Category: Blog

Obstetrics: What to Expect From Your First Trimester

Did you know that pregnant women make up around 1% of the United States population at any given time? For many people, the early weeks of a pregnancy can be an exciting time.

But, there’s also a lot of stress that comes with facing the unknown. That’s why we made this obstetrics guide with some pregnancy tips.

In it, we’ll break down what you can expect from your first trimester, from body changes to obstetric visits. That way, you can begin your pregnancy with the confidence that you need. Let’s get started!

How Long Is the First Trimester?

As the name suggests, the first trimester is the first and earliest phase of pregnancy. The first trimester begins before you’re ever actually pregnant. It officially starts on the day of your last period.

Then, it lasts till the end of your thirteenth week pregnant. In other words, it lasts for a little over three months.

Compared to the other trimesters, your body is going through the most rapid changes. Let’s take a closer look at some of the physical changes that come with your first trimester.

Physical Body Changes to Expect

There are some physical body changes and symptoms that will occur during your first few months. First, there’s morning sickness. And sadly, this nausea isn’t confined to the morning.

It can strike at any part of the day. Next, your breasts will likely get bigger and swollen. It’s normal for them also to feel tender and tingly. These changes are caused by rapid hormonal changes.

Speaking of hormonal changes, it’s also common to experience mood swings. And it’s not just from happy to sad states. Many women report being elated, anxious, excited, and exhausted all at the same time.

Know that these emotional states are perfectly normal. Hormonal changes are also responsible for the weird cravings you experience while pregnant. You may also be repelled by certain smells or tastes that you used to like.

Even though your baby is still small, it’s important to try to gain between three to four pounds in your first trimester. If you don’t gain this weight, it’s all right as long as you put it on in the second or third trimester.

Lastly, you might notice other symptoms like increased urination, fatigue, constipation, and heartburn.

What Isn’t Normal?

For expecting mothers, any minor symptom can seem scary. That being said, some things are perfectly normal, and other things will require medical attention.

In terms of what’s normal, you’re likely going to experience headaches, stomach pain, and cramping.

What’s more, light bleeding is normal when the embryo attaches to the uterus. That being said, some symptoms are cause for concern. These include:

• Heavy bleeding
• Severe pain in your abdomen
• Pain during urination
• Rapid feelings of thirst
• Fevers over 101.5 degrees Fahrenheit
• Chills
• Severe puffiness in your face or hands

Remember that your chances for a miscarriage are highest in the first trimester. So, if you experience any of these symptoms, then you should see a professional right away. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Schedule An Obstetrics and Gynecology Visit

Your first trimester is when it’s time to book your first OB-GYN visit. What should you expect from your visit? First, your doctor will review your health records and perform a basic physical.

That way, they know of any pre-existing conditions that might affect the baby. After that, you’ll undergo a lot of tests. These include a urine analysis, Pap smear, and blood work.

The blood work is especially important because it will tell them things like your hCG levels, blood type, Rh levels, and the presence of any infections. After that, you’ll undergo an ultrasound.

This will be used to detect a heartbeat, determine how far along you are, and see if things are progressing as they should be. If your family suffers from genetic illnesses or diabetes, then you might also be screened with some genetic tests.

Your doctor is going to be asking you a lot of questions during the process. Make sure you ask questions, too if you have any. Write down any that you have before your visit, so you don’t forget them at the moment.

Get Ready to Avoid Certain Things

When you first get pregnant, there are a few things that most people know to avoid. For example, it’s widely known that a few drinks can cause a high chance of developing fetal alcohol syndrome.

Similarly, most people know that cigarettes and drug use are bad for the baby. However, there are other things that you should avoid that aren’t as widely known.

For example, did you know you should avoid your cat’s litter box? Cat feces can contain a parasite known as toxoplasmosis. If you contract this parasite, then it can cause serious health problems for fetuses in the first trimester.

You should also avoid hot tubs, saunas, and hot baths. Anything that brings you a temperature above 101 degrees Fahrenheit is bad.

Lastly, make sure you’re careful around raw or undercooked food. That means no more sushi or beef tartare while you’re pregnant.

Looking For Prenatal Care? Contact Women’s Health of Augusta

We hope this obstetrics guide helped you learn what to expect from your first trimester. As you can see, there are a lot of uncomfortable body change symptoms that come within the first three months of pregnancy.

However, despite the discomfort, it’s still vital to get your ducks in a row in terms of finding an obstetrics provider. If you live in the Augusta, Georgia area, then you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better option than Women’s Health of Augusta.

