Your Women's Health Questions, Answered

Many women experience pain and discomfort during their menstrual cycle. In fact, in a recent study about 80% of women reported mild to severe pain during their period. Your cycle’s symptoms may include cramps, back pain, depression, fatigue, and diarrhea.

Pain during your period is normal. But if the pain is so severe that it disrupts your ability to enjoy daily life or work, talk to your physician. You may be guided towards other treatments that can help – like prescription pain relievers or birth control – or you may need to be evaluated for conditions like endometriosis. What’s important is that you don’t suffer in silence.

The pap test – or pap smear – is a procedure that screens for cervical cancer. An HPV test looks for strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), a viral infection that often clears up without complications but in some cases can cause cervical and other cancers. Guidelines for these screenings may vary based on your health history, but in general:

• Age 21-29: Pap test alone every three years, or co-test with HPV test every five years after age 25
• Age 30-65: Pap test alone every three years, HPV test alone every five years, or co-test with pap and HPV every five years
• Age 65+: You may be able to cease cervical cancer screenings if you’ve never had cervical cancer or abnormal screening results, but this should be discussed with your doctor

You may need more frequent screenings based on a number of factors, including a weakened immune system or a history of cervical cancer. And remember that you should still see your family physician or gynecologist every year even if you’re not sexually active, and even if you’ve received the HPV vaccine. From pelvic and breast exams to discussions about your gynecologic health, these appointments are an important part of your healthcare.

There are a number of reasons women take birth control pills besides pregnancy prevention, like reducing period symptoms or as treatment for acne. But do they cause cancer? Birth control pills change your hormonal levels, which can affect your risk level for certain cancers. Studies have shown that in some cases there’s an increased risk of breast or cervical cancer. However, studies have also found that taking birth control pills can actually lower your risk for other types of cancer, like endometrial and ovarian cancer.

Now, there are situations where birth control pills may not be recommended. For example, women who smoke may experience complications. And it’s important to remember there are many different factors that affect your cancer risk, including family history, age, weight, nutrition, and exercise. But for many women, birth control pills can be used safely and effectively. Be sure to have an open conversation with your doctor about your medical history and lifestyle goals to discover what route is right for you.

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI). In many cases the infection goes away on its own, but in some cases it can cause several types of cancer. The HPV vaccine is recommended for both females and males.

Does the shot cause infertility? No. Studies have not found any links between the HPV vaccine and reproductive complications. HPV vaccination can actually help protect your fertility by reducing your risk of cervical cancer. Some treatments for cervical cancer – like radiation or removal of the cervix and uterus – can result in a woman being unable to get pregnant.

An intrauterine device (IUD) is a form of birth control that’s inserted into your uterus. It prevents pregnancy by preventing fertilization. IUDs can last for years and are more than 99% effective in preventing unintended pregnancy. If you decide that you would like to pursue pregnancy, the IUD can be removed by a healthcare professional. IUDs are safe to use while breastfeeding and do not affect fertility.

Many women can enjoy the benefits of IUDs safely. However, IUDs are not recommended in certain situations – for example, if you have certain types of cancer or if you’ve had a recent pelvic infection. If an IUD is not right for you, there are still a number of birth control options to consider.

Menopause is a natural part of aging that every woman experiences. Symptoms associated with menopause can include night sweats, hot flashes, brain fog, and changes in mood. Some women don’t experience menopause symptoms, or only mild ones. For others, lifestyle changes like limiting alcohol or exercising more can bring relief.

There are a number of treatments to help ease menopause symptoms, but usually when women ask this question they’re referring to hormone replacement therapy (HRT). HRTs help provide hormonal balance during menopause, and they come in many forms, including pills, patches, injections, and creams.

As with any medication, HRT is not for everyone and may include risks of health complications. For example, HRT is not recommended for women who have had certain types of cancers or have a history of stroke or heart attack. But recent research has shown that for many women in their 40s and 50s, the risks of HRT are relatively low. Every patient is unique. Your provider can help guide you towards the menopause treatment that’s right for you.

Very. Pelvic floor disorders come in many forms and can cause many different symptoms, like trouble controlling your bowel movements, pain during sex, or pressure in your vagina (also known as a prolapse). Their cause varies, from pregnancy or menopause to injuries from car accidents or falls.

While these types of symptoms may not be the most comfortable to talk about, there’s no reason to feel embarrassed. There are a number of treatments for pelvic floor disorders, including medication, physical therapy, nerve injections, and surgery. Don’t let pelvic floor disorders keep you from being social or enjoying intimacy. We’ll work with you to form a diagnosis and a treatment plan.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) and yeast infections are the pits. They can show up with similar symptoms – like discomfort while urinating – but their causes differ. UTIs are caused by bacterial infections in your urinary tract, while yeast infections occur when there’s an overgrowth of a type of fungus that lives naturally in your body.

There are various factors that can increase your risk for UTIs and yeast infections, like age, pregnancy, or a weakened immune system. It’s important to treat your infection with medication prescribed by your doctor, so the infection is thoroughly cleared. If infections keep coming back, schedule an appointment with your provider. This can be a sign of a separate condition, or you may be consulted on lifestyle changes that can help.

The flu shot, Tdap, COVID-19, and RSV vaccines are all recommended for pregnant women. In fact, these shots can help safeguard your growing little one, too. Infants are high risk for respiratory illnesses, and getting vaccinated while pregnant can help boost their protection.

Depending on the immunization, there are certain times of the year or certain stages of pregnancy when the shots are recommended. There are also other vaccines that are best to schedule outside of pregnancy. If you’re expecting or planning for pregnancy, connect with your doctor to create a thoughtful vaccination schedule.

Breast cancer screenings are a critical step in early cancer detection. Mammograms are a type of X-ray. They do emit radiation, but it’s a small amount. Your imaging tech can provide a lead shield to place over your belly for extra protection. Ultrasounds, which do not emit radiation, may also be a helpful option.

If you’re pregnant or think you might be, talk to your doctor about what imaging test is best for you. Just remember it’s important to stay diligent with your yearly screenings!