Category: Gynecology

Throughout a woman’s life, her body changes. Age transforms the outside as well as the inside of the body and how it functions. Therefore, as these changes occur, risk levels for certain diseases and conditions fluctuate. In an effort to maintain general wellness and prevent illness, there are certain tests and screenings women should have at different stages of their lives. Let’s take a look at the top ten health screenings every woman should have during her lifetime.

1. Breast Cancer Screening

Breast exams that screen for cancer should begin early and continue throughout a woman’s life. Manual clinical exams begin around the age when annual gynecological exams start. Self-exams are recommended throughout the year as well.

 When a woman reaches a certain age, a more in-depth screening called a mammogram is performed. The American Cancer Society recommends getting an annual mammogram starting at age 45. Then at 55, women can switch to one every two years. These guidelines can change on an individual basis if there is an increased risk of cancer due to family history.

2. Bone Density Screening

Unless there are indications to perform this screening earlier, women should have their bone density tested beginning at age 65. The frequency of the exams will depend on the results of your previous tests and if you are at greater risk for osteoporosis. This test screens for osteoporosis in which bones become less dense and more brittle, leading to an increased risk of fracture.

 3. Pap Smears

Women should get pap smears from age 21 to age 65. The official recommendation is to get a pap smear every three years. However, many OB/GYNs will perform a Pap smear as part of the annual exam. The pap smear screens for cellular changes in the cervix that could indicate cervical cancer. Pelvic exams and screenings for HPV are also done regularly to detect reproductive issues.

4. Colon Cancer Screening

Starting at age 50 you should be screened for colon cancer every five years or so, depending on your risk level and the results of previous tests. Screenings for colon cancer may take the form of a sigmoidoscopy or a colonoscopy.

A sigmoidoscopy is performed by the doctor inserting a lighted tube and camera into the anus to examine the lower, or sigmoid, colon. A colonoscopy uses the same method but a longer tube is used to examine the colon in its entirety.

5. Blood Glucose Tests

 You should start getting your blood glucose tested every three years to check for prediabetes and diabetes. This should start around age 45. If you have other risk factors like a family history of the disease, obesity, or are part of a racial or ethnic group that is at greater risk, then the tests should start earlier and be performed more frequently.

6. Blood Pressure Screening

Blood pressure is taken and recorded at the beginning of pretty much every doctor’s appointment you go to. However, if you do not go to a doctor regularly for any other issues, you should make a point of getting screened regularly. If your blood pressure is 120/80 or lower, it should be checked every two years. If it is higher, it should be checked more often. At 140/90, you will be diagnosed with high blood pressure, or hypertension and you should also be screened for diabetes.

 7. Cholesterol Tests

Starting at age 20, women should get a cholesterol screening every four to six years. The screening should include testing the levels of cholesterol and triglycerides. This testing gets more important after age 45, as the risk for heart disease increases.

8. Skin Exams

According to the American Cancer Society, you should give your skin a self-examination every other month. By doing these frequent exams, you may catch things that are early signs of skin cancer. Depending on your personal and family history, your risk for skin cancer may be higher than average. A dermatologist can give you guidance about how often you should have a professional exam by a board-certified physician.

 9. Eye Exams

Having good vision and healthy eyes is important as part of a woman’s all-around health. Vision tests and eye exams should be performed at least every two years if you have glasses or contacts. However, many doctors recommend having one every year as certain types of vision impairment can change quickly. If you have concerns about your eyes or vision, you should schedule an appointment sooner. These exams will not only detect vision problems but also ocular diseases like cataracts, glaucoma, or chronic dry eye.

 10. Dental Exams 

Getting regular dental checkups is important to not only the health of your teeth and mouth, but may also possibly prevent other health issues like heart and artery disease. It is recommended to get a dental exam twice a year in six-month intervals.

Going to the dentist regularly is essential for finding oral health issues like tooth decay and gum disease early enough to successfully treat them. Issues that are caught early usually require less invasive treatments and can save your teeth. You only have one set of adult teeth, so taking care of them is crucial. Dental issues can disrupt your life, alter your ability to eat and speak.

