The Facts Behind Embarrassing Women’s Health Problems

Women face many health problems that might be too embarrassing to discuss with friends or even their doctors. No matter what you’re going through, chances are most women experience it at one point or another too. Your OB/GYN is probably familiar with these embarrassing conditions and can help you find relief. Here we explain some common embarrassing problems that you might be experiencing.

Help! Why Am I Leaking?

Urinary incontinence is a very common problem among aging women, but can affect younger women as well. There are many reasons it happens and can range from leaking a few drops when laughing or exercising, having a frequent urge to urinate, or leaking large amounts. In older women, the pelvic muscles become weak and have less control due to childbirth, pregnancy, menopause, and aging. In other cases, health conditions like diabetes, Parkinson’s, Multiple Sclerosis, or stroke can damage the nerves that control urinary impulses and control. Urinary tract infections or drinking too many diuretic drinks, like green tea, can also be a culprit.

The good news is that there are many solutions to this embarrassing problem. The first step is to schedule a visit with your OB/GYN to determine the root cause and find a way to resolve it.

Why Do I Smell Fishy?

Have you noticed that you have a fishy smell recently? You might be suffering from bacterial vaginosis, an infection that is caused by an imbalance of “good” and “bad” bacteria in your vagina. Besides a “fishy” odor, BV can also cause pain, burning, itching, and white or gray discharge – but around 84% or women who suffer from this infection report no symptoms at all. Although it can be very embarrassing, it’s a very common condition – affecting 29.2% of women between 14 and 29 years of age in the United States each year. Having multiple sexual partners can increase the amount of harmful bacteria leading to BV. Pregnant women should be even more careful about BV since it can cause premature delivery and low birth weight. Bacterial Vaginosis can be treated quickly with medication and the odor will go away.

Why Do I Bleed So Much?

Do you have to switch your pad or tampon more than six or seven times a day? Does your period last more than seven days? Do you often stain your bed or clothes? Do you get very painful cramps? All of these can be symptoms of heavy menstruation, or menorrhagia. Although it’s common, heavy bleeding is considered abnormal and should be checked by an OB/GYN. The cause can range from hormonal imbalances, uterine fibroids, noncancerous cysts, or malignant growths. It’s important to get checked and get treatment right away to prevent more serious problems or before the loss of blood leads to anemia.

Gonima, Camilo A., MD
The Institute for Women’s Health

Source : This Article Originally Appeared on https://www.ifwh.org/en/the-facts-behind-embarrassing-womens-health-problems/

Symptoms and Early Detection of Ovarian Cancer

Symptoms and Early Detection of Ovarian Cancer: Ovarian cancer can be difficult to detect since its symptoms tend to be vague and similar to the symptoms of many other non-cancerous conditions. This can be dangerous, since many women will spend months visiting different kinds of physicians and never think of visiting an OB/GYN. It is important for all women to know the symptoms and to ask their doctors about their risk for ovarian cancer.

Early detection of ovarian cancer is key. According to The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologist the most common symptoms are:

1. Bloating or increase in abdominal size
2. Pelvic or abdominal pain
3. Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly

If any of those symptoms persist for more than two weeks, are frequent or get worsen over time, it is highly recommended that you visit an OB/GYN. Additional symptoms, include fatigue, upset stomach, back pain, pain during sex, constipation, menstrual changes, abdominal swelling with weight loss and urinary symptoms such as urgency or frequency.

The overall 5 year survival for ovarian cancer is 45%. The main reason this number is so low is because most women with ovarian cancer are diagnosed at more advanced stages, when the cancer has spread. Chances for survival are increased if ovarian cancer is detected at an earlier stage. Early detection can be difficult, but having a yearly pelvic exam and discussing your risks factors for ovarian cancer with your OB/GYN may help improve your chances for early detection.

Risks factors for ovarian cancer include age older than 55 years, family history of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, colon cancer, or endometrial cancer, personal history of breast cancer , genetic mutation such as BRCA1 or BRCA2 , never having had children, infertility and endometriosis. There are some additional tests that your OB/GYN may order if you are considered high risk to help detect ovarian cancer early. If you or a woman you know could be at risk, it is extremely important you visit your OB/GYN to make sure you are getting checked properly and in a timely manner. If you have any additional questions or concerns please visit The Institute for Women’s Health.

Guerrero, Jessica D., MD
The Institute for Women’s Health

Source : This Article Originally Appeared on https://www.ifwh.org/en/symptoms-and-early-detection-of-ovarian-cancer/

Sources & References:

1) http://www.acog.org/Patients/FAQs/Ovarian-Cancer#risk
2) http://www.cancer.org/cancer/ovariancancer/

Blame It On The Hormones

We all know that hormones are responsible for cramps, mood swings and breast tenderness during menstruation or hot flashes and irritability during menopause, but did you know that they can be responsible for many other symptoms?

Your body is able to function due to a delicate balance of hormones. These chemicals control everything from your sleep-wake cycle, your appetite, your metabolism, and even your heart rate. Women have their own set of hormones that control their reproductive systems and allow them to become pregnant and have babies. The tiniest change in the balance of these female hormones can create many alarming symptoms in your body.

There are many points in a woman’s life where it is normal for her to experience hormonal changes. These changes occur every month before menstruation, during pregnancy, and the few years leading up to menopause. Here are some of the symptoms that you can expect to experience during each period:

Symptoms days before menstruation

• Abdominal bloating
• Abdominal cramps
• Breast tenderness
• Mood swings
• Irritability
• Fatigue
• Joint pain
• Difficulty concentration
• Weight gain

Symptoms during pregnancy

• Nausea
• Morning sickness
• Increased appetite or cravings
• Vomiting
• Heartburn
• Constipation
• Spider veins
• Increased hair growth
• Aches
• Clumsiness

Symptoms during menopause

• Vaginal dryness
• Depression and mood swings
• Night sweats
• Hot flashes
• Sleep problems
• Thinning hair and dry skin
• Decreased sexual libido
• Frequent urination or incontinence
• Headaches

Although it’s normal for those symptoms to happen during those periods, you can also experience them at other times. If this happens, it’s a signal that your hormones are off balance and it might be time to get checked with your OB/GYN clinic. This can happen due to your lifestyle or other medical conditions. Eating an unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, long-term exposure to toxins, and smoking can all cause hormonal imbalances at any point in your life.

I’m having some of these symptoms, what should I do?

If you suspect that your hormones can be responsible for your symptoms, schedule an appointment with your OB/GYN San Antonio. Your doctor will conduct some blood tests to determine the level of different hormones in your body. If there is an imbalance, he or she will further investigate to see if there is a medical condition behind this problem. You will probably also be prescribed a medication or hormonal therapy that will correct this imbalance and eliminate symptoms.

An imbalance in your hormones can produce very strong symptoms that can keep you from functioning. Many women suffering from severe depression and anxiety will find that hormones are the culprits. If you have been experiencing symptoms that doctors cannot find a cause for, consider having a blood test to see if hormones could be the cause. You don’t have to live in discomfort. There are many therapies available to correct the issue.

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/blame-it-on-the-hormones/

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/