Cervical Cancer, Gynecology, Womens Health

What’s the right age to start getting Pap smear tests?

A Pap smear is a cervical cancer screening commonly done at the same time as a pelvic exam. An HPV test also can be done at the same time. Anyone with a cervix should get their first Pap smear at age 21 and another every three years before turning 30. Those ages 30 to 65…

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Gynecology, Urogynecology, Womens Health

Painful or irregular periods? It could be an underlying condition

Painful or irregular periods can be uncomfortable and inconvenient, and sometimes, can significantly disrupt your life. Menstrual pain, also known as dysmenorrhea, is a common issue experienced during the menstrual cycle. This type of pain can range from mild to severe and is often accompanied by other symptoms, such as nausea, fatigue or headaches. In…

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Gynecology, Norton Community Medical Associates, Norton Primary Care, Womens Health

Why having a regular primary care provider and a gynecologist is a good idea

You need a primary care physician and a gynecologist, because while each can address a broad range of issues, each has specialized experience to make sure you get the right care when you need it. Both can perform basic health assessments, write prescriptions, and provide flu shots or other immunizations. Most insurance plans cover an…

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Gynecology, Women's Pelvic Health, Womens Health

What is the difference between a Pap smear and a pelvic exam?

The transition from the teenage years into young adulthood comes with many changes in development and questions about sexual and reproductive health. You may be wondering when it’s time to visit a gynecologist and what happens during a typical appointment. “You should visit your OB/GYN once a year for a well-woman visit after you turn…

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Gynecology, Womens Health

Cramps but no period

Cramping around the time of your cycle is very common, but what’s happening when you have cramps — but no period? “The reason for cramping could be a normal part of your menstrual cycle or could be a sign of a more serious underlying health issue,” said Steven J. Radtke, M.D., FACOG, FMIGS, gynecologic surgeon…

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Cancer, Cervical Cancer, Gynecology, Womens Health

How to prevent cervical cancer

Cervical cancer often can be prevented through regular screenings and vaccinations for children and young adults. According to the American Cancer Society, about 14,100 new cases of cervical cancer were diagnosed in 2022. Ways to help prevent cervical cancer The best steps that can be taken to prevent cervical cancer include the following: Vaccinations (the…

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Gynecology, Womens Health

Painful periods? It could be dysmenorrhea

What is dysmenorrhea? Dysmenorrhea is another term for pain associated with the menstrual period, also known as period pain. It often involves period cramps that can be felt in the lower abdomen and/or lower back. “Many women experience menstrual cramps for a couple of days during each cycle — but not all pain is normal,”…

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Gynecology, Womens Health

Can you get a Pap smear or pelvic exam on your period?

Can you get a Pap smear or pelvic exam on your period? The answer is yes! If you’ve scheduled an appointment with your gynecologist and you’re on your period, there is no need to cancel the appointment. Normal vaginal bleeding should not get in the way of a Pap smear or pelvic exam. “An OB/GYN…

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Gynecology, Postpartum Care, Womens Health

Is it normal to have yellow discharge after birth?

The body goes through many changes after having a baby, and having some yellow discharge after birth is normal. This type of discharge is called “lochia.” It is part of the body’s way of healing itself after delivery, and it is a normal part of recovery after a vaginal birth or cesarean section (C-section). How…

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Gynecology, Women's Pelvic Health, Womens Health

How sexual trauma survivors can feel more relaxed during a pelvic exam

For many women, it may be difficult to relax during a pelvic exam, but it can be a traumatizing experience for survivors of sexual abuse. Although a pelvic exam can help screen for various gynecological conditions, including fibroids and cancer, the procedure may feel intrusive or triggering for some trauma survivors, said Rebecca P. Walker, M.D.,…

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Gynecology, Womens Health

Why don’t I get period cramps? What is and isn’t normal

Period cramps can be annoying or painful, but not everyone experiences uncomfortable menstrual symptoms. If you don’t get period cramps, you shouldn’t be concerned. An absence of discomfort could be a sign of a healthy period. What causes period cramps? Cramps in the lower abdomen and bloating are very common, and most people experience them…

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Endocrinology, Gynecology, Womens Health

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and insulin resistance are related. Changes in your diet can help

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is more common than you may realize, affecting 6% to 12% of adult women. But were you aware that diet plays a role in insulin resistance, one of the main causes of the hormone imbalance? Infertility is just one of many possible complications. Patients with PCOS usually have higher than normal…

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