How women can deal with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Posted on March 21, 2012 by admin

What exactly is Irritable Bowel Syndrome? It is a digestion disorder that affects many people, but especially women. Women with this condition have described their abdominal pain as crampy or even colicky. Along with IBS possibly comes an increased gas issue causing major discomfort. Constipation is usually the leader of this known problem but diarrhea can also be experienced with IBS. Women contract IBS through further medical complications or simply through their medical history.

Women are known to have Irritable Bowel Syndrome twice as much as men. Why is that? It is said that women just seem to feel the pain more than men, but the differences are still not certain. (womenshealth.org)

Women with Irritable Bowel Syndrome find ways to deal with this condition. Here are just some of the ways that relief can be experienced while having IBS:

Eating fiber or taking fiber supplements is a plus. Many people who tend to have low fiber in their diets can be more susceptible to IBS. Considering more fruits and vegetables in an everyday diet is also helpful.
Particular foods and drinks alone cause this problem. Every time something is consumed it’s a good idea to document your intake so that you can narrow down what is causing the discomfort.
Milk and dairy products are great contributors to IBS. It’s probably best to cut back on your intake or avoid it altogether to improve the condition alone.
We have all heard that drinking 8 glasses of water a day is beneficial to our health. There is absolute truth in this especially with Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Water instantly can soften the stool, making it easier to deal with.
Learn how to manage and over come any stress and possible anxieties in your life. These can also be major contributors to IBS.
If the condition is just unbearable, you can get a prescription treatment from your doctor.

For more information on Irritable Bowel Syndrome, visit www.digestivesystem101.com

Blog sponsored by: Dr. Khazaei

Sources: Women’s Health and eHow
Image: Wikimedia Commons

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The purpose of Amniocentesis and CVS testing

Posted on March 18, 2012 by admin

If you are currently expecting a baby or considering pregnancy, most likely you have heard the terms Amnio, which stands for Amniocentesis, and CVS, which stands for Chorionic Villus Sampling. Many people confuse them for the same type of testing where in all reality, they are separate tests – though they both test for abnormalities and chromosomal disorders.

Amniocentesis

Amniocentesis: “Also referred to as amniotic fluid test or AFT, is a medical procedure used in prenatal diagnosis of chromosomal abnormalities and fetal infections. in which a small amount of amniotic fluid, which contains fetal tissues, is sampled from the amnion or amniotic sac surrounding a developing fetus, and the fetal DNA is examined for genetic abnormalities. Using this process the sex of a child can also be determined and hence this procedure has some legal restrictions in some gender biased countries.” (Wikipedia.org)

The procedure for an Amniocentesis is simple though the expecting mother may feel some discomfort. A local anesthetic is applied to keep from feeling the insertion of the needle to withdraw the fluid. The needle is inserted into the abdominal wall then directly through the wall of the uterus and then into the amniotic sac. Amniotic fluid is then extracted from the sac, enough to separate the cells where then it is observed under a microscope and a full diagnosis is given.

Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS)

Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS): “Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) is a prenatal test that detects chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome, as well as a host of other genetic disorders. The doctor takes cells from tiny fingerlike projections on the placenta called the chorionic villi and sends them to a lab for genetic analysis.” (BabyCenter.com)

The procedure of a CVS can be done through the cervix or the abdomen. If the abdomen is chosen, it is the same idea as the amniocentesis where a needle is inserted into the abdomen and the fluid is extracted. If the doctor decides that through the cervix is best, the cervix and vagina are cleaned with an antiseptic to prevent infection. A catheter is then put into the cervix where a sample is taken from the placenta.

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Sources: Wikipedia and Baby Center

Image: Wikimedia Commons

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Opting for C-Section vs. Vaginal Delivery

Posted on March 14, 2012 by admin

Many women desire to have a textbook pregnancy and delivery. You know, low risk pregnancy without any issues or symptoms along with a vaginal delivery whether naturally or with the aid of an epidural. It would be very easy to have a pregnancy by the book just like those books out there: “What to expect when you are expecting”, etc.

Unfortunately, there are many women who have to have a C-Section for a variety of reasons. Many doctors make this decision for the health and well-being of the mother and the baby. Here are some reasons for maybe why a doctor will make the decision to perform a C-Section (Cesarean Section) rather than a vaginal delivery:

The health of the mother- If the mother has major health concerns or is on the frail side, many doctors will recommend that a C-Section be performed for their comfort and for the health of the baby.
Disease- Diseases can be a hindrance for the mother to experience a vaginal birth. Many diseases such as venereal disease can be transmitted from the mother to the baby if delivered vaginally.
Umbilical cord or Placental problems- These can cause complications during delivery which may be a excellent reason to opt for a C-Section.
The positioning of the baby- If the baby is breech or sideways, it is very commons for doctors to decide on a C-Section delivery.
Labor doesn’t progress- If labor will not progress safely for the mother and baby, a C-Section is highly recommended.
Fetal Distress-If the baby has the cord wrapped around his/her neck causing distress, a C-Section will be performed.

