FAQ’s

What can I expect during my first visit?
What should I bring when I come for a scheduled appointment?
What is a mammogram, and when should I get one?
Should I get a pap smear even if my family has no history of cancer?
My partner and I have been trying to conceive unsuccessfully for several months. What should we do?
What kinds of foods should I avoid during pregnancy?
How can I treat nausea and vomiting during pregnancy?

What can I expect during my first visit?

Your first gynecological visit could include a consultation as well as some simple screening tests. First obstetric visits typically include thorough data-gathering such as medical histories as well as a series of blood tests and a consultation. 

What should I bring when I come for a scheduled appointment?

Patients should bring their insurance card, and for anyone who is younger than 18 years old, we request that a parent or guardian is present in order to discuss parental consent and confidentiality. Also, we request that you bring a list or actual bottles of medications you are currently taking.

What is a mammogram, and when should I get one?

According to the American Cancer Society, women ages 40 and over should have a mammogram every year. A Clinical breast exam (CBE) is recommended about every 3 years for women in their 20s and 30s and every year for women 40 and over. Also, women should know how their breasts normally look and feel and report any breast change promptly to their healthcare provider. A breast self-exam is an option for women starting in their 20s.

Those with an increased risk of breast cancer due to things such as family history, genetic tendency, or other factors, are advised to talk with their physician about whether to have a mammogram before the age of 40. Mammograms are vital as they can detect the presence of cancerous cells or tumors up to two years before they can be felt by a self-examination.

Should I get a pap smear even though my family has no history of cancer?

Yes. Cervical cancer is not a hereditary condition, but rather a result, in most cases, from Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Your family’s medical history plays a minor role in your risk for cervical cancer.

My partner and I have been trying to conceive unsuccessfully for several months. What should we do?

Infertility is a treatable condition, but it is important not to self-diagnose it too quickly. Medically, a couple is considered infertile only when failing to conceive after having unprotected sex for one year. If you have been trying for one year or more, then seeing a fertility specialist will often prove useful. There are advanced treatments for many causes of infertility, and you may be surprised how far science has advanced in this area just in the last several years alone.

What kinds of food should I avoid during pregnancy?

Eat foods rich in iron, calcium and protein. Prenatal supplements are also a good decision, but you should consult an obstetrician before taking any supplement. Eating foods high in fiber and drinking plenty of water will help curb constipation. Avoid eating raw foods, fish with mercury (even trace amounts), and soft cheeses.

How can I treat nausea and vomiting during pregnancy?

There are many ways you can help prevent nausea during pregnancy. Try eating dry toast or crackers before getting up in the morning. Avoid eating greasy or spicy foods. Also, take any iron during or directly after meals instead of on an empty stomach. Also try to eat several small meals instead of only a few larger meals. And stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Most importantly, get plenty of rest and remind yourself that you will feel better soon!