The Importance of Girlfriends

How many friends can you call right now and ask them to accompany you to the doctor? If you can count more than five, you have a much higher chance of being healthier than most women. Often times we mistake friendship with how many Facebook friends, Twitter followers, or Reddit reposts we have. We loose track of how to build real, meaningful, and long-lasting friendships. Since we are celebrating “National Girlfriends Day”, we want to point out the importance of having girlfriends in our lives.

Having girlfriends not only allows us to live a fuller and happier life, it can actually lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of depression, and create a sense of well-being. Friends are those people that look out for us, they are always there to support us, make us laugh, and push us to be healthier and better. They are the ones that know who we truly are and therefore expect us to live life to our fullest potential. You can expect them to always be by our side throughout all the ups and downs of life, this is why we should always invest time and effort in our friendships.

Here are some reasons why having girlfriends can have a positive impact on your health and life:

You push each other to be better.

When you are in a rut, friends are the ones that always find ways to get you back on your feet. They can help you find motivation to exercise and eat right. Research shows that those that pact to make healthy lifestyle changes together are more likely to do so. It is also important to push each other to constantly take control of your own health. Ask your friends if they’ve had their annual exam done or if they need help letting go of an unhealthy habit.

Girlfriends are your best support group.

From a hard day at work to getting through cancer, friends will always be there to support you no matter what. They always know just what to do, what to say, and how to help. If they are not equipped to help you, they will find someone that can. Remember to always be a good friend and take interest in your friends’ health. Motivate them to schedule regular visits to their general and OB/GYN physicians.

Your girlfriends know what it is to be a woman.

Your girlfriends will ALWAYS understand your menstrual mood swings, your health concerns, your pregnancy fears, and your menopausal hot flashes. It’s great to always have someone that knows exactly what you are going through. You don’t have to be shy or embarrassed with your friends. You can ask them intimate questions about being a woman without any repercussions. You are all on the same boat.

So grab your phone and call up your girlfriends! Celebrate this “National Girlfriends Day” with your closest friends and remember to always look out for each other. Happy Girlfriends Day!

For More Information about it Visit https://www.ifwh.org/gn

Source : This Article Originally Appeared on https://www.ifwh.org/en/the-importance-of-girlfriends/

Solutions to Common Breastfeeding Challenges

Even though breastfeeding is one of the most beautiful things a woman can do, it often comes with its challenges. One important thing to note is that every woman’s body is different, therefore some might face breastfeeding challenges while others might not. The important thing is to always be prepared and know how to solve problems that may arise. Before you start breastfeeding, it is very important to ask your doctor everything you need to know about it.

Here are some common breastfeeding challenges and tips on how to manage them:

Running Low on Milk?

Sometimes it is difficult to know if your baby is getting enough milk and if you will be able to produce the milk your baby needs. It is normal for your breasts to feel less full after a couple of months. Let your doctor know if you are concerned. Remember to always check your baby’s weight and growth to see if she/he is getting enough milk. Here are some things you can do if you are concerned about your milk supply:

• Limit the use of the pacifier.
• The more you nurse, the more you supply. Remember to always follow your baby’s lead- he will let you know when he is done.
• Use both your breasts when feeding. Start with one breast and if he is still sucking and swallowing offer him your second breast.
• Your baby does not need solid foods until he is 6 months old. Try to only breastfeed him and avoid offering him formula or solid foods. The less interest the baby has in your breast milk, the less you will supply.

Supplying Excess Milk?
While some mothers worry about the low milk supply, other mothers worry about oversupplying milk. This can be very uncomfortable for both the mother and the baby. Here are some things you can do if you are an over supplier.

• Try to gradually increase the length of time you breastfeed on each side.
• When your breast feels extremely full and it’s not time to breastfeed yet, hand express it for a couple of minutes or use a cold washcloth to reduce swelling.
• Try to prevent aggressive sucking and feed your baby before he or she becomes very hungry.
• Positions like “side lying” and “football hold” may help with milk ejection.

What to do if you have a rush of milk:

• Carefully and gently hold your nipple with your forefinger and middle finger to lightly compress milk ducts and reduce the milk ejection force.
• Let excess milk spray into a towel if you feel your baby is choking.

Are Your Nipples Sore?

It is normal for breasts to be sore, especially if you just started breastfeeding. Once you find a comfortable position and your baby has a good latch everything should be easier and feel better. Here are some things you can do if your nipples are sore.

