Endometrial Ablation

A surgical procedure that destroys the lining of the uterus. Unlike a hysterectomy, it does not remove the uterus. Endometrial ablation may stop all menstrual bleeding in some women. However, some women still have light menstrual bleeding or spotting after endometrial ablation. A few women have regular menstrual periods after the procedure. Women who have endometrial ablation still need to use some form of birth control even though, in most cases, pregnancy is not likely after the procedure.

Endometriosis Treatment

The endometrium is the tissue that lines the uterus. When this tissue grows somewhere else in the body it is called endometriosis. These abnormal growths may cause mild to severe pelvic pain, especially during menstruation. Endometriosis may also be associated with infertility. Treatment for endometriosis can be either medical or surgical. Various oral and injectable hormones are available to help slow the growth of endometriosis. Although significant improvement results from initial treatment in some patients, others have recurring symptoms and persistent disease. Recent studies demonstrate that endometriosis can be managed equally well with laparoscopic removal.

Family Planning

Methods used by sexually active couples to prevent, space or achieve pregnancy in order to attain the desired family size.

Hysterectomy

Hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus. Different portions of the uterus, as well as other organs, may be removed at the same time.

Hysteroscopy

Hysteroscopy is the visual examination of the canal of the cervix and interior of the uterus using a thin, lighted, flexible tube called a hysteroscope. The device is inserted through the vagina.

Laparoscopic Surgery

Laparoscopic surgery (also known as minimally invasive surgery) is performed through multiple small incisions (1/4" to 1/2" long) using specially designed surgical instruments and viewed through a laparoscope, or surgical telescope.

Pap Test

A Pap test (also called Pap smear) involves microscopic examination of cells collected from the cervix, used to detect changes that may be cancer or may lead to cancer, and to show noncancerous conditions, such as infection or inflammation.

Pelvic Exam

During a pelvic examination, a physician examines the uterus, vagina, ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder and rectum.

Pelvic Organ Prolapse Treatment

Pelvic Ultrasound

A pelvic ultrasound is a noninvasive (the skin is not pierced) procedure used to assess organs and structures within the female pelvis. A pelvic ultrasound allows quick visualization of the female pelvic organs and structures including the uterus, cervix, vagina, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. Doppler ultrasound may also show blood flow in certain pelvic organs.

Ultrasound

An ultrasound, also called sonography, is a diagnostic imaging technique which uses high-frequency sound waves and a computer to create images of blood vessels, tissues and organs. Ultrasounds are used to view internal organs as they function, and to assess blood flow through various vessels.

Urinary Incontinence Treatment

Loss of bladder control is not a disease. Rather, it is a sign that a problem may exist. Regular leakage of urine can occur with certain movements, during pregnancy or times of stress. When leakage of urine becomes frequent or severe enough to become a social or hygienic problem, it is called urinary incontinence. Leakage of urine that cannot be controlled should prompt the patient to see a doctor. Proper diagnosis and treatment may correct the problem and ease the symptoms of urinary incontinence.

Uterine Fibroid Removal (Myomectomy)

Surgical procedure done to remove fibroids from the uterus while leaving the uterus intact.