Vaginal dryness after menopause is common, but that does not make it minor. For many women, it affects comfort, intimacy, exercise, urinary comfort, and overall quality of life. Some women notice dryness only during sex; others feel burning, irritation, or tightness throughout the day.

Even though these symptoms are common, women often delay bringing them up. The good news is that treatment options can help. No one should feel that dryness, irritation, or painful intercourse is something she simply has to accept because of age.

Why Vaginal Dryness Happens After Menopause

After menopause, estrogen levels fall. ACOG explains that lower hormone levels can affect vaginal tissue and contribute to dryness. The tissue may become thinner, less elastic, and more fragile over time.

This is part of a broader set of changes known as Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM). Symptoms may affect not only the vagina but also the vulva and urinary tract. This is why some women notice urinary urgency or burning along with vaginal discomfort.

Symptoms Women Commonly Notice

Vaginal dryness can show up in different ways, including:

• Dryness or Tightness: A persistent lack of moisture can make tissue feel uncomfortable throughout the day.
• Burning or Irritation: Fragile tissue can become easily irritated by friction, exercise, or certain hygiene products.
• Pain With Intercourse: Sexual pain after menopause is often directly related to vaginal thinning and dryness.
• Urinary Symptoms: Hormone-related tissue changes may overlap with urinary discomfort or repeated irritation.

First-Line Treatment Options

For many women, relief begins with nonprescription, non-hormonal options:

Vaginal Moisturizers

Vaginal moisturizers are designed to provide longer-lasting moisture support than a lubricant. They help replace moisture and can improve overall comfort during daily activities.

Lubricants

Lubricants are specifically helpful during sexual activity by reducing friction and discomfort. Using a high-quality lubricant is often a recommended first step for managing mild vulvovaginal symptoms.

Prescription Medical Treatments

If over-the-counter options are not enough, several prescription treatments can restore tissue health:

Local Vaginal Estrogen

When symptoms are persistent, local vaginal estrogen may help. Unlike systemic hormone therapy, local estrogen delivers low doses directly to the tissue. Common forms include:

• Vaginal rings
• Vaginal tablets
• Vaginal creams

Other Targeted Options

Depending on your health history and specific symptoms—such as sexual pain or tissue fragility—your provider may suggest other prescription treatments. This is especially important for patients with a history of estrogen-sensitive cancers, where non-hormonal prescription options may be prioritized.

When to Schedule a Visit

It is time to schedule an appointment if symptoms are:

• Persistent or worsening
• Causing pain during intimacy
• Affecting your daily comfort or exercise routine
• Accompanied by bleeding, discharge, or strong odor

Many women wait because they feel embarrassed, but this is a routine part of menopause care. The sooner you bring it up, the sooner treatment can begin.

You Do Not Have to Just Live With It

Vaginal dryness relief is possible. Whether through moisturizers, local estrogen, or other therapies, the right plan can make a meaningful difference in your confidence and well-being.

At Women’s Health and Menopause Center, we help women talk openly about menopause and find treatment options that support a higher quality of life.

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Deciding to have a baby can be exciting! It can also be overwhelming. Some couples are not sure where to begin when they want to conceive. Others may have difficulty with fertility. There are many things to consider before you begin trying for a baby. The following tips will help you get started.

Talk to Your Doctor First

Your OB/GYN should be consulted before you attempt to get pregnant. They can discuss risk factors, genetic testing, lifestyle changes, and more. They can also review any medications you take to ensure they are safe to continue taking during pregnancy. Your doctor will most likely also recommend taking prenatal vitamins months in advance.

Understand the Menstrual Cycle

The menstrual cycle can vary for some women. Some are very regular, while others are not. Understanding this process will help tremendously with conception. The cycle begins on the first day bright red blood appears and can last between 21 and 35 days on average. This will affect the timing of conception, so you need to know what’s happening internally to determine when to have sex.

Plan to Have Sex – A Lot

If you want to have a baby, then you need to have sex. Some couples get lucky and conceive quickly. Others must try for a while, so plan to have sex often. The best time is during ovulation.

