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/

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/

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.

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.

5 Compelling Facts You Need To Know About the Zika Virus

The Zika virus has drawn quite the attention from other countries and now in the United States. Not many are aware of the Zika virus or what kind of damage it can cause to one’s body. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there have been cases of this emerging infectious disease soaring in the Americas. How much of a threat can this Zika virus be towards women’s health?

Zika-related birth defects are known to be as an international public health emergency by the WHO. Earlier this year, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) posted a travel alert advising pregnant women to delay traveling to areas where Zika is most active. The travel alert list continues to expand each day and now includes 45 countries or territories in the Americas, the Pacific Islands, Africa, and possibly more.

The CDC guidelines recommends that pregnant women coming back from these Zika hot zone areas to get tested for Zika. As of May 26, there has been 168 U.S. cases of Zika in pregnant women and an additional 142 in U.S territories.

This disease could not have arrived at a worse time than now with the 2016 summer Olympic Games coming up in Rio de Janeiro. Health experts fear the Zika virus could spread far beyond Latin America. The World Health Organization is already expecting Zika to spread in all but two countries in the Americas: Canada and Chile. This kind of situation leaves the athletes who are competing to consider skipping the games for their own good. The U.S. Olympic Committee believes that preventing the spread of Zika is critical, especially for women in their childbearing years.

Here are the facts about the Zika virus:

1. Although usually spread by mosquito’s bites, the Zika virus is also transmitted through sex. As a matter of fact, there have been cases of sexual transmission confirmed in Texas and others wonder where else it could be spreading. Zika is an RNA virus related to the West Nile, yellow fever, and dengue viruses, and eventually passed on by the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. For example, if a person were to be bitten by a mosquito that has the virus then that person becomes viremic. More than likely the person’s initial bite will attract other mosquitoes, which then passes the virus along.

As mentioned earlier, the Zika virus can also be sexually transmitted, which leaves intimate partners at risk. The CDC advises if you’re pregnant and your partner had or has Zika, you should speak with your doctor and consider using condoms or abstaining from sex throughout pregnancy. As a safety measure to protect others from receiving Zika, the FDA recommends not donating blood, tissue, or organs. This only applies if within the last six months you have been diagnosed with the Zika virus, been in an area with active Zika virus or had sex with a man who’s had the virus.

2. Unborn babies are most at risk from Zika virus complications due to their mothers being exposed to the virus. The Zika virus affects pregnant women by producing illnesses and horrific effects of microcephaly. Fortunately, doctors have not found that the Zika virus can cause breast cancer, or menopause issues. However, not even some of the best women's health doctors cannot predict when in pregnancy the consequences are greatest. There have been cases where up to nine pregnant U.S. travelers have consumed the Zika virus. The CDC has established a registry to track pregnant U.S. women who have a lab-confirmed Zika virus infection.

As of now, there’s no vaccine to protect against the Zika virus, those who have the virus can only rely on the rubella vaccination in order to avoid birth defects. This certain vaccine is recommended for adults and it helps prevent miscarriages in pregnant women, heart problems, and hearing loss in newborns.

3. The Zika virus began in Africa and is only spreading rapidly as people continue to travel to Zika active areas and take the virus back to their homes. The virus was originally named ZIKV, and first discovered in 1947 in a rhesus macaque in the Zika forest in Uganda.

There were outbreaks reported from 1951 to 1981 throughout Africa and Asia. In 2007, 73 percent of the Polynesian population was infected by the Zika virus. In December 2015, the Pan American Health Organization and the World Health Organization (PAN/WHO) recommended Latin American countries to demand healthcare systems to provide medications.

4. Travelers probably won’t bring infected mosquitoes along with them due to the fact that mosquitoes are not capable of traveling long distances. Mosquitoes have been known to be fragile insects and only a fraction of the total mosquito population are in Zika-endemic areas. The bigger concern people should have is that someone else who is infected is more capable of passing the virus along by having sex.

