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March 25, 2022 adminMenstrual Cycle

Managing Pelvic Pain: Finding Out What is Wrong?

It is said, pain is the language of the body that conveys the battle going on within the body. The body is designed uniquely to tackle the issues on its own but when the situation goes out of control, the body needs external support and help and indicates this by way of pain.

One such condition is Pelvic pain, which affects the lower part of the abdomen, between the belly button and groin. In some people, pelvic pain may manifest as menstrual cramps signifying ovulation. Causes may also include gastrointestinal issues, such as food intolerance. Pelvic pain may indicate more serious issues and proper evaluation is necessary.

Many women experience pelvic discomfort (pain in the lower part of the belly) on occasion, generally during their period. However, if you have daily pelvic pain, it could be a sign of a bigger problem within your bladder, bowels, reproductive organs, or pelvic muscles.

Endometriosis, adhesions, chronic appendicitis, and hernias are just a few of the disorders that cause pelvic pain. Sometimes medication controls the problem; other times surgery may be needed. Your doctor will examine you to identify the nature of the problem and the best course of action.

Your doctor will ask as to whether going to the restroom, walking, sitting, climbing stairs, or driving a car causes you pain. If you experience pain while engaging in these activities, it could be an issue with your bladder, bowels, or the muscles in your pelvis, hips, or lower back.

By pressing on these muscle areas your doctor may be able to determine exactly where the pain is originating. Problems such as endometriosis can cause pain because there may be tissue growth from the endometriosis on different organs within and outside of the pelvic cavity, which includes the ovaries, bladder, behind the uterus, and bowel.

Some doctors may suspect these problems during a pelvic exam & treatments are planned accordingly.

Conservative treatment means treatment without performing surgery. Depending upon the cause, your doctor may first try to treat your pelvic pain with medication. If you have endometriosis that may not work and you may be given medications that take away the estrogen in your body, therefore placing you in a short-term, menopause-like state. Endometriosis implants and pain can be reduced by lowering estrogen levels in the body.

Diagnostic Laparoscopy:

Laparoscopy is a type of minimally invasive surgery that is performed with a telescope that is attached to a camera (laparoscope). The laparoscope is inserted into one of three to four small incisions made in your belly. During laparoscopic surgery, your doctor will be able to view your pelvic organs to see if they, or any other conditions, are contributing to your pain. Endometriosis, adhesions (scar tissue), appendicitis (appendix infection), or a hernia are some of the diseases your doctor may identify.

Finding out that everything is normal might sometimes be useful in deciding what treatment to follow.

The two most common problems that can be treated with laparoscopy are endometriosis and pelvic adhesions.

  • Endometriosis can cause discomfort in the pelvis on a regular basis, as well as painful periods and pain during bowel movements or intercourse. Endometriosis can also make it difficult to become pregnant. Your doctor will use an electric current or a laser to try to remove the endometrial tissue that is seen during your laparoscopy. Treatment will help to decrease or eliminate the symptoms.
  • Pelvic adhesions (scar tissue): Adhesions in and around the pelvic cavity may form if you have endometriosis, a pelvic infection, surgery on your pelvis, a cyst on an ovary, or have had surgery on your pelvis. Organs that are normally separated from one another become connected due to scar tissue. Pelvic discomfort might not usually require medical attention. However, if a person suspects an infection is causing pelvic discomfort, if they have unexpected vaginal bleeding and severe pain, or if they have a known illness and suffer rapid changes in pain, they should consult a doctor.

If a person with pelvic discomfort develops a fever, nausea, or vomiting, they should consult a doctor. A doctor will conduct a comprehensive evaluation and assist in the development of an appropriate treatment plan.

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March 24, 2022 adminMenstrual Cycle

Evaluation of the Uterus: Organ Under Scanner

Because they believe it is “normal,” women ignore irregular bleeding or pelvic pain. These symptoms are really signals of abnormal cell development in the uterus, commonly known as the “womb,” a major female reproductive organ.

The uterus includes a variety of cells that assist women in carrying a baby. Three common – and sometimes painful – diseases can occur when cells develop abnormally:

Fibroids (the most prevalent), uterine polyps, and adenomyosis are all forms of uterine fibroids.

Pain, irregular bleeding, and reproductive issues are all symptoms that can have a negative impact on a woman’s quality of life. Treatment is provided in the form of medicine or surgery, depending on the needs of the woman.

Uterus If you haven’t been able to get pregnant after trying for 12 months (for those below 35 years of age) or for 6 months (for those aged 36 and above), some tests can be done to help find the reason. Your hormone levels, your partner’s sperm, and your reproductive organs may all be tested by your doctor (ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus [womb]).