For forty years, we’ve been providing comprehensive care to our community. Plus, we accept most types of insurance. So, if you’re ready for the expert prenatal care that you deserve, contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Pap Smear Test: How Often Do You Need to Have This Done

In 2022, it’s estimated that 14,100 new cases of cervical cancer will be diagnosed in the United States. Most women are diagnosed with cervical cancer between 35 and 44, with the average age of diagnosis at 50.

However, cervical cancer rarely occurs in women who get a regular pap smear test as they are able to detect abnormal cells before it becomes a bigger problem.

If you haven’t had a pap test in a while, it’s time to start paying attention. It’s important to understand how pap smear tests work and how frequently you should get them.

Keep reading this guide to learn about pap tests so you can catch any health problems early on!

Overview of a Pap Smear Test

The Papanicolaou test or Pap test is a procedure that collects cells from your cervix. Pap smear tests detect precancerous and cancerous changes in your cervix.

Pap smear tests detect not only cervical cancer but also other abnormalities like inflammation. Often, your doctor will do additional testing for sexually transmitted diseases during your exam.

Pap Smear Test and Pelvic Exams

It’s also important to realize that Pap tests are not the same thing as pelvic exams, and many women get these confused.

During a pelvic exam, your doctor will assess your reproductive organs for any abnormalities. They’ll typically press on your abdomen and pelvis area while inserting a gloved hand into your vagina so they can determine the size and shape of your ovaries and uterus.

Though a pelvic exam is often done at the same time as a pap smear, that’s not always the case. You’ll need to talk to your doctor about how you should be scheduling this exam.

Pap Smear Testing and HPV Testing

Human papillomavirus, or HPV, is the most common cause of cervical cancer. There are over 100 types of HPV; certain types of HPV infections that appear as genital warts near your cervix, vagina, or anus will most likely lead to cervical cancer.

You get HPV through cuts or small tears in your skin, and genital HPV infections often occur from unprotected sexual intercourse.

For this reason, pap smear tests are usually done at the same time as an HPV test, which is often referred to as co-testing.

What Can You Expect During a Pap Smear?

During a pap test, your doctor will use a speculum to help them see into your vagina. Then, they’ll use a special swab to collect cells from outside the cervix to send to a laboratory and be examined under a microscope.

The pap smear test takes a few minutes, and although it may feel uncomfortable, you shouldn’t experience any pain. Some women experience light bleeding and mild cramping after a pap smear, but you shouldn’t experience this for longer than 24 hours.

How Should You Prepare for a Pap Smear Test?

You’ll need to prepare for your pap smear test to ensure you have the most accurate results possible.

First, it’s best to schedule your pap test at least five days after your period. Most healthcare providers avoid performing pap tests during your menstrual period because that can alter the results. You’ll need to check with your doctor about what they recommend.

You’ll also want to avoid sexual intercourse, vaginal creams, lubricants, or douches at least two days prior to your pap smear test.

Who Should Get Pap Smear Tests?

Pap smear tests are a vital part of your healthcare routine, and all women between the ages of 21 and 65 should get regular pap test screenings.

How Often Should You Get a Pap Smear Test?

The frequency of pap smears depends on your age, medical history, and what types of results you’ve had from previous pap smear tests.

Based on your age, you’ll need to follow a schedule that includes:

• No pap testing before the age of 21
• A pap test every three years between 21 and 29
• A pap test and HPV test every five years if you’re between 30 and 65
• No pap testing after 65 if you’re not at high risk

Typically, you’ll need more frequent pap smear testing if you have certain health conditions like HIV or are immunocompromised from other conditions or medical treatments.

You’ll also need to have pap smears more often if you have a history of cervical cancer, have been treated for HPV, or have had abnormal pap smear results in the past.

When Can You Stop Getting Pap Smear Tests?

If you’re older than 65 and have had three normal pap tests or two normal co-testing results within the last ten years, your doctor may advise you that you don’t need further pap testing.

You may also not need regular pap tests if you don’t have a cervix due to a hysterectomy and have no history of abnormal pap test results or of cervical cancer.

Make sure you find a doctor who specializes in gynecology and can give you expert advice on your individual health needs before stopping your routine pap smear tests and HPV screenings.

Talk to Your Doctor About a Pap Smear Test Today

Now that you know more about the importance of getting a routine pap smear test, you’ll be able to better care for your health.

If you’re looking for a doctor to manage your gynecological care, then it’s time to turn to the professionals at Women’s Health of Augusta. We’ve been caring for women for more than 40 years and can guide you through the treatment you need.

We offer gynecological and obstetric care for women of all ages. We can help you with menstrual and hormonal concerns, PMS, contraceptive needs, breast disorders, and weight management.

Make sure you contact us today to schedule the gynecological tests you need!