Sometimes cost is a barrier to going to the dentist regularly, as not all people have dental coverage. However, if you can manage the cost of regular visits, it will probably be more cost-effective in the long run because as conditions go undiagnosed and untreated, they get more difficult and expensive to treat.

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GreenValley Ob/Gyn has been serving the Triad for over 70 years. Our seven board-certified OB/GYN physicians and our fantastic staff are dedicated to providing the highest quality healthcare for the women in our community. Along with managing both high and low-risk pregnancies, we strive to care for women throughout all stages of life. Call us at (336) 378-1110 to make an appointment.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an annual campaign to raise awareness for one of the most common types of cancers in American women. This month of awareness and recognition lets those suffering from breast cancer know they are not alone, spreading hope and support for women around the country.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month also serves as a reminder that women must be diligent about their breast health and perform regular breast exams. Breast cancer is not preventable, but the following types of breast exams and screening methods can help detect breast cancer at its earliest and most treatable stages.

1. Self-Checks

According to Johns Hopkins, 40% of diagnosed breast cancers are detected by women who feel a lump. Performing regular self-checks will help you become familiar with your breasts and be able to detect if something is out of the ordinary. Women of all ages should perform a breast exam once a month.

Follow the below steps when performing self-check breast exams. If you notice any changes to your breasts during a self-check, alert your doctor.

1. Stand in front of the mirror with your hands at your sides, and observe your breasts for any changes such as dimpling or puckering. Do this first with your hands by your sides, then with your arms raised your arms overhead, and finally with your hands on your hips, flexing your chest muscles.

2. Next, with your arm raised, use the pads of your middle three fingers to press over the entire breast and armpit area using light, medium, and firm pressure. 

3. Perform the same steps from (B) while laying down. You should also squeeze the nipples to check for lumps or discharge.

Changes to look for during your self-breast exam:

• Change in size or shape
• Discharge
• Dimpling or puckering
• Lumps
• Tenderness
• Thick, hardened knots
• Changes to the nipples

While self-checks are important, they should not replace regular mammograms or clinical breast exams.

2. Clinical

Clinical breast exams are similar to a self-check but performed by a healthcare professional. Professionally trained to detect abnormalities and signs of breast cancer, doctors and care providers may be able to detect changes to your breasts that go unnoticed in a self-check. 

Your doctor or gynecologist will typically perform a clinical breast exam during your annual check-up. The doctor will examine your breasts, armpits, and collarbone area to look for signs of breast cancer. 

3. Mammograms

Mammograms are the most effective breast exams when it comes to detecting lumps or other abnormalities. A mammogram is a low dose x-ray used to take a closer look at breast tissue and detect changes to the breast that can’t be felt during a clinical exam.

During a mammogram, you stand in front of a specialized x-ray machine, placing the breast between two plastic plates, which flatten the breast. While mammograms can be uncomfortable, flattening the breast is necessary to produce a clear picture of the tissue inside.

4. Screening Mammograms

Even if you show no signs of breast cancer, healthcare professionals recommend receiving screening mammograms to ensure that there are no lumps or abnormalities to be detected. Screening mammograms typically involve taking two or more x-ray images of each breast. 

5. Diagnostic Mammograms

Doctors order diagnostic mammograms after abnormalities or signs of breast cancer have been detected. Diagnostic mammograms take longer than screening mammograms because they will capture additional x-rays than taken during a screening. A diagnostic mammogram will help further determine if the symptoms are indicative of breast cancer.

Women over the age of 50 should receive a screening mammogram at least once every 2 years if not yearly. Women under 50 should speak to their doctor to determine how often to get a mammogram, as mammograms are less reliable in detecting tumors in women under 50.

The reason that mammograms are more reliable in detecting tumors in older women may be that younger women have dense breast tissue. Dense breast tissue more closely resembles a tumor, both appearing white in the x-ray image. It’s still important, however, for younger women to receive mammograms and regular breast exams.