There are many women that opt for a C-section when there is no physical need for one. Be sure to discuss your options with your doctor before going forward with a C-Section, and determine if it is really necessary. C-Section is major abdominal surgery and carries with it its own inherent risks and long recovery time.

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Source: Best C-Section Recovery

Image: Forward

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Dealing with Cervical Incompetence

Posted on March 11, 2012 by admin

What exactly is Cervical Incompetence? Cervical Incompetence, according to Wikipedia, “is a medical condition in which a pregnant woman’s cervix begins to dilate (widen) and efface (thin) before her pregnancy has reached term.”

Now that you are brought up to speed on what exactly this condition is, how can Cervical Incompetence complicate pregnancy? It can cause a very hard labor for women. Some women are known to get an abortion for this condition because babies are delivered prematurely due to the cervix dilating too soon. The fibres of the womb are broken in pieces causing other major problems and health concerns. Many women are unable to give birth to full term babies because of this condition, making it a very disheartening situation.

What causes Cervical Incompetence? Here is what Women’s Health has to say about the causes of Cervical Incompetence:

“An incompetent cervix is thought to be due to either an inherent (congenital) weakness of the cervix tissues or a result of forced dilatation or trauma. Congenital weakness can occur unexpectedly or as a result of exposure to DES (diethylstilbestrol) before birth.”

Can Cervical Incompetence be treated and if so what are the treatments? The answer is yes, it can be treated and through cervical cerclage. This is where a stitch is placed high up around the cervix to attempt to keep it closed during the remainder of the pregnancy. A latter is usually used if the stitches fail. This involves more of an extensive surgery to prove to be successful.

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Source: Women’s Health

Image: Wikimedia Commons

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Understanding Ectopic Pregnancy

Posted on March 8, 2012 by admin

What is ectopic pregnancy? It occurs when the fertilized ovum implants itself on any tissue other than the endometrial lining of the uterus. The ovum develops but causes the mother great pain. It’s truly a horrific experience with not only physical scars but also emotional trauma.

Many women in the beginning do not know they have a Tubal pregnancy until symptoms develop or an ultrasound confirms it.

It is said by medical experts that several miscarriages are results of an ectopic or Tubal pregnancy. The baby cannot develop normally through an ectopic pregnancy because the ovum has attached anywhere but to the uterus. There is currently no way of correcting this problem.

What are the symptoms of an ectopic or Tubal pregnancy?

* A missed menstrual period
* Tender breasts
* Fatigue
* Nausea
* Increased urination
* Light vaginally bleeding
* Abdominal and or pelvic pain.

As the etopic pregnancy progresses signs and symptoms include but are not limited to :

* Heavy or severe vaginal bleeding
* Pain during a pelvic exam or intercourse
* Dizziness
* Signs of shock
* Shoulder pain

There is currently no way to prevent an etopic pregnancy but there are treatments to make the mother more comfortable. Such as : advances in medicine and laparoscopy have become more common.

If you suspect a Tubal pregnancy, you should seek immediate medical care. Tubal pregnancies can be fatal if left untreated.

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Source: Amazing Pregnancy

Image: Wikimedia Commons

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Breast Calcifications and Breast Cancer

Posted on January 30, 2012 by admin

Getting a mammogram each year for women of a certain age remains as important as ever. Advanced technology has allowed women to have their breasts examined thoroughly both inside and out by way of mammography. A mammography is a noninvasive x-ray technique that helps to diagnose and treat medical conditions within the breast. Some of these conditions can include breast calcifications.

What are breast calcifications?

Breast calcifications are small areas of calcium that often appear as white flecks or spots within the breast tissue. They are very common, especially in women over the age of 50, and normally are a harmless part of aging. They are most often discovered during a mammogram, as the calcified flecks are often too small to be felt by hand.

Breast calcification is not caused by calcium in the diet. They are thought to be caused by a cyst or calcium deposits in the milk ducts. They have also been related to previous injuries.

These calcification build-ups are discovered on women who have already experienced menopause. For the most part, breast calcifications are benign, or non-cancerous, and do not require follow-up or treatment.

Breast calcification and breast cancer

During a mammogram, breast calcifications can show up as white specks that resemble grains of salt. They can also appear as large dashes or dots known as macro-calcifications. These calcifications are almost always benign and will not require additional testing. Sometimes, certain patterns of concern are discovered. These may appear as micro-calcifications and although these are usually non-cancerous, anything suspicious to a doctor will require further testing, including additional mammograms or a breast biopsy to determine pre-cancerous changes in the breast.

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Photo courtesy of RadiologyInfo.org

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About Uterine Fibroids and Treatment

Posted on January 29, 2012 by admin

A relatively common issue in women, uterine fibroids are lumps of varying sizes that grow on the uterus. These lumps, referred to as fibroids, can grow on the inside, the outside or in the wall of the uterus.

Doctors often refer to uterine fibroids as myomas, fibroid tumors or leiomyomas. Don’t let the name alarm you, as uterine fibroids are not cancerous. As a matter of fact, unless they are causing you problems, it is safe to completely ignore them.

