Questions and Answers - Recent questions and answers in Women's Health

Answered: How can small habits lead to big change in weight loss?

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 07:32:25 +0000

That's the beauty of making small habits -- one habit becomes routine, and then you add another small habit. You keep moving steadily in easy steps that move you toward big change.

Answered: How do small habits help you lose weight?

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 07:30:20 +0000

Weight loss can feel like a roller coaster: Up, down, up, down. Commit to a few small, simple habits. You'll keep moving toward your goal, while your small habits build into larger ones that can permanently change your behavior.

Answered: What are weight loss tips from people who have lost a lot of weight?

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 07:28:32 +0000

Consider some of the key findings from more than 10,000 people who have lost at least 30 pounds and kept it off for at least a year. They shared their strategies with the National Weight Control Registry, which posted them on its web site:

78% eat breakfast every day.
75% weigh themselves at least once a week.
62% watch less than 10 hours of TV per week.
90% exercise, on average, about 1 hour per day.

What is candida?

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 07:15:18 +0000

Answered: How common is hyperparathyroidism?

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 07:13:10 +0000

About 100,000 people in the U.S. develop this condition each year. People between the ages of 50 and 60, and women, are the most likely to have hyperparathyroidism

Answered: What can I eat if I have hypothyroidism?

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 07:12:04 +0000

Calcium and vitamin D supplements can keep hypoparathyroidism in check. A healthy diet helps, too. Your doctor may tell you to:

Limit foods with phosphates, like soda and other fizzy drinks. These can pull calcium from your bones.
Eat foods high in calcium such as low-fat dairy products, dark green vegetables like collard greens and kale, and foods with added calcium like some cereals and orange juices.

Answered: Which medicines can cause low thyroid levels?

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 07:00:47 +0000

Some can affect how your thyroid works and lead to low hormone levels. These include:

Lithium: Used for bipolar disorder and depression.

Interferon alpha: A cancer treatment.

Amiodarone (Cordarone, Pacerone): Given for heart rhythm problems.

Interleukin-2: Used for kidney cancer.

Answered: When should you see a doctor about spotting?

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 06:38:40 +0000

Make an appointment if spotting concerns you, or if you have spotting along with the following symptoms:

Spotting is very different from persistent bleeding, and any woman with persistent, heavy, or prolonged bleeding should make an appointment to get it checked out.

You should also see a doctor if you think you might be pregnant.

Pain in your lower abdomen
Fever
Symptoms that get worse or happen more often
Any type of vaginal bleeding -- including spotting -- after you’ve gone through menopause

Answered: How is hypoparathyroidism diagnosed?

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 06:37:35 +0000

Your doctor will test your blood and your urine for calcium, parathyroid hormone, phosphorus, and magnesium.

Answered: How can Hashimoto's disease cause your low thyroid levels?

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 06:36:22 +0000

This is the most common reason that Americans have low thyroid levels. It's an autoimmune disease. If you have one, your immune system attacks your body's healthy cells. If you have Hashimoto's disease, it destroys the cells that make thyroid hormone.

Answered: How can you tell what kind of ovarian cyst you have?

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 06:34:10 +0000

Most cysts are considered “functional.” They’re a part of your monthly cycle, but there are different kinds, including:

Follicle cyst. Your ovaries usually release one egg each month. It grows inside a tiny sac called a follicle. When the egg is ready, the follicle breaks open and releases it. If the sac doesn’t open, it causes a follicle cyst. These often go away in 1 to 3 months.
Corpus luteum cyst. Once the egg is released, the empty follicle usually shrinks and helps get ready for the next egg. It becomes a cyst when it closes back up and fluid collects inside. It may go away in a few weeks, but it may bleed or cause pain as it grows.
Nonfunctional. In some women, their ovaries make a lot of small cysts. This condition is called polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). It can make it hard to get pregnant. Other nonfunctional cysts may be caused by cancer. Ovarian cysts in women after menopause are more likely to be cancerous than those in younger women.

Answered: How can you tell if adenomyosis is causing chronic pelvic pain?

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 06:33:04 +0000

This condition is similar to endometriosis. Cells that normally line your uterus (the endometrium) invade the muscle tissue of the uterus wall (the myometrium). Many women with adenomyosis don't have any symptoms. Symptoms you may have:

Pain during your period
Feeling of pressure on your bladder or rectum
Heavy periods
Periods that last longer than usual
Spotting between periods

Answered: How can you tell if your pain is caused by an ovarian cyst?

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 06:32:12 +0000

Sometimes, your doctor finds ovarian cysts during a pelvic exam. Your doctor will ask questions about your pain and other symptoms.

