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When thinking about the main types of gynecologic cancers, the most important factor for women is to “know your normal.” Signs and symptoms can be different for each woman, so if you are aware of what is normal for you, it will be easier to spot any changes and catch problems early. With that thought in mind let’s discuss the five main types of gynecologic cancers and how they are treated.
Continue reading “The Five Main Types of Gynecologic Cancers and How They’re Treated”
Proper nutrition during pregnancy is one of the most powerful ways to support both maternal health and your baby’s development. While your body becomes a home and lifeline for your growing baby, what you eat can make a lasting impact. A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients lays the foundation for a healthy pregnancy, labor, and recovery. But nutritional needs shift as pregnancy progresses, and tailoring your diet to each trimester can help you feel your best while optimizing fetal growth.
First Trimester: Early pregnancy can bring nausea and food aversions, but it’s still important to focus on nutrient-dense foods when possible. Folate (or folic acid) is crucial during these early weeks to support neural tube development, so include leafy greens, fortified cereals, and legumes. Small, frequent meals rich in complex carbohydrates can help ease morning sickness. Hydration is key—especially if nausea leads to fluid loss.
Second Trimester: As energy levels often rebound, this is the time to focus on protein and calcium intake. Protein supports your baby’s growing tissues, so aim for lean meats, eggs, beans, and dairy. Calcium and vitamin D are essential for fetal bone development; include dairy products, fortified plant-based milks, and leafy greens. Iron needs also increase in the second trimester to support expanded maternal blood volume—red meat, spinach, and iron-fortified cereals are great choices. Pair iron-rich foods with vitamin C sources to enhance absorption.
Third Trimester: In the home stretch, your baby is growing rapidly, and your body is prepping for labor. Omega-3 fatty acids (especially DHA) are important for brain and eye development—add fatty fish like salmon, as well as walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds to your meals. Fiber-rich foods like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can help with common third-trimester constipation. Stay mindful of portion sizes, as heartburn and indigestion may increase, and continue to prioritize hydration to help with circulation and swelling.
If you have specific dietary questions or health concerns during pregnancy, the team at Capital Women’s Care is always here to help. Whether you’re discussing nutrition at your next visit or reaching out to our nursing staff, we’re committed to supporting you every step of the way.
As if women don’t have enough pre-menstrual issues to deal with like bloating and irritability, now you are hit with menstrual migraines. All these unfortunate maladies are caused by those pesky female hormones. If you are a new victim or have been wondering about these especially painful headaches, keep reading. We will help with understanding menstrual migraines, including causes and symptoms.
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Going to the gynecologist isn’t something women eagerly anticipate, but annual exams are essential for maintaining your reproductive and overall health. Whether it’s your first annual exam or a routine check-up, understanding what to expect can help ease any anxiety.
The most important step before your first gynecological exam is preparation. Women should gather their family medical history and be ready to answer questions about their menstrual cycle. Here are some of the questions your provider at Capital Women’s Care in Rockville or Silver Spring may ask:
By preparing answers to these questions, you’ll feel more at ease during your visit.
Your annual gynecological exam at Capital Women’s Care is designed to be a thorough check-up to ensure your overall health. The exam typically includes the following steps:
The pelvic exam is a quick and typically painless process. Asking questions during the exam is encouraged to ensure you feel informed and comfortable.
Scheduling an annual exam is essential for maintaining good gynecological health. These exams help detect health issues, such as cervical cancer, in their early stages when they are most treatable. Routine visits to Capital Women’s Care in Rockville and Silver Spring also provide an opportunity to discuss any concerns about your menstrual cycle, contraception, or sexual health.
If it’s time to schedule your annual gynecological exam, contact Capital Women’s Care in Rockville or Silver Spring, MD. Call us today. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care. Call us today to book your appointment and take the next step in prioritizing your health.
As the cold days of winter approach, many women can’t remember why they dread that time of year so much. Then it all comes back to them. Winter is one of those seasons when their menstrual cycle goes haywire. Their irritability is off the charts, their menstrual pain seems to be worse than normal, and their periods seem longer. In fact there are similar issues when the weather turns warmer. There are some physical reasons why this occurs. Let’s take a deeper dive into seasonal changes and their impact on gynecological health.
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As a pregnant patient, you may be aware of the importance of protecting your unborn child from various infections, including Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). RSV is a common virus that typically causes mild cold-like symptoms in healthy individuals, but it can lead to severe respiratory illness in infants, especially those who are premature or have underlying health conditions. As new options for prevention become available, understanding the differences between RSV vaccines and monoclonal antibodies is essential in making informed decisions for you and your baby.
Urinary incontinence—the involuntary leakage of urine—can significantly affect a person’s daily life, causing discomfort, embarrassment, and anxiety. While medical treatments can help, lifestyle changes play a crucial role in managing symptoms and improving quality of life.
The good news? From dietary adjustments to bladder training and weight management, simple changes can make a big difference. Below, we look at several practical tips to help you take control of urinary incontinence and regain confidence in everyday activities.
How old is your baby? Most new mothers hear that question a lot. For the mom of a premature infant also known as a preemie, the answer can be complicated. So how exactly do you answer this person’s question? It’s really up to you, but it is important that you are aware of preemie development: understanding actual vs corrected age. Continue reading “Preemie Development: Understanding Actual vs Corrected Age”
Many people will ignore symptoms when they are afraid to find out what is going on with their body. It’s a common reaction to unknown issues, but it doesn’t make the problem go away. In fact, it can make it worse by waiting and then finding out the diagnosis later when treatment options are more limited. This is certainly true when it comes to the symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse.
Continue reading “Symptoms of Pelvic Organ Prolapse You Shouldn’t Ignore”
Health professionals all agree that breastfeeding is the healthiest choice for babies and moms. It seems to come so naturally to many new mothers, so why do others find it so difficult? Don’t beat yourself up if you are experiencing trouble. There is help.
Continue reading “6 Common Breastfeeding Problems And Solutions”