Category: Greenville Women’s Clinic Blog

Breast cancer is the second most diagnosed cancer in women, affecting one in every eight women in the U.S. The goal of screening exams for early breast cancer detection is to identify breast abnormalities as early as possible. And if breast cancer is found early, there are more treatment options and a better chance for survival.

When breast cancer is found because there are symptoms, they tend to be larger and more advanced. In contrast, breast cancers that are found during a routine screening are more likely to be smaller and still confined to the breast. The two most important factors in predicting a woman’s prognosis with the disease are the size of breast cancer and how far it has spread.

A mammogram can find breast cancer before it can be felt. And although it is a good screening tool, it is not perfect. Combining mammography with a clinical breast exam and self-exams make your chances of identifying cancer even greater. Having regular breast exams can ease your mind, and early detection of breast cancer may save lives.

Below are five things to know about getting a breast cancer screening:

1. What is it like to get a mammogram?

A mammogram is an x-ray that takes pictures of each breast. Your breast will need to be compressed during the picture, which can feel tight and uncomfortable, but only for a few seconds. Some patients could be asked to come back for additional imaging if there are any areas in questions. Most of the time if you have been asked to come back, nothing more is needed except those additional images.

2. What kinds of mammograms are there?

Digital mammography is now routine in most places. Having tomosynthesis (a 3D mammogram) as part of your digital mammogram improves detection of breast cancer.

3. Why is a mammogram necessary if I don’t have a family history of breast cancer?

Most women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history. Your chances of getting breast cancer increase with age. Nearly 80 percent of breast cancers are found in people over the age of 50.

4. What if I there is a family history of breast cancer?

If you have an immediate relative diagnosed with breast cancer, especially if before the age of 40, you could have a higher risk. Your doctor can help you determine if you are at high risk for breast cancer or can refer you to a breast specialist. You should get an annual breast MRI in addition to mammography if you are considered high risk.

5. What if I have dense breasts?

Some women have what radiologists note as dense breast tissue. This is normal, however it can hide tumors on mammograms. If you’ve been told you have dense breasts, talk to your doctor or mammographer about having a breast ultrasound. Ultrasounds do not replace mammography, but’s it is an option that is available for additional screening in women with dense breasts.

We know there are other factors that can cause breast cancer. Certain genetic mutations, including changes to the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, are associated with higher risks of developing breast cancer. Genetic testing can help determine if you carry these genes. Research also shows that there is a link between your reproductive and menstrual history and the risk of breast cancer, some of these risk factors include:

• Early onset menstruation (before age 12)
• Late onset menopause (after age 55)
• Never having children, childbirth later in life, or not breastfeeding
• Menopausal hormone therapy and certain types of birth control may have hormones that are risk factors for breast cancer.

Studies show other factors which you can control could lower your risk of developing breast cancer. Living a healthy lifestyle that includes physical activity, limiting alcohol and eating a nutritious diet may be beneficial to your overall health. If you have any concerns regarding your risk factors for developing breast cancer, talk to your health care team.

At Greenville Women’s Care, we know breast cancer screenings, detection, and the risk factors can be very confusing. Our team of physicians and providers are here to not only provide you with your regular screenings, but to answer any questions you may have and keep you informed of changes in screening guidelines. We welcome your questions, so please call today to schedule your regular clinical appointment and mammogram, 252-757-3131!

September is Sexual Health Month, and we’d like to start by defining what sexually healthy actually means. Sexual health is physical, emotional, mental, and social well-being related to sexuality and sexual acts. Sexual health requires respectful and positive approaches to sexuality, sexual relationships, and sexual experiences. To have sexual health, the rights of a person MUST be respected – meaning there is no coercion, discrimination, and violence, and everybody involved is safe.

Sexual health is not a one-and-done thing; it is built over a lifetime. As you develop into a sexually healthy person, you will begin to notice these characteristics:

Communication – being able to communicate and being receptive to desires, boundaries, consent, and non-verbal cues, interacting and communicating with all genders appropriately and respectfully.

Relationships – have relationships with no sexual agenda and take responsibility for personal boundaries; choose trustworthy, safe partners, where you can be intimate without being physical.