Breast Cancer & Genetics

Regular breast exams and mammograms are especially important for women who are genetically prone to breast cancer. About 5-10% of breast cancer cases are hereditary, most commonly resulting from a mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene, which helps repair damaged DNA. When mutated, they cannot perform their job, leading to abnormal cell growth and potentially cancer.

The BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation leads to a higher risk of developing breast cancer and developing it at a younger age. Women with the mutation must be particularly diligent about receiving regular mammograms and getting them early.

Additional Breast Screenings

In addition to the traditional mammogram, doctors may recommend the following breast exams 

to further assess abnormalities or signs of breast cancer:

• 3D Mammogram
• Digital Mammogram

• Breast Ultrasound
• Breast MRI

Contact Green Valley OB/GYN

Green Valley OB/GYN has been providing the highest quality of obstetric and gynecological care for over 70 years. We offer a comprehensive list of services, including clinical breast exams and screening mammography. To set up an appointment to talk about your health, call us at (336) 378-1110 to schedule an appointment.

Did you know that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that nearly all sexually active men and women get HPV at some point in their lives? Luckily, there is a vaccine available that effectively protects against HPV. Read on to learn about the HPV vaccine schedule to find out when you (or your child) should get vaccinated.

About HPV 

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a very common sexually transmitted virus. According to the Population Reference Bureau (PRB), there are an estimated 24 million active cases of HPV in the US and 5.5 million cases each year. Not all types of this virus cause cancer and some may not even cause noticeable symptoms. However, the CDC reports that HPV can cause 6 types of cancers in men and women.

The HPV Vaccine

The HPV vaccine was approved and introduced in 2006. The vaccine protects against the types of HPV that are most commonly associated with the cancers we mentioned before as well as genital warts. Studies have shown that the HPV vaccine has been effective at preventing HPV infection and by extension, it is effective at preventing HPV related cancers. 

Like most vaccines, this immunization is completely safe for most people. Only a few people should not get vaccinated against HPV. These people are:

• People who have a severe reaction to the first dose of the vaccine
• People who are allergic to the components of the vaccine
• Pregnant women
• People who are moderately or severely ill when they are scheduled to get vaccinated should postpone immunization until after they recover.

What is the HPV Vaccine Schedule?

The recommended HPV vaccine schedule depends on the age of the person being vaccinated. Doctors recommend that children begin the HPV vaccination series as a preteen or early in the teen years. While the vaccination can be given to children as young as nine, the ideal age for a child to be vaccinated is from 11 to 12. Older individuals can also get vaccinated against HPV, but they may need more doses.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the following HPV vaccine schedule:

• People ages 9-14 years: Two doses that are given 6-12 months apart
• People ages 15-26 years: Three doses given at the following intervals:
  • At least 4 weeks between the first and second dose
  • 12 weeks between the second and third dose
  • 5 months between the first and third dose

Adults between the ages of 27 and 45 may also be able to get vaccinated with the three-dose series but should consult their doctor about the benefits of doing so.

Why Is it Recommended For Younger Women?

It is recommended that the vaccine be given at a young age because pre-teens will produce more antibodies after vaccination than older teens and adults. Therefore, it takes fewer doses for preteens to be protected than their older counterparts.

Because HPV is a sexually transmitted disease, for many parents, discussing the HPV vaccine for their children may be uncomfortable. A child that age should not be sexually active, so it can seem premature to address a sexually transmitted disease now. 

However, as the American Academy of Pediatrics points out, 50-80% of HPV infections occur within the first two to three years of the first instance of sexual activity. That means completing the HPV vaccination schedule before sexual activity can be beneficial.

Contact Green Valley OB/GYN

Green Valley OB/GYN has been providing the highest quality of obstetric and gynecological care for over 70 years. We offer a comprehensive list of services, including providing the HPV vaccine to patients in the age groups mentioned above. To set up an appointment to talk about your health, call us at (336) 378-1110 to schedule an appointment.

Over the past several decades, there have been great advancements in the techniques doctors use during surgery. One huge medical advancement that has benefited patients the most is minimally invasive surgery. There are several types of minimally invasive surgery that can be used to perform a wide range of procedures. 