She might give you an ultrasound. This is a device that uses sound waves to take pictures inside your body. It can show the details of a cyst.

She also may do some blood tests to:

Find out if you are pregnant
See whether your problems are caused by hormones
Check for cancer (if you are past menopause)

Answered: How can you tell if irritable bowel syndrome is causing chronic pelvic pain?

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 06:30:34 +0000

Chronic pelvic pain sometimes isn't only due to problems with reproductive organs or the urinary tract; other organs in the pelvic area, if "diseased," can present as pelvic pain. Irritable bowel syndrome, an intestinal condition that often causes pain, may be the cause. Symptoms you may have:

Diarrhea
Constipation
Incontinence
Flatulence
Bloating
Pain relieved by a bowel movement

Answered: How are antifungal vaginal creams used for vaginal yeast infections?

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 06:29:29 +0000

For severe yeast infections, your doctor may prescribe an antifungal vaginal cream. He or she may also prescribe a steroid cream for a few days to ease more severe inflammation, redness, and soreness of the opening of the vagina and the surrounding tissue, called the "vulva.” Vaginal creams usually come packaged with an applicator that helps you measure the right dose. A range of yeast infection medications are available without a prescription. Some are creams you apply inside the vagina. Others are suppositories or vaginal tablets you place in your vagina and let dissolve.

Answered: How can you tell if vulvodynia is causing chronic pelvic pain?

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 06:27:23 +0000

Vulvodynia is pain that affects the vulva for no apparent reason. The pain of vulvodynia may be constant or it may come and go. Symptoms you may have:

Burning or stinging sensations in the vulva
Pain when something presses on the vulva, like during sex or when you straddle a seat
Pain in your inner thighs

Answered: How can you tell if interstitial cystitis is causing chronic pelvic pain?

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 06:26:18 +0000

Women with interstitial cystitis have an inflamed bladder. The inflammation is not caused by an infection. This condition tends to affect women in their 30s and 40s. Symptoms you may have:

You need to urinate very often
Often feeling an urgent need to urinate
Discomfort when you urinate
Pain during sex

Answered: What types of surgery are used to treat ovarian cysts?

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 06:24:54 +0000

There are different types of surgery to treat ovarian cysts, including:

Laparoscopy is for smaller cysts. The doctor makes a tiny cut above or below your belly button. A small tool with a camera allows your doctor to see inside, and a different tool removes the cyst or ovary. You probably won’t have to stay in the hospital overnight
Laparotomy is for cysts that may be cancerous. It is done with a bigger cut in the belly.

Answered: How can you tell if endometriosis is causing chronic pelvic pain?

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 06:23:59 +0000

In endometriosis, cells that normally line the inside of the uterus (the endometrium) grow inappropriately outside on organs such as the ovaries, bladder, or rectum. Symptoms you may have:

Pelvic pain or cramps before or during your period
Pain during or after sex
Pain when you ovulate
Painful bowel movements
Rectal bleeding during your period
Pain when you urinate
Lower back pain
Infertility
Spotting between periods
Bloating in your abdomen

What is toxic shock syndrome (TSS)?

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 06:16:39 +0000

What is healthy fat?

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 06:14:53 +0000

Answered: What are the chances of getting Bartholin’s gland cysts?

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 06:14:04 +0000

About two out of 10 women can expect to get a Bartholin’s gland cyst at some point. It typically happens in your 20s. They’re less likely to develop as you age.

Answered: When should you go to the emergency room for pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)?

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 06:11:36 +0000

You’ll need to go to the emergency room right away if you have:

Some of these also can be signs of other serious medical conditions, like appendicitis or an ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy that happens in a fallopian tube outside the womb). You would need medical help right away for these as well.

Severe pain in your lower belly
Signs of shock, like fainting
Vomiting
Fever higher than 101 F

Answered: Which conditions can cause spotting between periods?

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 06:10:21 +0000

A number of things can cause it to happen. These are the most common:

Hormone-based birth control
Some sexually transmitted infections (STIs), like chlamydia
Infection of the cervix or lining of the uterus.
Blood clotting disorders, like von Willebrand disease
Other health conditions, like hypothyroidism, liver disease, or chronic kidney disease.
Fibroids or polyps
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Cancers of the reproductive system
Perimenopause

Answered: What are alternative therapies for backache during pregnancy?

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 06:07:16 +0000

For a backache: chiropractic manipulation and physical therapy should be considered.

Answered: When should you call your doctor about treating vaginal yeast infections?

