Routine Gynecologic Care

Every woman should make a regular GYN wellness screening a part of their lifelong healthcare regimen. Annual GYN wellness screenings help women and their doctors detect health problems before they become serious or even deadly. How frequently a woman should have one and what the wellness screening exam entails depends on the woman’s age and her unique health profile.

Initial GYN Wellness Screening For Young Women Ages 13 To 15

Beginning around the onset of puberty and before a teenage girl becomes sexually active, she should have her first GYN wellness exam with a gynecologist. At this age, the gynecologist will become familiar with the patient’s overall medical history.

The gynecologist will ask about the onset of the patient’s menstrual cycle and determine her body mass index (BMI). The doctor will also check the patient’s height, weight and blood pressure. Shet likely will be screened for signs of the following conditions:

• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Obesity
• Eating disorders
• Physical, sexual or emotional abuse
• Learning or behavioral disorders
• Substance abuse
• Depression
• Sexual activity

This first wellness examination does not include a pelvic examination unless the patient has become sexually active. In those cases, the gynecologist will examine her for sexually transmitted diseases and treat any that may be present. In somecases, the patient will be vaccinated for HPV.

The gynecologist will also provide guidance about safe sex practices, contraceptives and the importance of annual wellness screenings and other preventive health services.

Annual GYN Wellness Screening For Sexually Active Teens & Women Ages 19 Through 39

Once a woman becomes sexually active or reaches the age of 19, the wellness exam includes additional procedures and tests. Women in this group are interested in reproductive health, including options for contraception, fertility and cancer screening.

These examinations should also include screenings for other health conditions that the primary care provider may have overlooked (for example,obesity, diabetes, hypertension and a variety of autoimmune diseases).

Specifically, the annual wellness exams for women over age 21 include pelvic exams and pap smears. These are key to early detection and treatment of a number of reproductive and pelvic health issues. Breast examinations begin once a woman reaches the age of 25.

Also, during the wellness exam for women in this age group, the gynecologist will examine the patient for common health conditions that can become very serious if left untreated, such as:

• Cancer, particularly breast, cervical and ovarian
• Endometriosis
• Fibroids
• Pelvic infections
• Vaginitis
• Sexually transmitted diseases
• Pelvic inflammatory disease
• Injuries caused by physical or sexual abuse

Annual GYN Wellness Screening For Women Ages 40 Through 64

Women in this group will begin experiencing changes in hormonal levels as they enter perimenopause and then menopause. The wellness examination includes many of the screenings previously mentioned, but for most patients in this age group, the examination will focus less on the patient’s fertility and more on health issues associated with the aging process.

New screenings will evaluate the patient’s hormone levels and overall wellness. Women can expect the wellness exam to screen for a wider range of health issues like:

• Bone density
• Mammogram
• Colorectal disorders, including cancer
• Diabetes
• Hypertension
• Cholesterol and triglyceride levels

Annual Wellness Examinations For Women Age 65 & Older

As women age, they may think it is not necessary to see their gynecologist regularly. In fact, it is important for older women to continue with their annual GYN wellness exams to ensure healthy aging.

The gynecologist will provide women with information about preventing diseases that commonly affect aging patients, such as cardiovascular disease and depression. The doctor will evaluate the patient, refer her to a specialist if needed and monitor for a range of health issues, including:

• Chronic respiratory disease
• Skin cancer
• Alzheimer’s disease and dementia
• Hypertriglyceridemia
• Obesity
• Osteoporosis and osteopenia
• Injuries caused by accidents or falls

What Else Should You Expect During A GYN Wellness Screening?

No matter your age, during a GYN wellness exam, you will be asked questions about your lifestyle, overall health and medical history. You should answer these questions as honestly as possible to receive the best care. Your conversations with your health care provider are confidential and cannot be disclosed to anyone without your consent.

Rest assured that conversations with your doctor or anyone in the doctor’s practice will remain private. Please speak openly about your alcohol or drug use (whether legal or otherwise), smoking, symptoms, infections and any other issue that could affect your health.

