Blending the Advances of Modern Medicine With Classic Care

Our Focus Is on You

The Time and Attention You Need

Blending the Advances of Modern Medicine With Classic Care

Our Focus Is on You

The Time and Attention You Need

Blending the Advances of Modern Medicine With Classic Care

Our Focus Is on You

The Time and Attention You Need

Blending the Advances of Modern Medicine With Classic Care

Our Focus Is on You

The Time and Attention You Need

Services

Fem Care Health Associates, PC would like to be your partner in health care. Feel free to ask your questions and share your concerns with us. We will work with you to develop a wellness program for the care and treatment you need.

We welcome you to our practice and look forward to caring for you.

Fem Care Health Associates, PC provides a full range of medical services including the following:

Abnormal Pap Smears

A Pap test, or Pap smear, is part of a woman's annual wellness exam. The Pap test involves extracting a small sample of cells from the cervix. These cells are examined, in a lab, for abnormal cell changes. The Pap test is used in diagnosing cervical cancer and human papilloma virus, or HPV. ...

Annual Gynecological Exam

The annual gynecological exam, also known as a gynecological well-visit, is a yearly preventative and diagnostic examination which serves to maintain the wellness of female patients, as well as monitor any ongoing physical and hormonal conditions. This annual visit is an opportunity for doctors to counsel patients about maintaining a healthy lifestyle and minimizing health risks. The annual gynecological exam includes a routine breast and pelvic exam, and may include a screening for sexually transmitted diseases, such as chlamydia or gonorrhea. A Pap test may also be performed depending on the age and sexual history of the patient. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that women begin annual pelvic exams at the age of 21. ...

Dilation and Curettage

Dilation and curettage (D&C) is a procedure to scrape and collect endometrium, the tissue inside the uterus. Dilation is the widening of the cervix which allows instruments to pass into the uterus, while curettage is the scraping of the uterine walls.

A dilation and curettage procedure is performed for several reasons. They are as follows: ...

Adolescent Gynecology

Gynecological exams are valuable to adolescents in many ways. It is important for young women to be assessed early, especially if they are sexually active, and to begin a relationship with a doctor that may guide them through many important milestones in their lives. The adolescent gynecologist provides wellness consultations for adolescents with a goal of establishing a bond of trust and confidence with each patient. Adolescent gynecology is a subspecialty of obstetrics and gynecology, or OB/GYN. ...

Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers to affect women. It develops in the cervix, which is the lower, narrow part of the uterus that forms the canal that opens into the vagina. Cervical cancer is often caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is passed from person to person through genital contact, usually during vaginal or anal sex. Most women infected with HPV will not get cervical cancer, and treatment is usually successful when the disease is discovered in its early stages. ...

Endometrial Ablation

Endometrial ablation is a surgical procedure used to treat women suffering from excessive or prolonged menstrual bleeding and who have not responded to other treatments such as medication. Endometrial ablation removes or destroys the uterine lining, or endometrium, while leaving the ovaries and uterus intact. The endometrium heals by scarring, which reduces or stops future uterine bleeding. ...

Colposcopy

Colposcopy is a diagnostic procedure used to examine, under magnifcation, certain areas of the body and determine abnormalities. A vulvar colposcopy typically examines lesions on the vulva and is used to identify cancer or genital human papillomavirus, also called HPV.

The procedure is done with a colposcope, a microscope that can help identify malignant lesions on the vulva. It is usually performed as a follow-up to an abnormal pap smear. The exam itself is similar to a pap smear in that a speculum is inserted into the vagina so that the cervix is visible. The colposcope is situated so that the physician may view the area in question with a magnification of 10 to 40 times its normal size. If any abnormal cells are noticed, a biopsy of the tissue may be done. ...

Essure®

For those who have decided that their family is complete and are considering a permanent form of birth control, Essure® is an option. Essure is a permanent form of birth control for women who are certain that they do not want to become pregnant. This FDA-approved treatment involves a noninvasive procedure that inserts tiny, spring-like coils into the fallopian tubes to prevent sperm from reaching the eggs. ...

Genital Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

Genital human papillomavirus, also known as HPV, is a sexually transmitted viral infection. There are more than 40 different kinds of HPV that can infect the genitalia, mouth and throats of men and women. For some people, the immune system will remove the infection over the course of two years, but, for others, HPV may lead to genital warts or cancers of the cervix, vulva, vagina and anus. ...

Contraception

Contraception is any method of birth control used to prevent pregnancy. A woman has many birth control options; which are appropriate depend on her age, overall health and lifestyle. Contraception can be permanent or temporary. Some types of contraception are more effective than others, and it is up to each woman to decide which type is right for her. ...

Hysterectomy

A hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus and can sometimes include the ovaries and fallopian tubes. This is a common procedure for women in the United States and is performed over 600,000 times each year. A hysterectomy stops the menstrual cycle and prevents pregnancy. It is a permanent procedure that cannot be reversed. ...