Your doctor will examine your uterus to ensure that nothing is blocking the fertilised egg (embryo) from implanting (attaching to the uterine lining) and growing.

How will the Doctor Examine a Uterus?

Your uterus can be examined in a variety of ways by your doctor.

Vaginal Ultrasound: A tampon-like probe is inserted into the vagina to perform vaginal ultrasonography. The probe delivers sound waves to a screen, which displays an enlarged image of your uterus’s walls and lining, as well as your ovaries. Sonohysterogram is a procedure that uses sound waves to examine the uter (Saline Infusion Sonogram). This is a type of vaginal ultrasonography that is unique. A small amount of sterile fluid is injected into your uterus via the cervix (the lower portion of the uterus that opens into the vagina) using a thin plastic tube during this test. It allows your doctor to see the shape of the area inside your uterus (cavity).

Hysterosalpingogram (HSG): This test can provide information regarding the fallopian tubes and the uterus’s inside. Through the cervix, a little amount of a particular dye (that shows white on an x-ray) is injected into your uterus. An x-ray is obtained as the dye is injected to show the dye’s route through the uterus and fallopian tubes.

The doctor can use this test to determine the shape of the cavity and whether or not your fallopian tubes are open. During this procedure, you may suffer mild, moderate, or severe cramping.

Hysteroscopy: Your doctor examines your uterus with a hysteroscope, which is a small telescope attached to a camera. The hysteroscope is inserted via the cervix into the uterus. The doctor has a clear look within your uterus, giving him the most up-to-date information about the cavity.

Hysteroscopy is a procedure that is used to diagnose and treat a variety of problems. It can be done at a surgery center under general anesthesia.

How is Hysteroscopy Performed?

Diagnostic Hysteroscopy: Hysteroscopy is sometimes done to diagnose a problem with the uterus. The doctor will insert the hysteroscope into the uterine cavity through the cervix. You and your doctor can both see the procedure on a monitor screen since the hysteroscope is connected to a camera. You may normally continue your normal activities after the operation, just as you would after a standard gynecologic exam. Afterward, you may have some spotting or watery fluid from your vaginal area.

Operative Hysteroscopy: Hysteroscopy can also be performed to remove abnormal tissue that may be causing reproductive issues or bleeding issues. It is performed under anaesthesia in a hospital or surgical centre operating room.

It typically takes about 1 hour. Because no incisions are made, there is usually very little discomfort afterward. Because the cervix has been stretched (dilated) to allow the hysteroscope to enter the uterus, your doctor may advise you not to swim, bathe in a tub, or place anything in your vagina for up to two weeks (this includes avoiding sexual intercourse, using tampons, and douching).

This precaution prevents infection by allowing the dilated cervix to return to its normal closed state.

What can a Doctor Diagnose and Treat with Hysteroscopy?

Small growths of the tissue that lines the uterus are known as endometrial polyps. Polyps are prevalent and can have an impact on fertility as well as produce irregular bleeding. Depending on the size and location, polyps can be taken out in the physician’s office or an operating room.

Fibroids in the uterus are noncancerous growths in the uterine wall. They can cause severe bleeding and/or problems becoming and staying pregnant if they are inside the uterus. A hysteroscope can occasionally be used to remove these fibroids. Adhesions (scar tissue inside the uterus) can be removed in the hospital or in the operating room.

Your doctor may give you hormone medicine and/or insert a small balloon in your uterus for up to one week following surgery to prevent adhesions from forming again. To assess if scar tissue has returned, a follow-up hysteroscopy or other form of uterine test may be required.

The uterine septum is a piece of tissue dividing the uterus in half. It’s a uterine condition that some women are born with that can result in miscarriages. A uterine septum is commonly removed in the operating room via operational hysteroscopy. After the surgery, you may be given hormone medicine, and/or a small balloon may be implanted in the uterus to reduce scarring.

What are the Risks of Hysteroscopy?

Hysteroscopy complications are uncommon. You might have an infection after the operation, and scar tissue could grow, requiring another hysteroscopy.

After the operation, most women will have some bleeding. Heavy bleeding should be reported to your doctor, as this may require medical attention. Because hysteroscopy uses fluid to allow your provider to see into your uterus, you run the risk of absorbing too much fluid from the uterus into your bloodstream.

The above diagnostic tests provide a sound platform to understand the condition of the uterus along with associated problems. It ensures an early, accurate diagnosis and patients can be relieved of the conditions by medicines, surgery.

We, at Pearl Women’s Hospital, provide this facility in-house, delivered by an expert team of Gynecologists, Laparoscopic surgeons, Anesthetists, and nurses.