Contact The Women’s Health Experts For More Information

The health experts at Raleigh Gynecology and Wellness specialize in women’s health. They are available to help you with your questions or talk to you about any health issues you may be experiencing. Contact them for more information and to schedule an appointment.

Routinebreast care is essential to maintaining healthy breasts and discovering breast cancer as early as possible. The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends that all women get to know their breasts and how they normally look and feel.

Performing regular breast care allows women to more easily spot changes to the breasts, such as lumps, swelling, leaky fluid, skin redness, dimpling or nipple problems. In addition to clinical breast exams (CBEs) which are recommended between the ages of 25 and 39, as well as mammograms for average risk women between the ages of 40and 74, women also should perform breast self-exams (BSEs) at home.

Preventative care is critical for maintaining good breast health and may help to decrease the risk of breast cancer. Here are ways that women can care for their breasts and maintain overall optimal health at home.

1. Eat a Healthy Diet

Maintaining a healthy diet is not only important for weight management, but also for the well-being of your breasts. Too many processed sugars and simple carbohydrates in a diet create acidity and inflammation in the body. For good health and wellness, women should eat a well-balanced diet of lean meats, fresh fruits and vegetables, healthy fats and plenty of essential fatty acids. Organic foods are often recommended as nonorganic foods often contain harmful chemicals.

2. Exercise Regularly

Exercise is also important for good breast health. Fat cells can produce estrogen. High Levels of estrogen have been linked to certain types of cancers, including breast cancer. Exercising regularly helps shrink the size of fat cells, essentially causing the body to make less estrogen. Women should engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise per week, according to the ACS. Cardio, such as running or bike riding, is one of the best exercises for shrinking fat cells.

3. Moisturize the Skin

The breasts are covered in thin, sensitive skin that requires ample hydration. Moisturizing the skin on and around the breasts will help prevent dryness and keep the breasts soft and supple. Avoid lotions or creams that contain irritating chemicals that may cause soreness or rashes on the chest area. If the skin does react to a chemical in a moisturizer, discontinue using it and speak with a healthcare provider about safely treating the rash.

4. Provide Support

It is common for breasts to sag over time because of pregnancy, breastfeeding, genetics and age. However, failure to give the breasts the support they need often leads to premature sagging and stretching of the skin. To prevent breast tissue from stretching in a downward direction, wear properly fitted bras. About 80 percent of women wear the wrong size bra, according to Harper’s BAZAAR. Consider getting measured for a proper bra fit at least once a year.

5. Minimize Alcohol Consumption

While the occasional alcoholic beverage may be an enjoyable stress reducer, it is important to keep alcohol consumption to a minimum level for health purposes. According to a study published in the British Medical Journal, women who had three alcoholic drinks per week had a 15 percent higher risk of developing breast cancer than nondrinkers. The risk of developing breast cancer increases an additional 10 percent for each extra drink that a woman has each day.

6. Massage the Breasts

Routinely massaging the breasts helps keep the tissues strong and healthy. The breasts are surrounded by lymph nodes that are responsible for carrying lymph (fluid) that helps fight off disease. The body’s lymphatic system uses the movement of the body to keep this fluid moving. Massaging the breasts help push the lymph in the right direction. Breast massage is also a great stress reliever and may cultivate positive body awareness.

7. Breastfeed as Long as Possible

Breastfeeding is not right for every woman, but for those who decide to breastfeed, consider extending this practice as long as possible. According to research conducted by epidemiologist Sir Richard Doll that compared breast cancer rates among thousands of women, the chance of developing breast cancer was significantly reduced in those who breastfed.

8. Know Your Family History

Genetics play a strong role in breast cancer risks. A history of ovarian or breast cancers on either side of a woman’s family sometimes increases the risk of developing breast cancer.

Those who have a family history of breast cancer should consider undergoing genetic testing to determine if they carry the “BReast Cancer gene” (BRCA) mutation. BRCA1 and BRCA2 are types of genes that may impact a person’s risk of developing breast cancer.

