Routine Gynecologic Care

Menopause can bring several physical changes that directly impact intimacy. Vaginal dryness and thinning of vaginal walls, also known as vaginal atrophy or genitourinary syndrome of menopause, are common, often leading to irritation or discomfort during sex. This can result in a condition called dyspareunia, or painful intercourse, which understandably affects a woman’s desire to be intimate — reaching out to a menopause doctor sooner rather than later may be in your best interest.

In addition, sleep disturbances and fatigue caused by night sweats or hormonal imbalances can leave you feeling drained, both physically and emotionally. These symptoms are more than just inconveniences. They can create real barriers to connection, making it essential to seek support and treatment when needed.

Emotional and Relationship Dynamics

Changes in libido during menopause can affect more than just your body. They can also influence your relationships. A decrease in sexual desire may lead to misunderstandings, emotional distance, or tension between partners. Some women feel guilt or frustration over the shift, while others struggle with a sense of disconnection from their partner or themselves.

Open, honest communication is essential. Sharing what you’re experiencing can help your partner better understand and respond with empathy. Menopause is a shared experience in many relationships, and working through these changes together can strengthen emotional intimacy even when physical intimacy shifts.

Ways Couples Can Reclaim Intimacy

While menopause can bring challenges to your intimate life, there are effective ways to restore comfort and connection. Gynecological support options, such as hormone therapy, vaginal moisturizers, and lubricants, can ease physical symptoms and improve sexual comfort. Non-hormonal approaches support overall well-being and libido, such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and stress management.

For emotional or relational concerns, counseling or sex therapy can be incredibly beneficial. Most importantly, open conversations with your partner can strengthen your bond and expand the definition of intimacy beyond sex. With the right support, many women find new ways to feel close, confident, and fulfilled.

When to Seek Professional Help

If changes in your libido or intimacy are causing distress, discomfort, or affecting your relationship, it may be time to speak with your gynecologist or women’s health provider. Persistent vaginal dryness, pain during sex, ongoing fatigue, or emotional struggles related to intimacy are not issues you have to “just live with.” These are common concerns during menopause, and there are effective treatment options available.

Prioritizing your sexual health is an important part of your overall well-being. Reaching out to a knowledgeable provider can be the first step toward feeling like yourself again, physically, emotionally, and relationally.

Schedule Your Raleigh, NC Menopause Doctor Appointment

Menopause brings many changes that can impact your libido and intimate relationships, but it doesn’t have to mean the stop to a fulfilling sex life. With awareness, support, and the menopause doctor guidance, you can address physical and emotional challenges and rediscover connection and confidence.

If you’re experiencing these changes, know that help is available. Contact the women’s health professionals at Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward feeling your best at every stage of life.

When you’re finally ready to have a baby, you don’t want anything to slow that down. The speed at which a woman can conceive after stopping birth control varies, but not necessarily for the reasons you may think. A common belief is that prolonged use of birth control as part of your contraceptive care plan can affect your chances of getting pregnant. However, research suggests otherwise.

Let’s look at how the use of long-term birth control affects conception and what you can do if you’re struggling with fertility.

How Does Birth Control Work?

Before you can really understand the effect of birth control on fertility, you need to know how birth control works. Most types of birth control, such as birth control pills, are designed to interrupt the natural processes that result in pregnancy. While many types of contraceptives are on the market, the two most common varieties include:

• Estrogen-Progestin Contraceptives – These “combination” contraceptives perform several tasks. First, the estrogen inhibits ovulation by suppressing the production of follicle-stimulating hormones (FSH). Next, progestin thickens the mucus lining of the cervix to create an inhospitable environment for sperm.
• Progestin-Only Contraceptives – The next most common type of birth control is progestin-only contraceptives, also known as the “mini pill.” As the mini-pill does not contain estrogen, the ovaries are not impacted. Instead, only the cervix is affected to prevent sperm from reaching the eggs.

When taken as instructed, hormonal birth control is about 99 percent effective at preventing pregnancy. Common forms of hormonal birth control include birth control pills, IUDs, vaginal rings, Depo-Provera, implanted hormones, and hormonal patches.

Does Long-Term Use of Birth Control Affect Fertility?

A common misconception is that using birth control for an extended period of time can lead to infertility. However, many studies have shown that birth control does not have a lasting impact on fertility.

According to a study published in Contraception and Reproduction Medicine, 83.1 percent of women became pregnant within the first 12 months of stopping the use of contraception. The study concluded that contraceptive use, regardless of type or duration, does not have a negative impact on a woman’s ability to conceive.

While long-term use of birth control does not impact fertility, it could potentially mask irregularities in your menstrual cycle or symptoms that could indicate something is amiss with your reproductive system.