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 06:04:49 +0000

Make the call if your symptoms don't disappear after you finish taking all your medicine as prescribed. See your doctor if you have four or more vaginal yeast infections in one year. Your doctor may call this “recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis.” It’s not common, but if you have it, you may need to take an antifungal medication for up to six months. Frequent, repeated yeast infections can also be a sign of a resistant strain or more serious condition, including untreated diabetes. Also call your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions about your prescription and how to take your medicine.

Answered: When might your doctor suggest a thyroid biopsy?

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 06:00:59 +0000

A biopsy helps your doctor find the cause of a nodule or goiter. But you don’t need it for all thyroid problems.

Your doctor will likely want to check on any nodule bigger than about 1 centimeter (about half an inch), especially if imaging shows that the nodule is solid, has calcium on it, and doesn’t have clear borders around it.

You might also get a biopsy without a nodule if you’re in a lot of pain and your thyroid is growing quickly.

Answered: How will I know when to stop taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for menopause?

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 05:59:56 +0000

Several years of treatment is usually enough to relieve symptoms. So if you’ve been on HRT for more than 5 years, talk with your doctor about tapering off. But you should remember that after stopping, you can expect the hot flushes to return.

Answered: How do you know if you have abnormal nipple discharge caused by mammary duct ectasia?

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 05:56:00 +0000

Mammary duct ectasia is the second most common cause of abnormal nipple discharge. It is typically seen in women who are approaching menopause. This condition results in inflammation and possible blockage of ducts located underneath the nipple. When this occurs, an infection may develop that results in thick, greenish nipple discharge.

Answered: Can a UTI lead to sepsis?

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 05:53:45 +0000

If a UTI isn't treated, there’s a chance it could spread to the kidneys. In some cases, this can trigger sepsis. This happens when your body becomes overwhelmed trying to fight infection. It can be deadly. Symptoms include extreme pain and issues with body temperature, heart rate, respiratory rate, and white blood cell count.

Answered: What can happen if I get a UTI while pregnant?

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 05:51:56 +0000

If they’re not treated, they could lead to problems for both mom and baby. This could include a greater risk of delivering a low birthweight or premature baby. Your risk for high blood pressure and anemia also go up.

Answered: Are fibrocystic breast changes cancer?

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 05:50:43 +0000

No. Fibrocystic breast changes aren’t cancer. And your chances of getting cancer don’t increase because you have them.

But it can make it tricky to feel for new lumps or changes in your breasts when you do self-exams. That’s why you need to know what’s normal for your breasts. When you notice something different, have your doctor check it out right away.

Answered: How can you tell if you have fibrocystic breast changes relative to breast pain?

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 05:44:11 +0000

This is likely linked to hormones, as well. Fibrous tissue (breast tissue that’s scar-like or ropey) and cysts (fluid-filled sacs) form in your breasts. It can be painful, but it’s normal and usually harmless.

About half of women in their 20s-50s get it. You don’t need treatment unless your symptoms are severe.

Answered: How can certain medications cause a heavy period?

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 05:43:05 +0000

Blood thinners or drugs that fight inflammation may cause heavy periods.

Answered: How is a Pap test done?

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 05:42:19 +0000

It’s done in your doctor’s office or clinic and takes about 10 to 20 minutes. You’ll lie on a table with your feet placed firmly in stirrups. You’ll spread your legs, and your doctor will insert a metal or plastic tool (speculum) into your vagina. He or she will open it so that it widens the vaginal walls. This allows your doctor to see your cervix. Your doctor will use a swab to take a sample of cells from your cervix. He or she will place them into a liquid substance in a small jar, and send them to a lab for review.

Answered: What is a Pap test?

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 05:41:25 +0000

A Pap test, also called a Pap smear, is an exam a doctor uses to test for cervical cancer in women. It can also reveal changes in your cervical cells that may turn into cancer later.

Answered: How is rheumatoid factor related to rheumatoid arthritis?

Thu, 28 Nov 2019 12:12:41 +0000

Most, but not all, people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have the rheumatoid-factor (RF) antibody in their blood. Rheumatoid factor may sometimes be present in people who do not have rheumatoid arthritis. Therefore, the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis is based on a combination of joint problems, as well as test results.

Answered: How is an anti-CCP test used to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis?

Thu, 28 Nov 2019 12:08:44 +0000

A more specific blood test for rheumatoid arthritis is the cyclic citrulline antibody test, also called the anti-CCP test. The presence of anti-CCP antibodies suggests a tendency toward a more aggressive form of rheumatoid arthritis.

