Endometriosis and Spring Activity: Managing Flares When You Want to Be Moving
For women with endometriosis, spring presents a particular tension. Warmer weather, longer days, and the pull to be outside and active — alongside a condition that can make movement feel impossible during flares. If you’ve spent a beautiful April day curled up in pain instead of outside, you’re not alone, and you’re not overreacting. Managing endometriosis through active seasons takes strategy. Here’s what helps, what doesn’t, and when to revisit your treatment plan. Why Flares Feel Worse When You Push Through Endometriosis causes tissue similar to the uterine lining to grow outside the uterus — on the ovaries, bowel, bladder, and surrounding structures. This tissue responds to the same hormonal signals as the uterine lining, thickening and breaking down with each cycle. Because it has nowhere to go, it causes inflammation, scarring, and nerve irritation. High-intensity exercise during a flare increases intra-abdominal pressure and can temporarily worsen pain — not because exercise is harmful, but because inflamed tissue is more reactive to physical stress. The frustrating part is that staying completely sedentary doesn’t help either. The goal is finding the approach that works with your body rather than against it. What the Research Actually Shows Regular, moderate exercise is genuinely beneficial for endometriosis management. Research published in the Journal of Endometriosis and Uterine Disorders suggests that consistent aerobic activity reduces circulating estrogen levels, which may slow the growth of endometrial tissue over time. Exercise also reduces systemic inflammation and improves pain tolerance through endorphin release. The key word is moderate. Walking, swimming, yoga, and cycling are consistently reported as tolerable and beneficial by women with endometriosis. High-impact activities — running, jumping, heavy lifting — are better tolerated between flares than during them. Listening to your body on high-pain days isn’t giving up; it’s smart symptom management. Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy: Underused and Effective One of the most effective and underutilized treatments for endometriosis-related pain is pelvic floor physical therapy. Endometriosis frequently causes pelvic floor muscle dysfunction — tight, guarded muscles that create additional pain beyond the inflammation itself. A pelvic floor physical therapist can assess muscle function, provide internal and external treatment, and teach techniques to reduce the muscular component of pain. If you haven’t been referred for pelvic floor PT as part of your endometriosis management, it’s worth asking about. For many women, it significantly expands what’s possible — including physical activity. Pain Management on Active Days NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen are first-line for endometriosis pain and work best when taken preventively — starting a day or two before your period rather than waiting until pain is severe. Heat therapy (a heating pad or warm bath) helps relax pelvic floor muscles and can be used alongside medication. If over-the-counter options aren’t controlling your pain adequately, or if you’re modifying your activities more than you’d like to, that’s important information for your provider. Pain that interferes with daily life — including the activities you want to do in the spring — is not something to simply manage around. It warrants a treatment review. When to Revisit Your Treatment Plan Endometriosis is a chronic condition, and treatment needs evolve. If your current plan isn’t giving you adequate quality of life, if your symptoms are worsening, or if you’re approaching a decision about fertility, a specialist consultation is appropriate. Treatment options include hormonal management (continuous birth control, progestin-only methods, GnRH agonists), surgical intervention to remove endometrial tissue and adhesions, and integrative approaches including anti-inflammatory nutrition and stress management. The right combination depends on your current symptoms, fertility goals, and what you’ve already tried. You don’t have to choose between managing pain and staying active. With the right treatment plan, both are possible. Schedule a consultation to review your endometriosis management, discuss your symptoms, and explore options that give you back the quality of life you deserve — including spring days spent moving. Sources
Why PCOS Is Hard to Diagnose — And What to Do If You Suspect It
