PMS. During the week or days before you get your period you might notice that your breasts become larger and they begin to hurt. You might also get abdominal pain, or “cramps,” mood swings, headaches, fatigue, joint pain, and even crying spells. This is completely normal! If the cramps are too painful, you can take an over the counter pain reliever or purchase a medication that relieves cramps.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact the Institute for Women’s Health, our friendly staff and caring physicians are always ready to help.

Source : This Article Originally Appeared on https://www.ifwh.org/en/period-101/

I am Pregnant. What Should I Ask My OB/GYN?

The feeling of uncertainty, nervousness, and confusion is normal for any pregnant woman. It doesn’t matter if it’s your first pregnancy or your 5^th; every pregnancy is different. That’s why it is so important that you see an OB/GYN you feel comfortable with and that you ask the correct questions. There are many factors that often get in the way of you asking your OB/GYN the right questions or having your concerns addressed. Below you will find some of the things your can do to reduce distractions or factors that may prevent you from getting the answers your need.

Get To Know Your Doctor:

You don’t have to become best friends, but it is very beneficial for everyone if you get to know them just enough in order to find out if they are the right OB/GYN for you. It is important that you share the same beliefs with your doctor when it comes to labor and delivery.

Do Your Homework: Research and staying informed is the best way to ask the correct questions that will benefit your pregnancy and will address your concerns. There are many ways to stay informed. You can subscribe to pregnancy magazines, read blogs, books, and ask your doctor for information packages.

Write Your Questions Down: It is very important that you take with you a written list of questions that you can check off during your visit, this way you don’t go home only to realize you forgot to ask the most important question.

Minimize Distractions: Minimize distractions by not taking your kids or too many people to your visit. Taking children to your prenatal visits can put them and other pregnant women at risk. Children are often exposed to germs and viruses at school that they can spread if they don’t cover their mouths when coughing or sneezing. A minor cold or virus can be very harmful to a pregnant woman or her unborn baby. It is best if you take only your partner or family members that can help you make immediate decisions.

Ask Questions: Always remember that there is no such thing as a bad question; don’t be embarrassed – chances are your doctors have heard everything. Ask the question you want no matter what. You have the right to an answer.

Below we will share some good routine questions and topics to address with your OB/GYN.

1. Ask about your weight. Have you gained weight? Lost weight? Is it normal? What can be done about it?
2. Is your uterus changing in size too fast or too slow? Those are good things to know because the size of your uterus may imply different issues or circumstances.
3. Is your blood pressure regular? Has it gone up or down? During pregnancy your blood pressure can quickly change. It is important to keep track of the numbers since serious complications can quickly arise.
4. Remember to ask about what symptoms you should be on the lookout for from now to your next appointment. It is always good to know what to expect at every stage of your pregnancy.
5. Ask your OB/GYN about any foods, activities, or medications you should be avoiding at each stage of your pregnancy. It also good to ask what foods and activities he or she recommends.
6. You also have the right to know if you are being watched for any possible complications in your pregnancy. Ask them about your progress and what is normal and what is not.
7. Ask about what emergencies can arise at your given stage and what the action plan should be.
8. Ask who will deliver your baby and how the delivery process will go about.
9. Discuss labor and delivery philosophies.
10. Don’t forget to always ask for any general tips or recommendations on how to make your pregnancy and labor more pleasant and less straining.

If you have any more specific questions or doubts, feel free to contact The Institute for Women’s Health. Our friendly staff and our caring physicians are always ready to help.

For More information about OBGYN Click Here

Source : This Article Originally Appeared on https://www.ifwh.org/en/i-am-pregnant-what-should-i-ask-my-obgyn/

Common Women’s Infections and Diseases

As a woman, there’s a high probability you will get a vaginal infection (vaginitis) at some point in your lifetime. Don’t worry, it’s more common than you think and there’s usually a misconception about the types of infections and what causes them. Generally speaking, you will get symptoms like itching, burning, and a thick white discharge. But there’s so much more you should know about this common condition.

The first thing to keep in mind is that whenever you have some of these symptoms or you just have general inquiries about this matter, you should always talk to your OB/GYN  – who is fully qualified to answer any of your questions and treat any of your symptoms. Not even a thorough Internet research will ever substitute the quality and preciseness of the information you get from an experienced specialist. You should immediately call your doctor if:

• Your vaginal discharge changes color or smells different.
• You notice itching, burning, swelling, or soreness around or outside of your vagina.
• It burns when you pee.
• Sex is uncomfortable.