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February 23, 2022 adminMenstrual Cycle

Menstruation Hygiene Simplified

Are you bothered about the school-going daughters getting menstruations? It’s a whole new experience for every episode of periods. Parents tend to be extra cautious about the movement, pain, dresses they wear, and many questions as a family we, need to address.

Let’s touch upon this one by one:

Is Menstrual Blood the same as Normal Blood?

Menstrual blood is made up of blood and a membrane from the uterus. If we don’t get pregnant during our cycle, the membrane that was created to support the possibly fertilized egg slowly departs our body. Sometimes blood can appear clotted or brown, but that is all normal.

While period blood is made up of normal blood, it is not the same as the blood we get when we get a cut, thus there is no reason to be afraid of menstrual blood.

Does Menstrual Blood Smell Bad?

Sometimes there can be a bad smell due to bacteria that grow in underpants’ moist, warm environment. Changing the pad regularly (once every 3-5 hours, or whenever the pad is full) will help keep bad smells away and reduce the risk of infection.

Are Cramps Normal?

Yes. We may get abdominal cramping and a heavy feeling. Cramps occur when our uterus contracts to get rid of menstrual blood. Our breasts can also feel heavy and tender. Light exercise, hot water bottles, and warm baths can all help to reduce the effects of cramps. If the pain gets worse please visit a nearby health specialist.

What is Vaginal Discharge?

It is normal for us to have discharge during our menstrual cycle. Discharge can be clear or yellowish. Discharge is protective because it can stop bacterial from entering our vagina.  discharge changes to a strange color, or becomes smelly, that can mean that we have an infection and need to go have a check-up at a health facility.

Let’s Find Out the Best Ways to Manage the Periods:

Be prepared; keep disposable or reusable pads handy to absorb blood. Disposable pads are available in a variety of types, including those with wings, thin pads, and thick pads. There are also material pads that you can wash and reuse. It’s important to use the one that seems the most comfortable to you.

Change your pad one every 3 to 5 hours, and more regularly if needed. Always keep spare pads in your school bag, even if it’s not time for your period. It is better to be prepared, especially at school.

After using the toilet or changing pads, wash your hands with soap and water.

Wash the vagina during bathing, while changing pads with water & soap. Use a calendar to mark your menstrual cycle so that you can predict your next menstruation.

To avoid infection, wipe the vaginal area from front to back. Don’t put perfume, cream or other products on the vagina. If you notice a change like discharge a weird colour or funny smell, or the vagina feels itchy or hot, make sure you go for a consultation with the gynaecologist in case you have an infection.

What to do When You Are Scared of Staining?

Most girls experience this at least once in a lifetime. If you have a jacket, you can tie it around your waist to hide the stain. You may twist your skirt over so the stain is on the side if you don’t have a jacket. That way, no one will notice. Then, change your pad quickly so no more blood leaks. To prevent this from happening, it’s important to change pads regularly and always carry spare pads in your bag.

Carry dark coloured large scarfs to wrap around, take the help of peers to help you out in this regard.

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February 22, 2022 adminMenstrual Cycle

Hirsutism: Thread that Links

The arrival of PCOS in women is signalled by various symptoms, some of which are seen & some are deep-rooted. Every face of PCOD is equally important & interlinked. Every thread interlinks and so is excessive body and facial hair. This is called ‘Hirsutism’.

Hirsutism is indicated by coarse, black hair on the face, chest, abdomen, back, upper arms, and upper legs. Hirsutism is a sign of androgen hormone-related medical problems. Androgen is the primary cause of this.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), in which the ovaries produce excessive amounts of androgens, is the most common cause of hirsutism, and may affect up to 10% of women. Hirsutism is a common condition that improves well with medical treatment. Prompt medical attention is important because delaying treatment can have prominent effects, which makes the treatment more difficult and may have long-term health consequences.

Hirsutism is more than hair growth which impacts overall personality.

Normal Hair Growth:

Understanding the process of normal hair growth will us understand hirsutism better. Each strand of hair grows from a follicle beneath the surface of your skin. Hair will continue to develop as long as these follicles are not completely damaged, even if the shaft, or the part of the hair that appears above the skin, is plucked or removed. Except for the soles of your feet and the palms of your hands, hair follicles cover every surface of your body. Of the approximately 50 million hair follicles covering your body, one fifth is located on your scalp. After birth, the number of hair follicles does not increase, but it decreases gradually until around the age of 40.

There are two types of hair in adults: vellus and terminal. Vellus hair is silky, fine, and usually colorless, with a short length. Terminal hair is long, coarse, dark, and sometimes curly. Vellus hair covers the face, chest, and back of most women, giving the appearance of “hairless” skin. Terminal hair covers the face and body in most men. Both men and women have terminal hair on their scalps, pubic areas, and armpits. Both men and women have a mixture of vellus and terminal hair on their lower arms and legs. If you have excessive hair growth mainly on your lower legs and forearms, you don’t have hirsutism and hormonal therapy won’t help.

