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Gynecology

Gynecological Services

West Des Moines OB/GYN provides customized gynecology care for every stage of your life from adolescence through the post-menopausal years. We focus on your gynecological health and if needed, recommend gynecology procedures to enhance your lifestyle. Our services include but are not limited to the following:

Abnormal Uterine Bleeding (heavy or irregular bleeding)
Adolescent Gynecology
Annual Exams
Cervical Cancer Screening (pap smear and colposcopy)
Endometriosis/Adenomyosis
Fibroids
Genetic/Hereditary Cancer Testing
Menopause Management
Osteoporosis Screening
Ovarian Cysts and Masses
Pre-conceptual Counseling
Premenstrual Syndrome
Sexual Dysfunction
STD Testing & Treatment
Urinary Incontinence
Uterine Prolapse
Vaginitis
Vulvar Disease
3D/4D Ultrasound in house
MonaLisa Touch

Annual Exam

West Des Moines OB/GYN Associates provides annual exams to women seeking to maintain an overall healthy lifestyle. The primary focus of an annual exam is reproductive health, but other health indicators such as weight, blood pressure, nutrition, and exercise are also covered. It’s our goal to keep women up to date regarding immunizations, birth control options, or any other medical news pertaining to female health.

An annual exam at West Des Moines OB/GYN Associates may involve the following:

General health observation
Pap tests
Birth control discussion
STD testing
Menopause discussion

Long Term Reversible Contraception

We offer multiple reversible long-term birth control methods including implantation and intrauterine devices (IUD).

Paragard – Paragard is an IUD that is made of flexible plastic and copper in the shape of a “T”. It is over 99% effective and lasts up to 10 years. It is the only non-hormonal IUD available.
Mirena – Mirena is a progesterone releasing IUD. It is over 99% effective and lasts up to 5 years. It is FDA approved for both contraception and heavy menstrual periods.
Kyleena – Kyleena is a progesterone releasing IUD. It is over 99% effective and lasts up to 5 years. Kyleena is smaller than the Mirena IUD and contains a lower dose of progesterone.
Skyla – Skyla is a progesterone releasing IUD. It is over 99% effective and lasts up to 3 years. Skyla is smaller in size when compared with the Mirena IUD. Skyla also contains a lower dose of progesterone when compared with Mirena and Kyleena.
Liletta – Liletta is a progesterone releasing IUD. It is over 99% effective and lasts up to 3 years.
Nexplanon – Nexplanon is a progesterone implant that is placed just under the skin of the upper inner arm. It is 99% effective for up to 3 years.

Incontinence & Prolapse

Incontinence

Urinary incontinence is a loss of bladder control that can span from a slight loss of urine when coughing or laughing, to a total inability to control your bladder. It’s a common issue that can occur due to a number of reasons like the consumption of certain foods, age, childbirth, or menopause. Incontinence can be temporary or persistent, depending on what’s causing it. Temporary causes include constipation, a UTI, or spicy foods. Persistent causes range from pregnancy to obstruction.

You can decrease your risk by maintaining a healthy weight, pelvic floor exercises, and consuming more fiber. Speak with our team of women’s incontinence doctors if you have any questions or concerns regarding changes in your urination habits.

Uterine and Bladder Prolapse

Uterine prolapse happens when the pelvic floor muscles are stretched and weakened, and can’t provide enough support for the uterus. When this occurs, the uterus drops down into the vagina. In severe cases, it may even protrude out of it. Mild conditions typically can be treated by levels and pelvic floor exercises. More severe prolapse is typically corrected surgically or with the use of a pessary.

Symptoms may present as incontinence, tissue protruding from your vagina, or heaviness in your pelvis or low back. Risk factors for prolapse include pregnancy, difficult labor, obesity, and heavy lifting.

Bladder prolapse occurs when the bladder drops from the pelvis and pushes on the vaginal wall. This occurs when the pelvic floor is weakened or experiences too much pressure. Symptoms are akin to uterine prolapse, presenting as a feeling of fullness in your pelvis and vagina, pelvic pressure when straining, or difficulties with urination.

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