The most common kind of infections faced by women are yeast infections. They are easy to treat and are very similar to other vaginal and sexually transmitted infections. Nevertheless, there are more serious infections that could lead to major problems. But what causes yeast infections? Well, you should know that a healthy vagina has a balanced amount of bacteria and yeast in it, but sometimes this balance can be disrupted by:

• Hormone level changes
• Antibiotics
• Vaginal intercourse
• Pregnancy and breast feeding

The three most common types of vaginal infections are:

• Yeast Infections: It is  caused by one of the many species of fungus known as Candida, which we already have living in our bodies in small numbers. This fungus can quickly multiply and cause a vaginal infection in a moist and low ventilation environment.
• Bacterial vaginosis: When the number of lactobacilli in your reproductive organs gets too low, it can trigger a condition called bacterial vaginosis (BV). You may see a thick whitish discharge or a slippery and clear discharge. It is not likely that it will itch or burn, but the fishy odor it produces may be noticeable, especially during intercourse.
• Trichomonas: This infection is commonly called “trich” and is passed from partner to partner during intercourse. You may feel burning, irritation, redness, and swelling of the vulva, with a yellow-gray or greenish vaginal discharge, possibly with a fishy odor.

The good news is that most of these conditions respond very well to mild treatment. The key is to get medical attention as soon as the first symptoms appear to minimize the discomfort they produce. If you have any additional questions please schedule an appointment by visiting The Institute For Women’s  Health.

Source : This Article Originally Appeared on https://www.ifwh.org/en/common-womens-infections-and-diseases/

Women and Menopause

Menopause, you may fear it or try to ignore it; but how well do you know it? The North American Menopause Society defines it as “a normal, natural event of the final menstrual period that is usually confirmed when a woman has missed her periods for 12 consecutive months (in the absence of other obvious causes).” During menopause, your estrogen and other hormone levels lower, marking the end of your fertility. The average age for menopause is 51 and one of the most important things to keep in mind is that every woman experiences it differently.

As a woman, you are born with a definite number of eggs which are stored in your ovaries. These same ovaries are the ones that produce your estrogen and progesterone hormones. These two are in charge of controlling your menstruation and ovulation cycles. When your ovaries no longer release eggs, you have reached menopause. But facts and data aside, how do you perceive menopause? Unfortunately, there’s a negative perception towards this matter when it’s actually a natural process that your body goes through, just like many other changes we experience throughout our lifetime.

There are no treatments to stop or reverse menopause. However, there are methods and treatments that can relieve the signs and symptoms when they are severe or uncomfortable. Most women are able to manage them by themselves without medication, but other women experiencing more intense symptoms have to resort to other options. The most common treatments for menopause include:

• Hormone Therapy: This is one of the most effective treatments for menopausal hot flashes. It’s based on a low dose of estrogen, which provides relief for this symptom.
• Vaginal Estrogen: This treatment relieves vaginal dryness by applying estrogen directly to the vagina with a vaginal cream, tablet, or ring. It also helps with discomfort during intercourse.
• Low-dose antidepressants: Sometimes, women are not able to have estrogen therapy for specific health reasons. A low dose of specific antidepressants can help manage hot flashes and mood disorder symptoms in these cases.
• Medications to treat or prevent osteoporosis: These medications help reduce bone loss and lower the risk of bone fractures.

The most important thing about going through this change in life (besides feeling comfortable with yourself) is having a qualified OB/GYN that you feel comfortable with. During this time, it’s important to always be informed and correctly guided towards the right path into feeling better.

REFERENCES:

http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/menopause/basics/treatment/con-20019726

http://www.menopause.org/for-women/expert-answers-to-frequently-asked-questions-about-menopause/menopause-faqs-understanding-the-symptoms

Source : This Article Originally Appeared on https://www.ifwh.org/en/women-and-menopause/

The Zika virus: Four things to know if you’re pregnant

You may have heard about the Zika virus, and of the case confirmed recently in Houston, Tx. Last Friday, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also recommended that pregnant women postpone travel to 14 countries and territories – including Mexico – where Zika outbreaks have occurred. So what is the Zika virus, and what do you need to know if you’re pregnant or trying to become pregnant?

What is the Zika virus?

The Zika virus is a mosquito-borne illness primarily contracted by a mosquito bite. Initially identified in the 1950s in Africa and parts of South and Southeast Asia, the first case was reported in the Americas in 2014.  In recent years, reports of babies with serious birth defects born to mothers infected with the Zika virus have increased sharply.

What are the symptoms of the Zika virus?

Symptoms of the Zika virus are generally mild and may include a fever, rash, joint pain and conjunctivitis. However, the CDC states that only about one in five people infected with the virus experience symptoms, so you may not even know if you’ve been infected. Even more alarming, “There’s no vaccine or treatment for the Zika virus,” said Karen Carcamo, M.D., an obstetrician-gynecologist at the Institute for Women’s Health, San Antonio. “Therefore, we recommend women who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant take extra precautions to avoid mosquito bites, such as wearing mosquito repellant daily and clothing that covers the majority of the skin.”

How does the Zika virus affect pregnant women and their babies?

The Zika virus is believed to be spread from a pregnant woman to her unborn baby. Reports have shown poor pregnancy outcomes in babies of mothers infected with the Zika virus during their pregnancy, including serious birth defects of the brain. In light of limited information surrounding the extent of these effects, the CDC is urging all pregnant women to avoid any non-essential travel to the countries identified on this list. “It’s important to note that, while the CDC is recommending travelers to these countries take enhanced precautions, they have a stronger set of recommendations for pregnant women,” Dr. Carcamo cautioned.   The CDC website is an excellent source for the most current information regarding the Zika virus, Dr. Carcamo added.

