Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences Archive Questions

Below are Dr. Omicioli’s answers to Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences questions
received through the Ask the Expert feature.

This content is provided for informational purposes only, and is not intended
to be a substitute for individual medical advice in diagnosing or treating a
health problem. Please consult with your physician about your specific health
care concerns.



Now displaying records 1 to 4 of 4.

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Q : 1 05/26/2010	Is there any other way to get trichomonas besides an unfaithful partner? The medical evidence to date all supports trichomonas as being a sexually transmitted infection. Women can become infected from both male and female sexual partners. The protozoan organism that causes the infection does not live or survive on inanimate objects such as towels or toilet seats. Pap smears are not reliable in diagnosing an infection. A gyn exam with either a microscopic evaluation of vaginal secretions showing motile trichomonas or a positive culture are the best ways to confirm the diagnosis.
Q : 2 04/12/2010	Can you get pregnant after menopause? Menopause is diagnosed ONLY after 12 consecutive months without a period and normally occurs between age 45-55. In naturally occurring menopause, a women can no longer get pregnant (unless someone else donates the egg). If she is in perimenopause, with irregular periods, she may still be able to get pregnant. Women who become menopausal due to treatment for cancer, such as chemotherapy, may resume getting their periods, depending on the type of medication. Women who don't want to get pregnant, should continue using contraception until 12 months without a period has passed.
Q : 3 03/10/2010	I am 40 now but I had a hysterectomy at 33. One ovary was left and the cervix removed. I don't take HRT anymore but I do take a low dose of DHEA which helps me. It's hard for me to get sexually aroused and I have no feelings either but I can arouse myself when I'm alone. Can you help me? It's embarrassing for me and also frustrating because I was quite young when this began. Women frequently notice a decrease in desire after menopause (either natural or surgical menopause). Hormone therapy has been shown to improve sexual function in women with menopause. It is often easier to get aroused when a woman self-stimulates, because she knows exactly where to touch and how much pressure to use. Communicating to their sexual partner about what is pleasurable and not being embarassed is very important. An experienced menopause practitioner can provide guidance and help determine if the causes of sexual problems are hormonal, problems with a patient's personal relationship with their partner, or a combination of these factors.
Q : 4 12/28/2009	I am 51 years old and have had irregular periods for 4 or 5 years. They range from heavy and long to spotty for only a day or two. For the last two months I have had trouble sleeping because of a pounding heartbeat? Is there anything I can do for this? Palpitations or pounding heartbeat can be related to fluctuating hormone levels in perimenopause. However, they can also be caused by other conditions such as an overactive thyroid gland. You should see your primary care provider as a first step. If other causes for the palpitations have been excluded, then some women benefit from taking very low dose birth control pills for a year or two during the menopause transition, which helps to even out hormone levels.

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