Effects of Androgens on Hair Growth:

Excessive face and body hair are generally caused by an excess of androgens in the body. Males and women both have androgens, but men have significantly larger amounts of physiologically active androgens. Androgens are predominantly produced by the testes and adrenal glands in men. Androgens are produced by the ovaries and adrenal glands in women. Estrogen reduces the effect of androgens in women to some extent.

Androgens cause oily skin and acne by increasing sebum production. Ovulation and menstruation can be irregular or absent when there are too many androgens in the body. Extremely high androgen levels, such as those found in the presence of a tumor, can result in male-like baldness, a deeper voice, increased muscular mass, clitoris enlargement, and decreased breast size.

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a chronic hormonal condition that affects 5%–10% of women. PCOS is diagnosed using a combination of clinical, ultrasound, and laboratory features because of its variable nature. PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome) is a hormonal imbalance in which the ovaries produce excessive amounts of androgen. It is one of the most common causes of hirsutism. Multiple small follicles develop in the ovaries in women with PCOS, resulting in cysts, hence the term “polycystic.” These small cysts are immature ovarian follicles that haven’t matured enough to ovulate.

Diagnosing the Interlink is as important as the Treatment

You should be as precise as possible when describing your symptoms to your physician. Your medical history and physical examination may point to PCOS. To confirm the diagnosis and exclude certain other associated conditions, your physician may measure your blood hormone levels. If you have irregular menstrual bleeding, your doctor may do an endometrial biopsy to ensure that your uterus is free of precancerous cells.

Early Diagnosis is the Key to Hirsutism

You should be tested for PCOS if you’ve had menstrual irregularities and/or increased hirsutism since puberty.

Hirsutism is a common condition that may usually be successfully managed with medicines. Electrolysis or laser treatment can be used to permanently decrease or remove any remaining unwanted hair after medical treatment. If previous female members of your family have had excessive hair growth, keep an eye out for early indications of hirsutism in yourself and your children, particularly during adolescence.

Hirsutism is frequently a result of PCOS. When hirsutism and PCOS are diagnosed at an early age, they are easier to treat. Hirsutism, acne, irregular or heavy menstrual periods, lack of ovulation, and infertility are all symptoms of PCOS.  Diabetes, uterine cancer, high cholesterol, and heart disease are all related to this condition. Despite the fact that the causes of PCOS remain unclear, progress has been made in both understanding and treating the condition. Your goals and concerns may be addressed in a very short amount of time if you are diagnosed with hirsutism or PCOS, and treatment is generally successful.

Nevertheless, alternative treatments may offer some relief, but evidence-based modern medicine offers deeper views on causes & concerns, addresses the short term and long term impacts of PCOS.

You should get a consultation from a Gynaecologist to address hirsutism in totality and face the world with new vigour and energy.

Beat the Hirsutism with winning stroke of evidence-based medicine and expert recommendations.

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February 17, 2022 adminFertility

Early Warning Signs of PCOS

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) has become extremely common, mainly due to poor lifestyle unhealthy eating habits and unawareness about the issues arising due to PCOS. These all add up to the noise level of PCOS.  Research has shown that Living with PCOS can increase the risks of type 2 diabetes, it can make you overweight and cause obesity and improving your lifestyle can help in reversing PCOS.

PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) is a syndrome in which cysts form in the ovaries. Because the ovaries do not produce eggs or ovulation on a regular basis, it causes irregular periods. High levels of male hormones are released in the body as a result of the illness, which can lead to excessive facial or body hair. The ovaries enlarge and become filled with fluid sacs called follicles, which enclose the eggs. You’re much more likely to be diagnosed with PCOS if you have two of these characteristics. PCOS also puts you at risk for unexpected weight gain and hormone imbalance.

PCOS, according to gynaecologists, nutritionists, and health professionals, is mostly a lifestyle-related condition. PCOS can be caused by a lack of exercise, bad eating habits, smoking, alcohol misuse, and poor sleep.

Let’s go through some of the early warning signs of PCOS so you can take the necessary steps to control and reverse it.