Answered: How is estrogen related to premenstrual syndrome (PMS)?

Thu, 28 Nov 2019 12:06:52 +0000

As many as 90% of women have unpleasant symptoms before their periods. If symptoms are reliably severe enough to interfere with quality of life, it's defined as premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Generally speaking, PMS is present when:

Bloating, swelling of arms or legs, and breast tenderness are the usual physical symptoms. Feeling overly emotional, experiencing depression, anger and irritability, or having anxiety and social withdrawal may be present. As many as 20% to 40% of women may have PMS at some point in life.

Physical and emotional symptoms occur reliably a few days before multiple consecutive menses (periods).
The symptoms go away after completing a period and don't occur at other times.
The symptoms cause significant personal problems (such as at work, school, or in relationships).
No medicines, drugs, alcohol, or other health condition might be to blame.

Answered: What should you know about estrogen and women's emotions?

Thu, 28 Nov 2019 12:05:39 +0000

It's clear that estrogen is closely linked with women's emotional well-being. Depression and anxiety affect women in their estrogen-producing years more often than men or postmenopausal women. Estrogen is also linked to mood disruptions only women get -- premenstrual syndrome, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and postpartum depression.

Exactly how estrogen affects emotion is much less straightforward. Is it too much estrogen? Not enough? It turns out estrogen's emotional effects are nearly as mysterious as moods themselves.

Answered: How is estrogen related to postmenopausal depression?

Thu, 28 Nov 2019 12:03:47 +0000

At menopause, estrogen levels fall to very low levels. Interestingly, taking oral estrogen does not improve depression in women after menopause. In large trials evaluating hormone replacement therapy, women taking estrogen reported the same mental health as women taking placebo. After menopause, women's rates of depression fall, becoming similar to men of the same age.

Answered: What happens if my doctor finds breast calcifications on my mammogram?

Thu, 28 Nov 2019 12:02:09 +0000

If you have macrocalcifications, you won't need treatment or further testing, because they're not harmful. If your doctor sees microcalcifications on your mammogram, they may recommend another mammogram to get a more detailed look at the area.

Answered: What is Metformin (Glucophage) for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?

Thu, 28 Nov 2019 12:00:46 +0000

Metformin (Glucophage) is a diabetes drug that helps your body use insulin. It also slows down testosterone production. Some research has found that it can help obese women with PCOS lose weight.

Answered: What lifestyle changes can help with irregular periods?

Thu, 28 Nov 2019 11:53:58 +0000

Some women have changes in their period because they exercise too much. You may need to make your workouts less intense, or exercise less often. If stress is the problem, learning how to manage your stress -- and possibly also talking with a counselor -- may be helpful. Extreme changes in your weight can affect your periods. Weight gain can make it harder for your body to ovulate, so weight loss could help with that. But extreme, sudden weight loss can also lead to infrequent or irregular periods.

Answered: How can hormone problems cause a heavy period?

Thu, 28 Nov 2019 11:52:45 +0000

Every month, a lining builds up inside your uterus (womb), which you shed during your period. If your hormone levels aren’t balanced, your body can make the lining too thick, which leads to heavy bleeding when you shed the thicker lining. If you don’t ovulate, this can throw off the hormone balance in the body, leading to a thicker lining and a heavier period.

How are the symptoms of fatigue treated?

Thu, 28 Nov 2019 11:44:24 +0000

Answered: When should you call your healthcare provider about menstrual pain?

Thu, 28 Nov 2019 11:43:05 +0000

Most women have significant improvement with home care. However, a woman should call her health care provider in these situations:

Menstrual cramps continue to be painful for longer than usual.
The pain is suddenly worse or different from what she may have experienced before.
Bleeding is excessive, requiring more than one pad or tampon per hour.
Signs of infection, such as fever, chills, and body aches, are present at the time of the period.
The woman suspects she may be pregnant and any of these symptoms occur.

Answered: What questions should I ask my doctor during my first prenatal visit?

Thu, 28 Nov 2019 11:41:38 +0000

Some questions to ask your doctor are:

What is my due date?
Do I need prenatal vitamins?
Are the symptoms I'm having normal?
Is it normal not to get certain symptoms?
Is there anything I can take for morning sickness?
What are your recommendations regarding weight gain, exercise and nutrition?
What activities, foods, or substances) should I avoid?
Can I have sex while I am pregnant?

What is Hashimoto's thyroiditis?

Thu, 28 Nov 2019 11:39:59 +0000

What is a urinary tract infection (UTI)?

Thu, 28 Nov 2019 11:38:37 +0000