Mammogram

A mammogram is an X-ray examination of the breast. It is performed to detect breast cancer in its earliest stages, often before any signs or symptoms of the disease are present. Mammograms are an effective way to detect cancer early and can aid in the goal of successfully treating and beating the disease. ...

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a painful medical condition that affects many women. It occurs when the endometrium (the tissue that normally lines the uterus) grows beyond the uterus and into other parts of the pelvic area. Endometriosis most commonly affects the ovaries, fallopian tubes and bowels, and the pelvic region behind the uterus. In rare cases, endometrial tissue can spread beyond the pelvis to other areas of the body. ...

Hysteroscopy

A hysteroscopy is a procedure, using a tool called a hysteroscope to examine the lining of the uterus and identify, diagnose or treat abnormalities.

Reasons for a Hysteroscopy

A hysteroscopy may be performed to determine the cause of:

Abnormal bleeding
Bleeding after menopause
Infertility

It may also be used to diagnose and remove fibroids or polyps and find and reposition an intrauterine device.

...

Prenatal Consultation

A prenatal consultation serves as an opportunity to meet with the doctor to discuss the details of pregnancy. Regular doctor's visits are recommended and will allow for professional monitoring of the mother and baby's health. These visits also provide time to develop a trusting relationship and discuss any potential complications that may affect the patient and her baby. ...

Incontinence

Incontinence is a common condition that involves the involuntary loss of urine. Although it is not usually a serious condition, incontinence can be embarrassing and affect a person's daily life. Incontinence is more common in women, especially during and after pregnancy, but can affect people of all ages. ...

Laparoscopic Vaginal Hysterectomy

A hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus and sometimes the ovaries and fallopian tubes as well. It may be performed for many reasons including fibroid tumors in the uterus, abnormal bleeding, endometriosis and genital prolapse.

A laparoscopic-assisted vaginal hysterectomy (LAVH) is less invasive than a traditional open vaginal or abdominal hysterectomy. While an incision is made deep inside the vagina to actually remove the uterus, a very small incision is also made in the navel to insert a laparoscope, a thin probe with a light and camera that allows the doctor to see the organs of the abdomen and pelvis while performing the procedure. ...

Sexually Transmitted Diseases

A sexually transmitted disease, or STD, is a disease or infection that is spread from one person to another through sexual contact. Most STDs are caused by bacteria, parasites or viruses, that are transmitted through contact with the genitals, skin, mouth, rectum, or bodily fluids. There are many different types of viruses that are characterized as STDs, some of which include: ...

Infertility

Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after 12 months of unprotected sexual intercourse. Infertility may be attributed to the man, the woman, or both partners. Infertility does not mean that a couple is sterile and will never have a child. Approximately half of all couples who seek help for infertility will eventually conceive a child. There are several treatments available that may help to improve the chances of a conception and a successful pregnancy. ...

Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP)

Loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) is used to treat abnormal cells found on the surface of the cervix. During the procedure, the abnormal cells are removed to prevent development of cervical cancer.

Wire loops attached to an electrosurgical generator cut away the affected tissue, causing the cells to heat and burst. The tissue removed is sent to a lab for further evaluation, including ensuring that the abnormal area has been fully removed. An assessment as to the cause of the growth of abnormal tissue will also be done. The LEEP procedure takes 20-30 minutes and can be performed in the office. A local anesthetic is administered to minimize pain. ...

Intrauterine Devices

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are a method of birth control that has few side effects. They can provide long-term effective protection towards prevention of pregnancy. The devices require precision and care to be fully effective and protect against infection. Improper insertion of an IUD can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease and other pelvic infections. IUDs should only be inserted or removed by a trained health care professional who will minimize risks for complications or serious damage. ...

Nexplanon®

Choosing a method of birth control is an important decision many women must make each day. Implantation devices offer long-term convenience and protection that is appealing to many women.

Nexplanon is a birth control implant that is inserted under the skin and releases hormones into the body to prevent pregnancy. While there are several different types of devices available today, Nexplanon® is a discreet, single-rod implantable device that is medically inserted by a doctor. Nexplanon is effective for up to three years and is more than 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. ...

Menopause

Menopause is the time in a woman's life when her menstrual period has stopped. Menopause is caused by a decrease in the ovaries' production of the hormones estrogen and progesterone, which eventually results in the ovaries' ceasing to produce eggs, and the end of menstruation.

A woman has reached menopause when she has not had a menstrual period for at least 12 months. Menopause is a natural process that takes several years. During this time, fertility decreases, and periods often change in duration, frequency, and amount of blood flow. This stage is known as perimenopause, and it is often when symptoms of menopause begin. The average age that menopause occurs is 51, although it may occur prematurely in women who have had total hysterectomies or have received chemotherapy or radiation treatments. ...

Menstrual Disorders

Menstrual disorders can turn your monthly period from a minor inconvenience into a major, debilitating condition. These disorders can cause physical and emotional symptoms and can severely disrupt your daily life for days or weeks at a time.