If you’re pregnant and think you’ve contracted the Zika virus, what should you do?

“First things first: call your obstetrician,” Dr. Carcamo stressed. “Your obstetrician can document the exposure and determine whether further testing may be necessary. Most importantly: Remain calm. The odds are likely it may not be the Zika virus, but rather an upper respiratory infection or allergies.”

Still, since no vaccine or effective treatment exists for the Zika virus, prevention is critical. The Zika virus may sound scary, but fortunately, prevention is relatively simple.

“We strongly urge women in any trimester of their pregnancy to consider postponing travel to any area affected by the Zika virus, including Mexico and the Caribbean,” Dr. Carcamo said. “If you absolutely must travel to these areas, please be diligent about strictly following the steps to prevent mosquito bites.”

Karen Carcamo, M.D., MPH, is an obstetrician-gynecologist with the Institute for Women’s Health, San Antonio. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Carcamo, please call 210.615.8585.

This Article Originally Appeared on https://www.ifwh.org/en/the-zika-virus-four-things-to-know-if-youre-pregnant/

Gardasil 9: Helping to prevent cervical cancer

In late 2014, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Gardasil 9, a vaccine that protects against nine types of the human papillomavirus (HPV). Gardasil 9 covers a broader range of the HPV virus as compared to Gardasil, which protects against only four types of HPV. For those who’ve already received the Gardasil vaccine, questions arose about revaccination and the potential effectiveness of Gardasil 9 in addressing a more complex group of HPV. And a broader debate continued as to why both vaccines continue to be underused.

“HPV is an extremely common sexually transmitted disease which, if left untreated, can lead to cervical cancer,” said Orlando Suris, M.D., an obstetrician-gynecologist with the Institute for Women’s Health, San Antonio. “Fortunately, the Gardasil and Gardasil 9 vaccines have proven to be very effective in reducing the risk of contracting HPV.”

The seven types of HPV which are implicated in 90 percent of cervical cancers are covered with Gardasil 9, in addition to two types associated with genital warts.

HPV is typically detected through a Pap test, which is conducted at an annual well woman gynecologist appointment. Pap tests screen for cervical cancer and other vaginal abnormalities. Since the introduction of these tests in the 1950s, cervical cancer incidence and mortality have decreased sharply. “Still,” Dr. Suris cautioned, “It’s necessary to continue to receive a Pap test in order to detect HPV.”

The Gardasil and Gardasil 9 vaccines prevent cancer from forming by immunizing the patient to HPV. HPV is the root cause of the majority of cervical cancers, which are traditionally extremely slow to form. “Patients whose Pap test results indicate the presence of HPV don’t necessarily have cervical cancer,” Dr. Suris said. “Further testing is necessary to determine a treatment plan.” A treatment plan for HPV or cervical cancers is most effective if HPV is detected early enough.

Vaccination against HPV is recommended for girls ages 9 – 26 and boys ages 9 – 15, ideally before they become sexually active. The vaccine is administered in three doses over a six-month period.

Since their introduction to the market, the vaccinations have been underused. Many physicians believe that the stigma surrounding the vaccination of a child for an STD while they are very young is the cause of this underutilization. To address this issue, the Centers for Disease Control launched a campaign called “You are the key to cancer prevention” in 2014. The campaign aims to educate physicians and parents about the benefits of recommending their children be vaccinated. After all, they pointed out, it’s about cancer, not sex.

When it comes to revaccinations, however, the topic is less complicated.

“If you’ve already received the Gardasil vaccine, there’s no need to be revaccinated with Gardasil 9,” Dr. Suris said. “If you’re 21 or older, just continue to schedule your annual well woman exams, and have your gynecologist order your Pap tests on the schedule specific to you.”

Orlando Suris, M.D., is an obstetrician-gynecologist with the Institute for Women’s Health, San Antonio. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Suris, please call 210.494.2000.

This Article Originally Appeared on https://www.ifwh.org/en/gardasil-9-helping-to-prevent-cervical-cancer/

Could someone you love have an eating disorder?

Eating disorders, while often misunderstood, are very real and complex illnesses that can have serious consequences for a person’s health and overall well-being. February 21 – 27, 2016, is National Eating Disorders Awareness Week and a perfect time to familiarize yourself with the warning signs of an eating disorder, and what to do if you suspect someone you love is suffering.

“There’s a lot of misinformation when it comes to eating disorders,” said Wendy Askew, M.D., and obstetrician-gynecologist at the Institute for Women’s Health, San Antonio. “Unfortunately, the stigma surrounding these disorders makes broaching the topic difficult for many people.”

Eating disorders can be triggered by a combination of factors, including behavioral, emotional, interpersonal and social. A person suffering from an eating disorder typically becomes preoccupied with control of food, and may exhibit mood swings and irritability. And while some eating disorders present in ways that are fairly obvious, others may not.