For example, birth control can mask PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) symptoms, such as irregular or heavy periods. It can also mask endometriosis, making it difficult to effectively diagnose the condition. Having said that, hormonal medications such as birth control pills are commonly used to manage and treat both PCOS and endometriosis, so one does not have to avoid hormonal contraception if they are concerned about having these conditions.

Other reproductive problems, such as irregular bleeding and uterine fibroids, may also go unnoticed until the discontinuation of birth control.

How Soon Can I Get Pregnant After Stopping Birth Control?

One of the most common questions that women have when wanting to get pregnant is how soon they’ll conceive after terminating contraception. The answer is not dependent on birth control use, but rather on the individual woman.

A systematic review found that pregnancy rates after discontinuation were comparable to women who had never used contraception, regardless of the type of contraceptive method previously used, although certain forms of birth control such as birth control pills and Depo Provera may create short delays before the return of ovulation

How Long Should I Wait for Contraception to Occur?

You can potentially get pregnant soon after stopping birth control, as fertility returns relatively quickly. Some women may experience irregular cycles initially, but many will conceive within one to three months, and most others will conceive within one year.

The easiest way to determine if you’re ovulating is to take an at-home ovulation test. These tests are designed to test your urine for levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), which typically rise about 24 to 36 hours prior to ovulation. Body temperature may also rise slightly around the time of ovulation.

Many different factors should be considered when determining your likelihood of pregnancy, such as your age, weight, and health history. However, if you’re under the age of 35, and you’ve been trying to get pregnant for more than one year with no success, then speaking with your doctor is a good idea. If you’re over age 35, let your doctor know after six months.

Trust Raleigh Gynecology and Wellness for Professional Contraceptive Care

Don’t let your fear of not getting pregnant in the future stop you from getting the contraceptive care you need now. At Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness, our all women team provides personalized and compassionate care and offers a variety of contraceptive methods to meet your individual needs and preferences, such as birth control pills, implants, and IUDs.

Contact our office today at (919) 525-3959 to learn more about your options or to schedule an appointment.

Many women experience a wave of anxiety and uncertainty when it’s time for their routine breast cancer screening. This is because for many of them, mammograms are associated with discomfort, exposure to radiation, and the worry of false positives. In search of less invasive options, some women are turning to thermography, or thermograms, as a possible alternative.

This infrared imaging technique promises a radiation-free, pain-free experience, which can sound appealing. But is it truly reliable? Find out the differences between thermography and mammography, review current medical evidence, and learn whether thermograms are a safe alternative to traditional breast cancer screenings.

What Is a Thermogram?

Thermography, also known as a thermogram, is a non-invasive imaging technique that uses an infrared camera to look at blood flow and heat patterns in the body. It does not involve any radiation or breast compression, which makes it an appealing option for women who want to avoid the discomfort of typical mammograms.

The idea behind thermography is that abnormal tissue, including cancer, may produce extra heat due to metabolic activity and increased blood flow. Some advocates promote it as a tool for early breast cancer detection. However, accepting what thermography can and cannot reliably detect is essential.

What Is a Mammogram?

A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray of the breast designed to detect abnormalities, such as calcifications, masses, or tissue distortions that may indicate breast cancer. It has been a cornerstone of breast cancer screening for decades and is strongly endorsed by major medical organizations including the American Cancer Society and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force.

While mammograms are widely regarded as effective, they do have limitations. Some women find the procedure uncomfortable or stressful, and it does involve a small amount of radiation.

In addition, mammograms can sometimes result in false positives or the need for follow-up imaging. Despite these drawbacks, mammograms remain the most reliable and proven method for early detection of breast cancer.

Thermograms vs. Mammograms: Evidence-Based Comparison

When it comes to breast cancer detection, mammograms remain the gold standard. The CDC maintains that for many women, mammograms are most accurate for identifying early-stage breast cancer.

They are particularly effective at identifying microcalcifications, which are small deposits of calcium that are sometimes an early sign of cancer, which thermograms cannot visualize. In contrast, peer-reviewed research has found that thermography has much lower sensitivity (ability to detect disease) and specificity (ability to rule out disease), making it far less reliable as a primary screening tool.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued multiple warnings stating that thermography should not be used as a substitute for mammograms. No major medical organization, including the American Cancer Society, the American College of Radiology, nor the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, endorses thermograms as a standalone method for breast cancer screening or diagnosis.

Some integrative or alternative health practitioners may offer thermography as a supplementary tool to monitor breast health. While it may provide additional context in certain situations, it should NOT be relied upon in place of a mammogram. For women concerned about radiation or discomfort, a thorough discussion with a trusted healthcare provider is important.

Why Some Women Prefer Thermograms

Many women are drawn to thermography because it offers a screening experience without radiation, compression, or discomfort, factors that can make mammograms feel intimidating or even traumatic. For those with a history of pain, anxiety, or a preference for holistic or “natural” approaches, thermograms may seem like a gentler alternative.

