Northwest Women's Center

People have no idea of the role our hormones play in their day-to-day lives. In reality, hormones regulate most of our body systems. When we have an imbalance in our hormones, things can get out of whack. Hormonal imbalance can lead to depression, decreased mental clarity, insomnia, chronic fatigue, loss of muscle mass, and decreased libido among other symptoms. That’s why we feel balancing your hormones is a critical part of our role at Northwest Women’s Center. We offer bioidentical hormone replacement therapy utilizing pellet insertion. Our BioTE hormone replacement system is a comprehensive approach that addresses the issues mentioned above, but also provides additional health benefits, such as cardiac protection and bone and joint protection. Here’s some additional information about the BioTE Pellet Hormone Replacement Therapy we offer at Northwest Women’s Center. Symptoms Of Hormonal Imbalance In Women Women experience a variety of symptoms when their hormone levels become imbalanced: Hot flashes Night sweats Weight gain Fatigue Insomnia Irritability Anxiety Depression Cold hand and feet Decreased libido Symptoms Of Hormonal Imbalance In Men Although not as well known as hormonal imbalance in women, men also experience symptoms from this. These are consistent with low testosterone levels: Loss of muscle mass Erectile dysfunction Chronic fatigue Decreased sex drive Increased body fat Decreased bone mass Mood changes Depression Irritability Brain fog Candidate For BioTE Hormone Replacement Our doctors specialize in hormone replacement at Northwest Women’s Center. He’ll be able to tell if you’re right for these treatments, or if we need to pursue other options. If you’re experiencing some of the symptoms of hormone imbalance, we run a comprehensive blood panel. But hormone replacement is not right for everyone. In general, if you have or have had breast cancer, ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer, blood clots in your legs or lungs, stroke, liver disease, or some forms of vaginal bleeding, you should not have hormone replacement therapy. Also, if you aren’t having problems with menopausal symptoms and if you started menopause after age 45, you do not need hormone replacement therapy to maintain your health. We can discuss other options for addressing potential osteoporosis and heart disease, if you have some risk factors. Men with normal levels of testosterone, from 300-900 nanograms per deciliter, don’t benefit from hormone replacement therapy. What Is BioTE Hormone Pellet Therapy? Versus oral ingestion and other methods, the BioTE system of delivering bioidentical hormones is simple. Our doctors insert a tiny bioidentical hormone pellet, about the size of an uncooked grain of rice, under the skin of the upper buttocks. The pellet then delivers a consistent level of hormone to the patient through the day, bypassing interaction with the liver that comes with hormones taken orally. Each pellet delivers benefits for 3-4 months. What Are Bioidentical Hormones? The name bioidentical means these hormones are chemically identical to your body’s natural hormones. The difference is that bioidentical hormones are derived from plant estrogens. The common hormones matched are estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. How Does BioTE Hormone Replacement Differ From Other Therapies? The main difference is the delivery methods used. For women, traditional hormone replacement therapy has involved either low-dose vaginal products or systemic hormone therapy. Low-dose vaginal preparations are available in cream, tablet, or ring form. Systemic estrogen is available in different forms: pill, skin patch, gel, cream, or spray foam. For men, traditional testosterone replacement is done through injections, skin patches, gels, and mouth patches. The shortcoming of these delivery methods is consistency in the amount of hormone available to the body. Plus, oral delivery methods involve the digestive system and liver, which can lead to side effects and inconsistent levels of hormone delivery. What Happens During The Insertion Of The Bioidentical Pellet? The insertion of the BioTE pellet takes only a few minutes in our Dotson Road offices. Our doctors first uses a small amount of local anesthetic to numb the insertion site, usually on the upper buttocks. A tiny incision is then made and the pellet is inserted under it. The incision is covered with a small bandage and the procedure is complete. How Long Does It Take For The BioTE Bioidentical Hormone Pellet To Work? Every patient’s system is unique, so there is no “set” timeframe for improvement of your symptoms. Most of our patients report an improvement with various symptoms such as hot flashes in as little as 2-4 weeks. Fully realized results could take up to six months.