“Anorexia nervosa typically presents in a dramatic weight loss or a fixation on calorie counting and dieting,” Dr. Askew said. “Bulimia may not result in weight loss at all, but may manifest in physical signs including swelling of the cheeks, teeth that are more prone to cavities or calluses on the back of their hands or knuckles, which is indicative of self-induced vomiting.”

Binge eating disorder is another type of common eating disorder. A binge eater may eat much more food than normal in one sitting, but unlike bulimia, will not purge the calories. If you suspect someone you love may be a binge eater, try to take notice of wrappers or containers that indicate the consumption of large amounts of food over a short timeframe.

Other symptoms of eating disorders which may not be obvious include:

• Weight fluctuations (both gain and loss)
• Menstrual irregularities including a missed or stopped period
• Insomnia
• Heart palpitations
• Dizziness or fainting
• Feeling cold all the time or growing a very fine layer of hair on the arms and legs
• Amenia
• Low potassium levels
• A sore throat or the inflammation of the esophagus; spitting up blood

Meal times traditionally are a source of great stress and anxiety for someone with an eating disorder. Many people fear eating in front of others and may avoid it all together. They may practice unusual food rituals like chewing an unusually large number of times, cutting their food into very small pieces or eating very slowly. And most people suffering from an eating disorder eventually become preoccupied with behaviors that allow them to exhibit an extreme form of control over their consumption or regurgitation of food.

“It’s important to remember that eating disorders don’t discriminate,” Dr. Askew said. “People of all ages, ethnicities and backgrounds suffer from these disorders, and addressing them with kindness and compassion is key to getting them on the path to health.”

Recovery from an eating disorder is possible. If you have a loved one exhibiting the signs of an eating disorder, talk to your physician about the best treatment plan for them. It may require a team approach with a registered dietitian and a mental health professional and, most importantly, the support of the people who care about them.

Wendy Askew, M.D., is an obstetrician-gynecologist with the Institute for Women’s Health, San Antonio. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Askew, please call 210.494.2000.

This Article Originally Appeared on https://www.ifwh.org/en/could-someone-you-love-have-an-eating-disorder/

What is endometriosis?

More than 5 million women in the U.S. struggle with a chronic health condition that can not only be painful, but also potentially affect their ability to get pregnant. This health condition is endometriosis.

March is National Endometriosis Awareness Month, and an important time to learn how to manage endometriosis, especially for women trying to conceive.

“Endometriosis occurs when tissue that normally lines the inside of the uterus – the endometrium – grows in places such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes and tissues that hold the uterus in place,” said Joseph Garza, M.D., chief fertility officer of the Advanced Fertility Center, a sister company of the Institute for Women’s Health.

Even though this tissue is outside the uterus, it follows a similar menstrual cycle as the uterine lining: a monthly build up, breakdown and shedding. While a menstrual cycle sheds the uterine lining during a woman’s period, the tissue shed from the endometrium has no way to leave the body.

“This can cause internal bleeding and inflammation, and possibly form scar tissue that can impair a woman’s ability to conceive,” Dr. Garza said. “It’s also a very painful condition to manage monthly.”

Endometriosis can influence infertility in other ways than scar tissue formation. The inflammation that occurs can affect the pelvis and fallopian tubes, and the tissue can also change the internal environment of a woman’s eggs so much that it alters their quality.

“We frequently see fertility patients suffering from endometriosis,” Dr. Garza said. “Fortunately, the condition is treatable.”

Medication can reduce endometrium inflammation and pain, but if a case is severe enough, surgery to remove the tissue may be necessary. In this instance, a laparoscopy is performed on the patient, which is a minimally invasive outpatient surgery. Hormone therapy has also proven to be effective in some cases.

So how do you know if you have endometriosis?

“If you have severe and consistent pelvic pain during your periods, it’s best to talk to your doctor about a management plan that’s right for you,” Dr. Garza advised. “While the relationship between endometriosis and infertility continues to be debated, you should always be proactive about managing your personal health and wellness.”

To learn more about endometriosis or to schedule an appointment with an Institute for Women’s Health OB/GYN, call 210.349.6626

This Article Originally Appeared on https://www.ifwh.org/en/what-is-endometriosis/

Better outcomes for hysterectomies performed with robotic surgery

The decision to have a hysterectomy is a personal and often emotional choice many women make. Fortunately, there are several options that can help make both the surgery itself and the recovery process minimally disruptive to women’s lives. One of those options is a robotic, or da Vinci®, surgery.

“A hysterectomy, which is a surgery that removes a woman’s uterus, can lead to complications that can be minimized by robotic surgery,” said Victor Casiano, M.D., an obstetrician-gynecologist at the Institute for Women’s Health, San Antonio. “Recent studies have shown better clinical outcomes for benign hysterectomies for women who opted not to undergo conventional abdominal, vaginal and laparoscopic hysterectomies.”