Morgan had been to three different doctors before anyone put the pieces together. A dermatologist for her jawline acne. An endocrinologist for her blood sugar. Her OB-GYN for cycles that came every 45 days — when they came at all. “Everyone kept treating the symptom in front of them,” she said. “Nobody ever asked if they might be connected.” They were. Morgan has PCOS — polycystic ovary syndrome — one of the most common hormonal conditions affecting women of reproductive age, and one of the most frequently missed. Why Diagnosis Takes So Long PCOS affects approximately one in ten women, yet the average time from first symptoms to diagnosis is seven to ten years. Several factors drive that delay. First, the symptoms are varied enough that they’re easily attributed to other causes or dismissed entirely. Irregular periods might be chalked up to stress. Acne to diet. Weight gain to lifestyle. Hair thinning to aging. When each symptom gets treated separately, no one sees the full picture. Second, there’s no single definitive test. Diagnosis is based on meeting at least two of three criteria: irregular or absent ovulation, elevated androgen levels (through blood work or visible signs like excess hair growth), and polycystic ovaries on ultrasound. Notably, you don’t need to have ovarian cysts to be diagnosed with PCOS — the name is misleading. Third, symptoms vary significantly between women. Some have classic presentations. Others have only mild irregularities that don’t raise obvious flags at routine visits. The Full Symptom Picture Irregular periods are the most recognized PCOS symptom, but the condition affects multiple body systems. About 70 percent of women with PCOS have insulin resistance, regardless of body weight — which causes difficulty managing blood sugar, intense carbohydrate cravings, and darkened skin patches in body creases. Elevated androgens drive the skin and hair changes many women notice: persistent acne especially along the jawline and chin, excess facial or body hair, and thinning hair at the scalp. These symptoms can appear even in women whose blood androgen levels fall within the “normal” range on standard testing. Mood and mental health are also affected. Women with PCOS have higher rates of anxiety and depression than the general population — a connection that’s hormonal, not coincidental. What Diagnosis Involves If you suspect PCOS, a thorough evaluation includes a detailed symptom history, blood work to assess hormone levels (including testosterone, LH, FSH, and insulin), and a pelvic ultrasound. Your provider should ask not just about your periods but about your skin, hair, weight patterns, energy, and mood — because PCOS is a whole-body condition. Treatment Is Individualized There’s no single PCOS treatment, because PCOS doesn’t look the same in every woman. Treatment goals are shaped by your priorities: managing symptoms, protecting long-term metabolic health, or supporting fertility. For cycle regulation and androgen-related symptoms, combined hormonal contraceptives are often first-line. Metformin improves insulin sensitivity and can restore more regular ovulation. Anti-androgen medications like spironolactone address excess hair and acne directly. For women trying to conceive, ovulation induction with medications like letrozole is typically the starting point. Lifestyle changes — specifically a low-glycemic diet and regular exercise — improve insulin sensitivity and can meaningfully reduce symptoms independent of weight change. These aren’t alternatives to medication; they work best in combination. Long-Term Health Implications PCOS is a metabolic condition, not just a reproductive one. Women with PCOS face higher lifetime risks of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and endometrial cancer if cycles remain very irregular long-term. Early diagnosis and consistent management reduce these risks significantly. If you’ve been experiencing symptoms that feel connected — irregular periods, acne, hair changes, difficulty managing weight — and haven’t received a clear explanation, it’s worth pursuing a comprehensive evaluation. Schedule a PCOS consultation to discuss your symptoms, get appropriate testing, and build a treatment plan that addresses your specific presentation. Sources
Endometriosis Awareness: Why Your Painful Periods Deserve Attention
For years, Jessica thought everyone experienced the kind of period pain that left her curled up on the bathroom floor, missing work and canceling plans. “It’s just part of being a woman,” her mother had told her. But when she mentioned her symptoms to her gynecologist during a routine visit, the response stopped her cold: “That’s not normal. We need to investigate for endometriosis.” March is Endometriosis Awareness Month, and it’s time to dispel the dangerous myth that severe period pain is normal or something you should simply endure. Endometriosis affects approximately one in ten women of reproductive age—about 190 million women worldwide—yet it takes an average of seven to ten years to receive a diagnosis. What Is Endometriosis? Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus—on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, bowel, or other pelvic structures. Like the lining inside your uterus, this tissue responds to hormonal changes during your cycle, thickening and breaking down. But unlike menstrual blood, it has nowhere to go, causing inflammation, scarring, and adhesions. Recognizing the Signs While painful periods are the hallmark symptom, endometriosis affects much more than just your cycle. Common Symptoms: The Pain Isn’t “All in Your Head”: Many women with endometriosis report being dismissed by healthcare providers or told their pain is psychological. The pain is real, caused by inflammation and nerve irritation from endometrial tissue growing where it shouldn’t. Why Diagnosis Takes So Long Several factors contribute to delayed diagnosis: The Fertility Connection Endometriosis is found in 25-50 percent of women experiencing infertility. The condition can affect fertility through: However, many women with endometriosis do conceive naturally, and fertility treatments can help when needed. Treatment Options There’s no cure for endometriosis, but multiple treatments can effectively manage symptoms: Pain Management: Hormonal Treatments: Surgical Treatment: Laparoscopic surgery can remove endometrial tissue and adhesions. This is both diagnostic (confirming endometriosis) and therapeutic (providing relief). Surgery may improve fertility and reduce pain for many women. Lifestyle Approaches: Living With Endometriosis Endometriosis is a chronic condition requiring long-term management. Many women find their symptoms improve with treatment, though flares can occur. Important Coping Strategies: When to Seek Help Don’t wait years to get answers. Seek evaluation if you experience: Advocate for Your Health If you suspect endometriosis, be prepared to advocate for yourself. Track your symptoms, document how they affect your daily life, and don’t accept dismissal. You know your body better than anyone else. At Women’s Integrated Healthcare, we take pelvic pain seriously. We listen to your concerns, conduct thorough evaluations, and create personalized treatment plans. Whether you need medical management, surgical intervention, or fertility support, we’re here to help you reclaim your quality of life. This Endometriosis Awareness Month, if you’re suffering with severe period pain, schedule a consultation. You deserve answers, relief, and compassionate care. References:
PCOS Awareness Month: Understanding Symptoms Beyond Irregular Periods
March is PCOS Awareness Month, and it’s time to talk about one of the most common—yet often misunderstood—hormonal disorders affecting women. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects approximately one in ten women of reproductive age, yet many go years without a proper diagnosis. Most women know that PCOS causes irregular periods. But this complex condition affects far more than just your menstrual cycle, and recognizing the full spectrum of symptoms is crucial for getting the care you need. Beyond Irregular Cycles: The Full Picture While irregular or absent periods are a hallmark of PCOS, the condition affects multiple body systems. Many women don’t realize that seemingly unrelated symptoms are actually connected. Metabolic Signs: PCOS significantly impacts how your body processes insulin. About 70 percent of women with PCOS have insulin resistance, even if they’re not overweight. This can cause: Hormonal and Skin Changes: Elevated androgens (male hormones) cause visible changes: Reproductive Health: Beyond irregular periods, PCOS affects fertility: Emotional and Mental Health: The hormonal imbalances of PCOS don’t just affect your body: Why PCOS Often Goes Undiagnosed Many women see different specialists for individual symptoms—a dermatologist for acne, an endocrinologist for weight issues, a therapist for mood problems—without anyone connecting the dots. Additionally, symptoms can be subtle or develop gradually, making them easy to dismiss as “normal.” The condition is diagnosed when you have at least two of these three criteria: Importantly, despite the name, you don’t need to have cysts on your ovaries to have PCOS. Long-Term Health Implications PCOS isn’t just about fertility and irregular periods—it’s a metabolic condition with serious long-term health risks: The good news? Early diagnosis and proper management can significantly reduce these risks. Treatment Approaches That Work PCOS treatment is highly individualized based on your symptoms and goals: Lifestyle Modifications: For many women, lifestyle changes provide dramatic improvements: Medications: Targeted Treatments: When to Seek Help If you’re experiencing multiple PCOS symptoms, don’t wait. Early diagnosis and treatment can: This PCOS Awareness Month, advocate for your