Gynecology & Preventative Care

Preventive care in gynecology

Annual exams- pap, pelvic exam , lab work, stool testing, pelvic ultrasound detection of ovarian problems, mammogram and breast ultrasound , bone density studies, hormone testing, hormone treatment and contraceptive education.

Annual Exams

Include the pelvic exam, pap smear, breast exam by the doctors or the nurse practitioners.

During the annual exam we welcome all discussion about your general health and gynecological health. We will discuss all age related issues including contraception, family planning, menopause issues, PMS issues and all other health related issues pertaining to women.

Pap test, where a sample of cells is taken from the cervix (the opening to the uterus), is the best way to find changes that may lead to cervical cancer. By finding the abnormal cells and treating them early we can prevent cervical cancer.

A pelvic exam is necessary during the annual exam to rule out any abnormalities with the pelvic organs which include the uterus and the ovaries.

Pelvic Ultrasound

Is recommended for patients with pelvic pain or an abnormal finding on physical exam. We can perform the ultrasound for the patient and inform them of the results immediately in our own office.

Our practice also feels that patients who have a family history of ovarian cancer should have the opportunity for a screening ultrasound, which we do offer. Although the exam may not be 100% accurate, it gives patients better knowledge and reassurance about their body.

Bone Health

A state of the art bone density study is offered to all patients over the age of 40. We believe that preventive medicine has more advantages to the health of the patients, hence, finding bone loss early prior to osteoporosis will give the patient an opportunity to be proactive about their bone health. The procedure takes approximately 15 minutes and will allow us to assess the health of the bones in two major problem areas: hips and spine. Patients will be instructed with treatment options according to the findings, normal bone mass, low bone mass (osteopenia) or severe bone loss (osteoporosis).

Urinary Incontinence

Many women suffer in silence with uncomfortable urinary tract sensations or problems. Incontinence is involuntary leakage of urine. Age, childbearing and tissue deterioration can lead to incontinence. There are different types of urinary incontinence:

• Stress incontinence is involuntary leakage of urine during an activity such as coughing, sneezing, exercise.
• Urge incontinence is a type of incontinence that occurs when a patient's bladder is full. It also gives a sensation of constantly wanting to urinate.
• Mixed incontinence is when some women suffer from both types of incontinence.

Diagnosing Urinary Problems

If a patient has any of the above symptoms, then they would benefit from urodynamic testing. Urodynamic testing is a series of bladder tests designed to illicit and identify the cause of these sensations and problems. There are many different reasons for urge and stress incontinence and these tests will determine the cause. The bladder capacity and compliance are measured and the detrusor and sphincter muscles of the bladder are evaluated for their pressures and contractibilty. Treatment options are identified below.

Treatments

There are many different types of treatments available for urinary incontinence. In our practice we use medical treatment as an initial therapeutic modality. Teaching patients good bladder habits, exercises, change of diet, and appropriate use of medication can all be very helpful. We also use multiple surgical techniques for patients with stress urinary incontinence.

Dr. Simon offers urodynamic testing and treatment modalities of urinary incontinence to her patients. For more information please contact the office for a consultation.

Breast Health

Screening mammograms start at the age of 35, and in our opinion once patients start having mammograms they should have them on a yearly basis. If a patient has a strong family history of breast cancer the screening age will be lowered accordingly.

If a lump is felt by a patient in self exam we will recommend a diagnostic mammogram and breast ultrasound---both performed at reputable radiologic settings.

A breast ultrasound is an adjunct to the mammogram and the self breast exam and physical exam. The ultrasound will detect breast cysts easily and can help in diagnosis and treatment of the patient with a breast lump.

Laboratory Exam

Lab work and hormone testing is also part of the routine exam. If patients suffer from hormonal imbalance, weight fluctuation, moodiness, hair loss, memory loss---we will recommend evaluation of the ovarian hormones, as well as other hormone testing including thyroid profile and testosterone levels. All results are discussed with the patients and treatment options are reviewed.

If necessary - laboratory testing will be recommended by the physicians or the nurse parishioners after your physical examination. Stool testing is recommended for all patients over the age of 40 - this is to rule out colon polyps or colon cancer.

Products

For your convenience we have vitamins available in our office.

Vitamins

• Antioxidants - combination of vitamins A, C, E and selenium. These are the vitamins that boost the immune system.
• B Complex - combination of all B vitamins. These vitamins affect all aspects of our health.
• Prenatal Vitamins - chewable and non-chewable are available
• L-lysine - an aminoglycoside that helps boost the immune system
• Folic Acid - Is a B vitamin, folic acid before and during pregnancy can help prevent major birth defects.
• Kava Kava - an herbal formulary that helps some women with mood swings
• Soy Isoflavones-a natural and plant derived supplementation of isoflavones/natural estrogens. These supplements can help with menopausal symptoms and hot flashes.
• Ginger - Helps with nausea and upset stomach.
• Hair, Skin & Nails- A unique combination of several key vitamins that will support the health of hair, skin and nails.
• Hormone Balance for Women - For healthy hormone balance and hot flashes.
• Vitamin D- Aids in the absorption of calcium, helping to form and maintain strong bones.

Hormonal Supplementations

Our practice is now offering three different products for decreased libido. These products contain testosterone in different dosages.

• Testosterone is a hormone that will increase libido in women. It also has the added advantage of increasing energy and improving moods and hot flashes.
• Testosterone Cream---testosterone in a cream based application
• Testosterone injections---small doses of injectable natural testosterone is available for injecting every 2-4 weeks as needed.
• Testosterone Pellets---natural testosterone pellets which last for 2-3 months are available for insertion under the skin.

Talk to you healthcare provider in our office for the product that best suites you.

Maternity Belts

For your convenience we also have maternity belts. These belts are helpful to alleviate pressure in the pelvic area. These belts will have to be fitted for you by one of the nursing staff.

Brochures / Material

Also available in the office are a number of health related brochures and educational materials.

© 2007 - 2009 Armity A. Simon, M.D. Obstetrics and Gynecology

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