Studies show maximum fertility occurs 3 to 5 days prior plus the day of ovulation. That means you should plan to have sex 1 to 2 days prior to ovulation. Doctors usually suggest having intercourse every other day during the week before ovulation or after the end of your period.

An OB/GYN can help you learn more about getting pregnant and staying healthy. Give Women’s Health a call to schedule an appointment.

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Approximately 6.1 million American women experience infertility. That equals around 10% of females in the U.S. who are in their childbearing years. Out of those, around 25% are infertile for multiple reasons. Common causes can be age, blocked tubes, or STDs. Even women who have no medical conditions can have difficulty conceiving. So how do you know what is normal and when you should talk to a fertility specialist?

Are You Timing Pregnancy Attempts Correctly?

Timing is crucial when trying to conceive. You should understand the menstrual cycle to know the optimum time for ovulation. A woman is most fertile between days 11 and 21 of her cycle. This is when ovulation typically occurs. There may be variation, so it’s important to pay attention to what’s happening with your body.

How Long Have You Been Trying to Get Pregnant?

Pregnancy isn’t guaranteed to happen the first time you have sex, even if you time ovulation. For many couples, it’s a process that can last months or longer. If you are under age 35 with no medical conditions, then you will likely be expected to try for a year before considering fertility treatment.

If you are over age 35 with no medical conditions, then you may be advised to talk to a fertility specialist after six months of trying. Fertility declines as a woman ages, so it may be harder to conceive if you are in this age group or older.

Know About Fertility Before You Try

Many factors are at play when trying to get pregnant. You should speak and be examined by a Women’s Health OB/GYN before you begin. We can provide advice and do any screenings or tests that could help you understand any challenges you may face as well as any risk factors for your baby. Contact us today to schedule an appointment in our West Bloomfield offices.

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If you are thinking of getting pregnant, definitely make an appointment to come in for an office visit. The health of your baby starts before you conceive. Our years of experience and team approach provides a fantastic toolbox for proper screenings, safe and effective  treatments, and support and knowledge needed to provide you and your new baby the best care possible!

Schedule an appointment today!

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Pregnancy can be an emotional thing – both for the mother and those around her. While we are told that this is a happy time in our lives, it can bring on negative feelings for people who are struggling with fertility. If you are one of those people, then you are not alone. The CDC reports that about 10 in 100 women across the U.S. between the ages of 15 and 44 have difficulty conceiving.

Being Patient Isn’t Easy, But It Is Necessary

The first thing to remember is that couples rarely conceive on their first try or even their third try. Creating a life can take a lot of patience. If you are under age 35, then most doctors will expect you to have regular, unprotected sex for at least a year before they will recommend an infertility treatment.

Anxiety and stress can cause a lower sex drive and affect fertility. The best thing to do is to learn more about the process and what’s considered normal. Information can help you know when there is a problem or when you may just need to keep trying. Talk to your doctor about your concerns.

I Feel Jealous About Someone Else’s Pregnancy

It is normal to feel jealous when others conceive while you struggle to do the same. Loved ones can amplify the feeling without knowing it. Like an in-law constantly asking when you’re going to have kids or a cousin or sibling going on and on about their new baby. While their intentions may be good, it can cause you to feel hurt and frustrated.

There is nothing wrong with applying self-care during this time. If you need to skip a baby shower or prefer to avoid discussions about pregnancy, do so. Stay in touch with your Women’s Health OB/GYN and remember that everyone’s journey is different. If you have questions about fertility or pregnancy, give us a call. We can schedule a consultation and help you learn more about your path to motherhood.

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It is common for women experiencing their first pregnancy or even a subsequent one that presents different than the first, to be nervous about potential pregnancy complications. What is normal for one woman may not be for another. We created a guideline to help pregnant woman know about some signs to look for that warrants a call to us right away. Some signs should not wait for your next scheduled visit.

• Heavy Bleeding and Abdominal Pain

Heavy bleeding can be an indication of multiple problems. If you have menstrual-like cramps and severe abdominal pain during your first trimester, you may have an ectopic pregnancy. Heavy bleeding during the first or second trimester can be a sign of a miscarriage. Call the office if you notice any bleeding during pregnancy.

