Women’s Health

Vaginal Discharge

Under normal and healthy conditions, Vaginal discharge is a normally occurring phenomenon. It can vary in the amount, consistency, odor and  color (clear to milky-white) depending on the time of your menstrual cycle. There will be more discharge when ovulating, sexually aroused and breastfeeding.

Infection may be present when the color, smell and the consistency of the vaginal discharge seems different and especially when it is accompanied with itching, burning, pelvic pain with or without fever or chills. You must see a physician as soon as possible for an evaluation and treatment.

Abnormal Vaginal discharge can be present from infectious causes or non-infectious causes.

Infectious Causes

  • Chlamydia (Sexually Transmitted disease)
  • Gonorrhea (Sexually Transmitted disease)
  • Trichomonas (Sexually Transmitted disease)
  • Pelvic Inflamatory Disease (PID)
  • Bacterial Vaginosis
  • Yeast Vaginitis
  • Vaginitis

Non-Infectious Causes

  • Antibiotic use
  • Steroid use
  • Birth Control Pills
  • Douches, Scented soaps, Lotions, Bubble baths
  • Thinning of vaginal walls (also known as vaginal atrophy during menopause)

 

 

Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD)

These are infections caused by bacteria, viruses or parasites transmitted through sexual contact. Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) is present when there is an infection without the symptoms. Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) is present when there is an infection with accompanied symptoms (vaginal discharge, odor, pelvic pain etc.). Multiple sexual partners can increase the chance of acquiring a STI or STD. When you suspect you may have acquired the infection or are experiencing vaginal symptoms, then you must see a physician as soon as possible for an evaluation and treatment.

Most Common Infections are:

  • Chlamydia
  • Gonorrhea
  • Trichomonas
  • HPV (Human Pappiloma Virus)
  • HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)
  • Syphilis
  • Genital Herpes

Wellness & PAP ( Papanicolaou Test)

According to the USPSTF (United States Preventative Services& Task Force) and ACOG (American College of Gynecology), all women from age 21 through 65 should be screen for precancerous lesions at regular intervals. You should be tested for HIV once or more frequently if you are at higher risk. You may require yearly testing for Chlamydia, Gonorrhea and Syphilis if you are at higher risk for acquiring STD. Please see below.

Ages 21 through 29: PAP Test and test for Chlamydia and Gonorrhea every three (3) years

Ages 30 through 65: PAP Test every five (5) years ( more frequently if you have history of abnormal PAP Test in the past)

Irregular Menstrual Bleeding

There are several causes of irregular menstrual bleeding. Below are most common reasons. If you are experiencing irregular or heavy menstrual cycles. please see a physician as soon as possible for an evaluation and treatment.

  • IUD (intrauterine device)
  • Changing Birth Control Pills
  • Medication Side Effects
  • Hyperthyroidism
  • Change in Estrogen and Progesterone levels
  • Uterine Fibroids
  • PCOS
  • Excessive Exercise
  • Stress
  • Thickening of the Uterine Lining
  • Uterine Polyps
  • Pregnancy or Breastfeeding

Urinary Tract Infections (UTI)

UTI is an infection in any part of the urinary tract. The infection may be in the urethra, bladder or the kidneys. Symptoms may vary depending on where the infection is. Women are at higher risk of getting a UTI. You must see a physician as soon as possible for an evaluation and treatment.

Most common symptoms are:

  • Pelvic Pressure
  • Increased Urinary Frequency
  • Painful Urination
  • Lower Back Pain

However, in addition to the above symptoms if you are experiencing Nausea, Vomiting,  Fever, Chills and Flank Pain you may need Hospitalization for Intravenous (I.V.) antibiotics.