• Changing positions can ease the pain and help you find a good comfortable latch.
• If your baby is not getting a good latch and only sucking on your nipple, carefully break your baby’s suction by placing your finger in the corner of your baby’s mouth and try again.
• Heal your nipples with your milk. Once you are done breastfeeding gently rub a few drops of milk on your nipples and let your nipples air-dry.
• Try to stay away from bras and clothes that can put a lot of pressure on your nipples.
• If you can’t deal with the pain or can’t seem to get a good latch don’t hesitate to get help from your doctor or a lactation consultant.

Nursing Strike:

If your baby refuses your breast all of a sudden, your baby is going into a “nursing strike”. This usually means that your baby wants you to know that something might not be quite right. Here are some of the major causes of nursing strikes.

• Distraction while breastfeeding.
• Overuse of pacifier or reduced milk supply.
• Reaction to overstimulation, stress, constant late breastfeeding, and a mother’s strong reaction to a baby’s bite.
• Loud noises or discussions while breastfeeding.
• Major change in routine.
• Breastfeeding positions might cause pain or soreness.
• Teething pain, fungal infection, ear infection, or a cold sore.

These are just some of the most common breastfeeding challenges. If you are confronted with pain, infections, or other breastfeeding problems, please contact your doctor as soon as possible.

Click Here For More Information

Source : This Article Originally Appeared on https://www.ifwh.org/en/solutions-to-common-breastfeeding-challenges/

Everything You Need to Know About the HPV Vaccine

August is Immunization Awareness Month and it’s a great time to talk to your daughter, son, friends, or family members about getting the HPV vaccine – or even getting it yourself. This vaccine protects against Human Papillomavirus (HPV) –the most common sexually transmitted disease in the United States – that can lead to cervical cancers, vulvar cancers, vaginal cancers, anal cancers, oropharyngeal cancers, and genital warts.

To maximize the vaccine’s effectiveness, girls and boys should receive it BEFORE they are sexually active. The recommended age is between 11 and 12 years of age. Although women can receive the vaccine until the age of 26 and men until the age of 21, it will not protect them against HPV infections they have already been exposed to. Many people think that this vaccine is only for girls, but it can also prevent anal cancers, mouth and throat cancers, and genital warts in men.

There are two types of vaccines – Cervarix and Gardasil – that protect against HPV-16 and HPV-18 strains, which account for over 70% of cervical cancers and an even greater percentage of HPV-associated cancers. The Gardasil vaccine also helps protect against anal cancers and genital warts. They are all given in a series of three shots over a period of six months. Those that have missed a dose or never finished getting all the shots should visit their doctor to complete the series. More than likely, they will not be required to start the whole series again.

So how does the HPV vaccine protect against these cancers? The vaccine contains proteins that are almost identical to the real HPV. When these proteins are injected, the body creates antibodies to clear this protein from the body. When people that have received the vaccine are exposed to HPV, their body already knows how to defend itself and keep it from entering its cells and creating an infection. The real or live virus is not used in the vaccine so there is zero risk of being infected from it.

One of the most common questions that I hear from my patients is: “Is the vaccine safe?” The response is that clinical studies have shown that it is safe and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has also declared it safe after extensive investigation. It is important to keep in mind that just like with any other vaccine, there might be some short-term side effects that can include bruising, itching, swelling, and tenderness at the injection site. Very rarely, individuals have reported dizziness, nausea, and vomiting, but it is important to emphasize that this is extremely uncommon. Doctors and health authorities recommend the HPV vaccine because they know that the benefits heavily outweigh the risks.

For more information about HPV Vaccine Click Here.

Source : This Article Originally Appeared on https://www.ifwh.org/en/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-hpv-vaccine/

Discussing Women’s Health With Your Teen Daughter

As your daughter enters her teenage years, it’s important for her to understand how and why her body is changing. It is also time for her to start seeing an OB/GYN. Parents often feel nervous and embarrassed to bring up the subject. Here are some ways to make talking about women’s health with your teenage daughter easier for both of you:

Start Early

Establishing open and honest communication with your daughter early on will make it much easier for you to talk about sex, puberty, birth control, STDs, and other difficult topics. Don’t start talking to your daughter about her period when she begins to menstruate for the first time and don’t wait to talk about sex when her friends are already doing it. Start approaching these topics early so your daughter feels comfortable coming to you for information. Putting off these conversations may lead her to seek information from the wrong sources.

