Periods can vary greatly from woman to woman and over the course of a woman’s life. What is a normal period? Is there such a thing as a normal period? If you’re wondering if your menstrual cycle is normal, we have answers. Menstrual Cycle Overview The menstrual cycle is all about hormones and the process […]
Category: Gynecology
Blog
Please be advised that this blog is a purely informational public platform and in no way constitutes medical advice from the physicians and nurses at West Des Moines OBGYN.
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When it comes to breast health, most women immediately think of breast cancer. However, there are many other breast issues that can arise. Some of the most common breast problems include mastitis, injury, cysts, and fibrous tissue. Learning more about these issues can make them less scary if and when they occur. Mastitis Did you […]
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So many things can go wrong with the female anatomy, and urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most common — and annoying — conditions we can experience. The pain and inconvenience of a UTI affect at least half of all women sometime in their lives. In women over age 65, the rate of occurrence […]
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It’s time to talk about some sensitive issues—issues you may never have mentioned to anyone. Not your doctor, your best friend, or even your partner. It’s time to have a conversation about vaginal dryness and painful intercourse. Many women experience these issues but never talk about them. However, they should be addressed with your gynecologist. […]
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Women today have access to a wide range of birth control options. In fact, it can be a bit overwhelming. Do you want a hormone-free method? Is reliability more important to you than anything? Do you and your partner want a birth control method that can be started and stopped as you add to your […]
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The ovaries are two small organs that store eggs and produce hormones. As with any tissue in the body, cancer can form on the ovaries when abnormal cells begin to grow. Because of the position of the ovaries deep in the abdomen, there may be few noticeable symptoms of ovarian cancer, making it difficult to […]
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Dripping. Leaking. A little when you sneeze, cough, or laugh. Whatever you call it, the medical community calls it urinary incontinence, and it can be caused or aggravated by what you eat and drink, medications, urinary tract infections (UTI), pregnancy, menopause, or neurological disorders. Different types of incontinence can be either temporary or long-term, and […]
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As a natural part of the ovulation process, the ovaries release eggs, and fluid-filled sacs called ovarian cysts to form. Usually, these pockets of fluid cause a few mild symptoms that most women associate with their cycle. However, some types of ovarian cysts can be more serious, causing sudden, severe pain or make it difficult […]
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When it comes to birth control, we are fortunate to have many safe and effective choices. The IUD or intrauterine device is among the long-term birth control options because it gets inserted into the uterus. But is it right for you? Let’s explore the IUD birth control options so you can have a productive conversation […]
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If you have heavy periods that cramp your style, you may think you’re unlucky, but there may be a real medical reason for heavy flow, long periods, and painful cramps. The medical term for heavy or long menstrual periods is menorrhagia. Periods that are very heavy can also have further medical effects, such as anemia […]