Your Guide to Gynecology: Common Reproductive Health Issues

Reproductive health is vital. However, it might be come as a surprise to you that young women are getting less pelvic exams than ever.

Reportedly, the rate has fallen from 75 percent in 1988 to 56.5 percent in 2017. That’s unfortunate because there are many benefits that come with seeing a reputable OB/GYN on an annual basis.

Gynecology is about focusing on women’s reproductive health and obstetrics is about focusing on pregnant women and their needs. Both areas are essential when it comes to many women’s overall health and well-being. So, let’s take a moment to see why it’s important for women to have an OB/GYN even if they have a primary care physician.

1. Period-Related Issues

Among the list of women’s diseases, period-related issues top it. If a woman’s periods are heavy, painful, or irregular, these are good reasons to see someone who specializes in gynecology. That way, a doctor can see if her lifestyle, hormonal levels, birth control, or something else may be causing her to have problems with her cycle.

2. STDs

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 20 percent of the U.S. population has an STD. The common ones include:

• Herpes
• Gonorrhea
• Chlamydia
• Trichomoniasis
• Syphilis
• Hepatitis A and B
• Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
• Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)

Many sexually transmitted diseases are curable. However, if they’re left untreated, they could cause infertility, cancer, and other serious health-related challenges.

Sexually transmitted diseases are oftentimes asymptomatic. That’s why it’s important to see a physician annually and to get tested for STDs every six months.

3. Endometriosis

Something that affects fertility issues is endometriosis. It’s what happens when tissue lining that is similar to a woman’s uterine lining grows outside of her uterine cavity. This leads to inflammation.

The inflammation can cause scar tissue, painful periods, and infertility. Pain medication and hormone therapy is often recommended after this diagnosis.

4. Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths that develop in a woman’s uterus. Some studies say that between 20-70 percent of women will get these fibroids during their reproductive years.

Uterine fibroids do not usually pose a serious health threat. They can cause heavy periods, fatigue, and they can make it challenging to carry a baby to term. All good reasons to see a doctor if a woman senses that she may have them.

5. Gynecology and Obstetrics Specialize in Female Fertility

If a couple has been trying to get pregnant for a year and nothing has happened, there may be fertility issues. Things like heavy or irregular periods and hormone disorders could be the cause.

Setting an appointment with someone who specializes in gynecology makes it possible for them to observe a woman’s family history, health, weight, age, and lifestyle habits to see what the cause of her fertility issues may be.

6. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Speaking of fertility issues, a common one is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). It’s one of the most popular hormone disorders. PCOS causes cysts on a woman’s ovaries, irregular cycles, and an overproduction of the male hormone androgen.

The cause of PCOS is still being researched. However, some of the symptoms include extreme acne, excessive body hair, unexplained weight gain, darkened skin, and infertility.

7. Imbalanced Hormones

Did you know that 80 percent of women have some type of hormonal imbalance? When this is the case, they typically experience one or more of the following symptoms:

• Weight gain
• Muscle weakness
• Fatigue
• Sweating
• Joint stiffness
• Frequent urination
• Constipation
• Acne
• Blurred vision
• Depression

Since hormone disorders are so common, that’s one reason why annual check-ups are essential. They aren’t something that women should rely on Google articles to diagnose or treat.

8. Early-Onset Menopause

When a woman has gone 12 months without a menstrual cycle, she has experienced menopause and is no longer able to conceive. The average age for this is 51.

If it happens before 40, it’s called premature menopause. If it happens before 45, it is called early menopause. Since both center around a loss of estrogen, it’s important that a doctor examines her to see what underlying issues she may have.

9. HIV

In the United States, 2.1 million Americans are living with HIV, and there are 35,000 new infections every year. Although more people are living with HIV than ever, it is still a serious disease. It is also still contagious.

If you feel that your health has been put at risk, it’s important that you see a doctor as soon as possible. If you have HIV, your healthcare provider can put you on an effective treatment program.

10. Gynecological Cancer

Something else that can affect your reproductive organs is gynecological cancer. This includes cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, and uterine cancer. Some symptoms of this health issue include:

• Constant bloating
• Pelvic pain
• Back pain
• Increased urination
• Changes in the appearance of the vulva
• Diarrhea
• Abnormal bleeding

None of these are symptoms that should be ignored. These are things that must be checked out immediately.

Do You Live in the Augusta, Georgia Area? If So, Give Us a Call

Now that you know more about what gynecology and obstetrics consist of, if you have any health-related issues, do not hesitate to reach out to us. We are passionate when it comes to women’s health. We are also here to provide the best service possible.