  • Without a doubt, irregular periods are the first indication of PCOS. It might be an indication of PCOS if your menstrual cycle is irregular, with periods that arrive earlier than 21 days and later than 35 days in adults and 45 days in young teenagers. PCOS can also manifest itself in the inability to conceive. If you’ve been trying for a long period of time, getting yourself diagnosed with it could be a good idea.
  • If you have oily skin or a lot of acne all of a sudden, it might be one of the first signs of PCOS that you should pay attention to.
  • Hair thinning and loss are other signs of PCOS and should be treated carefully if they continue for an incredibly long time.
  • Living with PCOS can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes – a condition that causes higher than normal levels of blood sugar.
  • Mood swings and depression are also known to be risk factors for PCOS. If you neglect PCOS for a long period, it can lead to hormonal changes and depression that are hard to manage. It can significantly lower your self-confidence and self-esteem.
  • PCOS is associated with high blood pressure and cholesterol. Heart disease and stroke can be caused by certain disorders.
  • PCOS can cause you to gain weight, which can lead to sleep apnea, a disease in which you stop breathing while sleeping.
  • Endometrial cancer, or cancer of the uterine lining, is a risk for women who have irregular or infrequent periods – less than 3 to 4 per year – for many years.
  • Skin darkening. Under your arms or breasts, on the back of your neck, and in your genital area, you may notice thick, dark, velvety patches of skin. Acanthosis nigricans is the name for this disorder.
  • The high levels of hormones that cause PCOS can also cause headaches.

Wiser way to control the PCOS:

It may be possible to control your symptoms by eating the right foods and avoiding certain ingredients. A healthy diet can help in the regulation of your hormones and menstrual cycle. Eating processed, extensively preserved foods can increase inflammation and insulin resistance.

  • It’s all about whole foods: Artificial sugars, hormones, and preservatives are not found in whole foods. These foods are as close as possible to their original, unprocessed condition. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes are examples of whole foods that may be included in your diet. Your endocrine system may better manage your blood sugar without hormones and preservatives.
  • Balance carb and protein intake: Both carbs and protein have an effect on your energy and hormone levels. Protein stimulates the production of insulin in the body. Source foods are unprocessed and can help with insulin sensitivity. Rather of trying a low-carb diet, concentrate on eating enough high-quality protein. Plant-based protein sources, such as nuts, legumes, and whole grains, are the best Source. Anti-inflammatory foods should be included in your diet to help alleviate your symptoms. Consider going on a Mediterranean diet. Inflammation is treated by olive oil, tomatoes, leafy greens, fatty fish like mackerel and tuna, and tree nuts. Add magnesium in diet by using Almonds, cashews, spinach, and bananas. These are PCOS-friendly foods rich in magnesium & offer excellent stress reducer. Add in some fibre to help with digestion, a diet high in fibre can help improve your digestion. Lentils, lima beans, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, pears, and avocados are all rich in fibre and help in weight reduction.
  • Maintain a healthy weight: Maintaining a healthy weight can help you reduce insulin resistance, regulate your menstruation, and lower your risk of PCOS-related disorders. If you’re overweight, several studies show that a low-calorie diet combined with progressive weight loss is an effective first-line therapy for PCOS.
  • Balance your exercise: Maintaining a healthy weight requires regular exercise. However, too much exercise can cause hormonal imbalances, so talk to your doctor about maintaining a healthy balance. Gentle, low-impact exercises like yoga or Pilates can be practised for longer durations. Swimming and light aerobics are also recommended. High-intensity interval training and long-distance running may help improve symptoms of PCOS. Consult your doctor to determine the best sort of exercise for you.
  • Practice good sleep hygiene: Sleep increases your stress levels and helps in the regulation of cortisol, which helps to keep your hormones in balance. But sleep disturbances are twice as common Source for women with PCOS. Aim for 8 to 10 hours of sleep every night to improve your sleep hygiene. Create a consistent bedtime routine. Always avoid stimulants and rich, fatty foods before bedtime.
  • Reduce stress: Reducing stress can regulate cortisol Many of the measures listed such as yoga, getting adequate sleep, and avoiding coffee, can help reduce stress.

Consult your doctor to determine the best comprehensive ways to manage PCOS and avoid long-term effects, since one-size-fits-all treatment does not work. Your gynaecologist must prepare a treatment plan that is unique to you.

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February 9, 2022 adminHealthy Womb & Happy You Series

Abnormal Uterine Bleeding (AUB): Healthy Womb & Happy You Series

Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) is a common gynaecological complaint associated with considerable morbidity and significantly affects the patient’s family, personal and social life. Abnormal uterine bleeding is the medical term for abnormalities in the frequency, volume, duration, and regularity of the menstrual cycle & occurs in absence of pregnancy.

It is a common gynaecological complaint accounting for one-third of outpatient visits to a gynaecologist. It is caused by a wide variety of organic or non-organic causes. An organic cause is a term used to describe any health condition in which there is an observable and measurable disease process, such as inflammation or tissue damage.

Non-organic causes are the one that shows the symptoms but whose disease process is either unknown or unable to be measured by current scientific means.

To understand better, let’s talk about, what is normal bleeding. This is appropriate for reproductive-age women (menarche to menopause), with bleeding occurring every 21 to 35 days, lasting 3-7 days, and a blood flow of 35 ml.

