A recent study from Denmark has sparked discussions about whether progesterone-containing intrauterine devices (IUDs) are linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. IUDs are well-known as a safe and highly effective form of birth control. They offer additional benefits, like reducing heavy menstrual bleeding, cramps, and lowering the risk of ovarian and uterine cancers. […]
Ozempic, Mounjaro, and Wegovy have received a lot of attention both in the media and the medical community over the past couple of years. This class of medications, known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, was initially developed for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes; however, their benefits for weight loss has resulted in a sharp increase in popularity in recent months. Because of this, we are seeing higher numbers of women taking these drugs during their reproductive years. You might be wondering about GLP-1 agonist use yourself and how that pertains to TTC (trying to conceive) either now or in the near future. Let’s take a look at what we know.
At Kamm McKenzie, we offer fetal screening tests in the first and second trimesters to all of our
patients. One test that I have found raises a great deal of confusion is the blood test for alpha
fetoprotein (AFP). In the past, AFP was used as one of multiple markers in the Quad and Tetra
screens which evaluated for the likelihood of chromosomal abnormalities such as Down’s
syndrome. Now, we almost universally screen for chromosomal abnormalities with cell-free DNA
(cfDNA) testing. With the widespread use of cfDNA, we now use AFP on its own for a different screening indication – to assess the risk of fetal structural or anatomic defects.
If you’re pregnant, odds are good that someone has told you not to eat deli meat. Why? Listeria. Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium commonly found in soil, water, and some animals. When food contaminated by Listeria is consumed, it can cause listeriosis, a rare but potentially serious illness. But why is everyone so obsessed with deli meat? Well, it’s because Listeria can live and thrive in the cold, which sets it apart from most other bugs that cause food borne illness.
There is a lot more out there when it comes to contraception than “The Pill.” Did you know that five new birth control methods have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the past five years!? In this blog post, we’ll delve into these new contraceptives—Slynd, Phexxi, Nextellis, Anoverra, and Twirla—each offering unique features and benefits. These effective methods expand birth control access and acceptability, so that more patients can take control of their family planning.
As women approach menopause, they often encounter a range of physical and emotional symptoms that can negatively impact their quality of life. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), or Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT), refers to medical management of these symptoms using supplemental estrogen plus or minus progesterone. In this blog, we’ll delve into the nuanced landscape of MHT, exploring advantages, associated risks, and the populations of women who might benefit from it.