Personal values, past medical experiences, and even trauma can shape how a woman approaches her health decisions. These concerns are deeply valid. Every woman deserves access to compassionate, respectful care and clear, evidence-based information to help her make the choice that feels safest and most empowering for her.

Risks of Relying Solely on Thermograms

Relying only on thermography for breast cancer screening can lead to a false sense of security. Thermograms are unable to detect many types of tumors or identify internal changes like calcifications, which are often early signs of cancer. As a result, cancers may go undetected until they progress, reducing treatment options and potentially worsening outcomes.

Compassionate, Informed Screening Options

A patient-centric approach to women’s health recognizes that each individual has certain concerns, values, and experiences that shape their medical decisions.

Leading clinics aim to provide personalized care that respects these differences, offering space for open conversations about screening options.

For women who feel hesitant about mammography, whether due to discomfort, safety, or personal beliefs, healthcare providers offer supportive strategies to ease the process and address specific concerns.

Trust Raleigh with Your Breast Health

While thermograms may seem like a gentle alternative, current medical evidence makes it clear they are not a reliable substitute for mammograms. Early detection saves lives, and mammography remains the most effective diagnostic tool available today.

If you have concerns, questions, or simply want to learn about your options, we’re here to help. Contact Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness today to schedule your screening or speak to one of our providers about what screening strategy is right for you.

Breast cancer screening is an important part of a woman’s health, but if you have breast implants, you might have questions or concerns about how the process works for you. It’s completely normal to feel a little unsure of what to expect or if screenings are as effective in women with implants. The good news is that having implants doesn’t prevent you from getting accurate screenings. It simply means your care team may take a few extra steps to achieve the best results.

Find out how breast cancer screenings may differ with implants, why they’re important, and what to expect during your appointment.

Why Breast Cancer Screening Is Essential for All Women

Catching breast cancer early, often before symptoms develop, can make a drastic difference in treatment options and health outcomes. For most women, regular mammograms are recommended starting at age 40, although those with a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors may need to begin earlier.

Early detection can truly save lives. If you have breast implants, your screening needs are no different. Implants don’t reduce your risk of breast cancer, which means routine screening is just as important. Staying on schedule with your mammograms can provide assurance that your breast health is being monitored with the care and attention you deserve.

How Implants Affect Mammograms

Breast implants can sometimes make it more challenging to get a clear view of all breast tissue during a standard mammogram. As implants sit in front of or behind the chest muscles, they can obscure parts of the breast, making it harder to detect small abnormalities or changes. This doesn’t mean mammograms are not effective, but rather that a specialized approach is needed.

Skilled technicians use special imaging techniques, such as implant displacement views, to gently move the implant and capture additional angles of the breast tissue. These adjustments help make sure that as much tissue as possible is visible. With the right techniques and expertise, mammograms remain a safe and reliable tool for early detection.

Specialized Imaging Techniques

When performing a mammogram for someone with breast implants, radiologists often use a technique called implant displacement views, also known as the Eklund technique. This method involves gently pushing the implant back toward the chest wall while pushing the breast tissue forward, allowing for clearer images of the tissue that might otherwise be hidden.

As a result, more images are typically taken than during a standard mammogram, usually four views per breast instead of two. In addition to this technique, digital mammography and 3D mammograms offer even greater accuracy. These advanced tools create more detailed images, making it easier to detect subtle changes in breast tissue.

The Genius 3D Mammography exam is the latest advancement in breast cancer screening. This cutting-edge technology can find 20 to 65 percent more invasive breast cancers compared to traditional 2D mammograms. Available exclusively on the Hologic Selenia Dimensions system, this technology maximizes patient comfort and safety.

What to Expect During a Mammogram with Implants

Getting a mammogram with breast implants is a safe and manageable process. Technicians trained in working with implants will take extra care to position you comfortably and make sure that clear images are captured. You may experience some mild discomfort or pressure as the breast is compressed. This is completely normal and usually brief.

It’s important to let your care team know if you have implants ahead of time so they can prepare for specialized imaging techniques. With a gentle, expert approach, the experience is both effective and reassuring, helping you take an essential step in protecting your breast health.

Other Screening Options

In some cases, additional imaging may be recommended alongside your mammogram, especially if you have a family history of breast cancer, dense breasts, or other high-risk factors. Breast ultrasound and MRI can provide more detailed views and are valuable tools in specific situations.

Your care provider will help determine what’s best based on your individual health profile. Be sure to share any questions or concerns you may have throughout the process, as open, honest conversations are an important part of compassionate care.

The Right Approach: Compassionate, Expert Care for Women

Clinics that specialize in women’s health understand the specific needs of patients with breast implants. With a focus on personalized, judgment-free care, these providers use specialized techniques to make sure that screenings are both effective and comfortable. The objective is to build a supportive environment where all women feel informed, safe, and respected.

