Gynecology Services

Hormone Imbalance

Hormone imbalance is not a condition exclusive to menopause. An imbalance of hormones can occur at any time in a woman’s reproductive life and can be caused by a number of factors. Besides peri-menopause and menopause affecting the normal fluctuation of hormones, other possible factors may include changes in medication, thyroid disorders, adrenal gland disorders, stress, changes in body weight or the presence of other medical conditions. A hormonal imbalance can lead to a wide variety of symptoms including irregular or abnormal uterine bleeding, decreased libido, change in mood, anxiety, fluctuations in weight, sleep disturbances, headaches, hot flashes/night sweats, fatigue and mental fogginess. There is a wide variety of treatment options for hormone imbalance from recommended life style changes to hormonal treatments.

If hormone therapy is recommended for you, there are many hormone preparations (pills, creams, suppositories, injections, patches and hormone pellets) available today, which allow us the ability to tailor hormone treatment to the individual patient. We also utilize both blood and saliva hormone testing to properly monitor hormone replacement therapy.
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Abnormal Uterine Bleeding

The menstrual period is the time during a woman’s cycle when bleeding occurs. Typically, bleeding lasts from 3-7 days and occurs every 25-31 days. Abnormal uterine bleeding refers to menstrual bleeding that occurs on an irregular basis, lasts longer than 7 days or is heavier than normal. There are many different causes of abnormal uterine bleeding, such as hormone imbalance, anatomic abnormalities such as uterine fibroids or polyps, and uterine hyperplasia. Evaluation for abnormal uterine bleeding may include blood work, pelvic ultrasound and/or an endometrial biopsy. Depending on the cause, treatment options may include hormonal medications, IUD insertion, dilation & curettage (D&C), endometrial ablation or more definitive treatment, such as a hysterectomy.
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Painful Periods (Dysmenorrhea)

More than half of menstruating women have some pain for at least 1-2 days each month. Usually, the pain is mild. Sometimes the pain is severe enough to keep you from participating in normal activities. When the pain is this severe it is called dysmenorrhea.  Painful periods are the leading cause of women missing work and school.

Dysmenorrhea is often a natural result of uterine contractions during menstruation. In such cases, hormonal medications or anti-inflammatory medications may be helpful in reducing the symptoms of pain. However, a proper evaluation is needed to rule out secondary causes of dysmenorrhea, which may include uterine fibroids, adenomyosis or endometriosis.
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Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are benign, non-cancerous growths located inside or outside the uterine wall. They are the most common type of growth found in a woman’s pelvis. They occur in about 20-25% of all women. Often times, uterine fibroids do not cause any symptoms, but significant pain, pain during intercourse, pelvic pressure, infertility and irregular bleeding can result. Female hormones tend to play a role in stimulating the growth of uterine fibroids; therefore fibroids often shrink during menopause as the female hormones decline in production.

Symptoms and treatment options depend upon the size, number and location of uterine fibroids. A pelvic exam and pelvic ultrasound are useful in evaluating uterine fibroids. Medication therapy may be recommended to reduce symptoms and possibly shrink the size of fibroids. Endometrial ablation can be successful in removing only small fibroids. In some cases, a myomectomy or hysterectomy is indicated to remove the uterine fibroids surgically.
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Adenomyosis

Adenomyosis occurs when endometrial tissue, which normally lines the uterus, grows into the muscular walls of the uterus. Symptoms of adenomyosis may include heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, painful periods, pain during intercourse and bleeding between periods. A pelvic exam may reveal an enlarged and tender uterus. Anti-inflammatory and hormonal medications may be helpful in reducing the symptoms associated with adenomyosis, but a hysterectomy is the most definitive treatment.

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Endometriosis

Endometriosis occurs when endometrial cells from the uterine lining seep through the fallopian tubes and implant on other structures or organs within the pelvic area. The most common symptom associated with endometriosis is pain in the pelvic region and/or lower back mainly during the menstrual period. Other symptoms may include pain during intercourse, gastrointenstinal upset or pain, abnormal uterine bleeding, infertility and fatigue.

