Women's Health Medical Group, P.A.

Products And Services

• Cholesterol Screening

  Your risk for developing heart disease can be detected by measuring your cholesterol levels via a blood draw (preferably in the fasting state).

  Link: Cholesterol Screening

• Colon Cancer Screening

  Colon Cancer Screening A rectal exam is used to detect occult bleeding and can help determine your risk for colon cancer. We may also refer you to a gastroenterology specialist who can perform a screening colonoscopy, the gold standard test for diagnosing colon cancer.

  Link: Colon Cancer Screening

• Immunizations (HPV)

  Immunizations (HPV) Genital human papillomavirus, also known as HPV, is a sexually transmitted viral infection. There are more than 40 different kinds of HPV that can infect the genitalia, mouth and throats of men and women. More than 20 million people in the United States are infected with HPV, with an estimated six million people becoming infected each year. It is estimated that at least half of all sexually active people will contract HPV at some point in their lives. There are currently two vaccines, Gardasil and Cervarix, available to protect against high-risk types of HPV. Gardasil, the first HPV vaccine, targets the types of HPV that cause genital warts. Cervarix helps protect women from cervical cancer. Since the HPV vaccine became available in 2006, we have been able to vaccinate women against the virus responsible for genital warts and cervical cancer.

  Link: Immunizations (HPV)

• Mammography

  A mammogram is an X-ray examination of the breast. It is performed to detect breast cancer in its earliest stages, often before any signs or symptoms of the disease are present. Mammograms are an effective way to detect cancer early and can aid in the goal of successfully treating and beating the disease. A mammogram is a useful tool in detecting breast cancer because it can show abnormalities, like a tumor, in the breast tissue long before they can be felt. Both screening and diagnostic mammography can help diagnose breast diseases, lumps, cysts and benign and malignant tumors. These procedures can also detect calcium deposits that may indicate breast cancer. Patients with the following risk factors should take extra care to be screened regularly: Personal or family history of breast cancer Abnormal breast chances Long-term use of hormone therapy It is also recommended that all women older than 40 have mammograms annually. Women with or without risk factors will be referred to a variety of conveniently located radiology centers that provide this important screening test.

  Link: Mammography

• Pap Smears

  A pap test is a screening for cervical cancer. It is a standard gynecological procedure that examines your cervix for changes or abnormalities. It can also detect infections and the human papillomavirus (HPV). A pap test is recommended every year for women over the age of 21 and slightly less frequently for women over 30. A pap test collects cells from your cervix. The cells are sent to a laboratory for testing. Regular Pap tests detect problems quickly and rule out mistakes made by false positive and false negative results. We strive to detect cervical cancer as early and as accurately as possible with the use of PapSure®. PapSure is the only in-office direct visual screening exam, approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for all women. It is a visual exam, performed by your physician, in addition to your Pap Test. PapSure reduces the amount of false results. PapSure uses Speculite®, a bright light technology that illuminates the vagina and helps the doctor visually identify any abnormalities. The cells are examined under a blue light which will cause any irregular cells to appear white. Results are rapid and provide extra confidence to the Pap test results.

  Link: Pap Smears

• Thyroid Screenings

  Blood is drawn to assess the level and function of your thyroid hormones. These hormones can control energy level, menstrual regularity, temperature control, weight gain/loss, heart rate, breathing, bowel function and other functions.