Even if these 10 common issues aren’t a concern for you, a routine examination is a proactive way to stay abreast of your reproductive health and needs. Give us a call at (706) 733-4427, or feel free to schedule an appointment anytime.

6 Questions to Ask at Your Next Gynecology Appointment

For some women, visiting the gynecologist is intimidating and nerve-wracking. Some women even avoid visiting the gynecologist for these reasons. However, visiting a gynecologist is essential for every woman’s health.

Taking gynecology seriously improves your overall physical health, helps you plan and manage pregnancies and menopause, manage irregular menstrual cycles, and much more. Visiting a gynecologist doesn’t have to be a negative experience either. Keep in mind that your gynecologist sees multiple patients every day and there’s not much they haven’t seen or helped with in the past.

With that being said, it’s time to start preparing for your next up-and-coming gynecology appointment. In the guide below, you’ll discover several questions you should consider asking while visiting with your local gynecologist. Continue reading to get started.

1. Am I Updated on Health Screenings?

Women should start seeing a gynecologist between the ages of 13-15. This helps not only keep their reproductive health in great condition but also helps build a relationship between doctor and patient. It’s then important for women to continue seeing their gynecologist on a regular basis for regular health screenings.

For example, it’s recommended that a woman receive a PAP smear every few years to ensure everything’s looking great and there are no health complications. When you arrive at your appointment, be sure to ask your gynecologist if you’re up to date on all your health screenings.

Some common health screenings are as followed:

• Pap smears
• Breast exams
• Skin exams (for cancer)
• STD/STI testing

You might also want to ask your gynecologist about screenings for cervical and colon cancer.

2. What Are My Birth Control Options?

One important part of maintaining good feminine sexual health for some is birth control. Birth control is beneficial to some women for a variety of reasons. It’s essential for women looking to take control of their own reproductive health who aren’t quite ready for family planning.

Birth control can also help manage severe PMS symptoms and help regulate irregular menstrual cycles. Some birth controls even help clear acne and maintain balanced hormonal levels. If the benefits of birth control are something you’re interested in but aren’t sure if birth control is right for your body, then speak with your gynecologist about your options.

There are many different types of birth controls ranging from high hormones to no hormones at all. Each birth control option comes with its own pros and cons, which you can your gynecologist can discuss together.

3. How Can I Family Plan Safely?

When you decide it’s time to start your family, don’t hesitate to speak with your OB/GYN about family planning. It’s important to have a conversation with your doctor about fertility and how to safely plan for pregnancy. Your gynecologist might detect risk factors of infertility and provide you with a few options to get around these risk factors.

This is also a good time to have genetic testing done to ensure there aren’t any conditions that may affect the health of your future children and how to plan for them. STD/STI testing during this time is also important as you want to have a healthy body before conception.

Your OB/GYN might also suggest you start taking prenatal vitamins to provide your body with all the proper nutrients it needs to prepare for pregnancy. Any other questions you have about conception and pregnancy can be answered now as well.

4. How Can I Protect Myself From STDs/STIs?

Abstaining from sex, in general, is the only fool-proof way of avoiding contracting STDs and STIs. When this isn’t an option for you, it’s important to gather information about protecting yourself and what to be on the lookout for. For example, condoms are one great way to avoid STDs and STIs.

You can also speak with your gynecologist about receiving an HPV vaccine and scheduling regular testing. Ask about the signs and symptoms to look out for and let your gynecologist know if you’re suspicious about any current changes in your body.

5. What Are Some Ways to Make My Menstrual Cycle More Comfortable?

All women experience some type of menstrual cycle symptoms. However, not all women experience the same symptoms or the same pain levels associated with these symptoms. If you suffer from severe PMS symptoms, then you need to ask your gynecologist about managing your cycles and feeling more comfortable during that time.

There are several lifestyle changes you can make to help control these pains, such as exercising and avoiding drinking, smoking, and salty foods. You might also find comfort in soaking in a warm bath, but when your menstrual cycle causes you too much pain and discomfort, it’s time to speak with your gynecologist about other relief options.

6. Why Is There an Unusual Scent?

No woman wants to come face to face with vaginal odor. Unfortunately, this happens sometimes due to various reasons. Although infections and cleanliness certainly play a role in this, those aren’t always the reasons for it.

Hormones, bacteria, sweat, menstrual cycles, and leaking urine are all culprits as well. If you notice an unusual scent, always inform your gynecologist so proper treatment, if needed, can be given.

Let Us Help You Prepare For Your Next Gynecology Visit

At Women’s Health of Augusta, we offer state-of-the-art technology to make us better equipped to handle all Gynecological and Obstetrical care issues. We strive to provide compassionate gynecology care and attention to all your individual health needs. We’ve been providing this care to women for more than 40 years and look forward to hearing from you.