A laparoscopy is the only definitive method of diagnosing endometriosis. This allows your doctor to visualize the endometrial implants inside the pelvic cavity with a small camera. If endometriosis is suspected or diagnosed with a laparoscopy, possible treatments to minimize symptoms may include various hormonal medications and/or anti-inflammatory medications. Surgery to remove endometrial implants is often the best choice in cases of severe endometriosis that is resistant to medication management.

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Ovarian Cysts

Most ovarian masses or cysts are benign. The most common ovarian mass in a patient of reproductive age is a functional ovarian cyst, which usually resolves in 1-3 months. Functional cysts occur if the follicle within the ovary fails to release an egg, and the fluid within the follicle creates a cyst. Common symptoms may include abdominal discomfort, pain during intercourse, and pelvic pain or pressure.

If an ovarian cyst is suspected, our providers may recommend a pelvic ultrasound and possible blood work. Ovarian cysts that appear to be benign are often assessed by an ultrasound in 1-3 months to check for resolution. Surgery is indicated if a patient has persistent symptoms related to the ovarian cyst, if the cyst is very large and fails to resolve, or if there is suspicion for ovarian cancer.

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Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Almost half of all women who have had a baby develop some degree of pelvic organ prolapse, although these problems can also occur in women who have never had children. Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when the muscles and tissue that makes up the “pelvic floor” can no longer hold the pelvic organs in place. Factors such as aging, childbearing, intense physical activity, chronic constipation and obesity can lead to weakening of the pelvic floor and prolapse of pelvic organs into the vagina.

Types of pelvic organ prolapse include uterine prolapse, vaginal vault prolapse (top of vagina descends after hysterectomy), bladder prolapse (cystocele), intestinal prolapse (enterocele), and rectal prolapse (rectocele).

Symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse can include a bulging sensation in the vagina, feeling of pelvic fullness or heaviness, appearance of organs bulging out of the vagina, lower back pain, urinary incontinence, problems with bowel movements, sexual difficulties, and problems inserting tampons. Often times, these symptoms worsen towards the end of the day or with standing, lifting, straining or coughing.

Treatment for pelvic organ prolapse varies depending upon the type and severity of prolapse, but recommendations may include vaginal hormone treatments, pelvic floor muscle exercises, pelvic floor physical therapy, pessary insertion, hysterectomy, and/or prolapse repair surgery.

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Urinary Incontinence

There are several types of urinary incontinence, and sometimes more than one kind of incontinence may be present at one time. Depending on the type(s) of urinary incontinence present, suggested treatments may include medication management, surgical intervention, behavioral modifications, pelvic floor physical therapy, neuromodulation treatments (InterStim® Sacral Nerve Stimulation and Uroplasty®), or ThermiVa® vaginal rejuvenation. If you are suffering from urinary incontinence or other bladder-related problems, we may advise you to complete a bladder diary and undergo a urodynamic study in our office to better diagnose your condition and treat your symptoms most effectively.

• Stress Incontinence occurs when urine leaks with coughing, sneezing, laughing or certain physical movements like lifting and jumping. Stress incontinence is caused by weakening of the pelvic floor that supports the bladder, bladder neck and urethra. This weakening can result from a combination of factors, such as pregnancy, childbirth, genetic predisposition, aging and obesity. Behavioral therapy, biofeedback exercises and pelvic floor muscle exercises can provide improvement in symptoms for mild to moderate stress incontinence. For moderate to severe cases of stress incontinence, a sub-urethral sling procedure (TVT) is the most effective treatment.
• Urge Incontinence occurs when urine leaking is associated with a strong, sudden urge to urinate. Symptoms of urge incontinence are often associated with an over-active bladder or incomplete bladder emptying. Behavioral therapy, medications and neuromodulation treatments (InterStim® Sacral Nerve Stimulation and Uroplasty®) are optional treatments for urge incontinence.
• Mixed Incontinence occurs when both symptoms of Stress Incontinence and Urge Incontinence are present. A combination of treatments may be necessary to reduce symptoms.