  Link: Thyroid Screenings

• Abnormal Uterine Bleeding

  Abnormal uterine bleeding is classified as any bleeding that occurs between regular menstrual periods. In some cases, abnormal uterine bleeding occurs after intercourse, or in women who are postmenopausal. Heavier-than-normal menstrual bleeding that lasts for more than seven days is considered abnormal uterine bleeding. bnormal uterine bleeding has many possible causes. In some cases, birth control methods, including birth control pills or intrauterine devices (IUDs), can cause spotting or heavy periods. Additional causes of abnormal uterine bleeding include the following: Abnormal growths Pregnancy Miscarriage Polycystic ovary syndrome Pelvic inflammatory disease Uterine fibroids Polyps Infection Cervical cancer Uterine cancer Vaginal cancer Abnormal uterine bleeding can also be caused by abnormal hormone levels. Often the result of high estrogen levels that are not balanced by an appropriate level of progesterone, can prevent an egg from being released, or thicken the uterine lining and cause it to shed irregularly. Chronic medical conditions, such as thyroid disorders and diabetes, can also lead to abnormal uterine bleeding. Abnormal Uterine Bleeding Diagnosis Abnormal uterine bleeding is diagnosed through a physical examination and an evaluation of the patient's medical history, including the frequency and length of menstrual periods. A pregnancy test may also be administered. Additional tests may include the following: Sonohysterography Blood tests Endometrial biopsy Hysteroscopy An ultrasound or MRI scan, which will provide images of the uterus and internal organs, may also be performed. Abnormal Uterine Bleeding Treatment Treatment for abnormal uterine bleeding varies, depending on its cause. Treatment methods may include the following: Hormone supplements Antibiotics to treat the infection Removal of an IUD Birth control pills to regulate periods Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication Surgery may be necessary to remove growths such as polyps or fibroids that can cause bleeding. Several other types of surgery may be performed to treat abnormal uterine bleeding. From blood work to sonographic evaluation, we test for causes of abnormal bleeding in order to recommend the treatment that’s right for you.

  Link: Abnormal Uterine Bleeding

• Breast Problems

  woman's breasts may change over time due to different levels of hormones in the body caused by menstruation, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and menopause. There are a number of benign, or non-cancerous, conditions that may develop within the breasts. Because there are many conditions, benign and malignant, that may be associated with the breast, patients are advised to perform breast self-exams in addition to scheduling routine exams with a physician. Breast Exams Breast exams are physical and visual inspections of the breasts that can help identify unusual lumps or suspicious growths around the breasts. Breast exams are useful for the early diagnosis of breast cancer. What To Expect During A Breast Exam During a breast exam, a doctor may ask the patient to place her arm in several positions to view and examine the breast from various angles. For the physical portion of the exam, the doctor will rotate his or her fingers around the entire breast, applying changing levels of pressure to feel areas near the surface as well as deeper within the breast. In addition, a doctor can teach a patient how to perform these exams at home every month in order to recognize any changes in her own breasts. By becoming familiar with the feel of her breasts, a woman will be better able to identify a change that may indicate an abnormality. After providing a thorough breast exam, we recommend diagnostic evaluation (both blood work and radiology testing) to determine the cause of any problem that might exist.

  Link: Breast Problems

• Contraception

  Contraception is any method used to prevent pregnancy. Choosing the method of contraception to use is an important decision that will impact a woman's daily life. Speaking with your doctor about which method to use will provide you and your partner with protection. We will supply you with information about the different types of contraception available and the respective advantages and disadvantages of these methods. Birth Control Birth control methods have many different variable factors including frequency, convenience, permanence, and effectiveness. It is important to take into consideration your lifestyle, age, health, and previous experiences. The decision is yours to make, but with our knowledge and our experience, we can help you make the right choice. Contraceptives We offer oral contraceptives, injectable (Depo Provera©) and implantable (Implanon©) contraceptives, contraceptive patches and rings, intrauterine devices, diaphragm fitting and permanent sterilization (tubal ligations).

  Link: Contraception

• Endometriosis

  Endometriosis is a medical condition affecting about five million women. It occurs when the lining of the uterus, known as endometrium, moves out of the uterus and into other parts of the pelvic area such as the ovaries, bowels or behind the uterus. Endometriosis is a common health problem. It is generally not a serious or harmful condition, but can be painful and may interfere with your daily life. During your period, this endometrial tissue swells and bleeds and sheds from the lining to be released in the menstrual flow. When the tissue is in other areas, this swelling causes pain and may form scar tissue. There is no known cause of this condition, but it has a tendency to run in families. Symptoms of endometriosis include: Painful menstrual cramps Chronic lower back and pelvic pain Pain during or after sex Heavy and/or long menstrual periods Infertility Endometriosis can be diagnosed through an ultrasound or MRI. There is no cure for the disease, but symptoms can be treated depending on their type and severity. Talk to your doctor today if you think you may be experiencing endometriosis.

