Understanding Pelvic Floor Disorders When you hear the term “pelvic floor,” you might immediately think of pregnancy, childbirth, and a handful of exercises your doctor mentioned in passing. But the truth is, the pelvic floor is a vital part of everyone's anatomy, regardless of gender or age, and its health is far more important than [...]
As women age and transition through menopause, the decline in estrogen levels can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms collectively known as Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM). Addressing the challenges posed by GSM is crucial for maintaining women's health and well-being. One effective and well-researched solution gaining prominence is the use of vaginal estrogen [...]
Bringing a new life into this world is a beautiful yet challenging journey, filled with countless decisions that impact both you and your unborn baby. Among the core challenges you face during pregnancy is ensuring that you both stay healthy. One way to achieve this is by staying informed about the vaccines you need during [...]
What Is a Midwife? A certified-nurse midwife (CNM) specializes in the care of women across their lifespan. This includes independent provision of gynecologic and family planning services, prenatal care, care during labor, birth, and postpartum. CNMs perform physical exams, make diagnoses, and order and interpret lab and diagnostic tests. They also prescribe medications, including medications [...]
Premature & Early Menopause: Everything You Need to Know In the United States, the average age of menopause is 51. Menopause that occurs between the ages of 40 and 45 is considered “early menopause,” and before 40 is called “premature menopause.” About 5% of women experience early menopause, and roughly 1% of women go through [...]
Diagnosing an STI If you’re sexually active, it’s important to get routinely tested with each time you have sexual intercourse with a new partner. If your sexual history and current symptoms suggest that you have a sexually transmitted infection (STI), a doctor or midwife from CT Coastal will perform either a physical or pelvic exam [...]
What is Toxic Shock Syndrome? Toxic Shock Syndrome, or TSS, is a very rare, life-threatening complication of certain bacterial infections. There isn’t a set time for when symptoms of TSS start after using a tampon; however, they should be removed from your vagina after no more than 8 hours to lower your risk. Please note [...]
PPD is More Common Than You Think Postpartum Depression, or PPD, is a form of depression that occurs after childbirth. Those who develop PPD are also more likely to develop major depression later on in life. PPD is extremely common and those who experience it should never feel alone. In fact, as many as 75% [...]
What is Morning Sickness? Morning sickness is a common condition that occurs in approximately 70% of pregnancies and typically starts around the 6-week mark. It can last for weeks or months depending on the person, but the symptoms usually subside around the second trimester. Although it’s called “morning” sickness, women can experience these symptoms [...]
What Is a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)? Urinary Tract Infections, commonly referred to as UTIs, can affect any part of the urinary system, such as the kidneys, bladder, or urethra. Although men can experience them, they are more common in women. In fact, 50%-60% of women will experience a UTI at some point in [...]