The da Vinci Surgical System is designed to help surgeons perform minimally invasive surgeries. Rather than performing a traditional operation, the surgeon uses the robotic surgery system to gain magnified views via specialized instrumentation including a miniaturized surgical camera and other instruments. This allows for precise dissection and reconstruction during complex internal surgeries, which in turn reduces recovery times and risk of complications for the patient. Robotic surgeries are performed while the patient is under general anesthesia, and incisions are tiny – usually only three or four incisions are made near the belly button

“Depending on the patient’s specific circumstances, robotic surgeries can be most beneficial,” Dr. Casiano said. “I’ve seen, first-hand, the outcomes of complex cases performed with the da Vinci Surgical System as opposed to traditional methods of surgery. Typically, the more delicate procedures require assistance with robotic surgery.”

Patients who undergo robotic-assisted hysterectomies share a variety of risky co-factors: advanced age, obesity and larger uteruses than what is typical. Other reasons a doctor may recommend robotic surgery include uterine conditions such as endometriosis, chronic pelvic pain and both cancerous and non-cancerous tumors.

“Recent studies show that women who undergo hysterectomies assisted with robotic surgery experience significantly lower reoperation rates and hospital readmissions than women who underwent traditional surgeries,” Dr. Casiano said. “Any type of surgery has the potential to be disruptive to a patient’s life, so our goal is to get them back to their normal routine as quickly as possible.”

If you’re considering a hysterectomy, talk to your OB/GYN about whether or not you may be a candidate for robotic surgery. They can further explain the risks and benefits specific to you.

Victor Casiano, M.D., is an obstetrician-gynecologist with the Institute for Women’s Health, San Antonio. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Casiano, please call 210.226.9705.

This Article Originally Appeared on https://www.ifwh.org/en/better-outcomes-for-hysterectomies-performed-with-robotic-surgery/

Bank On It: Cord Blood Banking Awareness Month

July is Cord Blood Awareness Month Across the Nation and we are proud to support programs that make efforts to reach expectant parents across the nation with useful facts and tips on why and how to save a newborn’s cord blood. Cord blood and tissue taken from the umbilical cord at birth can be used to treat more than 80 diseases, including blood cancers, lymphoma and leukemia.

Expectant parents are bombarded with information about the delivery process and many other things that fall along with the procedure. It must be nearly impossible to decipher the medical terms and really understand what options expectant parents have in terms of doctors, facilities, pre- and post-partum care. This is why Save the Cord Foundation exists. They are structured to guide you through this process of storing your baby’s cord blood. The foundation wants to explain how this fits into your birthing process without disruption to you or your baby. They are interested in helping you understand why it is important to not throw this natural resource away and then learn about options in your area to save your newborn’s cord blood either publicly or privately. One of their main goals is to help the expectant parents, understand how valuable your baby’s cord blood is and make sure that it is not just thrown away (around 95% of cord blood is thrown away currently as medical waste). Unfortunately, it is often the parent who must ask about donating or privately storing cord blood as this topic is not commonly brought up in birthing consultations. This is why it is important for parents to educate themselves and understand their options.

Not to mention, the Institute for Women’s Health OB/GYN Care in San Antonio, Texas, is interested in sharing their expertise on why parents-to-be should consider this important procedure. Making this decision prior to giving birth could potentially save your child’s life.

If you’re wondering how cord blood transplants work, it’s simple, cord blood can be used in treatment for over 80 different diseases, including certain types of cancer. After collection, cord blood is administered to a patient that needs healthy, adaptable stem cells in their system. These cells begin repopulating inside the body, which speeds up the patient’s treatment process and improves their chances of a successful recovery.

There are doctors who have noted a few benefits of cord blood stem cell transplants:

●     Cord blood cells multiply very quickly. While the amount of stem cells collected from cord blood is lower than other stem cell procedures, hematopoietic stem cells (HSC), from the umbilical cord generate new cells at a faster rate. Researchers are also experimenting with ways to increase the number of stem cells given to a patient, such as using two different cord blood units in the same procedure.

●      HSCs from cord blood naturally move to damaged areas. After HSCs are transplanted into a patient, cord blood cells will move through the blood system to the area where they are needed most. Once they arrive, the transplanted HSCs work with the body’s cellular system to repair damage.

●     Umbilical cord cells are more adaptable than other types of HSCs. Compared to bone marrow and peripheral blood transplants, cord blood cells are younger and more immature. This means HSCs from the umbilical cord have a much higher chance of adapting to the patient’s system, preventing graft-versus-host disease. Bone marrow usually requires a 5 out of 6 HLA match or higher, while many scientists suggest cord blood HSCs only require a 3 out of 6 match.

Doctors and researchers are constantly improving the treatment methods they use during stem cell procedures. While cord blood treatments, and stem cells in general, are still considered an emerging science, dozens of diseases are currently approved for cord blood therapy by the FDA.

As mentioned before on how cord blood is used to treat diseases, to be exact, cord blood HSCs have been used in treatment for over 20 years, with over 35,000 transplants completed worldwide. Since the first successful cord blood treatment in 1988, doctors have utilized umbilical cord cells as a therapy for dozens of different illnesses. Cord blood HSCs now treat over 80 different conditions — in the past 8 years, the list of diseases treated with cord blood has doubled.

