Chancroid occurs continuously in some areas of the United States and in discrete outbreaks in other areas. Chancroid is usually present for HIV transmission to occur. High rates of HIV infection among patients who have chancroid have been reported in the United States and other countries. An estimated 10% of patients who have chancroid could […]
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Vaginitis is usually characterized by a vaginal discharge or by vulvar itching and irritation; a vaginal odor may be present. The three diseases most frequently associated with vaginal discharge are trichomoniasis (caused by T. vaginalis), Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) (caused by a replacement of the normal vaginal flora by an overgrowth of anaerobic microorganisms and Gardnerella […]
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What is amniocentesis? Amniocentesis is a procedure performed on pregnant women in their second trimester to diagnose or rule out birth defects. The procedure is usually performed in the doctor’s office by an obstetrician. With the help of ultrasound, a thin needle is inserted through the abdomen into the uterus to remove a small amount […]
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Most health care providers now routinely offer their pregnant patients a blood test called the maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (MSAFP) screening test. This test identifies pregnancies at higher-than-average risk of certain serious birth defects, such as spina bifida (open spine) and Down syndrome (characteristic facial features, mental retardation, and possible heart defects and other problems). The […]
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Q. Why is colorectal screening important? A. Colon cancer is the second highest cancer killer in America. 55,000 Americans will die this year because of colorectal cancer. Q. Why have screening tests done? A. Screening can prevent cancer by removing precancerous growths (polyps)* Early detection diagnosis of cancer before it has a chance to spread […]
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Q. What check-ups and tests do I need and how often should I get them? Blood pressure measurements every 1 to 2 years. Breast exams monthly SELF exams; annual physician. Annual mammography after age 40. Cholesterol levels every 5 years after age 18. All women who are or have been sexually active, or have reached […]
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What is CIN? CIN, cervical intraepithelial neoplasia, is a disorder in the surface and lining of the cervix (the beginning of the uterus from the vagina). In essence, cervical intraepithelial neoplasia, or cervical dysplasia, is the presence of abnormal cells on the cervix. The detection of these abnormal cells is done through a Pap smear […]
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Bladder control problems occur when someone has trouble holding or releasing urine. One of the most common bladder problems people experience is accidental loss in urine, also referred to as urinary incontinence. If you experience this issue daily, here are some ways that you can manage it easier. Medication and bladder Control If so, one […]
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What is atrophic vaginitis? Atrophic vaginitis is an inflammation or irritation of the vagina caused by the thinning of the vaginal lining and by a decrease in lubricating secretions of the vagina. This is often associated in postmenopausal women or women who have had the removal of both ovaries because of their lower estrogen levels. […]
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A migraine is not just a headache; it is a biological disorder of the central nervous system. The exact cause of migraines is unclear, but may occur when blood vessels of the head and neck spasm, decreasing blood flow to the brain. This can cause pain instantly or hours later. Millions of people around the […]
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Many women suffer from headaches. Types of headaches include tension headaches, cluster headaches, migraine headaches, and sinus headaches, as well as those caused by eye disorders and severe neurological disease. Many women suffer from mild headaches early in pregnancy. While the exact cause of the headache is unclear and often cannot be elucidated, the majority […]
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What is it? A cervical biopsy is a diagnostic procedure used to evaluate abnormal cervical tissue found during a Pap smear. What conditions is it designed to treat? A cervical biopsy is used to monitor abnormalities in the cervix including: cervical erosion, cervical polyps, abnormal blood vessel patterns, inflammation in the cervix, or white patches. […]
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What is blood transfusion? Blood transfusion is the transfer of whole blood or a component–such as plasma, platelets, red blood cells, or clotting factors–from one person to another. What conditions is it designed to treat? Blood transfusions are used during medical procedures to increase blood volume, correct clotting problems, and improve immunity. Blood transfusions are […]
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Abdominal pain refers to pain in the stomach region or in the abdominal area. Abdominal pain is a nonspecific symptom that may be associated with a multitude of conditions. Some do not occur within the abdomen itself but cause abdominal discomfort; an example would be the abdominal pain associated with strep throat. Some originate within […]
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Adnexal torsion is an infrequent but serious cause of acute (sudden onset) abdominal pain. Studies have shown that adnexal torsion accounts for 2.5% of all gynecologic surgical emergencies in the United States. Although it can occur at any age, adnexal torsion is typically seen in younger patients with average age being 25. What Is an […]
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Abnormal uterine bleeding is a common condition that is defined as heavy menstrual flow, or unexpected or prolonged bleeding. The incidence of abnormal uterine bleeding increases as women grow older. Abnormal uterine bleeding may be caused by a variety of factors and, depending on the cause and nature of the bleeding, there are a variety […]
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Females should have their first gynecological exam by the age of 20, or when they become sexually active. At this point they should begin having yearly pap smears and pelvic exams. Many pediatricians are comfortable taking care of their patients’ gynecological problems. If this is the case, your pediatrician may continue to see you for […]
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Despite all the advertising by manufacturers of feminine hygiene products, there are no practical reasons for women to douche on a regular basis. In the past, many women felt that douching was necessary for cleanliness and it was a widespread practice. The latest research concludes that there are really no benefits to douching and there […]
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Today, most people who take insulin to manage diabetes inject the insulin with a needle and syringe that delivers insulin just under the skin. Several other devices for taking insulin are available, and new approaches are under development. Insulin pens can be helpful if you want the convenience of carrying insulin with you in a […]
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Contraceptive options for women over age 40 are similar to those for a younger woman. Types of contraception include: Barrier Contraception Spermicide – spermicide is a jelly or cream that is toxic to sperm. It is placed into the vagina before each episode of intercourse. The effectiveness rate is 74% to 94%. Condoms – condoms […]
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