  Link: Endometriosis

• Hormone Replacement Therapy

  As you age, your body slowly ceases to produce estrogen and progesterone, two hormones that thicken the uterus to prepare it for the implantation of a fertilized egg. These hormones also protect the body from developing uterine cancer and osteoporosis. The decrease of these hormone levels is also responsible for many of the symptoms of menopause. As these hormones are valuable to women's health, many women choose to replace them synthetically through a pill, patch or cream to retain the benefits produced through hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Estrogen, by itself, helps relieve menopause symptoms and prevent osteoporosis. When combined with progesterone, the therapy allows for the uterine lining shedding each month without the regular bleeding. While there are risks associated with HRT, it is important to take the lowest dosage possible re-evaluating your therapy annually. Your doctor can help you decide which type of HRT, if any, is right for you.

  Link: Hormone Replacement Therapy

• Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

  Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a virus that causes genital warts. There are more than 100 different kinds of viruses and some of them may increase the risk for cancer. While some types can cause genital warts, others will show no symptoms but can eventually lead to cancers of the cervix, vulva, vagina and anus. Contracted through sexual contact, the risk of infection can be reduced by using latex condoms. Medical and surgical treatment, as well as vaccinations, can be provided.

  Link: Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

• Menopause

  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. Women making this difficult transition in their lives will receive a health-status assessment so they can receive appropriate counsel and treatment. After screening you for conditions, we will provide treatment for associated symptoms, including hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, insomnia and irritability.

  Link: Menopause

• Ovarian Cyst

  An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that can form in the ovaries. The ovaries are two small organs that produce eggs and female hormones. The ovaries affect our body's appearance, menstrual cycle and pregnancy. What Types Of Ovarian Cysts Are There? There are several types of ovarian cysts. The most common form of a cyst is a functional cyst. Functional cysts form during ovulation. Eggs that are produced each month are grown in tiny sacs called follicles. After these sacs release the egg, the sac dissolves turning into corpus luteum, which produces hormones. If the sac does not dissolve, a functional cyst will form from the sac and cause them to grow. Normally the cysts disappear within a few months. They are rarely cancerous but can cause mild symptoms. Symptoms Of An Ovarian Cyst Other types of cysts can form as a result of disease or from the egg not being released. These may be larger and more painful. While some ovarian cysts don't cause any symptoms, others may experience the following symptoms: Pressure, swelling or pain in the abdomen Pelvic pain Pain during sex Weight gain Abnormal bleeding Nausea Vomiting How Are Ovarian Cysts Diagnosed? We use pelvic exams and ultrasounds to diagnose ovarian cysts and provide medical and/or surgical treatment for symptomatic women. If a cancerous ovarian mass is identified, referral to a gynecologic oncologist (female cancer specialist) is made.

  Link: Ovarian Cyst

• Pelvic Support Problems

  Sometimes women will have symptoms of fullness, pelvic pressure or the sensation of something having “dropped.” We offer a variety of treatments for pelvic support defects, which may include cystoceles, rectoceles, enteroceles, and vaginal vault prolapse. All can be corrected surgically, sometimes in conjunction with a urologist or other surgical specialist.

  Link: Pelvic Support Problems

• Pelvic Pain

  A number of conditions can cause pelvic pain. We work to diagnose gynecologic and non-gynecologic sources, then provide medical/surgical treatments or refer you to other specialists if needed.

  Link: Pelvic Pain

• Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

  This hormonal condition is often characterized by irregular (or lack of) menstrual cycles, oily skin with or without acne, excess hair growth, fertility problems and (usually) obesity. It is diagnosed with a sonogram and/or lab evaluation. Treatment depends on fertility desires and includes oral contraceptives, anti-androgen medications or ovulation induction medications.

  Link: Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

• Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

  Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a group of symptoms that women commonly experience before their monthly menstrual period, usually going away after the period starts. About 85 percent of women suffer from at least one symptom of PMS during each menstrual cycle, although most cases are fairly mild and may not interfere with a woman's normal activities. Severe cases of PMS may be diagnosed as premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). The specific cause of PMS is not known, but it is linked to the hormone changes involved in the menstrual cycle, and can also be affected by stress and emotional problems. While symptoms can vary for each woman, some of the common symptoms of PMS include: Breast swelling and tenderness Fatigue Difficulty sleeping Bloating Constipation or diarrhea Joint or muscle pain Acne Appetite changes Anxiety Depression Women who suspect that they have a severe case of PMS and are seeking medical attention for their condition should monitor symptoms and their severity for a few months to help their doctor accurately diagnose the condition. We can help you control these symptoms with a variety of medications and/or behavior modifications.

