May
31
A survey of women age 35 49 years old reported the following:
- 58% with excess menstrual bleeding have not discussed it with a health care provider
- 82% of women who discussed heavy menses had to initiate the dialog
- 62% waited more than one year, and 1 in 5 waited more than 5 years to discuss it with their doctor
These women have been labeled “Silent Sufferers.” Another study reported that only 5% women recalled that their doctor inquired about menstrual bleeding patterns as part of their annual physical exam; whereas 38% of these physicians reported doing so; Why the discrepancy? A classic study in 1966 compared a woman’s perception of their menstrual flow to actual measurements. Surprisingly, half the women with heavy menstruation rated it as normal or light. So asking a straightforward question “Is your period normal?” fails to reveal many who are afflicted. Hence, these women suffering with excess menstrual bleeding are left unidentified, and consequently tolerating their embarrassing condition.
In a study published in the British Journal of Medicine, 1 in 5 women responded “yes” to the question, “Does your period disrupt your life?” Notice the question is not judging whether the amount of bleeding is normal or not, but rather focuses on impact on lifestyle.
So lifestyle questions are the key to opening the door to solutions for these women. Treatments target the inside lining of the uterus, since bleeding originates from sloughing this tissue. The good news is there are often alternatives to hysterectomy (the removal of the uterus):
- Hormonal therapy (Birth control pills or progesterone minimize growth of the inside uterine lining)
- Progestin IUD (The Mirena® Intra-Uterine Device only delivers progesterone to the uterine lining, so less side effects)
- Endometrial Ablation (NovaSure is a 90 second treatment to remove the inside lining of the uterus so it doesn’t grow back)
At Women’s Health Specialists we offer women the convenience and efficiency of a complete work up for abnormal uterine bleeding in a single office visit that includes a pelvic ultrasound, hemoglobin, and endometrial biopsy if indicated. We can then promptly proceed to treatment options that you’re comfortable implementing. This saves time, expenses, and most importantly lessens anxiety.
Wishing you good health!
Women’s Health Specialists
2299 Mowry Avenue, Suite #3C
Fremont, CA 94538
510.796.7057
www.WomensHealthFremont.com
Share this newsletter with those you care… sisters, mothers, friends
PS: After 20 years in our current location our office is getting a makeover in June. So pardon our dust as we spruce up the place.
May
6
Vaginal Health in Menopause
Filed Under Women's Health News
A recent survey showed that 63% of postmenopausal women experience vaginal dryness that makes sex uncomfortable. Because of personal privacy and embarrassment, only half of them reported this to their physician.
The vagina is very estrogen dependent, without it the tissues often become thin and dry. Then during intercourse friction creates discomfort. Consequently, vaginal dryness and pain with intercourse have become more problematic with the dramatic decline in the use of systemic hormone replacement therapy. Estrogen thickens the vaginal lining and increases natural secretions.
While not all menopausal women experience vaginal dryness, there are solutions to help those that do. First, there are over the counter vaginal moisturizers and lubricants for intercourse that may suffice (often displayed near condoms at retailers). Alternatively, consider utilizing low dose vaginal estrogen. Topical preparations such as Premarin® and Estrace® creams or Vagifem® tablets are FDA approved remedies. A recent study demonstrated that a new lower dose of ½ gram of either estrogen cream inserted into vagina just 2 nights each week is effective. This does not change serum levels of estrogen, so it’s effects are confined to the vagina. This is also true for Vagifem®. A good pneumonic to help women remember is, use it every Wednesdays and a weekend night. It may take about a month before symptoms initially improve. Finally, women usually need to continue using vaginal estrogen to achieve the benefits.
While estrogen won’t correct a waning sex drive it can make sex more comfortable. A little estrogen can make an improvement in the quality of menopausal women’s life. Please don’t wait until your annual exam to seek help.
Wishing you good health!
Women’s Health Specialists
2299 Mowry Avenue, Suite #3C
Fremont, CA 94538
510.796.7057
www.WomensHealthFremont.com
Share this newsletter with those you care… sisters, mothers, friends
PS: Our new computerized medical records also improves communication & coordination of your care with your Primary Care Physician. We need your current email address to promptly send your lab results to you. Send us an email with your full name and email address to Reception@WomensHealthFremont.com
