Genetic testing is when a blood test is given to prospective or expecting parents to look for abnormal genes that can lead to certain diseases in their baby. Who Should Get Genetic Testing? Genetic testing is offered to everyone. There are ethnic backgrounds that can be at a higher risk for certain disorders such as […]
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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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Whether you are going to the OBGYN for the first time, or have been going for many years, it can be uncomfortable to share private information about your body with your gynecologist. Like you, we are women too, so we have been in your shoes. We have put together a guide of five things you […]
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After childbirth, it’s normal to feel postpartum effects. Taking care of your baby is important but so is taking care of yourself; your baby needs you to be healthy in order to take care of them. Postpartum Effects on a Woman’s Body If you ignore your postpartum symptoms, your health could be at great risk […]
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To have a healthy birth, it’s important to begin a healthy lifestyle for your baby from the womb. Prenatal care involves regular obstetrician (OB) visits, following a healthy diet, and living in a clean environment. Why Prenatal Care is Important for You and Your Baby’s Health The first step of pregnancy is being tested by […]
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When a woman’s uterus needs to be removed because of fibroid tumors, heavy bleeding, cancer or other uterine issues, a hysterectomy can be an option to treat the condition by removing the uterus. Because the uterus is removed surgically, the patient can expect to require 2-8 weeks to recover depending on the type of hysterectomy. […]
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If you’re thinking about having a baby or have already started trying, you may benefit from preconception care and counseling to ensure your body is ready for pregnancy, identify possible risk factors, and learn the steps to having a healthy pregnancy. When should you get preconception care? You can get a preconception checkup any time—even […]
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Menopause is a natural biological process for women. While most women believe menopause occurs in their early 50s, its symptoms can start at least 10 years earlier. Some women pass through the change of life with minimum disruption and discomfort. For others, symptoms can be severe and debilitating. Fortunately, there are many effective treatments available […]
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In 2019, the American Cancer Society estimates that doctors will diagnose over 13,000 cases of invasive cervical cancer. The majority of cervical cancer cases are caused by a sexually transmitted virus called human papillomavirus (HPV), but other factors increase the risk of cervical cancer including HIV, history of smoking, chlamydia, being overweight, long-term use of […]
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Take your health into your own hands by following a healthy lifestyle to help prevent breast cancer from forming. Eating healthy, exercising, and not smoking are protective measures you can take to lower your risk of breast cancer. Unhealthy lifestyle choices can lead to risk factors that increase your likelihood of developing cancer. Not all […]
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The blessing of pregnancy may come with a whirlwind of emotions. You may be feeling excited, nervous, joyful, anxious, and a host of other emotions, all of which can be amplified by the news that it will be a high-risk obstetrical. At this point as a mommy-to-be, you are probably trying to learn as much as […]