Contact Raleigh Gynecology for More Information

Breast care is important for women of all ages. To learn more about ways to take care of your breasts or to schedule a checkup, contact the healthcare professionals at Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness, PA.

Mammograms are often recommended to women ages 40 or older. From 45 to 54, it is advised that women get a mammogram once a year, according to the American Cancer Society.
Screening mammograms are highly effective at detecting breast cancer early.

A mammogram can generally find lumps two to three years before they can be felt. Based on data published by the National Cancer Institute, breast cancer deaths in women have dropped 43 percent since regular mammography use began in the 1980s.

What Is A Mammogram?

A mammogram is a type of low-dose x-ray that enables radiologists to identify changes in a woman’s breast tissue. This specialized medical imaging equipment is typically used to check for breast cancer in women who have no outward signs or symptoms of cancer. It can also be used as a diagnostic tool on women who have discovered a lump or other signs of breast cancer.

The two main types of mammograms include:

• Screening Mammogram – To detect breast changes, this is the most common type of mammogram. This routine procedure is normally performed every one to two years in women over 40 who have experienced no breast abnormalities. The main goal of a screening mammogram is to detect breast cancer before any clinical signs are noticeable.
• Diagnostic Mammogram – A diagnostic mammogram may be recommended if a woman or health provider discovers a suspicious breast change, such as a lump, unusual skin, breast pain, nipple discharge or nipple thickening. This type of mammogram is used for diagnostic purposes or to further evaluate abnormalities found on a screening mammogram. During a diagnostic mammogram, more images are taken than what is normal with a screening mammogram.

What Happens During A Mammogram?

The average mammogram takes about 20 minutes and is performed by a qualified professional. If possible, a patient should bring their old images to the appointment or grant the health care provider access to these images from the prior provider. This allows the new provider to compare old and new results which can help diminish the risk of false negative or false positive readings.

Do not apply lotion, powder or deodorant prior to a mammogram appointment, but do wear a loose top and bra that are easily removed. Before the screening, the health care provider will usually have the patient put on a front-opening gown. The patient stands facing an x-ray machine, and puts one breast on a platform. The technician releases a plate that presses down the breast. Once images of the first breast are taken, then images of the other breast occur.

The breast is flattened to spread out the tissue, making it easier to spot tumors or other signs of breast cancer. Although this process can be uncomfortable, it lasts just a few seconds. It is normal to experience some soreness following a mammogram. The technician should be notified if severe pain is felt. Good technicians will take their time to minimize pain during the procedure.

After the mammogram is completed, the technician will review the x-rays to ensure that the results are satisfactory, and that no further images are needed. Remember that technicians do not look for signs of cancer.

Instead, the images are transferred to a radiologist who reads the results. The amount of time it takes for a radiologist to read the x-rays and get results can vary from a few days to a month. Mammograms are usually performed while the patient is in a standing position.

It is important not to move during the procedure as any movement can cause the images to blur. The technician will ask the patient to hold her breath for several seconds while the image is taken. If a patient is prone to fainting during medical procedures, a provider may recommend that the patient sit in a chair during the mammogram.

If the results of a mammogram are found to be abnormal, the health care provider will recommend further testing. Abnormal results do not necessarily mean cancer, but more tests are most often needed to make that diagnosis. For diagnostic purposes, a health care provider may recommend a biopsy, core-needle biopsy, ultrasound or a diagnostic mammogram.

Schedule A Mammogram

A mammogram is one of the best tools for detecting breast cancer during its early stages. Each year, mammograms save countless lives, especially when women remember to schedule regular appointments.

It is normal for patients who have never had a mammogram to feel anxious, but knowing what to expect helps diminish any worries or fears. For more information about what to expect from a mammogram or to schedule a mammogram appointment, reach out to the professionals at Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness.

A nurse practitioner (NP) basic role in a GYN practice is much the same as an NP in other specialties: providing health care management to their patients, fostering and educating patients about disease prevention, and promoting overall good health practices.

As a GYN specialist in a practice like Raleigh Gynecology and Wellness, the NP is an essential member of the health care team that focuses on female sexual and reproductive health. Read more to learn what a GYN NP does every day.

