Women’s Health | Dr. Lori Gore-Green | Women's Health Professional

3 Myths about Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

January 26, 2020 by Dr. Lori Gore-Green

When you are diagnosed with a medical condition that will affect your life, one of the very first things you will do is research it. However, not everything you read online or hear from friends and family are true. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) has a few myths surrounding it. PCOS causes and hormonal imbalance and metabolism problems in women of reproductive age. Women diagnosed with PCOS can experince irregular menstrual cycle, acne, thinning hair, and weight gain. Today, we will be looking at the most popular myths associated with Polycystic ovary syndrome.

Myth #1: You are the reason PCOS happened.

The exact cause of PCOS is unknown, but one thing is for sure, you are not to blame. It is believed that genetics is some of the cause of why a woman may have PCOS. PCOS produces more androgens, make hormones, which can make it difficult for women to have regular periods or ovulate all together. Women with PCOS also produce an excess of estrogen, female hormones that can cause a build-up of the lining of the uterus which may cause uterine cancer. Other scientists believe that insulin can play a role in the body’s androgen production. It is also noted that women that have mothers and sisters who have PCOS are most likely to have PCOS too.

Myth #2: If you lose weight, you can lose PCOS.

As of right now, there is no cure for PCOS. Women who are overweight and obese can balance their hormone levels by losing weight, but it isn’t a cure. Many treatment options for PCOS focuses on managing symptoms rather than making the issue disappear altogether. Treatments for PCOS usually encourage lifestyle changes such as eating healthy and exercising regularly.

A great treatment option is taking birth control pills. The bills will help to regulate your menstrual cycle as well as reduce your androgen levels. There are also fertility medications that you can take that will help to stimulate ovulation when you want to get pregnant.

Myth #3: PCOS is a rare condition.

You will be surprised to know that about five to 10 percent of U.S. women have PCOS. Meaning that this condition affects about 5 million women, making it one of the most common hormonal endocrine disorders among women of reproductive age.

Unforealty, not a lot of women know that they have this condition. According to the PCOS Foundation, less than half of all women with PCOS are diagnosed correctly. There are millions of women out there who may be unaware that they have this condition.

What You Need to Know About Ovarian Cysts

November 22, 2019 by Dr. Lori Gore-Green

During the time that you are menstruating, there’s a possibility you may develop an ovarian cyst and not even realize it. But before you start to worry, realize that ovarian cysts are usually harmless. In some cases, however, ovarian cysts can cause pelvic pain and lead to more serious complications. To be more knowledgable on the matter here’s everything you need to know about this common cyst.

Ovarian cysts form relatively easily.

Under normal circumstances, one of your ovaries will wrap an egg in a follicle and release the egg into the fallopian tube every month. The follicle will typically dissipate and absorb into the body. In the case that the follicle does not release the egg, it can become bigger and develop further into a follicle cyst. Another type of cyst, a , can form after the follicle combusts and releases the egg. Theses cysts, however, can bleed and cause women pain in the pelvic area. These types of cysts are relatively small (1 to 2 millimeters) and will typically resolve itself in a few weeks.

A dermoid cyst can be more serious, but they are not common.

A starts to form when the cells in an ovary start to divide but haven’t been fertilized. This type of cyst isn’t as common a the cysts mentioned above, but they can grow relatively large, up to four inches. Due to how big these cysts can get, they often have to be surgically removed.

Normal ovarian cysts often do not display any symptoms.

Ovarian cysts usually don’t trigger any symptoms and will often go away on their own. A corpus luteum cyst may result in some minor bleeding, but follicle cysts won’t change your menstrual cycle.

However, there are severe symptoms of ovarian cysts, such as fever, nausea, and vomiting, which are usually the result of infection. If this is the case, see a doctor immediately.

Ovarian cysts can be found during a routine gyno visit.

Women typically find out if they have an ovarian cyst during a routine gyno visit, during a pelvic exam, or during an ultrasound. Women who are experiencing pelvic pain will usually make an appointment with their doctor anyway, and they will most likely find the root of the problem.

Surgery is only necessary in some cases.

If your ovarian cyst has not gone after three menstrual cycles, is bigger than 4 inches, or there is suspicion of a tumor, you may need to get surgery. If you are at risk for “twisting”, which is when the blood supply to the ovary gets cut off, you will also need to undergo surgery.