health. If something feels off—whether it’s irregular periods, unexplained weight gain, excessive hair growth, or persistent acne—schedule a comprehensive evaluation. At Women’s Integrated Healthcare, we take a whole-body approach to PCOS management. We don’t just treat symptoms; we address the underlying hormonal imbalances and create personalized treatment plans that support your immediate concerns and long-term health. Schedule your PCOS consultation today and take the first step toward better hormonal health. References: BLOG 3: Preparing Your Body for Pregnancy: A Pre-Conception Checklist Link for socials: https://womensintegratedhealthcare.com/preconception-health-pregnancy-checklist/ You’ve decided you’re ready to start trying for a baby. The excitement is real—but before you toss the birth control, there’s important preparation that can dramatically improve your chances of conception and a healthy pregnancy. Preconception health isn’t just about stopping contraception and hoping for the best. The three months before conception are crucial for optimizing your body and reducing risks. Think of it as creating the healthiest possible environment before your baby even begins to develop. Start With a Preconception Visit Schedule a checkup before you start trying to conceive. This visit is different from a regular exam and should include: Health History Review: Your provider will assess chronic conditions (diabetes, thyroid disorders, high blood pressure), past pregnancy complications, family history of genetic conditions, and current medications that may need adjustment. Essential Screenings: Medication Review: Some medications aren’t safe during pregnancy. If you take medications for chronic conditions, your provider may switch you to pregnancy-safe alternatives before you conceive. Don’t stop any prescription medications without medical guidance. Optimize Your Nutrition What you eat in the months before conception affects egg quality, fertility, and early fetal development. Start Prenatal Vitamins Now: Begin taking prenatal vitamins with at least 400-800 mcg of folic acid three months before trying to conceive. Folic acid taken before and during early pregnancy dramatically reduces neural tube defects. Focus on Fertility-Friendly Foods: What to Limit: Achieve a Healthy Weight Both underweight and overweight status can affect fertility and pregnancy outcomes. If your BMI is outside the healthy range, work with your provider on a safe plan to reach a healthier weight before conception. Even a 5-10 percent weight loss can significantly improve fertility for women who are overweight. Similarly, gaining weight if you’re underweight can restore regular ovulation. Address Lifestyle Factors Exercise Regularly: Moderate exercise improves fertility and prepares your body for pregnancy. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate activity most days. However, excessive high-intensity exercise can disrupt ovulation, so balance is key. Quit Smoking: Smoking damages eggs, reduces fertility, and increases miscarriage risk. If you smoke, quitting should be your top preconception priority. Secondhand smoke exposure should also be minimized. Limit Environmental Toxins: Reduce exposure to pesticides, cleaning chemicals, and other toxins when possible. Switch to natural cleaning products and eat organic when feasible, especially for produce high in pesticides. Manage Stress: Chronic stress can disrupt ovulation. Incorporate stress-reduction techniques like yoga, meditation, or regular relaxation time into your routine. Update Vaccinations Certain infections during pregnancy can cause serious complications. Ensure you’re current on: Some vaccines require you to wait one to three months before trying to conceive, so schedule this checkup early. Understand Your Cycle Start tracking your menstrual cycle to identify your fertile window. This helps you time intercourse optimally and alerts you to potential issues. Track: Apps can help, but nothing replaces awareness of your body’s natural signs. Screen for Genetic Conditions If you have a family history of genetic disorders, or you and your partner share certain ethnic backgrounds with higher risks for specific conditions, consider genetic carrier screening. This simple blood test can identify if you’re carriers for conditions like cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease, or Tay-Sachs disease. The Male Factor Preconception health isn’t just about the woman. Your partner should also: Set Realistic Expectations Understanding normal fertility timelines reduces anxiety: Start Your Journey Right Taking these preconception steps significantly improves your chances of conceiving quickly and having a healthy pregnancy. It’s not about perfection—it’s about giving your future baby the best possible start.