Overall Responsibilities of the GYN NP

The GYN NP helps deliver primary health care to women beginning at adolescence and continuing through childbearing to advanced age.

The NP’s duties depend very much on where the NP works, but at Raleigh Gynecology and Wellness, the NP performs a panoply of tasks integral to delivering quality care.

On any given day, the NP may be responsible for conducting annual screenings, giving immunizations, counseling patients on preventative care, family planning, fertility, and urogynecology, treating episodic or chronic illnesses and sexually transmitted diseases. As part of those responsibilities, the NP may need to:

• Review the patient’s health history.
• Take blood pressure and check other vital signs.
• Perform physical exams such as pelvic exams and breast exams.
• Order laboratory tests and procedures such as ultrasounds, mammograms, and breast biopsies.
• Make simple diagnoses.
• Prescribe medication (in some states, the NP is permitted to prescribe medication without the attending doctor’s oversight), such as birth control pills or antibiotics.
• Make referrals.
• Perform certain procedures, such as inserting a contraceptive implant or taking a tissue sample.
• Maintain patient records.
• Educate and counsel a patient about healthy lifestyle behavior.
• Manage nursing staff.

Patient Profile

Almost all of the patients of a GYN NP are female in all stages of life. At Raleigh Gynecology and Wellness, the NP will have patients following a well-woman care regimen, seeking contraceptive options, inquiring about fertility and family planning, and seeking treatment for pelvic disease or sexually transmitted disease.

NP’s Typical Daily Schedule at the Clinic

By the time an NP joins Raleigh Gynecology and Wellness, the NP has become accustomed to the demands and rigors of the job through the GYN nurse educational experience.

The requirements to become a GYN NP include earning a nursing degree, earning a master’s degree in nursing, passing the testing necessary to obtain a nurse license and then gaining enough practical experience.

On any given day, an NP at Raleigh Gynecology and Wellness can expect the schedule to look something like this:

Upon Arrival in the Morning until First Appointments Begin: Review patient materials needing attention – lab results, mammogram results, prescription refills, patient messages and physician feedback. Follow up on each item as appropriate.

Patient Appointments until Noon: Patient appointments can involve well-woman care, contraceptive consultations, conduct ultrasounds, IUD fittings, and so forth.

Noon to Early Afternoon: NP again reviews patient materials and messages that have come in during the morning hours and follow up as appropriate. Follow-ups may consist of consulting with the doctor about more complex matters.

Early Afternoon to Early Evening: Patient appointments resume.

Early Evening to Closing: Before the NP’s day is complete, the NP will review any patient materials that came in during the afternoon and tend to any urgent matter.

The NP often has a scheduled lunch break, but it usually lasts no more than 30 minutes. On some days, the NP will also have to budget time to participate in office meetings and conferences necessary for the efficient administration of the practice.

On those days, the NP may have to arrive earlier than usual, stay later than usual, or rearrange the schedule to handle those duties.

It is clear from the typical schedule that the GYN NP’s day can be lengthy and exhausting. However, the quality of care delivered by Raleigh Gynecology and Wellness is only possible with the dedication and compassion of their talented NPs.

Other Professional Responsibilities

The GYN NP has to make time to fulfill professional obligations pertaining to continuing education. Additional specialty education for GYN nurses consists of attending professional conferences and presentations sponsored by various professional nursing organizations. 

Those organizations offer various educational courses during their conferences with instructor-led sessions, and many maintain an online learning center.

Contact the Professionals at Raleigh Gynecology and Wellness for More Information about Women’s Reproductive Health

The Nurse Practitioners at Raleigh Gynecology and Wellness are a vital part of the quality women’s health services that the practice is so proud to offer.

Their patients are comfortable being treated by our GYN NPs for any women’s health issue.

Getting health care gives the patients privacy and the sense of security that they are seeing a women’s health specialist for their care.

The women’s health office at Raleigh Gynecology and Wellness is equipped with all of the necessary supplies and other equipment needed to provide top-notch women’s health care.