Click here to schedule your appointment today. Feel free to reach out to us regarding any questions or concerns you might have.

What to Expect From Your First Gynecology Appointment

Are you preparing for your first gynecology appointment? If so, you may be nervous and might not know what to expect.

Health professionals recommend that young women of 13-15 years old attend their first appointment with a doctor who specializes in gynecology and obstetrics. The gynecologist will perform an exam to ensure the health of your reproductive system.

Even women who have been attending the gynecologist for years tend to feel apprehensive about their annual ob-gyn appointment. Being prepared for your first exam will ease some of those nerves.

Keep reading to learn about what to expect from your first gynecology appointment.

Waiting Room

Like most doctor appointments, you will first meet with a receptionist and be asked to fill out paperwork. Be sure to bring all required information to your appointment.

This typically includes your insurance card, a photo ID, and a form of payment if your insurance does not cover the entire cost of the visit.

Routine Check-Up

Once you are called in, a nurse or medical assistant will give you a routine check-up. This includes taking your height and weight, checking your blood pressure, and taking a urine test.

Sometimes, the nurse or medical assistant will need to take a blood sample or they may send you out for blood work at a lab.

They will also confirm your medical history, history of medications, and ask if there’s anything you’d like the doctor to know.

Before they leave, they will give you a gown to change into for the exam.

Meeting Your Gynecologist

Once you are all changed, your gynecologist will knock on the door to make sure you are ready for them to come in. Here, they will introduce themselves and answer any questions or concerns the nurse/medical assistant relayed to them.

They will also ask questions about your menstrual cycle and past/current sexual activity.

Likewise, they may ask you if you’re interested in going on birth control. If you are interested, they will determine the right form for you.

Don’t worry about opening up to your gynecologist about anything that is bothering you, even if it feels embarrassing. They are there to help you with no judgment.

Breast Exam

Now, it is time for the exam. The first part of the exam is the breast exam.

You will usually be asked to lay down while the ob-gyn manually examines your breasts. They will palpate each breast to feel for any lumps or look for any abnormal areas on your skin or nipples.

If all is well, the test will be complete. If there are any concerns, your doctor will send you out for more testing.

Pelvic Exam

After the breast exam, it will be time for your pelvic exam. Keep in mind that if you are under 21 and not sexually active or don’t have any health concerns, your doctor may not even choose to perform a pelvic exam.

However, if you are sexually active, a pelvic exam is a standard part of your visit.

This part may feel uncomfortable and invasive, but a good gynecologist will go above and beyond to make sure you feel at ease.

You will be asked to lay back on the exam table and bend your knees to place your feet into the two stirrups at the end of the table. Your doctor will often remind you to make sure you’re scooted to the edge of the table and to keep your legs relaxed and spread apart.

External Exam

The first portion of the pelvic exam is the external exam. During this, the doctor will examine the external part of the vagina, checking your vulva, clitoris, and labia for any abnormalities.

Your doctor will usually talk you through each part of the exam as they perform it to ensure you feel safe and relaxed. Be sure to also take deep breaths to lower tension and anxiety.

Internal Exam

Next, is the internal exam. Your doctor will take a metal device called a speculum which is coated with a lubricant to minimize discomfort.

With the use of a light and the speculum, the doctor will be able to get a view of your cervix and make sure there are no spots, redness, or sores.

This is also when the doctor will swab the inside of the vagina to check for any STDS.

You should not experience any pain during the internal exam, although you may feel slight pressure or discomfort.

Pap Smear

If you are 21 years or older, you will need to receive a pap smear. A pap smear will check for cervical cancer or HPV cells.

The ob-gyn will use a thin brush to swab your cervix. This may feel a bit odd or uncomfortable, but not painful. Many people describe it as a mild pinching or scratching sensation.

Bimanual Exam

Lastly, your doctor will perform a bimanual exam. The speculum will be taken out of the vagina and they will insert two gloved fingers, also containing lubricant.

They will then press around your abdomen to make sure your pelvic organs feel normal.

Completion of the Appointment

After your pelvic exam, your appointment is complete. Your ob-gyn will leave the room for you to get changed back into your clothes.

They also may provide you with wipes if you need to dry your private area.

Be sure to schedule your next annual visit upon leaving. After your appointment, you may need to pick up any prescription your ob-gyn prescribed or go for further testing if necessary.

First Gynecology and Obstetrics Appointment

If you have an upcoming appointment, it’s normal to be nervous, but remember, it’s something every woman will need to go through at some point during their life and is necessary for your health and wellbeing.