Pelvic and abdominal pain can be a sign of a serious underlying condition, and early evaluation is essential for avoiding complications. Northwest Women’s Center uses state-of-the-art techniques to diagnose the cause of abdominal pain in women from Houston, TX, as well as advanced treatment options to relieve symptoms and prevent complications. Abdominal Pain Q & A What Gynecologic Issues Can Cause Abdominal Pain? There are many gynecologic issues and conditions that can cause pelvic and abdominal pain. Some of the most common include: endometriosis, a condition that causes the tissue that lines the uterus (the endometrium) to grow outside the uterus, often on the outer wall of the organ large ovarian cysts or uterine fibroids ectopic pregnancy cancer pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), an infection that can affect any part of the reproductive system and spread from one area or organ to another IUD-related problems, including irritation or “erosions” to the uterine lining pelvic organ prolapse, a condition that occurs when the pelvic floor muscles weaken and allow one of the pelvic organs to descend into the vagina vulvodynia, a condition that causes pain around the vagina infections, including sexually transmitted infections Ovulation and menstruation are also common causes of abdominal pain, and even though these processes are normal, if they cause significant discomfort, they should be evaluated by a gynecologist. How Is Pelvic Pain Diagnosed? Pelvic exams can provide a wealth of information about the cause of abdominal pain and pelvic discomfort. Blood tests, urine tests, and other lab tests may also be ordered, along with ultrasounds and other diagnostic imaging studies. Exams of the interior of the uterus and the fallopian tubes can also be performed using special instruments equipped with tiny cameras that transmit images to a monitor where the doctor can view them. What Is A Hysteroscopy? A hysteroscopy is a minimally-invasive exam that uses a very thin, flexible scope inserted through the vagina and the cervix (the uterine opening) to evaluate the uterus and the fallopian tubes. Hysteroscopy can play an important role in diagnosing many causes of pelvic and abdominal pain, and it can also be used to perform some procedures using instruments designed to be used through the scope without the need for incisions. Uterine fibroids, endometriosis and abnormally heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) often can be successfully treated with hysteroscopy, and the procedure can be performed with a mild sedative or a local anesthetic to prevent discomfort. Schedule Your Colposcopy Appointment Today! If you are looking for more information or would like to schedule an appointment with Northwest Women’s Center, call us today at 281-444-3440.

Menopause Specialist In Houston, TX Menopause may be a “natural” part of aging for women, but the symptoms it can cause can take a significant toll on quality of life and overall health and wellness. Northwest Women’s Center offers menopause services and treatments aimed at helping women in Houston, TX, relieve bothersome symptoms and enjoy better health. Causes Of Menopause Menopause occurs when the production of the hormones testosterone, estrogen and progesterone declines as a result of aging. Although these hormones are most closely identified with sex and childbirth, they influence other processes as well, and their decline can cause an array of symptoms as well as increase the risks of several medical conditions. Menopause symptoms typically begin in a woman’s 40s, with periods ending usually by age 55. A woman is said to be in menopause when she hasn’t had a period for 12 consecutive months. The time leading up to the complete cessation of periods is actually called perimenopause, and it’s during this time that symptoms develop. What Are The Symptoms Of Menopause? The most common symptoms associated with menopause include: irregular periods abnormal periods, including periods with very heavy bleeding and spotting between periods or lighter periods hot flashes night sweats vaginal dryness pain during intercourse urinary incontinence muscle and joint aches fatigue reduced interest in sex moodiness, irritability or depression problems focusing or concentrating tender breasts or tender or itchy nipples hair loss on the head or hair growth on the face dry or itchy skin vaginal burning or itching sleep disturbances weight gain, especially in the belly area Some women may have many symptoms while other women may have very few symptoms. Symptoms can also vary as hormone levels fluctuate. Can I Still Become Pregnant During Perimenopause? Although fertility levels drop prior to menopause, a woman can still become pregnant and birth control should still be used to prevent unintended pregnancy. Once menopause occurs and periods stop, pregnancy cannot occur. Can Menopause Be Treated? There is no “cure” for menopause, but there are treatments that can be used to manage symptoms. Some treatments like vaginal lubricants or medications to aid in sleep can be used to address specific symptoms, but many women benefit from hormone replacement therapy (HRT) that uses medications containing bioidentical hormones to replace the hormones that were once produced by the body. Bioidentical hormones are chemically identical to the hormones produced by the body so women have fewer side effects and risks during treatment. Routine blood testing can help ensure dosing remains optimized for each patient’s evolving needs.