Schedule a Breast Cancer Screening with Raleigh Today

Having breast implants should never be a barrier to prioritizing your breast health. With the right approach, screenings are both safe and effective. If you have questions or are ready to schedule a mammogram, our team at Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness is ready to help. Schedule your mammogram today or speak with a women’s health specialist to learn more about your options.

Breast cancer is one of the most significant public health concerns in the world. In the U.S. alone, an estimated 316,950 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed in women in 2025. Early detection continues to be a monumental factor in improving survival rates and reducing the severity of treatment needed. To catch breast cancer in its earliest stages, a range of screening tools are used, most commonly a mammogram and clinical breast exams (CBEs).

While the mammogram is regarded as the gold standard in early detection, the clinical breast exam remains a valuable part of any exhaustive screening approach. Let’s look at why CBEs still matter, especially when used alongside mammograms in an ongoing effort to detect breast cancer early.

The Role of Mammograms in Breast Cancer Screening

Mammograms are a type of X-ray imaging of the breast that is used to detect early breast cancer, typically before symptoms appear. They are considered the cornerstone of routine breast cancer screening and have been instrumental in reducing mortality rates through early detection.

During a mammogram, the breasts are compressed between plates while a low-dose X-ray captures images from different angles. These images allow radiologists to identify abnormal areas that may indicate cancer, such as masses or macrocalcifications.

Benefits of mammography include:

• Early Detection – Mammograms can identify tumors that are too tiny to be physically felt during an exam, allowing for intervention at an earlier and more treatable stage.
• Improved Outcomes – Regular mammogram screenings yield a mortality reduction of 40 percent in women ages 40 to 84 compared to no screening.
• Long-Term Monitoring – Mammograms provide a baseline that can be used to track ongoing changes in breast tissue.

Despite their benefits, mammograms are not infallible. False positives are possible, resulting in unneeded stress and extra tests. False negatives can also occur, especially in women with dense breast tissue, as these abnormalities can be more difficult to detect.

Mammograms also do not replace the need for a physical assessment, especially when patients present with symptoms such as lumps or changes in breast appearance.

Clinical Breast Exams and Why They Matter

While mammograms are a powerful tool in breast cancer detection, they are not the only method that should be relied upon. Clinical breast exams are hands-on examinations of the breasts performed by a health provider. These exams offer a valuable and complementary approach to detecting issues that mammograms might miss.

A clinical breast exam involves a trained medical professional systematically checking the breasts and underarm area for lumps, irregularities, skin changes, or other signs of concern.

It typically takes just a few minutes and is often done during an annual physical or gynecological visit. During the exam, the provider also assesses the size, shape, and texture of any abnormalities to determine whether further testing is needed.

There are several reasons why CBEs still matter:

1. Detection Beyond Imaging

Mammograms can sometimes miss cancers, especially in women with dense breast tissue. A clinical exam can catch palpable lumps or changes that may not yet be visible on imaging.

2. More Personalized Evaluation

Unlike imaging, which provides a snapshot, a CBE allows for real-time feedback and patient-provider dialogue. This can help uncover symptoms such as tenderness, nipple discharge, or recent changes that a machine cannot detect.

3. Improved Access in Underserved Areas

In regions with limited access to mammography, clinical breast exams may be the only practical screening tool available. While not a substitute for mammograms, CBEs can still lead to early detection and prompt referral for imaging when needed.

4. Early Identification of Non-Cancerous Conditions

Many benign breast conditions, such as cysts or infections, can cause concern or discomfort. Clinical exams help diagnose and manage these issues, providing reassurance or guiding treatment.

Complementary Roles of CBEs and Mammograms

Clinical breast exams and mammograms are most effective when used together as part of an extensive breast cancer screening strategy. While mammograms excel at detecting abnormalities that are not yet palpable, they can occasionally miss certain types of tumors, particularly in women with dense breast tissue.

This is where CBEs provide critical support, allowing trained professionals to detect lumps or changes that might not appear on imaging. Using both tools increases the chances of early detection, which is important for more effective treatment outcomes.

For example, a woman might present with a lump that is felt during a CBE but not visible on a mammogram, prompting further evaluation, such as an ultrasound or biopsy. Conversely, a mammogram might reveal a suspicious area long before it’s detectable by touch.

Stay on Top of Your Breast Care with Help from Raleigh Gynecology and Wellness

Early detection saves lives, and combining clinical breast exams with mammograms offers the most thorough approach to breast health. At Raleigh Gynecology and Wellness, we offer personalized and compassionate care so you can stay on top of your breast health. Contact us today to schedule your next clinical breast exam and mammogram to maintain your breast health.