  Link: Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

• Robotic Surgery

  Using the new da Vinci minimally invasive robotic surgical system, patients are now able to have gynecologic surgeries performed with shorter hospital stays, less blood loss and less postoperative pain. There is less risk of wound infection, less scarring, and in many cases, better clinical outcomes. Procedures that lend themselves to the robotic surgical system include hysterectomies and myomectomies (removal of uterine fibroids). Click here for more information at da Vinci's official website.

  Link: Robotic Surgery

• Surgical Procedures

  We offer surgical procedures for diagnosis and treatment of abnormal uterine bleeding, sterilization, management of pelvic pain, ovarian cysts, ectopic pregnancies, precancerous cervical lesions and pelvic support defects. Office and hospital operating-room procedures are available.

  Link: Surgical Procedures

• STD Screenings

  Screening is offered for a variety of infections, including but not limited to: chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes, syphilis, hepatitis, human papilloma virus (HPV), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and trichomonas.

  Link: STD Screenings

• 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. Causes Urinary incontinence is often caused by a urinary tract infection or weak muscles in the urinary tract. Some medications may cause weak bladder muscles, therefore causing urinary incontinence. Weak muscles may prevent the closing off of the urethra, and doing certain activities may cause urine to leak. Normal urination involves emptying the bladder when the desire to urinate occurs, at which point the bladder contracts and flows out of the body. Once the bladder is empty, the muscles contract and urination stops. People with UI experience a disruption in this process that causes a loss of bladder control and results in troubling symptoms. Symptoms In addition to leaking urine, people with UI may also experience: Strong desire to urinate Pelvic pressure Frequent urination Nocturia, or the need to urinate at night while sleeping Painful urination Bed wetting UI is a common condition with many treatment options that can relieve symptoms and allow patients to perform their regular activities without the embarrassment and worry of urinary leakage. Having your medical history will help us accurately diagnose incontinence and determine if medication or surgical intervention is the most appropriate treatment. Referrals to a urologist also may be made.

  Link: Urinary Incontinence

• Uterine Fibroids

  These benign, smooth-muscle growths on the uterus may sometimes cause symptoms of pelvic pressure, pelvic pain and abnormal uterine bleeding. Treatment depends on the woman’s desire for preserving her fertility and may include injectable medication, surgical removal, hysterectomy and/or referrals to radiologists who provide special procedures to shrink fibroids.

  Link: Uterine Fibroids

• Infertility Treatment

  Intrauterine insemination, or IUI, is a fertility treatment that involves the placement of sperm cells directly into the uterus, in order to facilitate the fertilization process. Commonly referred to as artificial insemination, an IUI allows the increased number of sperm to reach the fallopian tubes and therefore improves the chances of fertilization. The goal of an IUI is for the sperm to reach the fallopian tube and fertilize an egg, resulting in pregnancy. Depending on the reasons for infertility, IUI may be performed in conjunction with the normal ovulation cycle of the woman or with fertility medications that induce ovulation. Since this is a relatively simple treatment with few side effects, it is often recommended as an initial form of fertility treatment. The Intrauterine Insemination Process Intrauterine insemination may be performed without additional fertility medications, however, a physician may encourage an ovulation induction treatment along with the IUI process, to increase the chances for fertilization. It is recommended that the patient abstains from sexual activity for two to three days before treatment. IUI Expectations The IUI process is relatively simple. First, a semen sample will be collected and then processed in a lab to separate the sperm from the seminal fluid. The separation process separates out active sperm and concentrates them into a small volume. The sperm is then washed and prepared for insemination. Sperm washing cleanses the sperm of mucus and potentially toxic chemicals which may cause adverse reactions in the uterus. This IUI is performed with the male partner's semen or donor sperm. At the time of ovulation, a catheter is used to inject the prepared sperm directly into the uterus. Intrauterine insemination can be performed quickly in the doctor's office with minimal discomfort. Patients may experience mild cramping during the procedure and light bleeding afterward. After implantation, the doctor will advise the patient to remain lying down for at least 15 minutes up to a few hours to optimize the pregnancy rate. A pregnancy test can usually be taken two weeks after the IUI procedure, although the doctor will provide specific instructions for each individual patient. Many couples will require more than one cycle of treatment in order to become pregnant, with the most successful results occurring in women under the age of 35. Ovulation Induction (Clomid) Ovulation induction is a procedure in which medication is used to stimulate a woman's ovaries to ovulate and produce eggs. Ovulation induction commonly uses fertility drugs to stimulate the follicles in the ovaries in order to produce multiple eggs during each menstrual cycle. This process is often performed as a fertility treatment. With additional control over the timing of egg release, there is a significant increase in the likelihood of fertilization. These medications may be used to assist with fertilization naturally through sexual intercourse, or in conjunction with in vitro fertilization, or IVF. In extreme cases when medication to induce ovulation has been unsuccessful, surgery may also be performed to increase the chances of ovulation. The medication may be taken for five days after the start of the period, for up to six months. If the patient has not achieved pregnancy after six months, the doctor will reevaluate and likely modify the treatment. Ultrasounds This test monitors the growth of follicles (cysts on the ovary) containing eggs that can be fertilized each month. It also evaluates the lining of the uterus as well as its overall size and shape prior to and once pregnancy has been achieved.