Birth Control Specialist In Houston Birth control is a part of a woman taking control of her body and her life. And, while everyone wants to have a healthy, happy sex life, no one wants the life disruption that comes with an unwanted or unplanned pregnancy. Fortunately, there are a myriad of options when it comes to modern birth control. Here’s a breakdown of your options from the team at Northwest Women’s Center in Houston. Reasons To Start Birth Control Modern women need to be in control of their bodies, their relationships, and their lives. Using birth control allows a woman to have a rewarding sex life without worrying about an unwanted pregnancy. Nothing can change the trajectory of your life more than an unplanned pregnancy, and there’s no need for that to happen. Modern contraceptives are incredibly effective, incredibly non-intrusive, and incredibly smart. They allow smart women, like you, to decide what you want to do in your life. While there are people who don’t believe in using birth control, at Northwest Women’s Center, we urge those who are sexually active to use some sort of contraception. Beyond the contraceptive value, for some women, the use of hormonal birth control decreases their heavy, painful menstrual cycles. Types Of Birth Control: 5 Categories When it comes to birth control, there isn’t a shortage of options. You can basically break birth control down by the contraceptive method. There are five basic categories: Hormonal methods — These use hormones so the body doesn’t release an egg for fertilization. Types of hormonal methods: birth control pills, patches, implants, shots (Depo-Provera), and the birth control ring. Barrier methods — These methods use either physical or chemical barriers to block sperm from accessing the egg. Condoms, diaphragms, and sterilization fit in this category. Intrauterine devices — IUDs prevent pregnancy. There are both copper and hormonal IUDs. Natural methods — Other than abstinence, natural methods such as withdrawal and fertility awareness methods are not reliable birth control options. Emergency contraception — Emergency contraception is a backup for regular birth control. These options hope to prevent pregnancy after having unprotected sex. The Plan B pill is in this category. The Most Effective Method Effectiveness of your birth control has two components. First, the method itself. Second, you. If you miss a day or two of your birth control pill, or if you don’t get a new transdermal patch on time, these kinds of behaviors compromise the overall effectiveness of the contraceptive method. All in all, modern IUDs are the most reliable and effective method of birth control. They can last for up to 10 years depending on the device you choose (you read that right), require no attention whatsoever, and are over 99 percent effective. They don’t depend on you following a schedule or doing anything. Birth control pills are also 99 percent effective, but real-world studies have factored in missing days and such. When those are included, birth control pills are rated at a 91 percent rate of effectiveness. Barrier methods, such as diaphragms all fall to effectiveness rates in the 80s when real life is factored in. Choosing The Right Method Selecting the method of birth control that fits you is completely personal. At Northwest Women’s Center, we will provide you with all of the available information on every form of birth control. We can give you our personal insights into the various methods, as well. What we won’t do is tell you “This is the only way to go.” This needs to be your decision. After all, if you opt for a birth control shot, you need to be sure to come back in every three months to get your next shot. That needs to be factored into your decision. If you’re bad about keeping on top of those kinds of timelines, that would not be the choice for you. What you’re going to weigh is convenience and personal criteria. For instance, if you don’t like the idea of using your hormones to keep your body from ovulating (even though all of the hormonal contraceptive methods are very safe and very effective), then you may want to pair something like a diaphragm with condom use or think about a copper IUD. We’ll help you get to the choice you believe in. Cost Of Birth Control Birth control cost varies widely. After all, not having sex is free. Condoms are relatively cheap, but have some hassle and effectiveness questions (real world issues). Most insurance plans cover birth control pills, IUDs, and other options. Talk with us about what you’re interested in and we’ll see what we can work out with your insurance and other variables.

