The routine annual exam begins with a thorough interval medical history. Dr. Runnels will ask about any new medical conditions or changes in chronic issues. We will review your medications; please bring a list of your current medications and their doses, especially if the list is extensive. We will also discuss pertinent family health issues.
We will also address any specific concerns that have arisen since your last checkup. Some patients find it useful to bring a list with them.
A complete physical will center on the breast and pelvic exams. Pap smears, which screen for cervical abnormalities, are regularly performed via the liquid-based Thin Prep method. Based on risk factors, patient concerns, and medical history, additional testing might also be done. Any necessary blood work is performed in the office.
We will also review the indication for outside tests such as mammograms, bone density studies, and colonoscopies, and make appropriate referrals as necessary. During flu season we offer the influenza vaccine. Gardasil is also available for protection against the Human Papilloma Virus.
Dr. Runnels is prepared to assist you with the full spectrum of gynecological concerns. Some of the common ones include: Endometriosis, chronic pelvic pain, fibroids, dysfunctional uterine bleeding, menstrual irregularities, PCOS, vaginal infections, UTI’s, ovarian cysts, abnormal Pap smears, sexually transmitted diseases, contraception, IUD’s, sterilization, menopause, breast problems, infertility, osteoporosis, hormone replacement therapy, and sexual problems.
Menopause Management
Menopause is the time in a woman's life when her menstrual period has stopped. Menopause is caused by a decrease in the ovaries' production of the hormones estrogen and progesterone, which eventually results in the ovaries' ceasing to produce eggs, and the end of menstruation. A woman has reached menopause when she has not had a menstrual period for at least 12 months. Menopause is a natural process that takes several years. During this time, fertility decreases, and periods often change in duration, frequency, and amount of blood flow. This stage is known as perimenopause, and it is often when symptoms of menopause begin. The average age that menopause occurs is 51, although it may occur prematurely in women who have had total hysterectomies or have received chemotherapy or radiation treatments.
Menstrual Disorders
Menstrual disorders can turn your monthly period from a minor inconvenience into a major, debilitating condition. These disorders can cause physical and emotional symptoms and can severely disrupt your daily life for days or weeks at a time. Menstrual cycle disorders can cause symptoms such as heaving bleeding, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, missed periods and mood swings.
There are several different menstrual disorders including:
- Abnormal uterine bleeding
- Amenorrhea
- Fibroids
- Dysmenorrhea
- PMS
- PMDD
While these disorders are not usually serious, they are often painful. Fortunately, treatment methods are usually successful in relieving these symptoms to make that time of the month less significant.
Dyspareunia
Dyspareunia, also known as sexual pain, is the medical term for painful sexual intercourse in women. This is a common condition that affects many women at some point in their lives. Painful intercourse may be short-lived or may continue for a long period of time. It may occur just before, during or after intercourse, and the specific location and severity of the pain may vary. Women with dyspareunia may experience pain during penetration, pain with intimate touching or pain upon orgasm.
Urinary Incontinence
Urinary incontinence, also known as UI, is a common condition that involves the involuntary loss of urine. Although it is not usually a serious condition, UI can be embarrassing and affect a person's daily life. Urinary incontinence is most common in women, especially during and after pregnancy, but can affect people of all ages.