Self-Esteem/Self-Worth – appreciate and stay connected with your body; allow vulnerability; become comfortable with sexual orientation and gender identity; confidence is establishing boundaries; become aware of negative sexual experiences, their impact, and how culture influences sexual decisions.

Education – recognize the consequences of sexual activities; recognize the impact of cultural messages on sex and sexuality; understand positive sex can be integrated into life in healthy ways; respect boundaries and the right for people to enjoy non-exploitive, consensual sex.

Values – establish personal boundaries; respect others’ boundaries; are unthreatened by differing sexual orientations; show respect for all individuals who are different from them (particularly in terms of culture, ethnicity, age, socioeconomic status, religion, race, and gender).

Body Autonomy – practice safe sex; promote healthy behaviors such as regular STI testing, check-ups, and self-examinations.

Achieving sexual health is about the journey, not the destination. It involves learning about yourself and becoming attuned to your body’s wants and needs. If you have questions or need assistance on your sexual health journey, that’s okay! Greenville Women’s Care is happy to help you however we can. To schedule an appointment with a provider, call 252-757-3131.

Everyone has different experiences when it comes to breastfeeding. Some people may love it, while others may find it painful. So how can you know what to expect? Greenville Women’s Care is here to answer all the common questions about breastfeeding!

1. When will my breast milk come in?

Milk production starts around the 2^nd trimester of pregnancy and comes in stages. In the beginning your body produces colostrum, which is a special milk full of necessary nutrients and antibodies.

Around 30 hours after delivery, your milk supply will really begin. The change in your hormones lets your body know that it is time for it to make breast milk. Over the next week you may also notice changes in your breast milk. It will change from the thick colostrum to a creamier white milk and your output should increase as well.

2. How can I tell if my baby is eating enough?

All babies are different, but generally a newborn baby should feed 8-12 times every day, approximately every 2-3 hours. An easy way to gauge nutrition is to monitor your baby’s weight, wet diapers and bowel movements. If you notice your baby needs to be fed more often than that, they may not be getting enough milk, and you may want to consult your physician or pediatrician.

3. Am I producing enough milk?

For the most part, moms make enough breast milk to provide plenty of milk for their babies. After delivery, and once you begin breastfeeding, your milk output should also start to increase from a few milliliters to a couple of ounces around this time. If you’ve breastfed before, your milk production may ramp up more quickly. And, as breastfeeding decreases, your body will naturally start to wean production.

4. Is leaking normal?

Leaking is extremely normal and can sometimes happen just from hearing your baby cry. Typically, leaking occurs if you do not nurse around your usual feeding times, as your body is still prepared to breastfeed.

5. Is breastfeeding painful?

Initially, breastfeeding can be painful until you get the hang of it. If your baby is not latched correctly, or if you develop clogged ducts, it can be extremely uncomfortable. Mostly, breastfeeding is pleasant, and it is a great way to connect with your baby and comfort them.

6. How Should I Store My Breast Milk?

No matter how often you pump, keeping your breast milk protected for your baby is very important. There are many storage options: bags, glass jars, and plastic bottles. You should choose the option that works best for your breast pump, fridge or freezer storage space, and lifestyle. Remember, your milk can be left at room temperature for up to 6 hours, in the refrigerator for 6 days, and in the freezer for 6 months. If you store your breast milk in increments of 2-4 oz it will make thawing and warming times easier and can also reduce milk waste.

7. Health benefits of breastfeeding – for mom and baby

Breastfeeding has many benefits for both mom and baby. Breastfeeding burns calories because of the hard work your body is doing, and even helps the uterus contract after birth. Breastfeeding is completely natural and a great source for nutrition, and it also lowers the risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, adult diabetes, and osteoporosis. For your baby, breast milk is extremely easy to digest, is great for their immune system, and lowers their risk of ear infections, asthma, and allergies.

8. Recommended stages of breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding occurs in stages. It is important to speak with your doctor as to when the best time to transition to the next stage is. From birth to 6 months old, it is recommended to only breastfeed. By 6 months, it is time to slowly introduce solid foods while continuing to breastfeed until 1 year old. By then, your baby should be consuming a large variety of food.