They are available to answer your questions about any aspect of women’s health and to schedule an appointment for you.

Taking good care of your breasts involves keeping up with routine breast exams. By incorporating regular breast exams into your health regimen, you will be better able to recognize problems developing at an early stage and improve your chances of having a long and healthy life.

Breast Examinations and Their Benefits

Regular breast examinations are the best way to detect changes in your breasts that could be signs of a serious health problem. As the years go by, your breasts will change. These changes are common. Many times, the changes are consistent with hormonal changes that occur with normal aging. The good news is that most of the changes you notice in your breasts are hormonal and not caused by cancer.

Regular examination will help you notice when something has changed in your breasts. Regular examinations enable you to detect any change at its earliest stage. Early detection allows your health care provider to diagnose the issue and develop appropriate testing and treatment protocols.

If the diagnosis is breast cancer, your doctor can treat it before it becomes life-threatening. In short, good breast care through regular examinations can be life-saving.

Routine Breast Examinations

There are several types of routine breast examinations. They include:

Self-Examination

Many women who have had breast cancer reported that the first sign of their breast cancer was a new breast lump that they discovered during a self-examination. Self-examination is important because it helps you improve your breast awareness so that you understand what is normal and better able to detect changes in them.

When performing a self-examination of your breasts, you should do a visual inspection for changes in how they look, and use your hands to determine any changes to the way they feel. Make sure to do your self-examination at a time when you are not having your period. Your hormone levels fluctuate during your menstrual cycle, which can cause your breasts to become tender and the tissues to swell. A good time to perform a self-exam is the week after the end of your period.

If you do notice anything new, you should discuss it with your doctor. Again, changes are common and most of them are not cancer. However, the changes could be an infection or skin condition that needs medical treatment. In particular, you should promptly see your doctor if you notice any of the following conditions:

• A hard lump in one or both of your breasts, even if it is very small
• Unusual or unexplainable pain, warmth, swelling, or tenderness.
• Fluid leaking or discharge from a nipple
• One of your nipples appears to be pulling inward instead of poking out
• The skin of one of your breasts is turning red, dimpling, or puckering

Screening Mammogram

A mammogram is a special x-ray of your breasts. A mammogram can detect problems in your breasts and cancer before you can feel a cancerous lump. A screening mammogram can provide your doctor with a baseline of what is normal for your breasts. After that, the frequency of a screening mammogram depends on your age and health profile. Your doctor can advise you on how often you should have a screening mammogram for optimal breast care.

Special Examinations

If a mammogram has detected an abnormality in your breasts, your doctor will recommend that you get a more detailed examination. It is important for your health that you follow through with the additional testing to properly diagnose the abnormality. There are a number of tests that your doctor may order for you. These include.

Diagnostic Mammogram

During a diagnostic mammogram, the technologist will take several detailed images of the suspicious area as directed by the radiologist. The detailed images will help in the evaluation of your screening mammogram.

Breast Ultrasound

Frequently, an ultrasound will be performed along with a diagnostic mammogram to evaluate the suspicious area identified in your screening mammogram. It is a painless procedure that uses sound waves to make images of the inside of your breast. It is used to help determine if a lump in your breast is a benign cyst or a solid mass and to pinpoint the position of a tumor.

An ultrasound is also a good breast health test for women whose breast tissue is too dense for a mammogram, pregnant women, and women younger than 25 years old.

Biopsy

A biopsy is an out-patient procedure where your doctor uses a small needle to take tissue from part of your breast. The tissue is evaluated under a microscope. A biopsy is the only way to know for sure if the tissue is cancerous.

Follow Up

Sometimes, the doctor will recommend follow up testing every three or six months to make sure there are no abnormal changes occurring in your breasts. By closely monitoring your breast health, your doctor will be able to quickly treat any problems that develop in between your regular mammograms. Early treatment is imperative to your overall health.

Contact the Breast Care Experts At Raleigh Gynecology and Wellness

Good breast care is an important aspect of good health care overall for women. Consult with the women’s health experts at Raleigh Gynecology and Wellness for more information about breast health and schedule an appointment.