If you are ready to search for a gynecologist near me? Women’s Health of Augusta provides many different types of quality gynecology services.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Obstetrics and Gynecology: Understanding the Differences

There are now over 110,700 gynecologists and obstetricians across the US. Not many people realize there’s a difference between obstetrics and gynecology, though. Understanding the difference between OB and GYN can help you seek the help you need.

You can visit a women’s health care specialist based on your specific goals and concerns. Otherwise, you could visit the wrong physician.

What is the difference between OB and GYN doctors, exactly? Which specialist should you visit? Keep reading to find out.

After reading this guide, you can make a more informed choice with your health in mind.

Read on to learn everything you need to know about gynecology and obstetrics today!

Obstetrics

Before we discuss the difference between obstetrics and gynecology, let’s look at each specialty separately. What exactly is obstetrics?

Obstetrics is a branch of medicine that focuses on surgical and medical care before, during, and after women give birth. This specialty focuses on caring for and maintaining the patient’s health during each stage of maternity.

These stages include:

• Pregnancy
• Labor
• Childbirth
• The postpartum period

Obstetricians are responsible for delivering babies. They can also provide therapies to help patients get pregnant. For example, some obstetricians specialize in offering fertility treatments.

Obstetricians can also offer guidance in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) for patients who deliver their babies prematurely.

These specialists will ensure patients have a healthy pregnancy and that they deliver a healthy baby.

You might need to consult an obstetrician if you experience any complications during your pregnancy, too. For example, you might require their expertise regarding:

• Preeclampsia
• Placenta issues
• Signs of fetal distress
• Ectopic pregnancy
• Delivery through Cesarean section

Once you have the baby, your obstetrician can also help if you’re experiencing postpartum depression or other post-pregnancy issues.

Gynecology

It’s normal for people to use the terms “obstetrics” and “gynecology” interchangeably. However, there are differences between the two specialties.

A gynecologist specializes in caring for a woman’s reproductive health through all stages. They can offer care and treatment from the time a woman gets her first period. They’ll offer help all the way to a woman’s post-menopausal stage, too.

Gynecologists can offer treatment for any conditions that affect the reproductive system as well. These conditions might involve the:

• Cervix
• Ovaries
• Uterus
• Fallopian tubes
• Vagina

GYN doctors can also perform screenings related to reproductive health. These screenings can include pelvic exams, pap smears, and breast exams. You might need to visit a GYN doctor for a tubal ligation or hysterectomy as well.

They can also provide human papillomavirus (HPV) shots.

You might consider visiting GYN doctors for advice regarding sexual matters. For example, you can discuss contraceptives and sexual practices during an appointment. They can offer advice regarding protection against sexually transmitted diseases, too.

In other words, you can visit a gynecologist for concerns related to female reproductive health that aren’t related to pregnancies.

A few related issues might include:

• Endometriosis
• Irregular menstruation
• Uterine fibroids
• Ovarian cysts
• Cervical and vaginal polyps
• Prolapse of pelvic organs
• Cancers of the reproductive system
• Conditions that cause pain during sex
• Vaginal infections

If you become pregnant, however, you’ll need to visit an obstetrician.

Differentiating the Two

Between 2018 and 2028, the US will experience only a 2% increase in obstetricians and gynecologists.

In fact, many areas don’t have enough women’s health care physicians under either specialty. In 2020, there was a gap of 8,000 positions that remained unfulfilled in obstetrics and gynecology. The number could increase to a shortage of 22,000 positions by 2050.

The main difference between an OB and GYN is their focus. An OB focuses on pregnancies. GYN doctors, on the other hand, focus on all other fields of women’s health care.

When to Visit an OB/GYN

It’s best to treat potential health and medical issues by taking a preventative approach. Even if you’re healthy, consider finding a local OB/GYN. A specialist who focuses on both obstetrics and gynecology can cover your women’s health care needs.

You can schedule a preventative checkup once a year with a local specialist.

During your appointment, your OB/GYN can conduct evaluations or schedule any immunizations you might need. They can also request lab tests to determine if you have a specific condition.

Your doctor will determine which tests you need based on your age group.

You can also visit an OB/GYN to schedule a pelvic exam. Your doctor might recommend other screenings or tests based on your health and age.

You should also visit an OB/GYN if you notice any changes to your reproductive cycle. For example, these changes might include:

• Your first menstrual cycle
• Pregnancy
• Perimenopause
• Menopause

Some changes are normal. However, you should schedule an appointment if any changes are unexpected or unusual. For example, you might notice changes in the volume or frequency of your menstrual bleeding.

You should also visit your OB/GYN if you experience pain during intercourse or while urinating.