Bleeding from the vaginal area between periods is one of the signs of this illness. Extremely excessive bleeding during periods can also be caused by abnormal uterine haemorrhage. Menorrhagia is a condition that arises when severe bleeding continues for more than 7 days during periods or otherwise.

Polyps or fibroids, which are abnormal growths in the uterus, can cause AUB. AUB can also be caused by a cervical infection, a thyroid condition, or uterine cancer, among other causes. Hormone imbalance is also the known cause of heavy bleeding.

The disorder is called dysfunctional uterine haemorrhage when abnormal bleeding develops as a result of hormone imbalance. Dysfunctional uterine haemorrhage is more common in teenagers and women approaching menopause.

Treatment for abnormal uterine bleeding is determined by the patient’s age, the reason of the bleeding, and whether or not she wishes to become pregnant in the future. The different treatment options include the use of an intrauterine device, birth control pills, D&C (dilatation and curettage), endometrial ablation and hysterectomy.

There are many causes for abnormal uterine bleeding and that exactly defines the difference between abnormal uterine bleeding and dysfunctional uterine bleeding.

In both cases, menstrual bleeding and related symptoms exist but the causes are different. In case of dysfunctional uterine bleeding, it is directly linked to hormonal imbalances.

Treatment Options Available for AUB:

  • Intrauterine device (IUD): An intrauterine device (IUD) is a tiny plastic device that is put into a woman’s uterus through the vaginal canal. Hormones released by the IUD assist to prevent irregular bleeding.
  • Using birth control pills: They prevent the lining of the uterus from getting too thick & help to regularize the menstrual cycle and even reduce cramping.
  • D&C or dilatation and curettage procedure: The opening of the cervix is expanded so that a surgical instrument may be put into the uterus in the D&C or dilatation and curettage process. With the use of this instrument, the uterine lining is scraped away. The doctor then checks the removed lining for any abnormality and determines the cause of the abnormal bleeding. D&C is used to identify the source of bleeding.
  • Hysterectomy: It is a surgical treatment that involves the removal of the uterus. It prevents the patient from having any further periods and from becoming pregnant. It is normally performed under general anaesthesia and requires a person to stay at a hospital.
  • Endometrial ablation: This treatment removes the uterine lining rather than the uterus itself. As a result of the surgery, all forms of monthly bleeding are stopped.
  • Simple measures to cope up with: Abnormal uterine bleeding which arises as a result of any abnormality in the menstrual cycle and is most common. In the vast majority of cases, it can resolve itself without the need for therapy. Self-care methods and home remedies can also aid with the condition’s treatment.

Natural Ways to Reduce the Troubles Associated with Abnormal Uterine Bleeding?

  • The use of menstruation cups is one example of a lifestyle modification.
  • Use of heating pads which can ease the symptoms like abdominal cramps and severe pain.
  • Using period panties, for dry pad feeling, which offer sleep comfort.
  • Proper and adequate rest, Adequate hydration
  • Breathing exercises and yoga are good examples of regular exercises. These have a calming effect.
  • Consumption of adequate iron, vitamin C, and other minerals and vitamins supplements.
  • Even when a person can manage their heavy flow, it is still best to consult a doctor, who will investigate and identify any underlying issues. This can assist to lessen the flow’s intensity and duration. The menstrual bleeding disorder has a impact on other bodily functions. Right diagnosis &treatment is the key.
  • Take home points: Irrespective of any age group, menstrual disorders should not be taken lightly proper medical diagnosis & treatment not only offer relief but also reduce the future complications if any.
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January 12, 2022 adminFertility

FERTILITY IN THE AGING MALE & FEMALE

Fertility changes with age. In women, this is very conspicuous and the window period of fertility is much smaller than in men. Males & Females attain fertility with the onset of puberty. For girls, fertility begins with the onset of ovulation and menstruation and ceases with the onset of menopause. Women can no longer conceive naturally after menopause, according to common belief.

In today’s scenario, age-related infertility is more common due to various reasons. Many women prefer to concentrate on a career for financial security and wait until their 30s to begin their families. Women take care of themselves better, so are far healthier & more updated about information available.

In general, women’s reproductive potential declines as they age, and fertility usually ends 5 to 10 years before menopause.