UTI Treatment: Fast Relief and Prevention Strategies
It starts with a familiar, nagging sensation—a frequent urge to go, followed by a sharp, burning discomfort. For many women, a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) isn’t just a minor inconvenience; it’s a recurring disruption that interferes with work, exercise, and intimacy. UTIs account for over 8 million doctor visits annually. Because of the female anatomy—specifically a shorter urethra—women are significantly more prone to these infections than men. While common, they require prompt attention to prevent more serious complications like kidney infections. Symptoms: Is It Really a UTI? Most women recognize the “classic” signs, but symptoms can vary: Fast Relief: What to Do Immediately If you suspect a UTI, the goal is to stop the bacterial growth and manage the pain. Prevention Strategies: Breaking the Cycle If you experience “recurrent UTIs” (two or more in six months), lifestyle shifts are essential. Daily Habits: Supplements and Advanced Prevention: When Is It an Emergency? A simple UTI can travel to the kidneys if left untreated. Seek immediate medical care if you experience: Expert Care for Urinary Health You don’t have to “just live” with chronic urinary discomfort. At Women’s Integrated Healthcare, we go beyond just writing a prescription. We work with you to identify your specific triggers—whether they are hormonal, lifestyle-based, or anatomical—and develop a long-term prevention plan. If you’re struggling with UTI symptoms or want to discuss a prevention strategy that actually works, schedule an appointment with us today. References:
Can I Take Zicam While Pregnant? Your Guide to Safe Cold Relief This Winter
Lauren stood in the pharmacy aisle at 11 PM, seven months pregnant and desperate for relief. Her head throbbed, her nose was completely blocked, and she’d been awake for three nights straight. She reached for the Zicam she’d always used before pregnancy, then pulled out her phone to search “can I take Zicam while pregnant?” The results were confusing and contradictory. Exhausted and frustrated, she left empty-handed, still suffering. If you’re pregnant and fighting a winter cold, you’re probably discovering that your usual go-to remedies are suddenly off-limits or questionable. With your immune system naturally suppressed to protect your growing baby, you’re more vulnerable to catching every bug that goes around. Understanding which medications are safe can help you find relief without the worry.Is Zicam Safe During Pregnancy? The short answer is: it depends on which Zicam product you’re considering. Zicam products contain zinc, an essential mineral that’s generally considered safe during pregnancy in appropriate amounts. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), zinc is important for fetal development, and many prenatal vitamins include it. However, not all Zicam formulations are created equal: Understanding Cold Remedies by Trimester Your provider’s recommendations may vary depending on how far along you are: Safe Cold Relief Options for Pregnancy Here are evidence-based remedies that most providers consider safe: For Congestion: For Cough: For Fever and Body Aches: For Sore Throat: What to Avoid During Pregnancy These common cold remedies should be avoided: NSAIDs:Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve) can cause complications, especially after 20 weeks of pregnancy. They’ve been linked to low amniotic fluid and potential heart problems in the baby. Aspirin:Regular use of aspirin should be avoided unless specifically prescribed by your provider for certain pregnancy complications. Multi-Symptom Formulations:Products like NyQuil or Theraflu often contain multiple active ingredients, including ones to avoid during pregnancy. They may also contain alcohol. Stick to single-ingredient products approved by your provider. Herbal Supplements:“Natural” doesn’t mean safe during pregnancy. Many herbs can trigger contractions or cause other complications. Avoid echinacea, goldenseal, and other immune-boosting herbs without medical approval. Phenylephrine:This decongestant found in many cold medicines has questionable effectiveness and safety data during pregnancy. Natural Immunity Boosters That Actually Work Prevention is always better than treatment: Hydration:Drink eight to ten glasses of water daily. Proper hydration helps thin mucus, supports immune function, and keeps your respiratory system functioning optimally. Add lemon or cucumber for flavor if plain water is unappealing. Quality Sleep:Aim for eight to ten hours nightly. Your immune system does much of its repair work during sleep. If nighttime sleep is disrupted, take short naps during the day. Vitamin C:Get it from food sources like oranges, strawberries, bell peppers, and broccoli. While