Obstetrics & Gynaecology

It’s recommended that women have their first gynecological visit between the ages of 13 and 15 to discuss general health, menstrual cycles, and sexual health, even if they aren't sexually active.

Some common gynecological conditions include

• Menstrual disorders (heavy bleeding, irregular periods)
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Endometriosis
• Uterine fibroids
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections)
• Ovarian cysts

A Pap smear is a screening test used to detect cervical cancer by examining cells from the cervix. Regular Pap smears are essential for early detection of abnormal cells that could lead to cervical cancer.

It’s generally recommended that women start having mammograms at age 40, though this can vary based on personal health history and family risk factors. Women with a higher risk may need to begin earlier.

An OB/GYN monitors the health of both the mother and baby throughout the pregnancy, provides prenatal care, performs ultrasounds, and handles the delivery process.

Common early signs of pregnancy include:

• Missed period
• Nausea or vomiting (morning sickness)
• Fatigue
• Tender or swollen breasts
• Increased urination
• Food cravings or aversions

The most fertile window is typically in the middle of your menstrual cycle, around ovulation (approximately 14 days before your next period). However, every individual’s cycle is different.

Take a home pregnancy test and consult with an OB/GYN to confirm the pregnancy and begin prenatal care.

Avoid raw or undercooked seafood, meat, and eggs, as well as unpasteurized dairy products, deli meats, and certain types of fish (e.g., high-mercury fish).

Early in pregnancy, you may visit your OB/GYN every 4 to 6 weeks. As your pregnancy progresses, visits become more frequent (every 2 weeks in the second trimester, weekly in the third trimester).

Some common issues include nausea, back pain, fatigue, swelling, heartburn, and mood swings.

A high-risk pregnancy is one where the health of the mother or baby is at risk due to factors such as age, pre-existing conditions (e.g., hypertension, diabetes), or complications during pregnancy (e.g., multiple pregnancies, preeclampsia).

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths in or on the uterus. They can cause symptoms like heavy periods, pelvic pain, or fertility issues.

Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus, causing pain, especially during menstruation.

Menopause is the natural biological process marking the end of a woman's menstrual cycles, typically occurring between ages 45 and 55. It is diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a period.

PCOS is a hormonal disorder causing enlarged ovaries with small cysts. It can lead to irregular periods, fertility issues, and other metabolic complications.

Use condoms, get regular STI screenings, have open conversations with partners about sexual health, and limit the number of sexual partners to reduce the risk of STIs.

Symptoms may include lower abdominal pain, abnormal vaginal discharge, fever, and pain during sex or urination. PID is often caused by untreated STIs.