We hope this blog has answered some questions for you. If you have additional questions or concerns regarding breastfeeding, ask your Greenville Women’s Care provider. Our physicians and Tess Garland, Certified Nurse Midwife, will be happy to answer your questions and prepare you for your breastfeeding journey.

Though fibroids are fairly common, many women don’t understand what they are or how they can be treated. The symptoms of fibroids can be extremely painful and often go undiagnosed because their symptoms are attributed to other causes. During Fibroid Awareness Month, we wanted to shed light on the symptoms, treatments, and risks of uterine fibroids.

What are Fibroids?

Fibroids are benign tumors that grow in or around the muscular part of the uterus and can range anywhere from the size of a seed to a grapefruit. Though fibroids are most commonly found in women ages 30 to 50, they can occur in women of any age. Studies show that nearly 80% of women will develop fibroids by the time they reach menopause.

Symptoms

Your symptoms can depend on how many fibroids you have and what size they are. Fibroids can grow as a single growth or in a cluster. Pelvic pain and pressure with dull aches or sharp pains in the lower abdomen is a common symptom of fibroids, but other symptoms may include:

• Heavy menstruation and bleeding
• Longer menstruation cycles
• Constant urination
• Constipation
• Pain during intercourse.

Since many of these symptoms are attributes of other things, these symptoms often cause fibroids to be overlooked, ignored, or misdiagnosed.

Diagnosing and Treating

Doctors begin diagnosing fibroids by reviewing medical history, discussing symptoms, and performing a physical exam to determine the condition of the uterus and to identify any abnormalities. Fibroids can be treated or removed depending on your case. Anything from medications, ultrasound surgery, minimally invasive procedures, or surgery can be used to remove fibroids. Your doctor will review your specific case and inform you of your options.

Risks and Prevention

Some people are more at risk than others for developing fibroids. Factors that can increase your likelihood of fibroids, include:

• Race – Black and Hispanic women are more likely to develop fibroids.
• Genetics – You have family members who have been diagnosed with fibroids.
• Environmental influences – Eating too much red meat, drinking alcohol in excess, use of birth control, or lack of vitamin D could cause fibroids.

Though fibroids are not necessarily preventable, studies have found that leading a healthy lifestyle can help manage or reduce your symptoms. These healthy habits include:

• Eating a nutritious diet full of vegetables, fruits, iron, and fiber.
• Exercising regularly .
• Drinking plenty of water.
• Avoiding too much caffeine and sugar.
• Taking vitamin D supplements.

As always, it is important to speak to a doctor as soon as you notice abnormal symptoms or changes in your body. If you have questions or concerns about fibroids, Greenville Women’s Care is here to help you! Your health is important to us – schedule an appointment with one of our providers today!

Cytomegalovirus is a viral infection, commonly referred to as CMV, that is typically found in children and is usually harmless in those that are healthy or have strong immune systems. However contracting CMV while pregnant, if you have never had it before, can lead to dangerous and long-lasting illnesses and disabilities in your baby. Even though it is the leading non-genetic cause of hearing loss, only 9% of women are familiar with CMV.

How does it spread?

CMV is spread through contact with body fluid of someone who has or had the virus. You are most susceptible to CMV if you have children, work around children, or work in the healthcare industry. Those with weaker immune systems are also vulnerable to the many complications that can arise from CMV.

How common is CMV?

CMV is fairly common in children, and in healthy people, there are rarely symptoms. Up to 90% of people will be infected with CMV by the age of 80. Once you are infected with CMV, it remains in your body forever. For pregnant women who have never had CMV, contracting it can be extremely dangerous for your unborn baby, and lead to harsh symptoms and even lifelong disabilities.

How does it affect babies?

CMV permanently disables one child every hour. Babies who contract CMV typically appear healthy when they are born and can develop symptoms at birth or later in life. Symptoms can include yellow skin and eyes, enlarged spleen, and lung infections. CMV can also lead to disabilities such as seizures, hearing loss, and growth problems. This virus can be diagnosed through blood, urine, or saliva tests ordered by your provider. Though there is no vaccine to prevent CMV, some symptoms can be managed and treated through medication and infusions.

How can I prevent it?