HSCs can be used as a treatment for:

●     Blood cancers like leukemia and lymphoma

●     Immune system disorders like aplastic anemia

●     Metabolic conditions like Hurler syndrome and Krabbe disease

Once the cells are injected into a patient’s system, they make its way through the bloodstream to damaged areas like the brain, heart, or other vital organs. After they arrive, the cells adapt into the type of cell most needed by the body, and begin multiplying. This increases the patient’s healthy blood cell count and improves their recovery time.

When choosing the right option for your family, remember there is no wrong answer — private and public banking each have their own benefits and drawbacks. There are a few major factors that can help you make the best choice for your situation:

●     Price — private banking costs money, usually a processing fee upfront and annual payments to keep your child’s cord blood in storage. Donating cord blood to a public bank is completely free.

●     Location — Public banks are usually associated with a hospital, which means your options are limited depending on your location. Most private banks offer temperature-controlled storage, allowing parents to ship their child’s cord blood over long distances. Location is less important to private banking.

●     Family history — A family that has a history of genetic disease would benefit more from private banking, where they can use banked stem cells as a treatment for immune disorders and metabolic conditions. The chances of the donor family using a public banking donation again are low, since the cells will most likely be used for another treatment by the time the family needs them.

Knowing more about your options can help you make the most informed decision for your family. For more information on choosing between private and public banking, read our banking options guide.

In case you were wondering how cord blood banking works, after your child is born, their umbilical cord is clamped and cut just like in a normal birthing procedure. Medical staff will move the cord to a different room where they extract blood from the cord and place it into a storage container.

A cord blood unit traveling to a storage facility goes through several basic steps:

●     The cord blood is placed into a temperature-controlled container at the hospital.

●     The container is shipped through a private medical carrier to the storage facility.

●     Facility staff will remove stem cells from the cord blood.

●     The cells are placed into long-term cryogenic storage, ready to use whenever needed.

If you’ve decided to store your child’s cord blood in a private bank, only your family will have access to these stem cells. You can use them as a treatment for your child, siblings, or close relatives at any point in the future. Parents that donate cord blood won’t have any control over their stem cells, but often receive notifications from the public bank if their cells are used to treat a patient.

A day in the life of an OBGYN

OB/GYN, shorthand for obstetrician/gynecologist, refers to two medical specialties. Although obstetrics, the branch of medicine focused on delivering babies, might be the oldest medical art, most obstetricians also practice gynecology since exclusively delivering babies would not typically provide much business. The profession requires diverse daily duties and it offers OB/GYNs opportunities to provide various types of surgical procedures and practice preventive medicine.

The Institute for Women’s Health is the largest and best OB/GYN practice in San Antonio, Texas. They are committed to offering exceptional women’s healthcare, from obstetrics and gynecology to fertility and more. They have more than 30 physicians who specialize in all areas of OB/GYN care, including menopause management and fertility treatment. They currently have eight clinics conveniently located throughout San Antonio. It is their mission to take a team approach to providing women of all ages with compassionate care in an inviting, comfortable and patient-centric environment.

The lifestyle and job description of an OB/GYN practitioner consists of:

Keeping Women Healthy

One of the first priorities for an OB/GYN practitioner is their patients. Overall, an OB/GYN provides medical and surgical care to women. Obstetrics involves taking care of women before and during pregnancy and at childbirth, as well as their fetuses and newborn babies, and performing procedures such as cesarean sections. Duties related to gynecology include diagnosing and treating disorders of the female reproductive system. They can diagnose conditions such as infection, endometriosis, and ovarian and breast cancers. OB/GYNs sometimes provide primary care. They also continually take courses to update their skills. Due to the nature of their practice, OB/GYNs are frequently on call, and their hours can be quite long, as they may have to help women through labors lasting longer than 24 hours. On average, OB/GYNs work 58 hours a week, according to the Association of American Medical Colleges. Everything that OB/GYNs do on a daily basis is all meant to improve their patient’s well-being. Caring about their patient’s health is one thing, but to gain their trust and create effective communication is important as well. OB/GYNs have the ability to make the “being pregnant” experience for their patients easier to cope with since it is probably the most challenging phase a woman can face in her lifetime. Without the help of OB/GYNs, one can only imagine how difficult it would be for women to maintain their health.

Multitude of Duties

OB/GYNs place a priority on encouraging patients to maintain healthy lifestyles. The Institute for Women’s Health does a good job having their OB/GYNs provide care and comfort to all their patients. In general, OB/GYNs provide information about exercise, nutrition and planning pregnancies. They also warn of the dangers of smoking tobacco and drinking alcohol excessively. After examining patients, they order the appropriate tests to nail down a diagnosis. Then they explain the test results, provide treatment options and monitor the patient's progress. Of course, OB/GYNs only recommend their patients to maintain their health because they want what is best for them. OB/GYNs, with further education, can subspecialize in fields such as critical care medicine, female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery, gynecologic oncology, and reproductive endocrinology and infertility. When required, they refer patients to other specialists and consult with other health care providers when necessary.