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Over Active Bladder

Symptoms associated with over active bladder (OAB)  may include urinary frequency (more than 8 times/day), sudden urges to urinate, frequent night-time urination (more than 2 times/night) and/or urine leaking associated with a sudden urge to urinate. OAB symptoms can be aggravated by bladder irritants, such as caffeine, alcohol, citrus juices and artificial sweeteners.

If you are suffering from symptoms of OAB, we may advise you to complete a bladder diary and undergo a urodynamic study in our office to better diagnose your condition and treat your symptoms most effectively. A combination of behavioral modifications and medication is typically the initial treatment for OAB. If symptoms persist or medication is not tolerated, neuromodulation with  InterStim® Sacral Nerve Stimulation  or Uroplasty® may be a recommended treatment for OAB symptoms.

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Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common condition associated with hormonal imbalance that can lead to irregular, often infrequent menstrual cycles, impaired fertility, weight gain and signs of elevated testosterone levels, including acne and unwanted hair growth on the face and body. Also, a pelvic ultrasound often shows “polycystic-appearing” ovaries. Symptoms are variable among patients and may or may not include all of the listed characteristics.

Blood work and ultrasound are often necessary to rule out the presence of other conditions and confirm the diagnosis of PCOS. Possible treatments may include lifestyle changes, oral contraceptives, cyclic progesterone, and anti-androgen medications (ie. Spironolactone). Please refer to the educational handout on PCOS for more information.

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Vaginal Infections

Vaginitis is an inflammation of a patient’s vagina most often due to an overgrowth of yeast or bacteria within the vagina. Common factors that can lead to vaginal infections include the use of certain medications, hormonal changes, frequent douching, and sexually transmitted infections. Vaginitis can lead to an increase in vaginal discharge, itching, irritation, odor and/or pain during intercourse.

Proper diagnosis is important and may include a pelvic exam, examination of vaginal discharge under the microscope, and a vaginal culture. Treatment for vaginitis is dependent upon the cause of infection, but may include oral medications or vaginal suppositories. There are many prevention measures that can help reduce the risk of developing vaginitis. Please refer to the educational handout on vaginal infections for more information.

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Vaginal Dryness

Vaginal dryness is most often caused by menopause-related changes or side effects of medication. Skin conditions or autoimmune disorders can also contribute to this problem.

Vaginal dryness can lead to painful intercourse and discomfort with everyday activities. Almost every woman will experience vaginal dryness at some point in her life.

A vaginal examination is important for determining the cause of vaginal dryness. Treatment may include a combination of over-the-counter remedies, hormonal creams or inserts or other medications. ThermiVa® is also indicated for the treatment of vaginal dryness using radiofrequency technology to restore vaginal tissues and natural lubrication.

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Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common and often cause painful and frequent urination, strong-smelling urine and discomfort in the pelvic area. Occasionally, fever, back pain and blood in the urine may be present. It is important be evaluated if you are experiencing these symptoms. An untreated bladder infection could lead to a more serious problem, such as a kidney infection.

Treatment for UTIs typically consists of an antibiotic regimen, in addition to optimizing hydration and performing proper hygiene measures.

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Birth Control Counseling

Birth control (or contraception) is used to prevent pregnancy, and this is often a very personal choice for a woman. It is important to consider the efficacy, side effects, risks, and benefits associated with each form of birth control available. There is a wide variety of birth control options available for women today, including combined oral contraceptive pills and progesterone-only pills, vaginal rings, Depo-Provera®, progesterone IUDs, hormone-free IUD, Nexplanon®, Essure® and tubal ligation. Many women also use the “rhythm method” or “natural family planning” to avoid pregnancy by practicing periodic abstinence during the most fertile times in the menstrual cycle.

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Infertility

Infertility is defined as not being able to conceive after 6-12 months of having sex without birth control. An infertility evaluation is helpful in determining the cause of infertility if you have been trying to achieve pregnancy without any success. If you experience irregular cycles when not using a hormonal birth control method, we recommend an evaluation before you start trying to conceive.