Common Causes of Menstrual Irregularities

October 24, 2019 by Dr. Lori Gore-Green

No two menstrual cycles are alike. Every woman’s body is different, therefore every woman will experience their own different cycle. Although women often share similar period symptoms, each cycle is unique. However, sometimes a cycle can be so different that it can be irregular. There are many causes for menstrual irregularities every woman should be made aware of:

Pregnancy

The most common cause of menstrual irregularities is pregnancy. Pregnancy puts a woman’s period to a halt for nine months after conception. There may be a bit of light spotting, but this is a common sign a woman may be pregnant. Other symptoms are nausea, breast soreness, and fatigue.

Birth Control

Another way to cause menstrual irregularities is by taking birth control. Hormonal birth control pills and hormone-containing intrauterine devices (IUDs) can cause irregular bleeding during a woman’s cycle. An IUD can also cause very heavy bleeding.

Perimenopause

As a woman get older, her body begins to go through major changes. When her period stops due to her age, this is called menopause. The time between their period coming to a stop and entering menopause is called perimenopause. This can cause them to have a very irregular period, sometimes going months without bleeding. Women can also experience hot flashes, mood changes, difficulty sleeping, and vaginal dryness.

Being Overweight

It’s important for men and women to stay healthy. Being overweight can cause many health issues. For women, it can lead to menstrual irregularities. When a woman is overweight, their obesity impacts hormone and insulin levels and interferes with your menstrual cycle.

Eating Disorders and Extreme Weightloss

It’s important for your body to find a healthy balance. Obesity isn’t the only weight issue that can lead to an unhealthy menstrual cycle. If a woman has an eating disorder or is experiencing extreme and rapid weight loss, it can interfere with their body producing the hormones needed for ovulation.

Stress

Mental health can have a major impact on the body. For women, stress can be a major factor when dealing with menstrual irregularities. Research has found that stress can interfere with a woman’s menstrual cycle by temporarily obstructing the part of the brain in charge of controlling the hormones responsible for regulating your cycle.

The Facts About Exercising During Menstruation

September 26, 2019 by Dr. Lori Gore-Green

Getting your period is no picnic, but there are some surprising things we can do to relieve the symptoms. While you might want to simply curl up on the couch for an entire day, it may be more beneficial to exercise. Symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, fatigue, and headaches can all be relieved to some extent by exercise. The next time your time of the month hits, take these facts into account before you commit to the couch.

Mood Improvement
Exercise produces endorphins, which are hormones that improve your mood. Menstruation is enough to bring anyone’s mood down regardless of the hormonal imbalances that occur to alter your mood. Any irritability, sadness, or other unhappy feelings can be counterbalanced with a good bout of exercise.

Fatigue Reduction
Fatigue is a common symptom of menstruation. The hormonal changes can increase those feelings during your period. It might seem counterintuitive, but exercise can combat those feelings of fatigue and give you a feeling of refreshment as well as accomplishment.

Relieves Menstrual Pain
A recent study discovered that women who exercised regularly for at least days a week reported less menstrual pain than those who did not exercise at all. Exercise during and before your period can also help to relieve some pain. The even better news? You do not have to participate in high intensity workouts to receive the same benefits. A walk or other lower intensity exercise can help as well.

Tips for Success
While exercise is without a doubt beneficial to you in so many ways during your period, there are ways to make it even more beneficial.

Stretching — Incorporating stretching whether it’s simple exercises, pilates, or yoga, can help tense muscles extend and provide relief.

Hydration — Not much can make your body feel worse when on your period than dehydration. Stay hydrated to avoid tense muscles, bloating, or headaches.

Sleep — Getting enough sleep will help you body recover not only from the exercise but also from any fatigue you may be feeling.

Eat Well — Fuel your body to fight fatigue and to give it enough energy to exercise safely. Eating a healthy meal can also combat menstrual symptoms such as bloating.

Behaviors to Avoid

Don’t Overdo It — Overexercising can lead to injuries, excessive fatigue, and even more muscle tension than you were previously experiencing. Keep the workouts to a manageable intensity for the best results.
Don’t Ignore Your Body — Are you knees aching? Can you barely catch your breath? It may be time to adjust your intensity or give yourself a few minutes for a break. Your body will give you clues as to whether you’re pushing too hard, too fast. Make sure to listen to those signals.
Don’t Forget Rest Days — Regardless of whether you’re on your menstrual cycle, your body needs time to recover. Give your body a break so you don’t excessively fatigue yourself. Give your body the time to heal so it can become stronger and respond to your needs more efficiently.