vitamin C won’t prevent colds, it may reduce duration and severity. Vitamin D:Many pregnant women are deficient in vitamin D, which plays a crucial role in immune function. Ask your provider about testing and supplementation. Prenatal Vitamins:Take them consistently. They provide immune-supporting nutrients like zinc, vitamin C, iron, and folate. Hand Hygiene:Wash hands frequently for at least 20 seconds with soap and water, especially after being in public spaces. Use hand sanitizer when soap isn’t available. Avoid Sick People:This sounds obvious, but don’t feel guilty about skipping gatherings or asking sick visitors to reschedule. Your health and your baby’s wellbeing come first. When to Call Your Healthcare Provider Most colds resolve on their own within seven to ten days, but contact your provider if you experience: These symptoms could indicate flu, strep throat, pneumonia, sinus infection, or other conditions requiring prescription treatment. The Importance of Flu and COVID-19 Vaccination The single most effective way to prevent serious illness during pregnancy is vaccination: Flu Shot:Safe during any trimester, the flu vaccine protects both you and your baby. Pregnant women who get the flu are at higher risk for hospitalization and complications. Antibodies you develop are passed to your baby, providing protection for their first several months of life. COVID-19 Vaccine:Current CDC recommendations support COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy. Pregnant women who contract COVID-19 are at increased risk for severe illness, preterm birth, and other complications. Tdap Vaccine:Given between 27 and 36 weeks, this vaccine protects your baby from whooping cough, which can be deadly for newborns. Creating Your Cold-Season Action Plan Start the new year with a prevention strategy: Get Personalized Guidance Every pregnancy is unique, and your health history may affect which cold remedies are safe for you. Conditions like high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, or a history of preterm labor can influence your provider’s recommendations. Don’t suffer through a cold in silence or second-guess yourself in the pharmacy aisle. At Women’s Integrated Healthcare, we’re here to answer your medication safety questions and provide clear, evidence-based guidance tailored to your pregnancy. Whether you’re dealing with a winter cold right now or want to discuss prevention strategies, our team is ready to support you through every season of your pregnancy journey. Schedule a consultation today and start the new year with a clear plan for staying healthy and safe. References: American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (n.d.). Over-the-Counter Medications and Pregnancy. Retrieved from https://www.acog.org Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Medications and Pregnancy. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov National Institutes of Health. (n.d.). Zinc Supplementation During Pregnancy. Retrieved from https://www.nih.gov
What Are Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids are common in women and often go unnoticed. Find out what to look for and when to seek treatment. Also called leiomyomas or myomas, uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths of the uterus that appear most often during childbearing years. These growths almost never develop into cancer and aren’t associated with an increased risk of uterine cancer. The fibroids can range in size from tiny enough to be undetectable to the human eye, to large masses that can distort the shape of the uterus. There can be one or many fibroids at one time. If untreated, multiple fibroids in extreme cases can expand enough to the point where the uterus reaches the rib cage and adds body weight. Many women have uterine fibroids at some point during their lives and may not know it because they show no symptoms. Your doctor may discover them incidentally during a pelvic exam or prenatal ultrasound. Uterine Fibroid Symptoms to Watch For The most-common symptoms of uterine fibroids include: Backache or leg pains Constipation Difficulty emptying the bladder Frequent urination Pelvic pressure or pain Menstrual periods lasting more than a week Heavy menstrual bleeding In very rare instances, a fibroid can cause acute pain when it outgrows its blood supply and begins to die. What Causes Uterine Fibroids? While the exact cause of uterine fibroids is unknown, research and clinical experience point to a few factors. Many fibroids contain genetic changes that differ from those in normal uterine muscle cells. The hormones estrogen and progesterone that stimulate development of the uterine lining during each menstrual cycle in preparation for pregnancy also appear to promote the growth of fibroids. The growth patterns of