Other Positions

If they are in private practice, OB/GYNs require business and administrative skills, such as bookkeeping, marketing and personnel matters, as do those who work in administrative capacities in hospitals or who run community health programs. OB/GYNs running hospital or community health programs may also need to be familiar with the public policy and governmental regulations concerning their hospital or community programs. Some OB/GYNs go on to teach in medical schools. In medical schools and for private corporations, they can also perform research on diseases and their treatments and write articles for medical and scientific journals.

Becoming Qualified

Aspiring OB-GYNs graduate from medical school and complete 4 years of a hospital residency program. These programs provides training in areas such as preconceptional health, pregnancy, postpartum care, genetic counseling, women's overall health, management of hormonal disorders, and surgery to treat pelvic organ and urinary tract problems. All doctors must be licensed in the state in which they work. State licensing requirements vary.

A Good Outlook

The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects that, for physicians and surgeons overall, employment will grow 24 percent between 2010 and 2020, faster than the average for all occupations, with growth best for specialties that treat conditions affecting aging baby boomers. The I Have a Plan Iowa website notes that OB-GYNs will be in demand as female baby boomers increasingly reach menopause. According to the BLS, in 2012, obstetricians and gynecologists made mean annual salaries of $216,760.

The Complications for Pregnant Women

Through stories from friends and informational packets from doctors, women are aware of many risks associated pregnancy. Flu-like symptoms, vomiting, preeclampsia, maternal bleeding, and preterm labor are often discussed. Our bodies are incredible, complicated things, however, and sometimes serious issues fly under the radar during all the chaos of caring for a brand new baby.

Unfortunately, the vast majority of women who develop diabetes during pregnancy are not screened for diabetes again within one year after giving birth. There are many cases where gestational diabetes resolves after pregnancy. On the other hand, there are some cases where women will develop type 2 diabetes. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommend that women with gestational diabetes have their blood sugar levels checked at least six to 12 weeks after giving birth.

It’s not uncommon for women who have a history of gestational diabetes have a higher risk of developing diabetes. The risk level is at its highest within 10 years of having gestational diabetes. Researchers have used commercial insurance claims to study more than 440,000 women who gave birth at least once between 2000 and 2012. Not to mention, there were 32,252 women who had gestational diabetes in that same time frame.

Gestational diabetes often has no symptoms and can only be diagnosed at a routine screening. Hyperglycemia, which is known as high blood glucose (blood sugar), can cause thirst, dry mouth, frequent urination, fatigue, recurrent infections, and blurred visions. Unfortunately, many may write off these symptoms as normal when, in actuality, they are serious warning signs. In cases of untreated gestational diabetes, there is a high possibility that the placenta may break away from the wall of the uterus (placenta abruption), causing vaginal bleeding and abdominal pain.

The hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, and human placental lactogen (HPL) that are produced during pregnancy can make the body insulin-resistant. This allows extra glucose and nutrients to be passed to the fetus. There are a few women who are either unable to produce enough insulin during pregnancy, or the body’s cells are more resistant to insulin, which can result in gestational diabetes.

Having a BMI above 30, a previous baby that was large for its gestational age, gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy, a family history of diabetes, or being of South-Asian, Afro-Caribbean, or Middle Eastern descent can increase the risk of developing gestational diabetes.

The condition often arises in the third trimester and disappears once the baby is born. Controlling gestational diabetes requires for women to diet and exercise. It occasionally requires medication and if left untreated, it can increase the chances of birth complications.

Surprisingly, within one year after giving birth, only 25 percent of women had received blood sugar screening. How could so many women with diabetes be left out of receiving treatment for such a long time? Who’s responsible for causing this kind of situation? These kinds of questions raise concern for the pregnant women community. While many women are willing to accept the pregnancy risks they are aware of, potential mothers deserve to know the full picture of what long-term changes their bodies might undergo as a result of said pregnancy.

Thankfully, there are some signs of improvement in this area. Recommended screening at six to 12 week postpartum increased from two percent of women in 2001 to seven percent in 2011. . In addition, oral glucose tolerance tests were performed in 36 percent of women in Western states within 12 weeks of giving birth. Imagine that statistic compared to 19 percent of women in the Northeast and 18 percent in the South. Interestingly, Asian women were more likely than white women to receive blood sugar screening while they were pregnant

Women who visited either an endocrinologist or a nutritionist-diabetes educator after giving birth were more than likely to be screened for diabetes. Currently, it appears that women need to reach out to doctors for follow-up tests. Whether or not scheduling follow-up appointment is responsibility of the new mother or her medical health professional is debatable and varies from clinic to clinic. However, the point remains that women who have gestational diabetes and are not screened postpartum may continue to develop elevated blood sugar. Worst case scenario, the women can become pregnant again and have overt diabetes. Entering a pregnancy with overt diabetes poses greater risks to the fetus and the pregnancy.

In addition to screening after giving birth, usually at the six to 12-week postpartum follow-up appointment, women with gestational diabetes should receive ongoing blood sugar screening every one to three years.