The Flu and Pregnancy

November 14, 2018 by Dr. Lori Gore-Green

When you’re pregnant, you want everything to proceed smoothly, with no hiccups or hurdles. Getting sick, then, is likely not at the top of your agenda. However, life tends to provide a number of expected twists and tumbles that can upend your plans. Catching the flu while you’re pregnant can seem terrible, but there are plenty of things to take into consideration as you heal and prepare for your baby’s arrival.

Immune System

While pregnant, the body’s immune system is weakened. There is a higher likelihood that a flue in a pregnant woman will develop into the more serious condition of pneumonia. Pneumonia can cause respiratory tract issues as well as dehydration; the combination of accelerated effects, if untreated, can result in contractions and premature labor. Ensuring you get plenty of rest, drink clear fluids, and maintain your energy can help you stay healthy and fight off an infection.

Medical Treatment

Though you may be wary about getting a vaccine while pregnant, it is completely safe to receive a flu shot while you are pregnant. You should do this at the start of flu season if applicable or at the earliest point in your pregnancy. Getting a flu shot will benefit you as well as your unborn baby; because of the way antibodies permeate the human body, your baby will be vaccinated against the flue for around 6 months after birth.

In addition to receiving the flu shot while pregnant, breastfeeding mothers will also experience no negative symptoms should they need the vaccine. Flu shots are the most effective and fast-acting method of preventing you from becoming ill.

In addition to vaccines, another treatment option is antiviral medicine that may be prescribed by your doctor. Antiviral medications can make symptoms milder, allow you to heal faster, and prevent severe developments like pneumonia.

If you are allowed to take OTC medication like Tylenol or Robitussin, you should consult with your doctor regarding the amounts and limitations of these pills. Some medications shouldn’t be taken at certain points during your pregnancy, so consult with your doctor to identify the most effective way to prevent any negative interactions or side effects from occurring.

Unviable Options

Though the nasal spray was once a valued option for the treatment of some communicable illnesses, the spray for the flu is not a suitable choice for a pregnant patient. For this reason (among others), the nasal spray has largely been made obsolete in treatment centers. Because the nasal spray entailed injecting what was essentially a live virus into the body; this is not safe for the patient or the unborn baby, so traditional vaccines or oral medication are preferred.

Being sick while pregnant can be distressing. However, catching the flu at this time does not mean you or your child need to suffer. There are treatment options available, both preventative and reactive, to support your immune system and ease your symptoms. Be careful of your interactions with others if you are sick, and take good care of yourself as best you can; with proper self-care and the aid of your doctor, a speedy recovery will be imminent.

5 Health Screenings for Women

August 26, 2018 by Dr. Lori Gore-Green

Maintaining your health as a woman can be difficult. Because of the health risks associated with the sex, you should be proactive in your doctor visits and ensure you are scheduled to receive all necessary examinations. While this may take a chunk out of your wallet and prove disruptive to your free time, taking these preemptive measures can save you from hefty medical bills and painful conditions. Below are a few of the necessary health screenings adult women should regularly get.

Bone Density

By age 65, women should start getting screened for osteoporosis and bone cancer. Determining the state of your bones, from their density to their ability to fracture, can help you take measures to strengthen your bones with supplements and avoid further injury. Regular screenings can help track the strength of your bones over time, and these will vary in frequency due to the severity of your bones’ conditions.

Skin Examination

As skin cancer has become more common, especially the deadliest form of melanoma, frequently assessing your own skin for abnormalities has become a popular preventative practice. Typically, individuals can check their skin themselves, but it does not hurt to seek a professional opinion. The increasing fascination with tanning had led to significant spikes in the cancerous skin condition, so taking note of your own skin and alerting a doctor upon noticing something strange is a wise procedure.

Thyroid Test

To determine whether or not you have a hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, you should strongly consider getting tested roughly once a year, especially after the age of 60. Detecting a thyroid that is working improperly can help diagnose a serious condition like the ones listed above, and with the right diagnosis, treatment will be possible. If left untreated or undiagnosed, however, thyroid conditions can lead to life-threatening challenges like goiters, infections, and mental decline.

Mammogram

There are ways you can conduct your own breast cancer assessment at home, but for a clear, accurate diagnosis, seeing your specialized doctor will help ensure the results are correct. In order to detect breast cancer screenings in a facilities entail x-rays that document the interior of the tissue. It is advised that most patients begin getting annual screenings after at 45, but beyond age 55, they may opt for a biannual visit. If you have family history of the disease or other relevant concerns, you should talk to your doctor to begin screening earlier.

