Women’s Health & Wellness

Breast Health

All women 20 years of age and older should perform breast self-exam (BSE) each month, two to three days after your period, or on the same date each month if you no longer have periods. Monthly BSE helps you learn the way your breasts normally look and feel and allows you to notice changes. If you should find a lump or thickening in or near your breast or under your arm, a change in the size or shape of your breasts, a discharge from your nipple that occurs without squeezing or a change in the color or feel of the skin on your breasts, areola or nipple (dimpled, puckered or scaly), this should be reported to your health care provider for further examination. A clinical breast exam by an experienced physician should be a part of every yearly health exam for women 20 years of age and older.

Fertility

Infertility is defined as failure to achieve pregnancy within 12 months of unprotected intercourse or therapeutic donor insemination in women younger than 35 years or within 6 months in women older than 35 years. It affects up to 15% of couples.

An initial fertility workup should include a comprehensive review of the medical history, physical examination, and additional focused testing for both partners. For the female partner, tests will focus on ovarian reserve, ovulatory function, and structural abnormalities. Imaging of the reproductive organs provides valuable information on conditions that affect fertility. Imaging modalities can detect tubal patency, pelvic pathology and assess ovarian reserve. Men should have semen analysis performed as well.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder common among women of reproductive age. Women with PCOS may have infrequent or prolonged menstrual periods or excess male hormone (androgen) levels. The ovaries may develop numerous small collections of fluid (follicles) and fail to regularly release eggs.The exact cause of PCOS is unknown. Early diagnosis and treatment along with weight loss may reduce the risk of long-term complications such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

FIBROIDS

Uterine leiomyomata, or fibroids, are very common, affecting approximately 70% of women at some point in their lives. However, many cases go undiagnosed, increasing the probable incidence. In general, genetics and ovarian hormone exposure are the known antecedents for the development of fibroids. The heavy bleeding associated with fibroids can cause anemia, fatigue, and pain. Women with uterine fibroids report a decreased quality of life, difficulty getting diagnosed, and concerns about available treatment options. Often, women with fibroids want to avoid hysterectomy and seek alternative for which there are many now. However, in the US, uterine fibroids are the top indication for hysterectomy.

ENDOMETRIOSIS

Endometriosis is a condition when the tissue that normally lines the inside of the womb (the endometrium) is found in other places in the body, for example in the fallopian tubes or ovaries. Sometimes endometrial tissue can be found in more distant locations such as the intestines, lungs or joints. 

During a normal menstrual cycle, hormonal changes cause the endometrial tissue to shed, and it exits the body through the vagina. In endometriosis, the misplaced endometrial tissue is also affected by these hormonal changes. It too starts to break down and bleed, but there is no exit route for the old tissue to leave the body. This leads to irritation, inflammation and pain as the immune system tries to clear the misplaced tissue. The main symptoms of endometriosis include very painful or heavy menstruation, pain during sex, bloating, lower back pain, bowel changes especially around menstruation, infertility.

PERIMENOPAUSE

Perimenopause refers to the time period that begins when the ovaries begin to decline in function. It continues until menopause, which is defined as the total cessation of menstrual flow for an entire year. Many women think of perimenopause as a “change of life” or “transition period.”  During this transition period, hormones can wildly fluctuate and may cause serious distress. Before you move forward in seeking relief for your perimenopause symptoms, it is important to acknowledge a number of facts about this stage in your life.

Symptoms of perimenopause can begin as early as 10 to 15 years before menses completely stops. Women in their late 30’s, 40’s and early 50’s may transition in and out of a perimenopausal state many times before they finally enter menopause. If you are currently experiencing symptoms such as irregular periods, heavy bleeding, hot flashes, sleep disruption, headaches and weight gain – or any other extreme emotional distress, you may be relieved to know that these are all common signs of perimenopause

Female Sexual Wellness

Changes in sexual desire, performance, and behavior are all natural occurrences that both men and women can face. Concerns regarding sexual health can surface for women of all ages and contribute to distress and embarrassment.  Women may struggle with symptoms such as low libido or poor arousal, vaginal dryness or decreased lubrication, painful intercourse, or even urinary incontinence which leaves them avoiding intercourse altogether. Not only can these issues be frustrating, but they can also hinder intimate relationships. If you find yourself struggling with symptoms such as these, it may be time to make your feminine and sexual health a priority. 

Research shows a wholistic approach including integrative, functional, and regenerative practices provides the best results. This approach coupled with state-of-the-art regenerative procedures may even eliminate the need for some common over the counter or prescription medications taken today. Sexual wellness support may combine dietary and lifestyle changes, supplementation, herbal support, and professional grade medications and products to address and support the specific needs of each woman.  

Don’t let these issues continue to stand in the way of the best experience for you and your partner. It’s time to treat your sexual health with the same amount of concern as you do the rest of your body. Reawaken your sex drive and talk to us today about the benefits of a sexual wellness evaluation. This would begin with a consultation with a member of our team where we will perform a comprehensive evaluation of your health concerns which may include comprehensive hormone and functional lab testing .

Devices to assist the healing process and Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy may be indicated. Only when your body is healthy and functioning at its optimal level can you truly begin to heal. From there, we’ll discuss the options available at Willowbend Health and Wellness to further promote optimal function.

Female Sexual Wellness Options include:

• Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement
• FEM Shot (Female Erogenous Maintenance Shot)
• LadyLift Laser Treatment
• Low Libido and Arousal treatment
• Custom Compounded Pharmaceuticals

Is it time to make your feminine and sexual health a priority?

How do I learn more? Schedule a Free Discovery call appointment with one of our Providers at Willowbend Health and Wellness to get your questions answered or call 469-361-4000.