During your first consultation with a fertility specialist, both partners will undergo a comprehensive evaluation, including a detailed medical history review. This will cover your menstrual cycle, reproductive history (such as past pregnancies and fertility treatments), and lifestyle factors. A physical examination is typically conducted as well. To diagnose the issue, the specialist will schedule fertility tests for one or both partners. Based on the test results, the specialist will discuss the available treatment options with you. For more information on fertility testing, click here.
During your first OB-GYN appointment, you can expect a discussion about your medical history, menstrual cycle, sexual activity, and any symptoms or concerns you have. The visit may include a physical exam, a pelvic exam, and possibly a Pap smear or other tests depending on your age and health needs.
Common tests and screenings in gynecology include Pap smears, HPV testing, pelvic exams, mammograms, bone density scans, and blood tests to check hormone levels and other indicators of health.
Prenatal care services include regular check-ups to monitor the health of both mother and baby, ultrasounds, blood tests, nutritional counseling, and education on what to expect during pregnancy and childbirth.
It is generally recommended that women start getting Pap smears at age 21 and continue every three years if results are normal. After age 30, women may choose to have a Pap smear combined with HPV testing every five years if both results are normal.
The benefits of laparoscopic surgery include smaller incisions, less pain, reduced blood loss, shorter hospital stays, faster recovery times, and lower risk of infection.
Laparoscopic surgery can treat a variety of conditions, including gallbladder removal (cholecystectomy), appendectomy, hernia repair, colorectal surgery, gynecological procedures (such as hysterectomy or ovarian cyst removal), and bariatric surgery for weight loss.
Common types of hernias include: Inguinal hernia: Occurs in the groin area. Femoral hernia: Occurs in the upper thigh, just below the groin. Umbilical hernia: Occurs around the belly button. Incisional hernia: Occurs through a scar from previous abdominal surgery. Hiatal hernia: Occurs when part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm into the chest cavity.
Symptoms of a hernia can include a noticeable bulge or lump, pain or discomfort, especially when bending over, coughing, or lifting, a heavy or dragging sensation, and sometimes nausea or vomiting if the hernia is obstructed.
A hernia is often diagnosed through a physical examination. Your doctor may feel for a bulge in the affected area and ask you to stand and cough. Imaging tests like ultrasounds, CT scans, or MRIs may be used for confirmation.
During the surgery, you'll be under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes small incisions in your abdomen, inserts the laparoscope, and uses specialized instruments to repair the hernia. The muscle wall is reinforced with mesh to prevent recurrence.
You should contact your doctor if you experience signs of infection (redness, swelling, or discharge at the incision site), severe pain, difficulty urinating, or any other unusual symptoms.