uterine fibroids vary from patient to patient. They may grow slowly or rapidly, and they may remain the same size. Some fibroids go through “growth spurts,” and some shrink on their own. Many fibroids that have been present during pregnancy shrink or disappear after pregnancy as the uterus goes back to its normal size. Who is at Risk For Developing Uterine Fibroids? All women of reproductive age are at risk for uterine fibroids. Other risk factors include: Race. Black women are more likely to have fibroids than women from other racial groups. Also, black women are more likely to have fibroids at younger ages and are also likely to have larger fibroids, along with more severe symptoms. Heredity. If your mother or sister had fibroids, you are at an increased risk of developing them. Other factors. Onset of menstruation at an early age; obesity; vitamin D deficiency; having a diet higher in red meat and lower in green vegetables, fruit and dairy; and drinking alcohol, including beer, appear to increase your risk of developing fibroids. Treatment for Uterine Fibroids After diagnosing uterine fibroids, our Southlake gynecologists will discuss your surgical options. Your treatment choices will be determined by the location, size and number of fibroids, as well as your future plans for pregnancy. Your ObGyn will talk with you about all of your uterine fibroid surgery or medical management options. Our Southlake gynecologists are knowledgeable surgeons who offer cutting-edge skills and techniques for uterine fibroid surgery and medical management. If you are suffering from fibroid symptoms, contact us for an appointment.
An update on COVID-19 (Coronavirus) from The Providers of Women’s Integrated Healthcare, P.A.
March 12, 2020 COVID-19 Screening Information First and foremost we wish to keep everyone as safe as possible, this includes patients and staff. We will be asking all patients the following questions in an effort to help determine whether you should be seen in our office. We ask that if you answer yes to any of the questions that you contact your PCP to be evaluated, if you do not have a PCP then you should visit an urgent care. Should you arrive to our office and be found to meet any of these criteria, you will be immediately rescheduled so that we do not expose other patients and staff. Please remember that our pregnant patients are at increased risk of developing infections. 1. Are you having flu-like symptoms; fever, or respiratory symptoms such as cough, or shortness of breath? 2. Have you traveled to an affected geographic area within 14 days of symptom onset? 3. Have you been in close contact with someone confirmed or being evaluated for COVID-19? If you have answered yes to any of these questions, you will need to be rescheduled 14 days out from the date of symptoms or from your return home from travel. You can call our office at 817-416-2229 to have your appointment rescheduled. Thank you for your understanding, The Providers of Women’s Integrated Healthcare, P.A.
Yeast Infections: Certain Women are at Greater Risk
Learn why some women are more likely than others to contract yeast infections. Yeast infections, also known as candidiasis, are infections caused by a yeast (a type of fungus) called Candida. Yeast infections are more common than you might think. About 75 percent of women have had a yeast infection, and about 45 percent will have them more than once. About 1.4 million outpatients of candidiasis are seen annually in the United States. Why do Women Get Yeast Infections? All healthy vaginas have yeast. Candidiasis is caused by an overgrowth of yeast that causes infection. Any woman at any age can get a yeast infection, although it is rare before puberty and after menopause. Learn more about yeast infections here, including symptoms, diagnosis and treatment. In this blog, we’re going to dive deeper into why some women are at greater risk. Who is at Risk of a Yeast Infection? Some women are at greater risk of getting a yeast infection. Here are some risk factors. Pregnancy: If you are pregnant or on birth control, the risk is heightened because estrogen is a factor in maturing the vagina and making a thicker lubricated vaginal lining. Damp places increase the growth of yeast, and estrogen is increased with birth control and pregnancy. Diabetes: Diabetes increases the risk of yeast infection because it is caused by excess glucose in the blood. Because of this excess glucose, more is secreted from the vagina, which is normally an acidic environment that has little nutrients. This glucose promotes the growth of yeast. Immune System Deficiencies/Antibiotics/Steroids: Women with weakened immune systems are at greater risk for developing yeast infections because their bodies aren’t capable of defending themselves from infections. Additionally, immune