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September is a busy month for women’s health, with national observances for ovarian cancer, uterine cancer, polycystic ovary syndrome, among others. But keeping tabs on your health extends far beyond the fall: It’s important to get annual check-ups and take any new concerns to your gynecologist when you notice them. Sensitive matters are nothing to be shy about, says Dr. Payal Shah, an OB/GYN who has been at Holy Name for 21 years. “There’s no reason you have to suffer through them,” she says. “All of our physicians are very approachable and are looking to improve your quality of life.”
Here are some common concerns that Dr. Shah sees in her patients:
Heavy bleeding: If you’re soaking through a pad or tampon every hour, your doctor will want to learn more about your menstrual history and perform a clinical exam to feel the sides of your uterus. Sometimes, to get a fuller picture of what’s going on, he or she may order an ultrasound or take a sample of the uterine lining.
Incontinence: Urgent incontinence is when you have a sudden, strong need to urinate and cannot make it to the bathroom in time. Stress incontinence is when you notice some urinary leakage when you cough, sneeze, or laugh. Regardless of which type you experience, your doctor will want to make sure there is no acute cause (like an infection) and then may offer lifestyle or behavioral modifications as an initial approach to these symptoms.
Pain: This could be during your period, during sex, or throughout your cycle. Painful periods can be normal; however, if the pain is affecting your day-to-day function, combined with other symptoms like vomiting, or happens during sex or outside your period, these may be reasons to talk to your doctor about your symptoms. Further evaluation may be needed to diagnose the reason for the pain so you work together toward a treatment plan.
Holy Name for Her is dedicated to providing expert, compassionate care to women of all ages. To make an appointment with Dr. Shah, call 551-587-7096.