Pap Smear

Common regarded as one of the most uncomfortable screenings, a pap smear is incredibly necessary when assessing the health and composition of the sexual organs. Pap smears are used to observe the nature of cells found on the cervix in assessing the probability of developing cancer. It can also be used to allow a doctor to gain more insight into any potential abnormalities about the system and address them appropriately.

At age 21, you should begin getting a pap smear every three years, and by the time you are 30, you can instead choose to get the test every five years.

Monitoring and managing your health is important. While there may be some unavoidable hurdles to completing all the necessary screenings and tests, you should strive to participate in as many as you can. Maintaining your wellness and taking preventative measures will help improve your quality of life and help you prepare for the future.

Can You Safely Have Enjoyable Sex During Your Pregnancy?

April 30, 2018 by Dr. Lori Gore-Green

You probably already know that sex during pregnancy is typically safe. Myths surrounding pregnancy sex have died down over the last several decades, but there are still several things to note before carrying on with your pre-pregnancy intercourse habits.

There are only two major reasons why you shouldn’t have sex during pregnancy

First, we just want to establish that no, your baby cannot be poked by a penis during sex. Your baby won’t be able to feel you having sex and can’t be harmed by normal intercourse. There are only two reasons to avoid sex during pregnancy:

You don’t want to or don’t feel like having sex.
Your doctor has advised against intercourse during your pregnancy due to a medical reason, such as placenta previa or history of preterm labor.

How to enjoy sex during pregnancy: You might need to switch positions

Your favorite positions maybe become uncomfortable for you and your partner. You can alleviate this problem by changing positions. Many couples opt to use a spooning position because it’s more comfortable for the woman to lay on her side. Some couples find it easier and more enjoyable for the pregnant woman to remain on top during intercourse. If you’re having trouble getting comfortable during sex, do a little research about sex positions that work best for pregnant women – you’ll be surprised at the number of options you still have.

How to have safe sex during pregnancy

Do not have unprotected sex with new partners

Infections like Chlamydia and HIV can be transmitted to your baby and cause serious harm. Additionally, the Zika virus can be sexually transmitted. It’s always a good idea to use protection no matter who you engage in intercourse with, but it’s crucial to do so if you choose to have sex with someone new during pregnancy.

Get to all of your prenatal appointments

Your doctor will check you multiple times for STDs during your prenatal visits because many STDs are life-threatening if passed on to your baby during birth. go to all of your appointments and if you have the slightest suspicion you might have contracted an STD, inform your doctor immediately so that you can receive treatment before your baby is born.

When in doubt, talk to your doctor

If you have any concerns or lingering fears about sex during pregnancy, ask your doctor about whatever is bothering you. Don’t be embarrassed to bring up questions about sex – your doctor probably answers dozens of similar questions every day and will be more than happy to put your fears to rest.

7 Interesting Ways To Improve A Woman’s Mental Health

April 1, 2018 by Dr. Lori Gore-Green

It’s important to realize that due to the different way in which female brains work, some things can affect a woman’s mental health in interesting ways. Below, you will find seven exciting things that can affect a woman’s psychological health, how it affects it, and why.

Eat Your Veggies

Eating your vegetables and fruits every day can do more for you than promote a healthy weight. The University of Sydney released a study demonstrating that consuming 3-4 daily servings of fruits and vegetables can reduce psychological stress, depression, and anxiety in women.

Decorate With Flowers

While fake flowers are quite lovely and possess incredible longevity, freshly cut flowers will provide aromatherapy for you and will also improve your mental health in many ways. A Harvard study showed that placing freshly cut flowers in your home can chase away anxiety, increase your energy levels, and improve your mood and enthusiasm.

A Warm Shower

If you suffer from stress or insomnia, taking a warm shower for 10 minutes before bedtime can help you sleep better. The sound and feel of the shower are relaxing to your senses. Additionally, your warm body entering a cold room causes a drop in your body temperature, telling your brain that it’s time to sleep.

Bake And Cook More

Although considered more of a chore by most people, cooking and baking are quite therapeutic in many ways. Cooking and baking provide a small project with a short time frame that can cause a person’s mind and thinking to focus on just the tasks at hand, help to reduce stress and anxiety. Completing these small, meaningful projects every day can also help you develop a feeling of accomplishment.

Puppy Love Is Real

Many people have already realized that petting or interacting with a dog can make them feel better, but they aren’t sure why. Researchers have determined that engaging with dogs and puppies increases your serotonin levels. This increased serotonin promotes reduced stress, anxiety, and depression.

