Skyla, Kyleena, Mirena, Liletta, and Paragard are the choices if you are considering an intrauterine device (IUD) for birth control. The IUD is over 99% effective in preventing pregnancy and can be left anywhere from 3-10 years, varying by the brand. A common side effect of a progesterone-containing IUD is lighter but more irregular bleeding for the first few months (Skyla, Kyleena, Mirena, and Liletta). A common side effect of the copper IUD (paragard) is increased bleeding.Skyla, Kyleena, Mirena, Liletta, and Paragard are the choices if you are considering an intrauterine device (IUD) for birth control. The IUD is over 99% effective in preventing pregnancy and can be left anywhere from 3-10 years, varying by the brand. A common side effect of a progesterone-containing IUD is lighter but more irregular bleeding for the first few months (Skyla, Kyleena, Mirena, and Liletta). A common side effect of the copper IUD (paragard) is increased bleeding.

Even though less than 5% of breast cancer cases in women are under age 40, all women should regularly check their breasts. When checking your breasts, you should look for lumps, bumps, and changes. This is the best breast cancer detection that leads to the best outcomes. Your gynecologist can show you the right way to perform a self-exam, and what to look for. And self-exams are easy to work into your self-care routine, such as during your daily shower.

Bladder leaks are common in women who have given birth as well as in women without children. If you notice leaking when you laugh, sneeze or exercise, know it’s not uncommon, and it’s not something you have to live with. There are exercises, pelvic floor physical therapy that can help. In refractory cases, your OBGYN can perform surgery to implant a sling to help prevent leakage.

When you’re sexually active, STIs are a real possibility. Many STIs are treatable. If you are under age 26 and sexually active then we recommend STI screening. If you have a new partner and there’s a chance you could have an STI, let your doctor know. They can recommend testing and treatment.

Persistent vaginal itching is abnormal. You may have a vaginal infection such as yeast, bacterial vaginosis, or even an STI. Diagnosis is made with vaginal cultures, so it’s always best to call your gynecologist.

If your partner is okay with getting physical during your period, you might be wondering if you should give the green light. For most people, there’s no medical reason you need to abstain.

As hormones rise just before a period begins, it’s common to feel moody. What isn’t normal is being unable to function, feeling depressed and hopeless. Or feeling so irritable that you snap. These symptoms can signal premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), which is treatable.

Libido can be affected by life stressors, strained relationships, depression, being postpartum, and medications. Physical and medical causes (such as hypothyroidism) can also impact your libido. Be sure to talk to your gynecologist about your sex drive, or lack thereof, so they can better understand and help.

Every woman has a different scent or pheromone. If the odor becomes “fishy” or is complicated by itching then you should certainly see your gynecologist.

Pregnancy health starts well before conception. It is important to be as healthy as possible prior to pregnancy. It starts with taking a daily prenatal vitamin. It is important to manage and optimize any chronic illness or diseases like hypertension or diabetes prior to pregnancy. It is important to stop smoking, cut back on alcohol, decrease caffeine intake, and maintain and healthy weight.

If you’re embarrassed about menstrual bleeding, don’t be! We are accustomed to vaginal bleeding. While menstrual blood may affect your pap smear let us be the judge. We know many times you have waited months to get in, and we don’t want you to have to wait longer. However, if you are having a procedure and on your period it is always best to call and check with the nurse first.

Discharge is normal. In fact, it changes throughout your monthly cycle. The discharge may become clear and stretchy during ovulation. The discharge will also increase in pregnancy due to changes in hormone levels.

Sex could be painful for any number of reasons. These reasons could include muscle spasms, ovarian cysts, endometriosis, vaginal atrophy, and more. If persistent, it is something that definitely warrants an exam and a discussion with your gynecologist.

A female at any age may see a gynecologist for concern or complication. This may include pelvic pain, vaginal discharge, heavy or irregular periods, or a need for birth control. Pap smears are not recommended prior to the age of 21.