Minimally invasive surgery is often preferable to traditional “open” surgery for many reasons. Open surgery requires a large incision made with a scalpel so that the surgeon has a full view of the organs or structures they are operating on.  Minimally invasive procedures do not require a large incision, which is why it is preferable in some cases. The benefits of minimally invasive surgery include:

• Smaller incisions, fewer incisions, or no incision
• Less pain
• Lower risk of infection
• Reduced blood loss
• Shorter hospital stay
• Less scarring
• Quicker recovery

Types of Minimally Invasive Surgery

1. Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery

In a laparoscopic procedure, the surgeon makes one or more small incisions in the abdomen. According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), laparoscopic procedures only require incisions that are ¼ to ½ inch long. The surgeon inserts an instrument called a laparoscope as well as other small, thin surgical instruments through the incisions. The laparoscope has a camera on it that sends images to a monitor so the doctor can visualize the surgical site. A long list of surgeries can be performed laparoscopically, including (but not limited to):

• Hysterectomy
• Bladder support surgery
• Myomectomy (fibroid removal)
• Gallbladder removal
• Gastric bypass or gastric sleeve surgery
• Appendectomy
• Hernia repair

2. Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS)

VATS is a type of minimally invasive surgery that is used to diagnose and treat conditions in the chest. During the procedure, an instrument called a thoracoscope that has a tiny camera on it is inserted into the chest through one or more small incisions in the chest wall. Other special surgical instruments are inserted as well. The scope transmits images of the inside of the chest to guide the surgeon.

VATS may be used for:

• Biopsies to diagnose lung cancer, mesothelioma, and other chest cancers
• Lung surgery
• Procedures to remove fluid or air from around the lungs
• Surgery to treat esophageal disorders
• Hiatal hernia repair
• Surgery to relieve excess sweating
• Surgery to remove part or all of the esophagus
• Thymus gland removal
• Other procedures to treat conditions of the heart, ribs, diaphragm, or spine 

3. Hysteroscopic Surgery

Hysteroscopic surgery is a type of minimally invasive surgery in which an instrument called a hysteroscope is inserted through the cervix into the uterus. The camera on the scope allows the surgeon to see the inside of the uterine cavity. During a hysteroscopic procedure, the doctor can inspect the uterine cavity for abnormalities such as fibroids or polyps. They can also check the openings of the fallopian tubes. 

A hysteroscopic procedure is often done for diagnostic purposes so a gynecologist can inspect the lining of the uterus. The procedure can also be performed to:

• Biopsy the endometrial lining
• Remove endometrial or cervical polyps
• Remove fibroids
• Open the fallopian tubes
• Endometrial ablation
• Remove intrauterine scarring

4. Vaginal Surgery 

Vaginal access minimally invasive surgery (VAMIS) is a type of minimally invasive surgery that can be used for major gynecologic surgery such as a hysterectomy. This surgery requires no abdominal incisions and has a lower risk of complications than abdominal procedures. VAMIS uses the vaginal opening to access organs in the pelvic cavity. It is used to perform:

• Hysterectomy
• Uterine fibroid debulking
• Pelvic mass removal
• Procedures to treat endometriosis. 

5. Robotic Surgery

Robotic surgery is similar to laparoscopic surgery and other types of minimally invasive surgery because it uses small incisions, a camera, and small surgical instruments. However, robotic surgery is more advanced and uses cameras that can create a 3D color picture with 10x magnification. Robotic surgery allows doctors to perform many types of complex surgery with more precision, control, and flexibility than other methods.

Gynecologic Conditions Treated With Minimally Invasive Surgery

Minimally invasive surgery can be used to treat a number of gynecologic conditions, including:

• Endometriosis
• Ovarian cysts
• Uterine fibroids
• Gynecologic cancers
• Heavy uterine bleeding
• Uterine prolapse
• Cervical disorders

At Green Valley OB/GYN, we have been providing quality obstetric and gynecological care to the women of the NC Triad for over 70 years. We offer a comprehensive list of services and procedures for women in all stages of life. If you have concerns about treating allergies during pregnancy, call us at (336) 378-1110 to schedule an appointment.

