Abnormal Periods
A Checklist to Identify Signs of an Abnormal Period
One woman's "abnormal period" might be another woman's version of normal. This article explains the baseline gynecologists use to determine if your period is abnormal, why it is abnormal, which symptoms are a cause for your concern, and which treatment options are available to you to mitigate an abnormal menstrual cycle.
Adenomyosis
Alleviate Discomfort Caused by Abnormal Endometrial Tissue Growth
Adenomyosis is a medical condition characterized by the movement of endometrial tissue into the uterus muscle. The condition causes the uterine wall to thicken and often contributes to heavy or extended menstrual cycles, as well as pain during your period or sexual intercourse. Treatment helps alleviate your pain and ranges from at-home treatments to surgery.
Amenorrhea
Understand the Impact of a Missed Cycle
The menstrual cycle in women is essential to reproductive health. When menstruation is absent or extremely delayed, this is the condition known as amenorrhea. Amenorrhea can affect women of any age. This condition can lead to infertility issues.
Amniocentesis Test
A Prenatal Test to Check for Inherited or Genetic Concerns
Amniocentesis is a procedure that removes a small sample of amniotic fluid for testing. Usually scheduled between the 15th and 18th week of pregnancy, the test can provide valuable insight into the baby's development, helping to identify any chromosomal or genetic disorders, as well as neural tube defects.
Bartholin Cyst & Abscess Treatment
Excessive Growth of Your Bartholin's Glands Caused by Duct Blockage
Swollen lumps and pain in the labial area may signal a blockage of the Bartholin glands which secrete vaginal lubrication. When the glandular ducts become blocked, Bartholin's cysts or abscesses can develop. Treatment options range from at-home sitz baths to incision and drainage procedures. Removal of the glands is also an option.
Birth Control & Contraception
Hormonal, Barrier, IUDs and Many Other Birth Control Alternatives
Contraception refers to any medical method or treatment designed to prevent pregnancy. Contraception is available in both short-term and long-term varieties. Contraception is often referred to as simply birth control.
C-Section
Understand the Risks and Benefits of Cesarean Delivery
The cesarean section, known most commonly as a C-section, is a procedure created to surgically deliver a baby through the abdomen during childbirth. This is the opposite of vaginal childbirth, where the baby is delivered through the vaginal canal. The C-section procedure is necessary for many expectant mothers and recommended for many others.
Cervical Dysplasia
Abnormal Growth of Cells in the Cervix
Cervical dysplasia, also known as cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), is a condition which causes abnormal cell growth on the lining of the cervix. Developing at any age in a woman's lifetime, cervical dysplasia is most often caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) (one of the most common types of sexually transmitted infections).
Clitoral Hood Reduction
Clitoropexy - Surgical Clitoral Hood Reduction
The clitoral hood is a covering of skin that protects the tip and shaft of the clitoris in women. The clitoris is located at the top of the vulva (outside of a woman's genitals). The clitoris is a highly sensitive area and is responsible for much of a woman's sexual stimulation. In some cases, the skin of the clitoral hood may completely cover the end of the clitoris. To reduce its size, you may consider a clitoral hood reduction surgery.
Colposcopy
Uncover the Source of Pap Test & Pelvic Exam Abnormalities
A colposcopy is a gynecological exam which gives your healthcare provider a magnified look at your cervix. Often recommended after receiving abnormal pap test or pelvic exam results, a colposcopy can detect signs of disease and abnormal cells that are not typically visible in routine testing.
Cord Blood Banking
Storage Options for Stem-Cell Rich Umbilical Cord Blood
The umbilical cord helps to keep the fetus alive and healthy during pregnancy. After birth, this cord is typically cut and discarded. More and more parents are electing to save the blood from the umbilical cord, known as cord blood. Cord blood banking is done for many different reasons, some of which can be life-saving.
Cosmetic Gynecology
Gynecologic Cosmetic Surgery Procedures
Cosmetic gynecology is a series of surgical procedures used to enhance the function and appearance of specific components of the vagina and vulva (outside of a woman's genitals). Women may choose cosmetic gynecology for a variety of reasons.
Cosmetic Vaginal Surgery
Vaginoplasty, Labiaplasty, Clitoral Hood Reduction
Cosmetic vaginal surgery is a combination of procedures used to improve the appearance and function of the vagina. Cosmetic vaginal surgery is usually chosen by women who are experiencing vaginal looseness after childbirth, or with age-related changes including menopause. A woman may also choose cosmetic vaginal surgery to tighten the vagina for better sexual sensation for herself and her partner.
Cryoablation
Reduce or Eliminate Menstrual Bleeding with Cryoablation
Cryoablation is a safe and effective in-office endometrial ablation procedure designed to lighten, or in some cases completely eliminate abnormal uterine bleeding - also called menorrhagia. This proven, state-of-the-art procedure is quickly becoming the first choice to treat bleeding disorders because it keeps your uterus and hormones fully intact - unlike other endometrial ablation procedures.
Cystocele
Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment of Cystocele
A cystocele occurs when the wall that separates the bladder and vagina weakens and the bladder sags down into the vaginal space. Cystoceles can be mild, sagging only slightly into the vagina, to severe as the bladder actually bulges out of the vaginal opening.
Cystoscopy
Find the Cause of Your Bladder Problems
A cystoscopy is a procedure that allows your doctor to view the urethra and bladder through a cystoscope, which is an instrument similar to a small telescope. During this procedure, the scope is inserted through your urethra and into your bladder. Your physician may order cystoscopy testing if you have urinary problems.
Dyspareunia (Painful Intercourse)
Painful Sex Treatment for Women and Men
Painful intercourse, known medically as dyspareunia, is a problem that can interfere with health, happiness and relationships. There are many different reasons why painful sex can occur.
Ectopic Pregnancy Treatment
The Perils of a Fertilized Egg Implanting Outside of the Uterus
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants itself somewhere other than the uterus. An ectopic pregnancy poses a serious health risk as embryonic tissue growth in these areas could destroy maternal structures and, if left untreated, threaten the mother's life due to excessive blood loss.
Endometrial Ablation
Ablative Treatment for Heavy Menstrual Bleeding
A heavy menstrual flow (menorrhagia) can be completely disruptive to regular life. It can cause embarrassing accidents, restrict what types of activities can be done during the activities and lead to intense pain. Endometrial ablation is a treatment designed to reduce menstrual bleeding to normal levels.
Endometrial Hyperplasia Treatment
Overgrowth of Endometrial Cells Can Set Stage for Endometrial Cancer
Endometrial hyperplasia, similar to the more commonly known condition of endometriosis, involves an abnormal increase in endometrial cell growth, which results in the thickening of the interior lining of the uterus. Developing most often in older women approaching menopause, it can set the stage for endometrial cancer, making diagnosis and treatment imperative.
