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Women's Health Topics
Ask an Expert
Ask the Expert Team
Sutter Health
What is the recovery time from a hysterectomy?
Recovery from hysterectomy is a highly personal and unique experience that is both physical and emotional. For many women, the absolute finality of childbearing can be very saddening. The amount of postoperativ... continue reading about What is the recovery time from a hysterectomy?
Risa Kagan, M.D., FACOG
Alta Bates Summit Medical Center - Alta Bates Campus
I'm 57 years old and going through menopause. Last week I experienced three days of bleeding. It was a light flow, but at my age I'm concerned. I'm not on any type of medication, not even aspirin. Is this something out of the normal?
This may or may not be abnormal as one's hormones can fluctuate in the perimenopausal years. If it has been over a year since your last normal menses, then this is called postmenopausal bleeding and needs immed... continue reading about I'm 57 years old and going through menopause. Last week I experienced three days of bleeding. It was a light flow, but at my age I'm concerned. I'm not on any type of medication, not even aspirin. Is this something out of the normal?
Nobl Barazangi, M.D., Ph.D.
Sutter Pacific Medical Foundation
What are the effects of hormone replacement therapy on a person who has a history of lacunar stroke?
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has been shown to increase the risk of ischemic stroke (lacunar stroke is a subtype of ischemic stroke). Although the absolute risk of complications such as stroke is relativel... continue reading about What are the effects of hormone replacement therapy on a person who has a history of lacunar stroke?
Risa Kagan, M.D., FACOG
Alta Bates Summit Medical Center - Alta Bates Campus
I am 37 years old and experiencing longer periods - two to three weeks long. I also have some bleeding after orgasm. What could be causing this? Do I need to see a doctor?
Yes, you should definitely consult with your gynecologist and have an exam and pelvic ultrasound. There may be a structural problem in your uterus, such as a polyp or fibroid (benign muscle mass) that can cause... continue reading about I am 37 years old and experiencing longer periods - two to three weeks long. I also have some bleeding after orgasm. What could be causing this? Do I need to see a doctor?
Wesley S. Hilger, M.D., FACOG
Surgery Center Division
I've had incontinence since giving birth. The doctor keeps telling me to do my kegels, but it's not working. Are kegels supposed to fix all incontinence problems due to childbirth, or could something else be going on?
Many studies have shown a connection between vaginal birth and bladder symptoms. In fact one in three women will have incontinence during her lifetime, and of these up to 65% will recall that it began either du... continue reading about I've had incontinence since giving birth. The doctor keeps telling me to do my kegels, but it's not working. Are kegels supposed to fix all incontinence problems due to childbirth, or could something else be going on?
Suzanne E. Pertsch, M.D.
Palo Alto Medical Foundation
Will taking progesterone help prevent a migraine?
Taking progesterone alone as a cream or tablet has not been scientifically established as an effective treatment for migraine headaches. Many women experience migraines with their menstrual cycles, especially w... continue reading about Will taking progesterone help prevent a migraine?
Rodman S. Rogers, M.D.
SPMF San Francisco HMO Network
I'm going to get an organic bladder sling made of pigs skin. Are there any more risks to getting that kind instead of the mesh kind?
Both synthetic polypropylene and acellular porcine dermis (pig skin) mesh slings are considered safe and effective for the treatment of female stress incontinence. In general, I advise patients that their main ... continue reading about I'm going to get an organic bladder sling made of pigs skin. Are there any more risks to getting that kind instead of the mesh kind?
Ask the Expert Team
Sutter Health
What does a breast cancer lump feel like? I heard the lumps that move when touched aren't as much of a concern.
Most breast lumps are benign cysts, particularly in younger women. Size and tenderness may vary with the menstrual cycle. When lumps are tender, they are more likely benign, but about 10% of breast cancers do c... continue reading about What does a breast cancer lump feel like? I heard the lumps that move when touched aren't as much of a concern.
Ask the Expert Team
Sutter Health
Does a history of mastitis increase my risk for breast cancer?
The factors that are known to increase a woman's risk for breast cancer are: Older age, a BRCA genetic mutation, mother or sister with breast cancer, beginning menstrual periods before age 12, periods stopping ... continue reading about Does a history of mastitis increase my risk for breast cancer?
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