system problems are often treated with antibiotics or steroids, which increase the risk of yeast infections because antibiotics kill off the bacteria that maintain and limit the growth of yeast. Without that bacteria to do its job, yeast has an ideal environment to grow rapidly and turn into an infection. Sex: Sexual interactions are not the cause of yeast infections, but yeast can be spread vaginally and orally. The chemistry of the different yeasts may be different and unbalanced, which can cause it to grow. Yeast infections aren’t an STD, but a person’s body chemistry can have a bad reaction to another person’s yeast and bacteria. How to Prevent Yeast Infections It’s important to know who is most at risk for yeast infections, and it’s also smart to learn prevention. Here are a few key preventions: Watch antibiotic use. Only take antibiotics when prescribed by a doctor. Wear cotton underwear. The cotton allows airflow, which prevents the vagina from getting too damp. (Yeast prefer damp environments.) Don’t douche or use scented feminine products. These products can kill the healthy bacteria that limits yeast growth. Wipe from front to back after using the restroom. Avoid moist environments, such as tight, wet clothes, hot tubs or hot baths. Conclusion: Yeast Infections are Common Yeast infections are common occurrences among women of all walks of life. Luckily, there are ways for women to lower their risk of contracting a yeast infection. If you think you have a yeast infection, there are many treatment options. Make an appointment with your physician to ensure you receive the correct care and advice.
Help for Hot Flashes: Causes, Symptoms and Treatments
Help for Hot Flashes: Causes, Symptoms and Treatments Don’t be stopped by one of the most common symptoms of menopause, women who feel like they’ve just exercised in their winter coats but haven’t left their office chairs are not alone. Am I Having Hot Flashes? Hot flashes are an unfortunate and common side effect of menopause for about 75% of women. Hot flashes include the sensation of extreme heat that usually lasts from one to five minutes and often are most intense in the head and upper chest. Women experiencing hot flashes break out in a sweat and can sometimes experience red blotches on their skin, fast or uneven heartbeats, dizziness, shaking and headaches. What Causes Hot Flashes? Hot flashes occur because of changing hormone levels that trigger thermoregulatory zone changes in the brain. Basically, during menopause, the drop in estrogen confuses women’s bodies’ thermostats. These bothersome symptoms can affect sleep and quality of life. Though hot flashes aren’t serious, it’s important for women to talk to their doctors about this period in their lives and find treatments against hot flashes. Treatment for Hot Flashes Women should talk with their doctors about the right treatment plans for their symptoms. It’s common for women with severe symptoms to try multiple treatments before finding one that works best. Here are a few commonly prescribed treatments and remedies for hot flashes: Estrogen replacement: Women can find relief from hot flashes through hormone replacement therapy. After all, the transition to menopause includes decreasing amounts of estrogen. Anti-depressants. Many women find that anti-depressants such as Zoloft lessen the severity of hot flashes. Gabapentin or pregabalin: Doctors might prescribe one of these prescription medications depending on womens’ symptoms Increasing dietary soy Dressing in layers Avoiding hot and spicy foods and drinks Avoiding hot environments Minimizing stress Herbal remedies Exercise Meditation The compassionate doctors at Women’s Integrated Healthcare are committed to helping women through every stage of their lives, including menopause. We encourage women experiencing symptoms to make an appointment with a trustworthy Women’s integrated Healthcare physician soon. What’s Happening During a Hot Flash Take a look at this great information about hot flashes, why they happen, and how to improve them. Just For Fun To prove you’re not alone in the suffering, these hot-flash quotes will make you giggle. “The Definition of Hot Flash: Your body deciding to spontaneously combust while taking you on a secret roller coaster ride through the bowels of hell.” “I wouldn’t mind these hot flashes so much if they would burn a little fat off my butt and thighs in the process.” “Night sweats: Hot flashes that occur while you are asleep, because catching fire in the daytime isn’t sufficient enough.” “Amazing women don’t have hot flashes. We have power surges.” – @amazingwomen Our compassionate and experienced Grapevine and Fort Worth OBGYN’s are here to help you stay healthy and informed through all stages of life. Contact us today for an appointment.