To protect yourself and your baby from CMV, it is important to avoid contact with saliva or urine, refrain from sharing utensils or drinks, and kissing children on the mouth. Avoiding sharing items like toothbrushes and washing your hands frequently can also help prevent CMV.

It is important to understand your risk of getting CMV, symptoms it can cause, and how to prevent it. To find out if you have ever had CMV, or to learn more about the virus, schedule an appointment with your provider at Greenville Women’s Care, 252-757-3131.

Preeclampsia is a condition that can develop in women during pregnancy, usually around 20 weeks, or after pregnancy. This condition results in high blood pressure and can affect other parts of the body, such as the kidneys and liver. If the condition goes untreated, it can be harmful for both mom and baby. Here are a few things you should know about preeclampsia.

How common is preeclampsia?

Preeclampsia is rising in the US and has increased by 25% in the past 20 years. Around 5% of women deal with preeclampsia each year. Typically, if caught and treated early, most women are able to carry and deliver their baby safely.

Are you at risk of preeclampsia?

It is not known what exactly causes preeclampsia, but there are some risk factors that may make you more likely to have it. If you have any of these risk factors, we encourage you to tell your physician.

• You had preeclampsia in another pregnancy. And the earlier in that pregnancy that you had it, makes your risk of having it again higher.
• You are pregnant with twins, triplets or more.
• You have high blood pressure, diabetes or kidney disease.
• You are overweight with a BMI of 30 or higher.
• You have a family history of preeclampsia.
• You are over the age of 35.
• You had complications in another pregnancy, such as low birth weight.

Preeclampsia can affect not only the mom but the baby as well. Complications include seizures, strokes, bleeding, pre-term delivery, and organ damage. It is important to monitor your symptoms and go to all your prenatal visits  and contact your doctor if you become concerned.

What are the symptoms of preeclampsia?

The number one sign of preeclampsia is high blood pressure and left untreated can cause your kidneys and liver to not work properly. Here are some symptoms of preeclampsia:

• Continuous headache
• Blurry vision or light sensitivity
• Severe nausea
• Pain in your belly
• Difficulty breathing
• Swelling of your hands, feet and legs
• Rapid weight gain

Sometimes, preeclampsia has no symptoms, or the symptoms are similar to regular pregnancy traits. This is why it is important to see your doctor regularly, have routine screenings, and monitor how you feel. Early detection can drastically reduce the effects of preeclampsia.

Are there causes of preeclampsia?

Unfortunately, preeclampsia has no identifying cause, and some people are just at a higher risk of developing it. Treatment can include close monitoring by a doctor and providing medications to counteract the symptoms. If you are in good health and at least 37 weeks, your physician may recommend delivering the baby early.

Because headaches, nausea, and aches and pains are common pregnancy complaints, it’s difficult to know when new symptoms are just part of your pregnancy or when it is an indicator of a more serious problem. If you have questions or concerns regarding preeclampsia, do not hesitate to contact your provider at Greenville Women’s Care to schedule an appointment.

1 in 8 couples need help getting pregnant due to infertility, however, outside the doctor’s office the topic is rarely discussed. For this reason, there are a lot of questions and myths about infertility. During Infertility Awareness Week, Greenville Women’s Care is here to answer some FAQs about the topic.

1. What is infertility?

Infertility is a disease of the reproductive system that affects your body’s ability to conceive. It is defined as not being able to get pregnant after one year of having unprotected sex. According to the National Institute of Health (link to https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/infertility/conditioninfo/common), one third of infertility cases are caused by female reproductive issues, one third by male reproductive issues and then the other third by unknown factors or both parties. Infertility is one of the most common diseases for people between the ages of 20-45.

2. What causes infertility?

In women, the most common cause of infertility is an ovulation disorder and blocked fallopian tubes. Less common are birth defects involving the uterus and uterine fibroids which can be associated with repeated miscarriages. Another key factor for women is age. As women enter their 30s and 40s their chances of conceiving decreases from 25-30% a month to 10% or less.

The most common factor in male infertility is when no sperm cells or few sperm cells are produced. It is also possible for the sperm cells to be badly formed or to die before they can reach the female’s egg. Lastly, in the rarest cases, male infertility can be caused by a genetic disease.