Reproductive Needs and Goals

You can also schedule a consultation appointment based on your reproductive goals. For example, you might need an appointment to discuss:

• Safe sex tips
• Contraception
• Sterilization
• Birth control
• Treatment and prevention of pain during sex
• Vaccinations
• Urinary tract infections
• Abnormal vaginal discharge
• Planning a pregnancy
• Prenatal care
• Infertility treatment

Let your OB/GYN physician know about any new symptoms you begin experiencing, too.

For example, you might experience pain before or during menstruation. You can ask your OB/GYN questions about cramps, bleeding, or mood swings.

If you’re going through menopause, you can also discuss symptoms like hot flashes, bone loss, or low libido. Your OB/GYN can help with solutions like hormone replacement therapy or other treatment options.

Having a go-to OB/GYN will give you peace of mind. Even if you’re healthy, you can schedule annual appointments to assess your reproductive health. If there are any areas for concern, you can work with your doctor to develop a treatment plan.

Obstetrics and Gynecology: Differentiating OBs and GYN

To recap, what is the difference between obstetrics and gynecology? Obstetrics focuses on childbirth. Gynecology, on the other hand, focuses on a woman’s overall reproductive health.

You can visit your local OB/GYN to discuss your reproductive health needs or to plan a pregnancy.

Eager to schedule your next consultation appointment? We can’t wait to see you.

Contact us today to get started.

Distressed Desire

After the publication of my book, A Woman’s Guide to Hormone Health, I had the opportunity to speak around the country to audiences of women about some very “feminine” subjects.  I was in San Diego speaking to a group called The Red Hot Mammas (sort of a cross between a menopause support group and a motorcycle gang) and during the question and answer session a grandmotherly octogenarian sheepishly raised her hand and asked, “Doc, my sex drive has driven off and I don’t have a map!  What do I do?”  I heard an audible “thank goodness” from several other folks in the audience as they wanted to ask the same question but didn’t have the courage of my blue haired inquisitor.  Over the ensuing years I don’t think I have ever hosted a forum where this topic didn’t raise its libidinous head.

Next to questions about losing weight, a declining or absent sex drive is one of the top complaints heard in gynecologist’s offices nationwide.  A recent report from the National Institutes of Health states that 43% of women will experience some form of sexual dysfunction at sometime in their life.  A majority of these problems, especially in perimenopausal and menopausal women, is a lack of desire.  Loss of libido is defined by the Diagnostic and Statistic Manual (the book doctors use to categorize diseases) as “persistently low sexual desire resulting in distress or relationship dysfunction, where lack of desire is not due to another condition or circumstance.”  There are two important parts of this definition that are cogent to understanding the causes and treatments of this problem.  First, the lack of desire must cause a problem either in the person’s psyche or in their relationships.  So, for example, a woman with a low desire who is purposefully abstinent may not view that lack of desire as bothersome.  Secondly, the low libido should not be due to a physical problem or medication.  A common example of this in the menopause is the woman who experiences pain with intercourse due to vaginal changes in lubrication.  It only makes sense that if it hurts, consciously or unconsciously, you are going to avoid intimacy like Republicans avoid taxes.  Also various medications can have libido squashing side effects.  For example, many of the anti depressants such as Prozac and Zoloft can flatten libido like a steamroller on asphalt.

The causes of a low or non-existent sex drive are legion, but they can generally be divided into four categories: physical, psychological, relationship, and hormonal.

Physical reasons include many nonsexual diseases such as arthritis, cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, coronary artery disease and neurological diseases.  Think of poor sex drive as side effects of these disease processes, and often once the physical malady is remedied, the libido returns.  In addition, a glass of wine may make you feel amorous, but too much alcohol can spoil your sex drive.  Any surgery related to your breasts or your genital tract can affect your body image, sexual function, and desire for sex.  A huge secondary cause is fatigue. The exhaustion of caring for aging parents or young children can contribute to low sex drive.

I already alluded to the role of hormones, and any major hormonal shift such as menopause, pregnancy, and breast feeding can affect desire.

There are many psychological causes of low sex drive such as anxiety, depression, poor body image, low self-esteem, and a history of physical or sexual abuse.  One of the most overlooked but common causes of poor libido is stress.  This can be stress related to work, finances, kids, or just life.

We all know that much of a satisfying sex life originates as much above the neck as it does below the waist; therefore, relationship issues are huge in dissecting libido malfunction.  For many women, emotional closeness is an essential prelude to sexual intimacy. If you are having problems between the sheets, don’t pull the covers over your eyes!