In addition, if the person infected with the virus is exposed to mosquito populations, those mosquitoes will carry the virus themselves and spread it to other people. It’s a continuous cycle that doesn’t end well for many people, especially women who are pregnant.

5. Mosquito control can help prevent the Zika virus from spreading towards others. One of the best things to do is control the insect vector by cutting down on mosquito breeding and other mosquito-borne viruses. One thing to take notice is that breeding sites include water-filled habitats like plant containers. toilets inside the home, puddles, and pooled water outdoors. However, chemical pesticides have the ability to kill mosquitoes, but use them carefully in order to prevent contamination that could be harmful to your health.

If you are pregnant and are concerned that you may have been exposed to the Zika virus, please visit the Institute For Women’s Health for evaluation.

Navigating The Symptoms Of Menopause

Menopause impacts all women eventually! While it is not comfortable, it is completely normal. This natural decline in reproductive hormones usually occurs between ages 40 and 50. However, certain medical conditions or surgeries can cause it to appear in women of all ages.

In this transitional time when a woman stops having menstrual periods, she can experience symptoms that range from simple period changes to problems sleeping for an extended amount of time. You may not experience every single symptom listed below and the severity of symptoms varies from woman to woman. Luckily, woman do not need to simply grit and bear the pain and discomfort!There are ways to overcome the symptoms associated with this transition.

So, without further ado, here are the common symptoms associated with menopause and a few pointers that will help make dealing with them more comfortable.

Insomnia or Problems Sleeping

During menopause, it may be challenging to get the recommended eight hours of sleep. Take part in activities that will make you exhausted by the end of the day, such as exercising or working out. Avoid tasks that may induce problems, like checking your phone before going to sleep and eating right before.

Frequent Urination

It is not uncommon for women to have a dire need to urinate even without a full bladder. Keep away from alcoholic drinks and stay hydrated. If problems persist or worsen, seek medical treatment options from your doctor.

Decreased Libido, Vaginal Dryness and Pain during Intercourse

Being less interested in sex is a typical symptom in the months or years leading up to menopause. Additionally, the decreased production of estrogen and progesterone can be very unsatisfying. Many over-the-counter and prescriptive treatments and lubricants are available to assist in sexual arousal.

Hot Flashes

Many women experience sudden feelings of heat in the body which can range from mild to intense. According to the National Institute on Aging, a typical hot flash lasts between 30 seconds to 10 minutes. While hot flashes are perhaps the best well-known symptom of menopause, it is not one that you simply have to accept as part of the process. Speak with your doctor to find proper options that offer relief from hot flash symptoms.

Depression and Mood Swings

You aren’t crazy! Irritability, depression, and quick transitions between mood swings are common with changes in hormone production. As long as you are self-aware of these symptoms, you can overcome them. If your moods are not too extreme, then simply being honest with your friends and family is enough. They’ll understand! But, if your moods are extreme enough that it is impacting your daily life, speak to your doctor about options for helping you find your balance again.

Irregular Periods

Periods don’t simply start or stop. For some time before stopping, your menstrual cycle may unpredictable. Ironically, heavier or prolonged periods are common at the start of menopause. Spotting may also continue for some time after normal menstrual cycles stop. It’s not fun but it is normal! However, please reach out to a doctor if your periods are very close together, last more than a week, have extreme bleeding, or experience severe pain.

Weight Gain/Slowed Metabolism

Throughout the menopause, it is extremelyimportant to keep up with your health. Your body is your most important asset. Get a fitbit, exercise often, track your diet, and download apps that will help you do all of these things. Sudden weight gain or loss is a typical symptom of menopause, so it’s important to remain in control of your body.

If you feel that your symptoms are more severe than they should be, seeking medical attention is very important. If you’re located in San Antonio and you would like to schedule an appointment at the Institute for Women’s Health for services related to menopause management, symptoms and treatment options above, click here.