3. When is the right time to talk to a doctor?

In most cases, it is recommended that couples seek medical help if they have been trying to conceive for a year without protection. Exams of both partners are performed to determine overall health and physical disorders that could be causing infertility. The physicians at Greenville Women’s Care are here to help you and your partner determine the next steps in this process.

4. What can I do about infertility?

Infertility does not mean you will never have a child. Greenville Women’s Care can provide you and your partner with assistance, resources, and support during this time. Sometimes, hormones can stimulate ovulation. There are also surgical procedures that can remove blockages causing infertility. Whatever the case may be, our staff is ready to help you determine the next steps for you and your family.

The inability to conceive, along with the medical decisions that need to be made, can cause a great deal of emotions including anxiety and depression. At Greenville Women’s Care we understand this is a challenging time, one that needs to be approached with compassion and understanding. Give us a call to schedule an appointment with us, 252-757-3131.

While endometriosis is a common condition, it is a complex and often misunderstood condition. Endometriosis occurs when the tissue, similar to the lining of your uterus, grows outside the uterus. It can affect the ovaries, fallopian tubes and the tissue lining your pelvis. These growths can cause pain, scarring, and, in some cases, infertility.

And since there are many misconceptions about endometriosis, some noted below, many women delay seeking help. We encourage you to talk to your OBGYN if you are concerned about heavy bleeding, painful periods or other symptoms that continue to affect you.

Myth 1: Endometriosis is a rare condition.

Fact: Endometriosis is fairly common which affects one in 10 American women

Since endometriosis symptoms mimic other conditions, studies show that it has taken some women up to seven years before a proper diagnosis.

Myth 2: Endometriosis is just a really bad, heavy period.

Fact: Endometriosis is a pelvic disorder that can impact your health.

The most common symptoms of endometriosis include pain with periods, pain with sex or bowel movements, and irregular bleeding. While many women assume, or are told, that these are “normal” period symptoms, extreme pain or other persistent symptoms can indicate an underlying condition like endometriosis. A gynecologist should evaluate you if these symptoms persist.

Myth 3: Endometriosis does not affect your chances of getting pregnant.

Fact: Endometriosis can cause infertility.

The truth is that almost 50% of women who have experienced infertility issues have endometriosis. Endometriosis can produce an inflammatory response which can cause scar tissue which can lead to infertility.

Myth 4: Endometriosis can be prevented.

Fact: Since there is no known cause for endometriosis, there is currently no way to prevent it. There are some things that can be done to lower estrogen levels in your body. These can reduce your risk, but not prevent it. Estrogen can fuel the growth of endometriosis, so selecting a lower dose estrogen birth control method, losing weight if you are overweight, and getting regular exercise could help lower estrogen levels.

Myth 5: Endometriosis cannot be fixed.

Fact: Surgery can help alleviate symptoms.

Endometriosis is a treatable condition, and through minimally invasive gynecologic surgery, endometrial lesions can be seen, and a surgeon can safely remove any visible endometriosis. There are also a variety of treatment options that can help endometriosis symptoms, including birth control, progesterone IUDs or anti-inflammatory medications.

Greenville Women’s Care serves patients throughout eastern North Carolina. If you or someone you know is struggling with pelvic pain, it is important to address your concerns. To schedule an appointment with one of the experienced and trusted physicians at Greenville Women’s Care, contact our office today, 252-757-3131.

February is Heart Health Month, and we are ready to bust the myths surrounding women’s heart health. Knowing the facts, symptoms, and risks surrounding heart health are crucial to diagnosing and preventing this disease!

Myth: Heart disease only happens to men, and women should be more worried about cancer.

Heart disease is no longer considered a man’s disease. Almost as many women die from heart disease as men each year. Breast cancer affects around 4 million women per year, and heart disease affects around 50 million women each year. It is important to understand the risks and symptoms of both and be vigilant in preventing these diseases.

Myth: Only old people are affected by heart disease.

Women of all ages can be affected by heart disease. A combination of smoking and taking birth control pills can increase your risk of heart disease by 20%. Even though these habits can result in problems later on in life, leading a life of unhealthy habits can result in heart disease at an even younger age. Practicing healthy eating and staying active each day can keep your body from developing clogged arteries.