When you have a new baby, it is difficult to keep up with the medical care routine, especially when the obstetrics team changes between pregnancies. Sometimes it isn’t possible to stay with the same OBGYN and many women don’t push their obstetrics teams communicate. This lack of communication between women’s different obstetric teams can cause problems and more stress towards the woman giving birth. Sometimes, it may not be clear as to which doctor is supposed to do the screening or when he/she should plan to do it.

If women catch diabetes or abnormal blood sugar early, there are ways one can try to prevent overt diabetes from occurring. It’s important for women to catch this irregular behavior early in order for their dietary change and exercise to have profound effects.

If you live in San Antonio, Texas, make sure to take the risk of diabetes seriously. A study by the University Health System found that 11.8% of the Bexar County population (137,009 people) are diagnosed with diabetes. They believe approximately 440,468 Texans are undiagnosed. Women in San Antonio need to take the risk of gestational diabetes seriously. The Institute of Women’s Health provides OB/GYN services to women across San Antonio.

Questions Every Woman Should Ask Her Gynecologist

No one WANTS to visit the gynecologist! It’s no surprise that a lot of women experience anxiety when heading into their gynecological appointments. Even when you have a respectful, empathetic doctor, pap smears and pelvic exams are, at best, uncomfortable. Once you are already in the exam room, nerves can cause you to forget the important questions you needed to ask your gynecologist. That is why it is so important to decide ahead of time and write down the questions you have for your doctor.

Below are some questions that you may have about your reproductive health. Don’t be embarrassed by them! All of these questions come from a genuine concern and you should not be embarrassed if any of them hit close to home. Read though this list PRIOR to going to your OB/GYN appointment. If you find yourself wondering about any of these questions, speak with your gynecologist about your options.

Should I clean myself before a pap smear or pelvic exam?

While your gynecologist, like all doctors, will encourage good personal hygiene habits, try not to over prepare before a pap smear or pelvic exam. You can, in fact, be TOO clean for these test!

Spermicide foams, douches, or overly enthusiastic cleaning can wipe away the abnormal cells that a pap smear looks for when testing you. Additionally, while certain smells may be embarrassing, they can be diagnostically important. A concerning smell or discharge should be discussed, not hidden, since those symptoms can help your gynecologist understand what is going on with your body.

Is sex supposed to hurt?

No. Sex is not supposed to hurt. However, 15 percent of women report experiencing pain during sex at some point during their lives. The misconception that this is normal keeps them from seeking help. If intercourse is painful for you, reach out to your gynecologist for help.

Why does it itch?

There are a number of reasons that you may experience vaginal itching. Properly identifying the cause is important since the treatments are very different.

Some itching is caused by irritants. Certain soaps, ointments, topical contraceptives, bubble baths and scented toilet papers can irritate your skin or cause an allergic reaction. Diabetic’s urine may also cause vaginal irritation.

Yeast infections’ symptoms include itching and burning. 3 out of 4 women experience a yeast infection at some point in their lives, especially after a course of antibiotics.

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can often result in vaginal itching. Chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes, and genital warts all cause itching.

Eczema, psoriasis, and other similar skin diseases can cause redness and itching. Sometimes, these rashes do spread to the vagina.

During menopause, estrogen levels decline, which can lead to vaginal dryness. As a result, some women experience itching or irritation.

If you experience itching, hives, or wheezing after sex, you may have an allergy to latex (condoms), spermicides or lubricants. In rare cases, some women are allergic to a protein in semen.

While the symptom of itching is the same for each case, the causes are very different and so the treatments must be as well. In the case of irritants or allergies, you may only need to avoid certain products. Infections and STDs, however, require medical attention to address. Once your gynecologist identifies what is causing your itching, the two of you will be able to find the appropriate treatment.

Does everyone’s period hurt this much?

Everyone’s body is different. However, abnormal period pain can be a symptom of other, serious health issues. Endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, fibroids (benign tumors), adenomyosis, and cervical stenosis can all cause severe pain during menstruation.

If your cramps last for more than two or three days, consult your gynecologist for treatment options. Listening to your body can help uncover underlying health concerns but, even if nothing is out of the ordinary, your doctor likely has options to help relieve your pain. Menstruation is normal but it should not hinder your daily life.

How long can I leave a tampon in?

Do not leave a tampon in for more than 8 hours. If it remains in longer than that, you risk toxic shock syndrome. The trapped bacteria in the vagina, specifically staph and strep, flourish inside tampons. Symptoms of toxic shock syndrome include vomiting, diarrhea, high fever, low blood pressure, and a rash that looks similar to a sunburn.

If treated, toxic shock syndrome has a good prognosis. However, if left untreated, the infection can result in organ damage.

Who needs a mammogram?

A mammogram is an x-ray exam of the breasts, which is used as a diagnostic and screening tool. Early detection of breast cancer is incredibly important so women over the age of 45 should receive annual mammograms. Women who feel a lump in their breast or experience other breast cancer symptoms should get a mammogram.

If you need assistance with any of these gynecological issues and live in the San Antonio area, reach out to the Institute of Women’s Health to make an appointment at one of their seven locations.