SIGNIFICANCE OF OVULATION AND THE MENSTRUAL CYCLE IN FERTILITY

During their reproductive years, women have regular monthly menstrual periods because they ovulate regularly monthly. Eggs mature inside fluid-filled spheres in the ovaries – called “follicles.” When a woman has her period at the beginning of her menstrual cycle, a hormone released in the pituitary gland (located in the brain) promotes a number of follicles on both ovaries to develop faster. The pituitary hormone that stimulates the ovaries is named FSH (FSH). Normally, only one of those follicles will reach maturity and release an egg (ovulate); the remainder gradually will stop growing and degenerate. Pregnancy results if the egg gets fertilized and gets attached to the lining of the uterus. If pregnancy doesn’t occur, the endometrium is shed because conception hasn’t occurred and we say that the cycle has begun again.

In their early teens, girls often have irregular ovulation leading to irregular menstrual cycles, but by age 16 they ought to have established regular ovulation leading to regular periods. From 26 to 35 days, a woman’s periods will be regular until her late 30s or early 40s, when they will get shorter. As time passes, she is going to begin to skip ovulation leading to missed periods.

Ultimately, periods get prolonged or become infrequent until they cease completely. When a lady has not had a menstrual period for 1 full year, she is claimed to be in menopause. Fertility falls as women age due to natural, age-related changes in the ovaries. A woman is born with all of the egg-containing follicles in her ovaries that she will ever have, unlike men, who continue to produce sperm throughout their lives.

At birth, there are about one million follicles. By puberty – about 300,000. Only around 300 of the follicles left at puberty will be ovulated during the reproductive years. The majority of follicles are not used up by ovulation and are eventually lost due to atresia, a degenerative process that happens independently of a woman’s condition, such as pregnancy, normal periods, being on birth control pills, or being treated for infertility. Menopause appears to occur one year earlier in smokers than in non-smokers.

FERTILITY IN THE AGING FEMALE:

In her 20s, a woman’s reproductive years are at their maximum. Fertility gradually declines within the 30s, particularly after age 35. A healthy, fertile 30-year-old woman has a 20% chance of becoming pregnant each month she tries. That means that just 20 out of every 100 fertile 30-year-old women who try to conceive in one cycle will succeed, with the remaining 80 having to try again. By age 40, a woman’s chance is smaller than 5% per cycle, so fewer than 5 out of each 100 women are expected to achieve success monthly.

Women do not remain fertile until menopause. The average age for menopause is 47, but most women cannot have successful pregnancies in their mid-40s. These percentages are true for natural conception also as conception using fertility treatment, including in vitro fertilization (IVF).

Much misleading information is spread through the media, which often misinterprets the age impact and an attempt is made to make patients believe that fertility treatments such as IVF are the easiest way to get pregnant. The natural process of conception, as well as assisted techniques for pregnancy, are greatly affected by age. Great nutritional status, as well as the solid foundation of financial security, does not reverse the biological clock.

The success rate of infertility treatments is affected by a woman’s age. The age-related loss of female fertility happens because both the standard and therefore the number of eggs gradually decline.

FERTILITY IN THE AGING MALE:

Unlike a woman’s first reduction in fertility, a man’s sperm characteristics fall considerably later. Sperm quality deteriorates as men age, although it usually does not become a problem until a guy is in his 60s. Changes in fertility and sexual functioning do occur in men as they get older.

Despite these changes, the ability to father a child even in the 60s and 70s with a younger partner is possible

Men’s testes decrease and get softer as they age, and sperm morphology (shape) and motility (movement) tend to indicate no. There is a slightly higher risk of genetic defects of sperms, happening during DNA fragmentation.

Any illness like diabetes, BP adversely affect their sexual and reproductive function. Not all men, especially those who maintain their health over time, have major changes in reproductive or sexual functioning as they age.

Improved health status does not interfere with the natural age-related decline in fertility. It’s critical to realise that a woman’s fertility decreases as she ages due to the natural decrease in the amount of eggs left in her ovaries as she ages. This decline may happen much before most girls expect.

While addressing infertility age is the main contributing factor. There are other contributing factors like ovulation disorders, hormonal imbalances, tubal defects, varicocele, infection & uterine fibroids to name a few.

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January 7, 2022 adminMenstrual Cycle

Figuring Out The Menstrual Cycle and it’s Stages

For a young lady, it is important to figure out early in her life that her menstrual cycle goes well beyond simply getting her periods every month.

The menstrual cycle in fact involves a complex interaction between the brain, the ovaries, the uterus & the female hormones – progesterone & oestrogen.

Situated at the base of the brain is the pituitary gland, which signals the ovaries to secrete progesterone & oestrogen to prepare the body for a possible pregnancy.

In the event conception fails to occur, the menstrual period cycle commences during which, a combination of blood, mucus, and the cells lining the uterine cavity are eliminated through the vaginal opening. This is the ‘period’, which can last from 2 to 7 days.

Comprehending the menstrual cycle and its stages:

The menstrual cycle begins from the first day of your last period till the  first day of your next cycle. This period varies greatly from person to person and can last from 24 to 38 days on an average.

