Gynecology - Continued

Vaginal Infections

Vaginal Infections | Hammond Vaginal infections are extremely common among women and account for more than 10 million doctor's visits each year. These infections are often caused by irritation from certain substances and can cause discomfort, discharge and vaginal odor.

Many of these infections can be both treated and preventing by practicing proper hygiene in the vaginal area. Some infections may require corticosteroid cream or antibiotics. Your doctor will prescribe the best treatment method for you depending on your individual condition.

Female Incontinence

Incontinence, or the accidental release of urine, can be an embarrassing condition and may affect your daily life. Although this condition is not serious or harmful, many women are eager to find an effective treatment for this troubling condition. Fortunately, most cases of urinary incontinence can be effectively treated through simple home methods.

Your doctor will speak with you about the many different types of lifestyle changes that can help treat incontinence. Daily Kegel exercises can strengthen the pelvic muscles that close off the urethra, while diet and exercise can help patients control accidents. It may also be helpful to develop a urination schedule and to train your bladder. More severe cases of incontinence may require more advanced treatment such as medication or surgery.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a medical condition in which the uterine lining (endometrium) moves out of the uterus and into other parts of the pelvic area such as the ovaries, bowels or behind the uterus. It is generally not a serious or harmful condition, but can be painful and may interfere with your daily life by causing symptoms such as painful menstrual cramps, heavy and/or long menstrual periods, chronic back and pelvic pain, infertility and more.

Although endometriosis cannot be cured, symptoms can be managed through several different treatment options, including pain medication, hormone therapy, conservative surgery or a hysterectomy. Your doctor will discuss these options with you to decide which treatment would be best for you.

Pelvic Prolapse

Pelvic prolapse occurs when one or more pelvic organs drops from its normal location and pushes against the walls of the vagina, causing feelings of fullness, pulled muscles and incontinence. This condition commonly occurs when the muscles in the area are weakened from childbirth or surgery.

Home remedies such as Kegel exercises, avoiding heavy lifting and pessary devices may relieve symptoms of pelvic prolapse, and some cases may be repaired on their own. However, pelvic prolapse often requires surgery to correct the moved organs and alleviate symptoms. Surgery varies depending on which organ is affected but may include repairing the bladder or urethra, closing the vagina or a hysterectomy.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common condition that involves enlarged ovaries that may contain many cysts and produce high levels of male hormones. This condition affects one in every ten women in the US and is the leading cause of infertility in women. It also causes symptoms such as an irregular or missing menstrual period, excess body hair, acne and obesity.

Although there is no cure for PCOS, there are several treatment options available to help relieve symptoms and prevent permanent damage. Depending on the severity of your condition and your overall health, your doctor may recommend birth control pills, diabetes medication, fertility medication, or lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise. Surgery to induce ovulation may be required for severe cases.

Menopausal Treatment

Menopausal Treatment | Hammond Many women going through menopause suffer from a wide range of symptoms including irregular bleeding, hot flashes, insomnia, night sweats, fatigue, depression and more. There are several treatments available to help relieve these symptoms, and our doctors can work with you to help you decide which option is best for you. Menopausal symptoms can be treated with hormone replacement therapy such as bioidentical hormone, which supplies the body with estrogen and progesterone as the levels of these hormones dramatically drop during menopause. Patients can also seek treatment for their individual symptoms and should maintain an active and healthy lifestyle to help feel their best.

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI)

Most sexually transmitted infections (STIs) do no cause any symptoms, especially in women, making it hard for some patients to know they have even been infected. Anyone with multiple sexual partners should undergo regular STD testing, even if they are having protected sex.

If you are diagnosed with an STD, we will provide the most effective treatment available to help minimize any symptoms and prevent permanent damage. Unfortunately, most STIs cannot be cured, but can instead be managed through medications. It is important to practice safe sex and get tested often in order to protect yourself against STIs.

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