• Vomiting and Severe Nausea

Morning sickness is normal for some women. However, if you are having severe nausea and vomiting, you may have a serious medical condition. If you can’t keep any food or drink down, then you can become dehydrated. Your doctor can check for pregnancy complications and recommend dietary changes.

• Baby Showing Declining Activity Levels

If you think your baby is showing declining activity levels, you may need medical help. To test, eat or drink something cold. Lie on your side afterward and see if baby starts moving. Count the kicks to give yourself a baseline. 10 or more kicks in two hours is a good starting point. Call your obstetrician if you notice fewer kicks.

• Persistent Headache, Swelling, and Visual Disturbances

If you notice a persistent, severe headache, visual disturbances, swelling, and abdominal pain during the third trimester, you may be experiencing preeclampsia. This condition is potentially fatal and your OB/GYN should be notified immediately.

• Sudden Flow of Water

Water breaking is one of the most well-known signs of labor. If this happens before labor begins, it can indicate a premature rupture of membranes. Usually, once the water breaks, labor either has begun or will start soon.

Also remember that pregnancy can put pressure on your bladder, causing urine leakage. If you aren’t sure which is occurring, go to the bathroom. Empty your bladder and see if fluid continues to flow. If it does, then your water has broken, and it is time to go to the hospital and call your doctor.

If you are concerned for any reason, please call your Women’s Health OB/GYN today.

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A bone density test is used to determine the strength and condition of your bones. It is a type of X-ray that’s also known as a DEXA scan. The data collected from this procedure can identify bone loss and help doctors come up with a treatment plan. While it’s important to monitor health, not everyone needs a bone density test.

Who Needs A Bone Density Test?

Most adults under the age of 65 do not need to undergo a bone density test. That’s because most patients do not have bone loss or have only mild loss. That means their risk of breaking a bone is minimal. They should continue living a healthy lifestyle with exercise and a nutritious diet that includes plenty of vitamin D and calcium.

The Risk of a Bone Density Test

Just like other X-ray procedures, a bone density test uses a small amount of radiation. This is typically manageable and not a serious risk. However, repeated exposure can increase your risk over time. That’s why it is better to get as many tests or X-rays done as is recommended base on your age and health status.

Risk Factors to Consider

If you are a woman over age 65, then you should talk to your doctor about having a bone density test. If you are under age 65, then you likely won’t need one unless you:

• Have broken a bone in a minor accident
• Have been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis
• Have a parent who broke their hip
• Are a smoker
• Are a heavy drinker
• Have a low body weight
• Have a low vitamin D level
• Used a corticosteroid drug for three months or longer

We can help you decide if a bone density test is a good choice for you. Contact Women’s Health today to schedule an appointment.

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Vaginitis is a condition that causes inflammation in the vagina. Patients can experience pain, itching, and discharge. Every woman should know what this condition is and how to identify it.

Causes of Vaginitis

Vaginitis can appear due to reduced estrogen levels or as a side effect of a skin disorder. The most common causes include:

• Yeast Infections – Yeast infections are common and affect an average of 75% of women. A fungus known as Candida albicans causes this condition. The infection occurs when there is an imbalance of yeast and bacteria, allowing yeast to overgrow.
• Bacterial Vaginosis – This condition is caused by an overgrowth of a bacteria living in the vagina. It is a common diagnosis for women between the ages of 15 and 44. The cause is not known, but the infection usually occurs in women who are sexually active.
• Trichomoniasis – Trichomoniasis is a common sexually transmitted disease (STD). A parasite known as Trichomonas vaginalis causes it. Most patients do not know that they are infected.

Vaginitis Symptoms

Talk to your OB/GYN if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Vaginal irritation or itching
• Painful intercourse
• Painful urination
• Light vaginal bleeding
• Change in color, odor, or quantity of vaginal discharge

Do I Need to Talk to a Doctor About Vaginitis?