  Link: Infertility Treatment

• Breastfeeding

  Breast-feeding (nursing) allows a new mother to feed her infant directly from her breasts. Ideally, an infant will nurse and get milk directly from the mother's nipple but, when that is not possible, milk can be expressed (pumped) from the breast and fed to the infant in a bottle. Breast-feeding provides an infant with essential vitamins, protein and fat, as well as antibodies that help the immune system fight off bacteria and viruses. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), if physically possible, women should exclusively breast-feed their infants for at least the first 6 months of life. Breast-feeding is beneficial to both infant and mother. In addition to providing nutrition, breast milk is easier to digest than formula, and research has indicated that it may lower the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Nursing is also effective at building immunity in infants, and children who nurse have a lower risk of ear infections, asthma, obesity, respiratory infections and type 2 diabetes as they get older. Breast-feeding is also beneficial to the mother in the following ways: Uterus contracts and returns to normal size May help with postpartum weight loss Lowers the risk of breast and ovarian cancers Saves money on formula Breast-feeding is also a good way for a mother and her baby to bond. We work with your pediatrician to encourage the breastfeeding of your newborn, and will help make the process as comfortable for you as possible.

  Link: Breastfeeding

• Cesarean Birth

  A cesarean section, also referred to as a C-section, is surgery to deliver a baby. During a c-section, a doctor surgically removes the baby through the mother's abdomen using surgical incisions in the abdomen and uterus. A C-section is considered a surgical procedure and takes place in the operating room of a hospital. A C-section may be planned by a physician ahead of time due to pregnancy complications, however in some cases, a C-section may be necessary when unexpected problems arise during labor or delivery. The Procedure A C-section is performed in a hospital setting and is commonly performed while the mother remains awake. Prior to the surgery, a catheter is placed in the urethra to drain urine. A spinal block is used to deliver regional anesthesia to the lower part of the mother's body (mid abdomen and below). The doctor makes an incision in the abdomen near the pubic hairline and then a second incision is made in the uterus. The baby is then delivered through the incision, the umbilical cord is cut and the placenta is also removed from the uterus. The uterus is stitched closed with dissolvable stitches, and the abdomen is closed with either stitches or staples. The catheter is usually removed from the bladder within a few hours after the surgery. Recovery After the C-section, the mother and baby will stay in the hospital for about 3 days. Soreness at the incision site is common and pain is treated with prescription medication. While recovering, woman may experience common symptoms that occur after giving birth, which include cramping, and vaginal bleeding or discharge for about 4 to 6 weeks. After leaving the hospital, physical activities may be limited while the incision heals and sexual intercourse should be avoided for at least 4 to 6 weeks.

  Link: Cesarean Birth

• Gestational Diabetes

  Also known as gestational diabetes mellitus, or GDM, gestational diabetes is a form of diabetes that affects pregnant women. Recently announced statistics estimate that gestational diabetes affects up to 18% of all pregnancies. Although risk factors aid in determining the chance of developing GDM, about half of all those afflicted had no risk factors whatsoever. Whether or not symptoms subside with the conclusion of pregnancy is irrelevant in the diagnosis of GDM. We will refer you to diabetic nurse educators to help ensure the healthy growth of your baby during your third trimester.