An infertility evaluation may include a physical exam and health history, blood work (performed on day 3 and day 21 of your cycle), at-home ovulation kits, pelvic ultrasound, hysterosalpingogram (HSG), and a semen analysis. A treatment plan is then developed based on your test results. Recommended treatments may include lifestyle changes, medication, or surgery. We can make referrals for assisted reproductive procedures if needed.

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Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

PMS is a collection of physical and emotional symptoms most often experienced just prior to and during the menstrual cycle.  Symptoms usually occur 1-2 weeks prior to the onset of your period and usually go away after your period starts.  PMS symptoms may include fatigue, trouble sleeping, bloating, changes in bowel movements, tender breasts, headache, appetite changes, trouble concentrating, irritability, anxiety, and depression. It is helpful to keep track of your symptoms over the period of a few months on a calendar (Link to PMS Symptom Tracker) and bring the completed calendar with you to your appointment.

PMS treatment options may include lifestyle changes, nutritional supplements, anti-inflammatory medications, hormonal medications, and anti-depressants.

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Bone Disease

Osteoporosis is the most common type of bone disease. It is estimated that about 1 out of 5 American women over the age of 50 have osteoporosis and half of all women over the age of 50 will have a fracture of the hip, wrist or spine. There are no symptoms in the early stages of the disease.

Bone density studies aid in the diagnosis of osteopenia and osteoporosis, which are disorders characterized by low bone mass and an increased risk for fractures. Osteopenia means your bone mass is below normal, but not yet at the level of osteoporosis. If left untreated, osteopenia will likely develop into osteoporosis. Bone density scans report findings using a T-score value.

T-score of +1 to -1 indicates normal bone mass

T-score of -1 to -2.4 indicates osteopenia

T-score of -2.5 or less indicates osteoporosis

Depending upon your bone density study result, possible recommendations may include addition of calcium and vitamin D supplements, weight-bearing exercises, smoking cessation if applicable, and addition of a medication.

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Breast Disorders

Most women experience breast changes at some point in time.  They may notice a breast lump, bump, skin change or nipple discharge.  These may be related to your age, medications, infection or due to hormone changes.  Common causes of beast changes include fibrocystic breast disease, cysts, blocked or clogged milk ducts, lactating in non-pregnant women, fibroadenoma, or injury.  It is important to see your healthcare provider if you notice any changes.  Yearly screening mammograms are advised for all women over 40 years of age.

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Pain During Intercourse

When a woman feels pain while having sexual intercourse, it is call dyspareunia. Nearly 2 out of 3 women have it at some time during their lives. It may be caused by physical problems or due to psychological concerns.  Possible physical causes include vaginal dryness or atrophy, vaginal infections, uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts, adenomyosis and endometriosis. Treatment is focused on the underlying cause, and can help to reduce or eliminate the problem.

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Abnormal Pap Tests

The pap test checks for changes in the cervix that if left untreated could develop into pre-cancer or cancer of the cervix. Abnormal cells may also be referred to as dysplasia or cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN). In women who have regular pap tests, abnormal changes are almost always caught early and are rarely indicative of cancer being present. The main cause of abnormal pap tests is the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is an extremely common infection that is passed via sexual contact.

Dysplasia and CIN are graded as mild, moderate, or severe. Mild dysplasia often resolves over a period of 1-2 years, but moderate to severe dysplasia indicates more serious changes that will likely require treatment. Depending on the results of your pap test, you may be encouraged to repeat the pap test at a later date or be advised that further testing is required.   Further testing may include a colposcopy and biopsy. Recommended treatment of cervical dysplasia or CIN may include cryotherapy, Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP), TCA treatment, or close monitoring.

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STD Screening

Sexually transmitted infections do not always cause symptoms. If you have a new partner or have engaged in unprotected sex, then you are possibly at risk for acquiring a sexually transmitted infection. Sexually transmitted infections are common, and it is important to know if you have been exposed to a sexually transmitted infection so you can receive the proper treatment. Testing usually includes vaginal cultures and blood work.
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