Some conditions are minor and may not require immediate medical assistance. If you aren’t sure, it is best to seek professional advice. You should also see your gynecologist if you experience pain or discomfort as well as:

• Notice unpleasant vaginal odor or discharge
• Have never had a vaginal infection
• Have had multiple sex partners
• Have had a new sex partner
• Fever and/or chills
• If you completed an over-the-counter treatment that didn’t work

Contact Women’s Health to schedule your gynecological appointment. We can provide a diagnosis and help you find treatment if necessary.

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Fibroids are growths that appear in the uterus. They are round in shape and almost always non-cancerous. They can be as small as a pea or as large as a melon. They are sometimes referred to as myomas or leiomyomas. A myomectomy is a surgical procedure used to remove these abnormal growths.

What Causes Fibroids?

Between 20% and 50% of women develop fibroids. They are more common among women between the ages of 30 and 50. The exact cause is not known, but certain factors can raise your risk of getting them.

Women who are obese, have a family history of fibroids, experience early menstruation before age 10, or eat large amounts of pork and beef tend to have an increased risk. Women who have had children have a lower risk which continues to decrease when having more than one child.

Why Do I Have to Have Fibroids Removed?

Having fibroids doesn’t mean you must have surgery. About one in three women with fibroids will experience symptoms and most likely need surgery. Common fibroid symptoms include:

• Long menstrual periods that extend past a week
• Heavy bleeding during period
• Pressure or pain in the lower stomach and pelvic region
• Leg or lower back pain
• Constipation
• Painful intercourse
• Frequent urination

In extreme cases, fibroids can also cause infertility and miscarriage. Women with fibroids are at a higher risk of experiencing difficulties during pregnancy and delivery.

3 Types of Myomectomy

There are three types of myomectomy. An abdominal myomectomy involves making an incision along the lower abdomen. This is a major surgery and usually requires a couple of nights in the hospital followed by weeks of recovery.

A laparoscopic myomectomy can work for patients who do not have large or deeply embedded fibroids. This procedure requires four one centimeter-wide incisions. A laparoscope is inserted so the doctor can see the fibroids and remove them.

The third type is the hysteroscopic myomectomy. This is an outpatient surgery that involves placing a speculum in the vagina and removing fibroids without exterior incisions.

Not all fibroids need surgery and some fibroids need a different treatment. Contact Women’s Health and Menopause Center and make an appointment with one of our gynecologists today to learn more about the best option for you.

The post What is a Myomectomy? Removing Fibroids from the Uterus appeared first on Women's Health and Menopause Center.

The female body goes through many changes as we age. It starts when we enter puberty and continues through menopause. While some changes are common and no reason to be alarmed, others can be worrying. The following five gynecological symptoms should never be ignored.

• Painful Intercourse

Intercourse should be a pain-free experience. Some causes may be minor, like dryness and a lack of lubrication. Others are far more concerning, like ovarian cancer. If you notice chronic pain during sex, it’s time to contact your gynecologist for an appointment.

• Chronic Bloating

Many women experience bloating just before menstruation. This is normal. However, if you experience excessive bloating that doesn’t go away, then there may be a problem. Ovarian cysts can cause this condition. Bloating can also happen as a result of ovarian cancer.

• Unexplained Fatigue

Daily life can be tiring. It’s okay to feel exhausted every now and again, but you should not feel this way all the time. Chronic fatigue is another symptom of illness, including cancer. This happens because cancer cells consume much of the energy supply in the body.

• Sudden Weight Loss

Sudden weight loss is another indication that something may be wrong. If you have dropped 10 pounds or more and have not changed your diet or activity level, then you should seek medical advice right away. Many types of cancer or a thyroid problem can cause weight loss.

• Unexplained Pain

Pelvic pain is an early symptom of cancer. Ovarian cancer is often linked to abdominal pain. Uterine cancer can be accompanied by pain and pressure. If you experience chronic pain in the same region for more than four weeks, you should talk to a doctor.

An OB/GYN can assess your condition and provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment options. Not all causes are life-threatening, but it’s important to act quickly, so you know what is happening to your body. Call your Women’s Health and Menopause Center doctor today to make an appointment to discuss recent changes or to schedule a routine exam.

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