If you have an upcoming appointment, out of concern for our patients, staff, and the local community, we ask that you please call our office to reschedule your appointment if you have or if you have been in contact with someone that has had a fever, cough, shortness of breath, Cold, Flu-like symptoms or has traveled within the past 14 days. We also request only One Adult accompany the patient to their appointments, if necessary (children should not attend). We appreciate your help in our efforts to prevent the spread of illness.

As the year comes to an end, it’s a good idea to start looking ahead to what you can do to improve and protect your health in the future. If you want to start the new year out right, consider scheduling a well-woman exam with your OB/GYN. When you do, your exam may include some or all of the following components.

Medical History

All medical exams should begin with the healthcare provider getting your medical history. They’ll ask questions about your current and past health issues, procedures you’ve had done, and medications you’re on. They’ll also ask about any health issues that run in your family. 

Health Screening

Your annual exam with your OB/GYN will include a general health screening. This includes measuring your height, weight, pulse rate, and blood pressure. Some screenings also include diabetes testing.

Pelvic Exam

Most doctors recommend getting regular pelvic exams by age 21. A pelvic exam is a physical and visual examination of the female reproductive organs. The doctor will do an external examination of the vulva and an internal visual examination of the vagina and cervix using an instrument called a speculum. The doctor will also perform a physical exam by palpating the outside of your abdomen and then inserting two lubricated, gloved fingers into the vagina while pressing on the lower abdomen to check for abnormalities.

Clinical Breast Exam

The doctor will ask you to take off your shirt and bra so he or she can visually and physically examine your breasts for signs of cancer. The tips of the fingers are used to check for lumps or abnormality in the breast tissue, including the nipples and the armpits. 

Pap Test

After age 21, it is recommended you start getting Pap tests to check for signs of cervical cancer. How often you get this test will depend on your age and the results of previous tests. 

The Office on Women’s Health recommends the following:

• Women 21-29 get a Pap test every 3 years
• Women 30-65 get:
  • A Pap test every 3 years, or
  • An HPV test every 5 years, or

A Pap and HPV test together (co-testing) every 5 years

Birth Control Counseling

Your well-woman exam is the perfect time to discuss birth control options with your healthcare provider. Whether you want to start birth control for the first time, switch to a new type of medication, or stop using it, your doctor can counsel you on the options that are right for you.

Vaccinations

During a well-woman exam, you can talk to your doctor about any vaccinations that may benefit you. One vaccine OB/GYNs often counsel women about is the HPV vaccine. Usually, the HPV vaccine is given to girls and young women under the age of 18, but according to the CDC, the vaccine is also recommended for adults up to 26 years old. Certain individuals between the ages of 27 and 45 may also benefit, but you should talk to your doctor to see if it’s right for you.

Urinalysis

At your well-woman exam, you will most likely be asked to give a urine sample before the exam begins. The urine sample is used to test for pregnancy, kidney function, and infection.

STD Screening

If you’re sexually active, periodic STD screening may be recommended. Getting tested regularly is important to avoid potential complications from sexually transmitted infections. If you have multiple partners, have a new partner, or have unprotected sex, you should be tested right away.

Mammograms

Depending on your age and medical history, your doctor may recommend that you get regular mammograms to screen for breast cancer. According to the Office on Women’s Health, women ages 50 to 74 should have a mammogram every two years. If you are younger than 50, your doctor can counsel you on whether you need a mammogram and how often to get them.

Discussing Your Other Health Concerns and Goals

It’s up to you what your well-woman exam includes as far as other health concerns and goals. Some topics an OB/GYN can help with include:

• Sexual issues
• Menstrual problems
• Weight management
• Urinary incontinence
• Family planning
• Quitting smoking
• Alcohol dependence
• Mental health
• Bone density

Make an Appointment for a Well-Woman Exam

The board-certified physicians at Green Valley OB/GYN have a combined 200 years of experience providing premium obstetric and gynecological care for the women in our community. If you want to start the year off right with a well-woman exam, call our Greensboro, NC office at (336) 378-1110 to schedule an appointment.