Everyone has BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. These genes are located on chromosome 17, and they produce proteins that suppress abnormal cell and tumor growth. They play an important role in preventing cancer — but about 1 in 500 women has a mutation on one of these genes. BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation can interfere with your body’sContinue reading “How Often Should I Schedule Mammograms if I Have a BRCA1 Gene Mutation?”
A pelvic exam is a routine examination of your reproductive organs. Most women get pelvic exams as part of their annual well-woman check-ups, but if you’ve never had one before, it’s normal to have questions. Our team at The Women’s Center is here to help. We provide comprehensive gynecology care for teens and adults atContinue reading “What to Expect From Your First Pelvic Exam”
When it comes to your menstrual cycle, there’s a broad definition of what’s considered “normal.” A normal cycle lasts 21-35 days, and a normal period lasts 2-7 days. While every woman’s cycle is slightly different, your cycle and period should last about the same amount of time each month. So what does it mean whenContinue reading “My Periods Are Becoming Irregular — What Does That Mean?”
Nearly 47 million American women use birth control to prevent pregnancy. Birth control gives you the power to decide if and when you want to have a baby, and the “right” method is different for every woman. Different contraceptives offer different benefits, and there’s a lot to consider when finding the best method for you.Continue reading “Which Type of Birth Control Is Right for Me?”
Fertility awareness is a growing trend in women’s healthcare. It’s a method of family planning that puts you in control of if and when you get pregnant — and it doesn’t rely on hormonal birth control medication to do it. Fertility awareness methods involve tracking your menstrual cycle and ovulation. It’s drug-free, but its effectivenessContinue reading “How Does Fertility Awareness Prevent Pregnancy?”
Up to 5 million American women have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a gynecologic condition that develops when ovaries produce high levels of androgens. Androgens are primarily male hormones, and they interfere with ovulation, menstruation, and fertility. Although PCOS is caused by hormonal imbalance in your ovaries, some of the most noticeable symptoms appear on theContinue reading “How PCOS Affects Your Skin (and What To Do About It)”
Most women should start getting routine mammogram screenings in their 40s. Mammograms X-ray your breast tissue, and they’re widely considered the best way to check for breast cancer. While screening takes just 20 minutes, many women dread their annual appointments. Why? Because getting a mammogram can be uncomfortable. At The Women’s Center, our experienced team is here to ensureContinue reading “How to Ensure a Comfortable Mammogram”
On average, menopause starts at age 51. Most women dread the onset of menopause, and it’s easy to see why: hot flashes, weight gain, low sex drive, mood swings, and more are all common symptoms, and they sound downright unpleasant. It’s true that menopause is an unavoidable part of life. But at The Women’s Center, we believeContinue reading “5 Self-Care Tips for Thriving Through Menopause”
A colposcopy is a diagnostic procedure that screens for abnormal cell changes in your cervix. It can diagnose conditions like cervical precancer, noncancerous growths, and genital warts, and it’s a common follow-up test for abnormal Pap smear results. But if you need a colposcopy, it’s normal to have questions. Our gynecology team at The Women’s Center is here to help.Continue reading “Does a Colposcopy Hurt?”
Few women look forward to their monthly menstrual periods. But if you suffer from heavy bleeding, having your period might mean you’re unable to participate in your usual daily activities. While every period is different, there are a few signs that could indicate your periods are too heavy. These include periods lasting longer than seven daysContinue reading “Help! My Periods Are So Heavy”