Uterine fibroids are most commonly discovered in women who are between the ages of 30 to 40. The actual cause of these lumps has yet to be determined, however what has been determined is that it is the female progesterone and estrogen hormones that seems to encourage their development. Women are at their hormone peak during the menstruating years.

After the menstruating years end, the female body produces less of the hormones that encourage the growth of these uterine fibroids. It is during menopause that these fibroids often shrink away on their own.

How are they treated?

For women who do experience discomfort from having uterine fibroids, they can resort to a form of treatment that may help elevate any pain associated with having them. For women who experience symptoms such as heavy bleeding or pain, most doctors will simply prescribe an over-the-counter painkiller such as ibuprofen. If the fibroids cause severe pain, your doctor may opt to have them surgically removed.

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Photo courtesy of WebMD

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All About Iron Deficiency

Posted on January 29, 2012 by admin

Millions of people around experience frequent bouts of low energy, irregular heartbeat, and in some instances, delayed growth and development, which are all common symptoms of iron deficiency. Anemia from iron deficiency is common, which is alarming in such modern and healthy times.

What is Iron deficiency?

Iron deficiency occurs from a lack of iron in the blood. When there is a lack of iron, the body cannot produce hemoglobin, which is the part of the red blood cells that carry oxygen throughout the body. It is this lack of oxygenated blood that leave people feeling tired and out of breath. If there is a lack of iron for a long period of time, anemia can eventually develop.

Symptoms and complications

Aside from feeling tired and sluggish, a person suffering from a mild form of iron deficiency can experience chest pains and shortness of breath. Severe iron deficiency can lead to increased susceptibility to infections, heart problems, developmental and growth issues and internal bleeding, as well as other medical complications.

How to treat iron deficiency

Iron is taken into to the body through the foods we eat. However, many people do not eat enough iron loaded foods, while others are unable to absorb iron properly. Taking supplements for several months is the simplest way to correct the problem. Eating a balanced diet that includes iron rich foods such as dark leafy vegetables, dried fruit, whole grains and cereals, red meat, whole eggs and beans is a good way to maintain iron levels.

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Photo courtesy of Anemia.org

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About Mastectomies

Posted on January 28, 2012 by admin

Many women who are diagnosed with breast cancer undergo a procedure called a mastectomy. A mastectomy is often done on patients whose cancer has spread. There are several variations of mastectomies that should all be taken into consideration before a final decision is made.

What is a mastectomy?

A mastectomy is the surgical procedure of the removal of the breast. It is used to refer to the removal of one or both breasts, partially or completely. A mastectomy is normally done to treat breast cancer, however some patients who are considered high risk have the operation done to prevent breast cancer rather than treat it. This operation is known as prophylactically.

Mastectomy choices and procedures

The mastectomy choices for breast cancer patients include a total mastectomy where the entire breast is removed. There is also the modified radical mastectomy where the surgeon removes both the breast tissue and the lymph nodes.

A radical mastectomy is the most extensive type and involves the surgeon removing the chest wall muscles under the breast as well as the entire breast. A partial mastectomy involves removing the cancerous breast tissue and a little of the normal tissue while a subcutaneous mastectomy is the removal of the breast, leaving only the nipple.

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Photo courtesy of Breast Cancer.org

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About the Disorder of Anovulation

Posted on January 28, 2012 by admin

For many women, planning a pregnancy is an exciting time in life. Knowing your cycle and most fertile days can be a secure way to ensure a pregnancy. For some women, however, having the condition of an anovulatory cycle can definitely make conception difficult.

What is anovulation?

Having anovulation refers to having a menstrual cycle where bleeding occurs but no egg is released. In a literal term, it means that ovulation has failed to occur. This occurrence is quite normal for women going through menopause, however, these anovulatory cycles can happen during childbearing years, but are most common in adolescence or just before menopause. Experiencing anovulation cycles can sometimes imply that a woman is infertile, however this is not always the case.

What causes anovulation?

The condition is thought to come from a number of factors ranging from diet and exercise to chemical disruptions in the brain. The causes of the disorder vary greatly and are easy to diagnose in some patients while it can be most difficult to diagnose in others. It has been found that hormonal imbalances are the most common cause of anovulatory cycles.

How can it be treated?

Treatment will vary depending on the reason for the disorder. For infertile women, treatment with fertility drugs can be successful. Other treatments can include nutritional modifications, medications for underling conditions, surgery in instances where there are tumors, and even stress reduction can help.

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Photo courtesy of Women Health Info.

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Posted in Pregnancy, menopause, women's health | Tagged anovulation, fertility, menopause, menstruation, ovulation, pregnancy, women's health | Leave a comment

How women can deal with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

The purpose of Amniocentesis and CVS testing

Opting for C-Section vs. Vaginal Delivery

Dealing with Cervical Incompetence

Understanding Ectopic Pregnancy

Breast Calcifications and Breast Cancer

About Uterine Fibroids and Treatment

All About Iron Deficiency

About Mastectomies

About the Disorder of Anovulation

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