Menstrual cycle disorders can cause symptoms such as: ...

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a condition that causes the bones to become weak and brittle and at a high risk for fracture. In all individuals, bone breaks down over time, but is replaced with new bone tissue. As people age, bone loss occurs at a faster rate than new bone mass is created, resulting in osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is the result of increasing bone loss and is more common in older people, especially women. ...

Ovarian Cysts

An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that can form in the ovaries. The ovaries are two small organs that produce eggs and female hormones. The ovaries affect our body's appearance, menstrual cycle and pregnancy.

There are several types of ovarian cysts. The most common form of a cyst is a functional cyst. Functional cysts form during ovulation. Eggs that are produced each month are grown in tiny sacs called follicles. After these sacs release the egg, the sac dissolves turning into corpus luteum, which produces hormones. If the sac does not dissolve, a functional cyst will form from the sac and cause them to grow. Normally the cysts disappear within a few months. They are rarely cancerous but can cause mild symptoms. ...

Painful Intercourse

Dyspareunia is the medical term for painful sexual intercourse in women. Painful intercourse may be short-lived or may continue for a long period of time. It may occur just before, during or after intercourse, and the specific location and severity of the pain may vary. Women with dyspareunia may experience pain during penetration, pain with intimate touching or pain when experiencing orgasm. ...

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a bacterial infection of the female reproductive organs. The bacteria found in PID is the same bacteria that is found in gonorrhea and chlamydia. PID spreads from the vagina to the uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes and can lead to infertility or complications during pregnancy. ...

Pelvic Pain Syndrome

Pelvic pain syndrome is a chronic condition that involves persistent pain in the lower-abdominal and pelvic regions. Pelvic pain syndrome may be diagnosed when pelvic pain is chronic, and has been present for more than 6 months. It can affect women both physically and emotionally, leading to sleep disturbances, anxiety, depression and sexual dysfunction. Pelvic pain can be a symptom of an underlying condition, or its cause may remain unknown. Living with pelvic pain syndrome is often difficult, and many women spend years trying to determine its cause. ...

Pelvic Prolapse

Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when one or more pelvic organs prolapses, or drops from its normal location, and pushes against the walls of the vagina. This happens when the muscles in the area are weakened from either childbirth or surgery.

Symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse include: ...

Perimenopause

Perimenopause is the period of time when a woman's body transitions towards permanent infertility, or menopause. During perimenopause, changes in hormone levels can affect ovulation and cause changes in the menstrual cycle. Menstrual cycles may become longer or shorter and other symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes, sleep problems, and vaginal dryness may begin. Most of the changes women experience during perimenopause are a result of decreasing estrogen. This stage usually begins when a woman is in her 40s, although symptoms can start as early as the mid 30s. Some women may experience perimenopause at an earlier age because of family history, a past hysterectomy or previous cancer treatment. ...

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder

Many women experience physical and emotional changes several days before menstruation begins. This condition is known as premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Symptoms, which may include breast swelling or tenderness, headaches, fatigue, bloating, acne, anxiety, irritability, mood swings and depression, commonly subside a day or two after menstruation begins. When the symptoms of PMS are severe and disrupt daily activities, a diagnosis of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PDD) may be made. ...

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome, also known as PCOS, is a condition that affects a woman's ovaries. The causes of polycystic ovary syndrome are unknown but it is known that between 5 percent to 10 percent of the women in the United States are affected by this condition. It is the leading cause of infertility in women. ...

Dyspareunia

Dyspareunia, also known as sexual pain, is the medical term for painful sexual intercourse in women. This is a common condition that affects many women at some point in their lives. Painful intercourse may be short-lived or may continue for a long period of time. It may occur just before, during or after intercourse, and the specific location and severity of the pain may vary. Women with dyspareunia may experience pain during penetration, pain with intimate touching or pain upon orgasm. ...

Urinary Tract Infection

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common infection of the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. The urinary tract refers to just the bladder and the urethra, and an infection can develop in either of these areas. These infections occur much more frequently in women than in men and may cause intense pain and discomfort. ...

Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids, also known as myomas, are tumors that grow in the uterine walls. They are usually benign and can range in size and quantity. The exact cause of uterine fibroids is unknown, but they may be affected by hormones and genetics, as women are more likely to develop fibroids if they have a family member with the condition. Most fibroids do not cause any symptoms and do not require any treatment, however, in some cases they may lead to pregnancy complications. Uterine fibroids are most common in women over the age of 30 and during the reproductive years. ...

Vaginal Yeast Infection Treatment

A vaginal yeast infection is a common condition that affects over 75 percent of women at least once in their life, caused by a fungus called Candida albicans. While this type of fungus exists naturally in the vagina, too much of it can cause a vaginal infection. A yeast infection causes itching, burning, redness and irritation in the vaginal area, as well as a white discharge that looks similar to cottage cheese and pain during sexual intercourse. ...

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