The length of your cycle also varies with age from menarche (commencement of periods during puberty) to menopause (permanent cessation of periods) which progresses in four main phases:

  • Menstruation: aptly described as the weeping of the uterus – is the shedding of the tissue lining the wall of the uterus, which had thickened in anticipation of the embryo getting embedded into the uterine wall.
  • The Follicular Phase: Commencing from day 1 of your period, it lasts up until ovulation. During this phase, oestrogen levels rise, preparing the ovaries for the release of an egg for possible fertilization.
    The uterine lining begins to build up again in this phase.
  • Ovulation Phase: this is the part of the cycle during which, an egg is released from one of the ovaries. It travels through the fallopian tubes wherein it may get fertilized by a single sperm. Subsequently this fertilized egg implants itself into the lining along the walls of your uterus.
    The approximate life span of this egg is about 24 hours. It dies and is shed along with the uterine lining it is fails to get fertilized by a sperm cell during this window period of 24 hours.
  • The Luteal Phase: the uterine lining has to thicken in order to nurture the fertilized egg if and when it embeds itself into the uterine wall. This building up of the wall thickness is facilitated by the rise in level of progesterone. This phase that occurs between ovulation and the first day of your period is called the luteal phase. If pregnancy does not occur, the progesterone levels drop, causing the uterine lining to break down. It is  shed away, along with other menstrual fluid and mucus and blood.

Why should you track menstrual cycle? How can you track menstrual cycle?

You can note down your period dates some place in a journal or imprint those dates on a schedule to anticipate and be prepared for your next periods. Tracking your cycle has additionally now become a lot more straightforward It can be done by just downloading a relevant application on your cell phone.

How would you work out your period?

A woman’s cycle is an exceptionally private period. Every lady encounters it in an unexpected way, and for that reason it is helpful to investigate it’s computation. To calculate your monthly cycle, you should begin the first day of your period and count up to the last day before your next period starts. Notwithstanding, you ought to be careful that periods might fluctuate.

How do you calculate your menstrual cycle?

The female menstrual cycle is a very personal experience. Each woman experiences it differently. To calculate your menstrual cycle, you should start on the very first day of your period and count up to the very last day before your next period begins. However, you should be mindful that menstrual cycles may vary due to several reasons.

For example, if your period commenced on 1st March and ended on 6th March, you will start calculating your menstrual cycle from 1st March. If your next period arrives on 28th March, your menstrual cycle lasted from 1st March to 28th March, meaning that your menstrual cycle is on an average 28 days long.

It is vital to note, notwithstanding, that pre-period spotting shouldn’t be considered.  Your period starts when you begin bleeding consistently.

Is your menstrual cycle regular ?

If you monitor your menstrual cycle closely, you can quickly recognize irregularities and atypical periods.

While a single missed, delayed or early period should not raise alarm, if your menstrual cycle is consistently irregular, you might want to pay your gynecologist a visit.

There can be several underlying causes that lead to irregular periods. Some of them are:

  • Pregnancy
  • Hormonal imbalances: Several studies have established a link between menstrual irregularities and hormonal disorders such as hyper or hypothyroidism. If your menstrual irregularities are coupled with sudden weight loss or weight gain, hair loss, or an irritable bowel it is best to check with your doctor.
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: The most common symptoms of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome or PCOS are irregular periods. Other symptoms to watch out for are weight gain, excess hair fall, growth of excess facial hair or body hair, etc.
  • Stress and anxiety: are known to interfere with your menstrual cycle – whether that is in the form of menstrual irregularities, delays in periods, or even shorter menstrual cycles. Of these, menstrual irregularities are most common in women facing excess stress.

How can you prevent menstrual irregularities?

There are a few science based strategies that can help in regularizing your monthly cycle, for example yoga. Exercising routinely and eating right help greatly. Should simple self remedies not help, you must consult your gynecologist.

Where can you get help for menstrual irregularities?

Monitoring your menstrual cycle will help you identify the early warning signs. You can then schedule an appointment with your doctor and based on your symptoms your doctor may prescribe lifestyle changes, medication to regularize your cycle, or a combination of both. It is important not to ignore the signs and suffer in silence. Whatever be the underlying cause of irregularity in your menstrual cycle, your gynecologist is qualified to help you find a solution.

Tracking your monthly cycle will assist you with recognizing the early warning signs. You can then schedule a meeting with your doctor and in light of your symptoms your primary care physician might recommend life style changes, drugs to regularize your cycle, or a mix of both. It is important not to disregard the signs and suffer silently. Whatever be the fundamental reason for irregularity in your monthly cycle, your gynecologist is the best person to assess your cycle and diagnose the reasons for the problem.

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