So what can be done about this tsunami of libido lack?  Obviously if there is an underlying issue, such as medications or hormone problems, they must be addressed first and often sex drive creeps back.  If stress and relationship issues are paramount then talking with a counselor skilled in addressing sexual concerns can help with low libido. Therapy often includes education about sexual response, techniques, recommendations for reading materials, and couples exercises.

  In women suffering from painful intercourse, vaginal estrogen may markedly improve vaginal elasticity, lubrication, and response. Testosterone, present in females at a much lower concentration than males, has a libido enhancing effect for women; however, testosterone supplementation is controversial and should be closely regulated by a knowledgeable clinician.

It is critical to remember that libido can’t be separated from the context of a relationship. Couples who learn to communicate in an open, honest way usually maintain a stronger emotional connection, which can lead to better sex.

Don’t go gently into that dark night

    The worn out paradigm of aging as simply a time when our knees buckle and our belts won’t is rapidly and mercifully passing away. Some scientists estimate that of all the human beings that have ever lived to be sixty-five or older, half are currently alive today!  The seventy-five and older age group is the fastest growing segment of our population.  These are folks who are not satisfied with the status quo.  They are not happy to go gently into that good night.  We (and I must include my rapidly aging self) want to grow old with gusto.  We want to come to the end of life with nothing left, knowing we expended every waking moment in a purposeful embrace of the miracles around us.  We want to age without becoming aged!

   In 1984 the MacArthur Foundation sponsored a study that assembled a group of scholars from several major disciplines to conduct long term research designed to discover what constitutes “successful aging”.  They studied those folks who remained vigorous well into their seventh and eighth decades, and then experienced a “compression of morbidity”.  In other words, they lived to the max and then had a rapid demise. 

     One of their key points was that there was not a way to prevent aging or reverse the aging process.  Human’s will always age, that is a given of biological and cellular processes.  The whole industry of “anti-aging” potions, pills and pundits is a misnomer; there is nothing that will stop aging.  The key, and what they wanted to discover, is how some individuals age without the ensuing (some would say inevitable) “falling apart”.  We tend to think of this as aging gracefully, yet I believe that is much too passive.  We must, as the study found, take an active role in doing some things and avoid doing other things.

     So what did these scientists conclude?  They discovered that successful aging involved three major components: a low risk of disease and disease related disability, high physical and mental function, and active engagement with life.  It was noted that these were by nature interrelated, yet each provided and independent variable that could be controlled.  They further defined active engagement as having relationships with people and behavior that is productive.  They were quick to point out that successful aging is largely a result of individual choices and behaviors and not genetics. 

   The researchers discovered many specific characteristics of people who “aged well”, and I want to summarize just a few of the most important behaviors they ascertained.  For a more thorough reading of their findings I refer you to the book Successful Aging by Dr.John Rowe and Dr.Robert Kahn.

  Here are my top ten keys to successful aging culled from the MacArthur Study and my own research.

   1. Exercise.  Whether you are 10 or 100, exercise is the key to getting and staying healthy.  Surprisingly the studies indicate that only a minimum of exercise (20-30minutes a day) can have a marked effect in lowering your risk of a number of diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and hypertension.

2. Get regular check ups.  One of the secrets to successful aging is either preventing risk factors or identifying problems very early.  Both of these tasks are facilitated by regular exams.

3.  Stay current on routine screenings.  Somewhat linked to regular checkups, availing yourself of things like mammograms, Pap smears, prostate exams, colonoscopies, bone densities, and blood screenings can be a lifesaver and allow you to enjoy a disease free old age.

4. Don’t smoke.  Enough said.  You would have to be a total fool to not realize the damage that this does to your system.

5. Take an aspirin a day.  The evidence is mounting that a 61 mg aspirin a day can reduce the incidence of heart disease, stroke and colon cancer, especially in older folks.  Remember that some people should not take aspirin, so check with your doctor before starting something new.

6. Get appropriate vaccines.  For older folks the pneumonia and flu vaccines are important as these infections are responsible for thousands of deaths every year in people over 65.

7. Eat fewer total calories.  The studies are conclusive that decreasing your total calorie intake is associated with lower rates of disease and longer lives.  Specifically try to increase the protein and reduce the fat, but keeping the overall amount of calories lower is the most important guideline.

8. Develop social networks.  As the song goes, people who need people are the happiest (and healthiest) people.  An expanding network of family, friends, church membership, and social activities have all been associated with longer, less sickly aging.

9. Stay mentally engaged.  Retire only if you must and if you must, find something else to keep you mentally active and challenged. 

10. Be continually productive.  By that I mean participate in either voluntary or paid activities that generate goods or services of economic value.  That is a broad calling, but studies indicate that those who continue to find purpose, find health.   

     Remember, the goal is not just to live long, but to live long and well!