Here at Gynecology Associates of Gwinnett, educating our patients about common reproductive healthcare concerns and the services we provide is an essential part of our work. While we understand that gynecological visits can be a source of anxiety for some women, communicating clearly and building a level of trust with our patients can go a long way toward easing these tensions. This is why our board-certified gynecologist, Dr. Kristine Gould has taken time to answer a few commonly asked questions on a variety of topics pertaining to women’s health including irregular bleeding, urinary incontinence, and yeast infections.
Question #1: How is irregular bleeding diagnosed?
The first step in diagnosing irregular menstrual bleeding is discussing your medical history (including any irregularities with your cycle) with a board-certified gynecologist or another reproductive healthcare provider. We strongly recommend keeping track of your menstrual cycle before your visit, noting the dates, length of period, and how heavy or light your bleeding is. Next is a physical exam. In some cases, we may perform tests to detect irregular hormone levels, as well as the possibility of any blood disorders or sexually transmitted infections (STI).
Question #2: Is there a connection between body weight and urinary incontinence?
It’s a fact that being overweight can increase a woman’s risk of experiencing urinary incontinence. Carrying excess weight puts added pressure on the bladder, which over time can lead to a weakening of the bladder muscles. According to experts at the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), losing even a small amount of weight can significantly decrease a woman’s chances of developing incontinence issues.
Question #3: How long does it take to treat a yeast infection?
Once diagnosed, a yeast infection can typically be treated effectively with either a pill that is taken orally or a topical cream that is applied to the vaginal area (or both). Depending on the severity of the infection, as well as other factors specific to each patient, a yeast infection can be treated and cured in seven days or less. However, every patient is different and the exact timetable can vary.
We hope that everyone reading found these questions and answers helpful, informative, and reassuring. For more information on the services we provide or to request an appointment, please contact Gynecology Associates of Gwinnett today. Don’t forget to follow along with us on Facebook and our medical spa, MadEmEl Medical Aesthetics, on Instagram.