Don’t Have “The Talk”- Have Many Talks

Trying to teach your daughter everything she needs to know about women’s health in one sitting can be a daunting task. Make it easier for both of you by casually bringing up the subject when the opportunity arises. For example, if a menstrual pad commercial comes up on television, use the opportunity to explain to your daughter what these pads are used for and how she will be using them in the future. Look for “teachable moments” every day to casually bring up the subject.

Spend Quality One-on-One Time With Your Daughter

It’s important for your daughter to have plenty of opportunities in which she can ask questions or talk about the changes that she’s going through. Plan activities where both of you can chat without having siblings or other family members around. Allow your daughter to share what’s going on in her life. Keep an open mind and avoid getting angry at the information that she shares.

Find an OB/GYN Your Daughter Feels Comfortable With

As your daughter enters womanhood, she will need to start seeing an OB/GYN and getting her annual exams. The thought of visiting a gynecologist for the first time can be very scary for her. She’ll probably ask: What will they do to me? Will it hurt? What will they think about my body? Ease your daughter’s fears by letting her participate in the process of selecting an OB/GYN and share some of your own experiences with her. Ask her if she would like for you to stay in the same room during the visit or if she prefers that you wait outside.

For More Information about San Antonio OBGYN visit https://www.ifwh.org/en/

Source : This Article Originally Appeared on https://www.ifwh.org/en/discussing-womens-health-with-your-teen-daughter/

Is it Just the Baby Blues?

Having a baby should be the happiest time of your life, right? So why are you feeling sad and out of yourself the first few days after giving birth to your baby?

If you’re feeling irritable, sad, and find yourself crying often the first week or two after giving birth, you’re not alone. Up to 80 percent of new mothers experience weepiness, irritability, frustration, mood swings, vulnerability, forgetfulness, exhaustion, and stress for the first two weeks after delivering. This condition, known as the Baby Blues, will peak itself around five days after delivery and should resolve on its own in around ten days.

The problem is that during this time, new mothers are also at risk of developing Postpartum Depression (PPD), which according to the American Psychological Association affects between 9-16 percent of postpartum women. Unlike the Baby Blues, PPD is a serious condition that requires treatment. It’s important to know the difference so that you can get timely care if needed.

How can I distinguish PPD from the Baby Blues?

The number one differentiating factor is that PPD impairs your normal functioning, explains clinical psychologist, Shoshana Bennett in her Psychology Today article. Although you experience ups and downs with the Baby Blues, you should feel happy most of the time. On the other hand, women suffering from PPD have symptoms like loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping, hopelessness, anger, low self-esteem, and deep sadness that keep them from being able to perform their daily activities.

Another big differentiating factor is time frame. Symptoms of the Baby Blues should only last for a few days and a maximum of two weeks. After that, it is considered Postpartum Depression. However, if symptoms are keeping a new mother from being able to perform her daily activities it is probably PPD even if it hasn’t been two weeks. Women with both conditions report feeling tired and overwhelmed but the major difference is that with the Baby Blues these feelings go away with rest or support from loved ones.

What should I do if I’m experiencing the Baby Blues?

Remind yourself that what you are feeling is normal and that it doesn’t make you a bad or unfit mother. Make sure you get plenty of rest and ask your partner or loved ones to provide support during this time. Talking to other new mothers who are going through the same thing can also help you feel better. It is important to talk about your experience with a trusted doctor, such as yourOB/GYN, who can reassure you that these feelings are normal and can let you know if it’s time to seek additional help.

What should I do if I’m experiencing Postpartum Depression?

If you suspect that you are suffering from PPD, seek professional help from a licensed counselor or psychologist. He or she can provide you with treatment options that will help you go back to your regular functioning and let you enjoy your new baby. Your OB/GYN can evaluate your symptoms and help you take the next steps toward recovery.

Keep in mind that there is a dangerous condition known as Postpartum Psychosis in which new mothers experience hallucinations, paranoia, confusion, and suicidal thoughts. Call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK or chat online athttp://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org (available 24/7) if you ever have thoughts of hurting yourself.

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

Source : This Article Originally Appeared on https://www.ifwh.org/en/is-it-just-the-baby-blues/

References:

New York State Department of Health:https://www.health.ny.gov/community/pregnancy/health_care/perinatal/maternal_factsheet.htm

Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/mommy-mental-health/200902/baby-blues-or-postpartum-depression

American Psychological Association: http://www.apa.org/pi/women/programs/depression/postpartum.aspx

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/