Osteoporosis Specialist Osteoporosis is a chronic condition that significantly increases the risk of fractures, especially in menopausal women. As a top-rated gynecology practice, Northwest Women’s Center provides bone density testing and osteoporosis treatment to slow bone loss in women throughout the Houston, TX, region. What Is Osteoporosis? Osteoporosis is a medical condition that causes the bones to become brittle and weak, significantly increasing the risk of fractures. It occurs when bone tissue is not replaced at a normal rate, resulting in a decline in bone mass or “thickness.” People with severe osteoporosis can develop stress fractures even from minor activities like walking, sneezing, standing up or rolling over in bed. Any bone can be affected, but the most common sites of fracture are the hips, legs, and spine. What Causes Osteoporosis? As we age, the normal bone replacement cycle can slow down; in fact, everyone begins to lose some bone mass beginning at about age 35. In some people, this process is much faster and more severe, especially in menopausal women whose hormone levels have declined. The specific cause of osteoporosis is not known, but several risk factors have been identified, including: smoking older age hormonal decline or imbalance sedentary or inactive lifestyle thyroid disease and some other chronic and metabolic diseases family history of osteoporosis Women are much more likely to develop osteoporosis than men, with women losing as much as 50% of their bone mass during their lifetimes and men typically losing between 20% and 30%. How Is Osteoporosis Diagnosed? Osteoporosis can be diagnosed using a simple, noninvasive and painless test called a bone density test. This test uses x-rays to measure the mass of bone in a specific part of the body to evaluate how much bone tissue has been lost. Bone density testing can also be used to manage treatment of patients who have osteoporosis. How Is Osteoporosis Treated? Osteoporosis can be managed with medications, including hormone replacement therapy to help restore some of the hormones lost as a result of menopause. It’s also very important to quit smoking, and leading a more active lifestyle and consuming more foods high in vitamin D and calcium may also help. People who have osteoporosis should see their doctor regularly to make sure their condition stays under control so they can avoid fractures.

Colposcopy Specialist A colposcopy can provide essential information about the health of the vaginal and cervical tissues, especially following an abnormal Pap test. The team at Northwest Women’s Center in Houston, TX, performs colposcopy right in the office in an exam that typically takes less than 20 minutes to complete. Colposcopy Q & A What Is Colposcopy? Colposcopy is an in-office exam that uses a special scope called a colposcope to closely examine the vaginal canal and the cervix (the uterine opening). The colposcope uses a light and a magnifier to make it easier for the doctor to examine these tissues and to look for areas of abnormal tissue that may need to be biopsied so they can be examined in a lab. When Is A Colposcopy Performed? Colposcopies are most commonly ordered when a Pap test or an HPV test yields an abnormal result. The colposcopy can enable the doctor to see the vaginal canal and cervix more closely and to obtain tissue samples for further evaluation so the most appropriate treatment can be provided. It may also be performed to assess abnormalities noticed during a routine pelvic exam. How Is A Colposcopy Performed? Colposcopy is performed right in the office during a regular pelvic exam. After the vagina has been gently widened using a speculum, a special solution is applied to the vaginal canal and cervix. This solution acts to highlight areas of abnormal tissue so they’re easier to identify. Then the colposcope is positioned at the opening of the vagina and focused on the tissues lining the canal and the cervix. If an abnormal area is identified, special instruments can be used to gently remove a small portion of cells or tissue for additional evaluation under a microscope. The colposcope itself is not placed inside the vagina but used instead to shine a light on the vagina and provide magnification when examining the tissues inside the vagina and on the surface of the cervix. How Will I Feel After A Colposcopy? The colposcopy procedure typically takes less than 10 minutes to perform, and patients can resume their regular activities immediately afterward. If a biopsy was taken, there may be some spotting or light bleeding which can be controlled with a pad. Mild cramping may also occur. Patients may be instructed to avoid baths, intercourse, douching and tampons while the biopsied area heals, a process that takes just a few days. When tissue samples are taken, the results of the lab analysis should be ready within two to three weeks. Schedule Your Colposcopy Appointment Today! If you are looking for more information or would like to schedule an appointment with Northwest Women’s Center, call us today at 281-444-3440.