  Link: Gestational Diabetes

• High Blood Pressure in Pregnancy

  Should high blood pressure occur, we will provide appropriate testing and medication to lower your level and help minimize complications for you and your baby.

  Link: High Blood Pressure in Pregnancy

• Miscarriages

  Miscarriage affects 20 percent of all pregnancies. Although common, miscarriage can be a heartbreaking event for expectant couples, often requiring a lengthy emotional recovery and concern about potential risks and causes of future miscarriages. We offer physical and emotional support should you suffer this early-pregnancy complication. Both surgical and conservative management are provided, along with diagnostic tests if you experience more than one miscarriage.

  Link: Miscarriages

• Labor and Delivery

  From the onset of labor until the successful delivery of your precious newborn, we provide attentive care by referring you to one of two respected labor and delivery units in southwest Fort Worth. Stages Of Labor And Delivery The process of labor and delivery occurs in three stages beginning with the onset of labor. Depending on their preference or birth plan, some women may choose to experience the first phase of labor at home and as it progresses to active labor, they may choose to go to a hospital or medical facility. In a hospital setting, the heart rate and vital statistics of both mother and unborn baby are monitored during the labor process. The health and safety of the mother and unborn baby should always be considered first when planning for labor and delivery. First Stage The first stage of labor occurs in two phases: early labor and active labor. Early labor begins when the baby has moved down into the birth canal and the cervix begins to dilate. Mild contractions occur and a brown or red discharge may indicate that the mucus plug has been shed from the cervical opening. This phase may last from 6 to 12 hours but may occur more rapidly in women who have given birth before. Contractions become more frequent and much more intense during active labor and the cervix continues to dilate. An epidural may be administered for pain. The membranes around the amniotic sac may rupture (water breaks). Active labor may last up to 8 hours. Second Stage The second stage of labor occurs when the cervix has fully dilated and the mother is ready to push the baby out of the birth canal and deliver the baby. When the top of the baby's head fully appears (crowns), the doctor or midwife will advise the mother to push and will help deliver the baby. If necessary, the doctor may make a small incision to the enlarge the vaginal opening (episiotomy) to help the baby fit through the birth canal. After the baby is delivered, the umbilical cord is cut. Third Stage The third stage of labor is the delivery of the afterbirth (placenta). This stage may last from 5 to 30 minutes. After the baby is delivered, contractions will continue and the mother may experience chills or shakiness. Usually, the woman will push one more time and the placenta is expelled from the uterus. If an episiotomy was performed it is stitched at this time. Labor is over once the placenta has been delivered. Childbirth can be a different experience for each woman and the methods used to relieve pain can vary based on the health and safety of the mother and child, as well as the recommendations from her doctor.

  Link: Labor and Delivery

• Preterm Labor

  Preterm (premature) labor is a condition that occurs when a woman's body starts preparing itself to give birth too early in a pregnancy. Normal pregnancies typically last 40 weeks. In cases of preterm labor, however, a woman begins experiencing regular contractions that prepare the cervix for labor between the 20th and 37th weeks of pregnancy. Preterm labor often results in premature birth, which increases a child's risk of birth defects, as well as cognitive and medical issues in the future. Because of the potential of serious health problems for the child that may be associated with a preterm delivery, an attempt is made to delay preterm labor for as long as possible. Preterm labor may be a direct result of an issue with the baby, the mother or, in some cases, both. However, the exact cause of preterm labor cannot always be identified. We do everything possible to prevent your little one from arriving too early. For extreme prematurity, we will refer you to a high-risk specialist.

  Link: Preterm Labor

• Twins

  Nearly all multiple pregnancies are detected, using ultrasound technology, during the first trimester. A multiple pregnancy can pose a number of serious health risks and complications for both the mother and fetuses. One of the biggest concerns is premature birth, which increases the risk of birth defects, and future cognitive or medical issues. Because of the potential health issues associated with multiple pregnancy, it is always considered high risk, and requires proper prenatal care and close monitoring. We offer prenatal care for women with twins and also guide them through any complications that might be associated with their twin pregnancies. Both vaginal and cesarean births are provided.

  Link: Twins