Blanket Anxiety

Anxiety can keep you awake at night and prevent restful sleep. A study revealed that wrapping yourself in a weighted blanket can help reduce stress and promote a restful sleep since the weight mimics a hug which signals a feeling of safety and comfort.

Always Carry Earplugs

If you’re someone who becomes annoyed by certain noises, it would be beneficial for you to carry around a spare set of earplugs. Use them anytime you encounter an annoying noise. Those with high noise annoyance were found to be twice as likely to develop depression and anxiety, according to a German survey.

7 Smart Suggestions For Maintaining A Happy, Healthy Vagina

October 7, 2017 by Dr. Lori Gore-Green

Every person with a vagina wants to know more about the health, care, and function of their private part.

Whether yeast infections, UTIs, odor, discharge, or irritation may be the topic de jour, it’s important to know that there are takeaways from wise advisors and experts you might consider when you’re going through your day-to-day.

Keep your vagina happy by considering some of the following suggestions:

Gyno Visit: See your gynecologist! Visit with your doctor for your exams, but also check in to discuss fertility, STDs, birth control, discomfort, discharge, or anything else.

Use Condoms: Sex may be more enjoyable without a condom, but the disks of rubber protect against pregnancy and STDs. More than that, condoms help to maintain the vagina’s pH level and can ward off the numerous infections that threaten to take up residence. Of course, using a condom isn’t enough, you have to be sure to change condoms between specific sex acts.

Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt differs from traditional yogurt in that it has a thick texture, and it has fewer carbohydrates and sugar. It also has a great deal of protein. The yogurt’s cultures boost the production of good bacteria and help to stave off yeast infections. Greek yogurts should be consumed when taking antibiotics, which depletes lactobacilli.

Cotton Underwear or Bust: Cotton underwear promotes breathability. Additionally, cotton does a fantastic job of absorbing moisture, more so than any other fabric. In fact, cotton is the ideal fabric to be near your vagina, that if you aren’t going to wear cotton, you may want to consider not wearing any underwear at all.

Exercise: You’ve likely heard of Kegels, but you sure be sure to do them. By doing the exercise, you may strengthen your pelvic floor, gain bladder control, and improve your orgasms.

Lube Up: Lube can improve vaginal dryness, which can be caused by hormonal birth control, antihistamines, antidepressants, and other medications. The use of lube will reduce the threat of abrasions, and will make more enjoyable.

Be Careful With Soap: Some soaps simply aren’t as vagina-friendly as you might expect. Scented soaps, in particular, should be kept away from your vagina. Rinsing with warm water is fine, but if you are going to use, use the unscented, frill-less soap.

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How Colder Weather Can Affect Your Vagina

August 28, 2017 by Dr. Lori Gore-Green

The winter is coming. How will it affect your vagina?

Sunshine and warmth during summer months appear to be ideal for the skin and the body, and in many ways it is. Vitamin D is great for your skin, and beach days frequently go hand-in-hand with relaxation.

The glory of summer holds true even when the season can introduce discomfort during sleeping hours, your heart can beat more than normal, and sun exposure can be dangerous. No matter, winter comes every year, and it’s important to know how the cold and climate change can impact your body and vagina:

Your chance of developing a yeast infection dips because you’re less sweaty. Also, putting away swim suits and staying away from pools play a part because pools frequently introduce harmful chemicals to the vagina.
While it’s important to stay warm during cold months, wearing an abundance of clothes, particularly tight clothing can put you at risk of a yeast infection, because your vagina won’t be able to breathe. Wear breathable layers.
Even when it’s cold and dry outside, know that your vagina is self-lubricating. You don’t have to worry about the impact of chill and frigidity.
Because it’s cold outside, sexually active individuals are more likely to have sex. The coziness of the bed encourages more to engage in intercourse. With that in mind, it’s important to utilize protection and urinate after sex to offset of the chance of developing a UTI.
Lack of sun can be detrimental to your vagina. Your entire body, including your vagina, benefits from Vitamin D. The deprivation of Vitamin D can increase the risk of certain infections, including vaginosis. When able, get outside and enjoy some sun.
Influenza and flu season can be harmful to your vagina. But also, cold medicines and antibiotics can be damaging, destroying the vagina’s natural flora. Be sure to consider your doctor’s opinions and eat foods that are healthy and improving your vaginal health.
Be aware that a bubble bath, though lovely, can strip your vagina of its vaginal flora, which protects you from vaginal infections. If you’re going to take a bubble bath, you may want to steer clear of the scented products.