Myth: Women who are active do not get heart disease.

Just because you are super active, does not mean you are safe from getting heart disease. You can be in shape and still have high cholesterol. Things like diet, and smoking can affect your cholesterol and can lead to heart disease. Be sure to visit your doctor regularly and speak to them about any concerns you may have.

Myth: I already have heart disease, and I can’t do anything about it.

If you have already been diagnosed with heart disease, it is important to know that you can do things to reduce your risk. It is important to practice good habits to keep your heart healthy, including exercising regularly, eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, limiting your alcohol consumption, and knowing where your cholesterol and blood pressure numbers should be. Knowing the risks you have, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, can allow you to understand and control your disease.

Myth: I can’t have heart disease – I don’t have any symptoms.

Many women fall ill from heart disease because they do not know what symptoms to look for. The symptoms women experience varies drastically from the symptoms men experience. Typically, signs of heart disease in women include shortness of breath, nausea, back pain, dizziness, and fatigue. It is important to listen to your body and visit your doctor to discuss concerns and pains.

It is important to know the risks and symptoms of heart disease – and your physician at Greenville Women’s Care is here to help. If you have any concerns or questions regarding heart health, please give us a call to schedule an appointment at 252-757-3131!

The start of the new year brings resolutions and reminders for all of your annual responsibilities. Regular gynecological visits, just like annual doctor’s checkups, are crucial for keeping you healthy. Here are the top reasons you need to schedule your annual OBGYN appointment:

1. Birth Control

There are many birth control options available to women. So many that it may be a little overwhelming deciding which is the best option for you. Whether you are ready to start birth control or already on birth control and considering a different option, your gynecologist can help you decide which birth control method fits your lifestyle and needs.

2. Preventative Care

Annual visits to the gynecologist are important parts of preventative care. Any abnormalities or changes are easier to detect and monitor when you visit the gynecologist regularly. Discussing diets, mental health concerns, and best practices with your provider is a fantastic way to monitor your health and take necessary measures for your wellbeing.

3. Breast Exam

A yearly breast exam is another reason to schedule your annual appointment at Greenville Women’s Care. Even if you perform self-examinations, it is important to have an expert thoroughly examine your breasts to ensure nothing was missed and everything is okay. Breast cancer is extremely common in women between the ages of 40 – 60, and early discovery typically means you have a better chance at successful treatment.

4. Intercourse

Whether you are a young adult, or going through changes, intercourse should be a normal topic of discussion with your gynecologist. If you notice any pain, have low libido, or are worried about an STD or STI, it is important to sit down with your doctor and share your concerns. Regular screenings are crucial for diagnosis of STDs as many do not have any symptoms, so it is possible you have one without knowing it.

It is normal for women going through menopause to  have libido issues. The loss of estrogen and testosterone can lead to changes in not only a woman’s body, but their sexual drive. The physicians at Greenville Women’s Care will take the time to listen to any of your concerns, not only about menopause, but for all life stages.

5. Period Concerns

Discussing changes and abnormalities in your menstrual cycle with your doctor is important. Irregular periods, excessive pain, heavy bleeding and other issues with your cycle could be signs of an underlying issue. An OBGYN specializes in women’s reproductive health issues, so making your gynecologist aware of these issues is the first step to addressing and resolving menstrual issues.

6. Preconception

Ready to start a family? It could be beneficial to discuss the next steps with your provider. 1 in 8 families struggle with conceiving – and getting your body prepared to conceive is important in your family planning. Discuss any fears or issues with your gynecologist. They can help you determine best practices, ovulation cycles, and answer any other questions you may have.

7. Mental Health/Wellness

Your OB/GYN can support and help you with more than just your physical health. Whether you are struggling with your mental health, have postpartum depression, or are in the middle of menopause – discuss your feelings and thoughts with your provider. There is no better time than during your well-woman exam to talk through your emotions and receive support and help from someone you can trust.

Greenville Women’s Care provides a full range of gynecologic and obstetric services for women of all ages. To schedule your annual visit, call our office at 252-757-3131, or visit https://www.greenvillewc.com/ to learn more about our services.