Pregnancy Specialist Getting the proper care during pregnancy is essential for keeping both the baby and the mom-to-be as healthy as possible all the way through delivery. Northwest Women’s Center provides trusted prenatal care for women in Houston, TX, offering patient-centered care based on each patient’s unique needs. Pregnancy Q & A Northwest Women’s Center What Happens During A Prenatal Office Visit? Prenatal exams can vary slightly depending on the stage of the pregnancy and other factors. In general, exams include measurements of blood pressure and weight as well as the circumference of the growing belly. The doctor will listen to the baby’s heartbeat and urine testing may be performed. Blood work or other tests may also be ordered or performed in the office, and an ultrasound test may be performed to evaluate the baby’s size and position and other factors. Moms-to-be will receive guidance on how to stay healthy and what to expect during the following weeks of pregnancy, and there will be plenty of time to ask questions or discuss concerns. What Is A High-Risk Pregnancy? High-risk pregnancies are pregnancies where the health of the mother or baby may be at greater risk due to an existing medical condition or other risk factors. Some of the most risk factors associated with high-risk pregnancies include: older age obesity drug or alcohol abuse diabetes or high blood pressure that exist prior to pregnancy or develop during pregnancy multiple prior miscarriages carrying multiples certain diseases, medications or medical treatments including some cancer treatments some genetic disorders Women with high-risk pregnancies will need to be seen more often and may need additional testing to ensure they and their babies stay healthy. Can I Have A Vaginal Delivery After A Cesarean Section? Yes, many women are able to have vaginal births after C-sections (called a VBAC). If you’ve had a C-section and you’d like to have a vaginal delivery this time, the doctor can determine if you’re a good candidate or if C-section might be a better option. How Long Does It Take To Recover Following Delivery? Women who have vaginal deliveries typically recover more quickly than those who have had C-sections. During recovery, women can expect vaginal bleeding that needs to be controlled with pads, not tampons. Strenuous activity will need to be avoided for a week or more, and new mothers may also need some assistance performing household tasks during the first week or so after delivery. Complete instructions regarding recovery care will be provided just prior to delivery so both mother and father can be prepared.

Gynecologist Specialist Women’s health needs vary dramatically from the health needs of men, and seeing a gynecologist for routine exams as well as acute needs is important for women of all ages. Northwest Women’s Center is a leading gynecology practice in Houston, TX, dedicated to providing the most advanced services for women in every stage of life. Gynecologist Q & A Northwest Women’s Center How Often Should I See The Gynecologist? Ideally, women should visit their gynecologist every year for a checkup and well woman visit. Having regular gynecologic exams is the best way to make sure you receive the most appropriate care at every stage of life, and routine visits also help ensure the most appropriate medical screenings and tests are prescribed to help identify serious medical conditions, sexually-transmitted diseases, and other issues in their earliest stages. Plus, seeing the gynecologist every year provides women with an opportunity to ask questions or discuss concerns about their health and wellness. What Happens During A Gynecology Visit? Office visits begin with a patient history to help identify any potential risk factors for disease, as well as a review of any concerns or symptoms that may be occurring. Blood pressure and weight will both be measured and recorded, and a urine sample may be taken. A pelvic exam may also be performed along with a Pap test or HPV test, and the doctor will also perform a clinical breast exam. Other tests like blood tests, minimally-invasive exams or ultrasounds may be ordered based on the patient’s medical history and the results of the evaluation. Finally, patients will receive guidance that can help them lead a healthier and more confident life, including information about birth control, STDs, menopause and other topics geared toward the individual patient’s needs. How Often Do I Need To Have A Pap Test? A Pap test should be performed at least every three years for women between the ages of 21 and 64 years of age. Alternatively, a Pap test and an HPV test can be performed every five years for women between 30 and 64 years of age. Women who are 65 years of age or older may not need a Pap test depending on their risk factors and the results of previous tests, but it’s still important to see the gynecologist every year to help manage issues that occur or become more common during menopause. Are Mammograms Necessary? The American Cancer Society advises women to have annual mammograms beginning at age 45. For women with a history of breast cancer, women may be advised to begin having mammograms at an earlier age. Why Should I See My Gynecologist? For most women, once yearly trips to the gynecologist are a good idea, especially if you’re considering having children. If you don’t have any problems, that span can stretch when you’re younger, possibly to every two or three years. Other reasons for a specific visit: Issues relating to pregnancy, fertility, and family planning Changes in your period — If you stop getting your period, you need to see your gynecologist immediately, as that could mean you’re pregnant. Menopause — Most women enter menopause in their early 50s, although that can vary. If you’re approaching the onset of menopause and notice a change in your menstrual cycle, you should see a gynecologist to rule out pregnancy. Irregular bleeding — If you notice any bleeding that isn’t a part of your period, such as bleeding during or after intercourse, that’s time to see a gynecologist. This type of bleeding can be a sign of injury to the cervix. Otherwise, vaginal bleeding can point to uterine fibroids, or even cervical or uterine cancer. Pain or discomfort — Vaginal itching, burning, or pain can point to urinary tract infections, bacterial infections, yeast infections, or sexually transmitted disease. If you’ve had a yeast infection before you can treat these with over-the-counter medications, but if it is your first yeast infection, you should see a gynecologist.