Women's Integrated Healthcare, P.A. | Obstetrics and Gynecology

Three Common Causes of Infertility

If you are struggling to conceive, you may have many questions about your infertility. Talk with your obstetrician about your difficulties; he or she can help to pinpoint one of several underlying causes of infertility and then recommend treatments to improve your chances of getting pregnant. The following conditions are among the common causes of infertility.

• Non-cancerous growths in the uterus: Uterine fibroids and endometriosis are two common conditions that can affect fertility. Because they cause abnormal growths in the uterus and surrounding organs, the conditions can prevent normal ovulation from occurring. Both are treatable through surgery or minimally-invasive procedures that relieve uncomfortable symptoms as well as preserve fertility.
• Hormonal imbalances: Female hormones play an important role in regular menstruation and ovulation, so abnormal levels of estrogen and progesterone can interfere in the normal process of getting pregnant. Hormone levels may be out of balance because of conditions like PCOS, which causes excess production of male hormones in the body. Lifestyle factors like diet and the use of alcohol or tobacco can also be the source of hormonal changes. If your obstetrician believes that lifestyle factors are responsible for your difficulties conceiving, implementing healthy habits could help to improve your fertility.
• Male factors: A common misconception about infertility is that it is an exclusively female problem. In reality, males can face fertility issues of their own, so both partners should seek medical counsel if you have tried to get pregnant for six months to a year without success.

For more information about infertility and what can be done to improve your chances of pregnancy, contact the ob-gyns at Women’s Integrated Healthcare. Our practice combines the latest in technology in obstetrics and gynecology with compassionate care for women throughout the Grapevine, Keller, and Alliance areas. For more information about the ob-gyn services and care we provide, please visit us online or call us today at (888) 870-5671.

Women's Health at Every Age: Resources for Further Reading

Whether you are preparing to visit your gynecologist for the first time or struggling with the symptoms of menopause, as a woman, taking care of your overall health means paying close attention to your reproductive and emotional health. A specialist in women’s health, your gynecologist can guide you through each stage of your life, from puberty to pregnancy and beyond. To help you stay healthy no matter your age, schedule an appointment with your physician today. 

• If you are not ready to get pregnant right away, talk to your gynecologist about birth control. While your birth control options may vary, all of them help to prevent contraception and delay pregnancy until a time when you are ready.
• When you do become pregnant, regular prenatal care is vital for your health and the health of your baby. The Mayo Clinic provides more information about first trimester prenatal care and what you can expect from the first 12 weeks of your pregnancy.
• In addition to the hot flashes and mood swings commonly associated with this stage of a woman’s life, menopause can also lead to other health problems like bone density loss. Learn more about the relationship between menopause and osteoporosis in this WebMD article. 

For more information about women’s health, contact the ob-gyns at Women’s Integrated Healthcare. Our practice combines the latest in technology in obstetrics and gynecology with compassionate care for women throughout the Grapevine, Keller, and Alliance areas. For more information about the ob-gyn services and care we provide, please visit us online or call us today at (888) 870-5671.

What to Expect During Your First Trimester

Although it is usually an exciting time, pregnancy can also be difficult for women as they struggle to adapt to their body’s physical and emotional changes. During the first trimester, little physical changes may be apparent, but pregnant women often experience exhaustion, cramping, acne breakouts, tender breasts, back aches, spotting, and mood swings. Additional changes may include frequent urination, and vomiting or nausea. With the guidance of an obstetrician, though, a mom-to-be can learn more about what to expect during each trimester and what can be done to relieve uncomfortable symptoms. 

To learn more about the characteristics of each pregnancy trimester and the prenatal care it requires, contact the ob-gyns at Women’s Integrated Healthcare. Our practice combines the latest in technology in obstetrics and gynecology with compassionate care for women throughout the Grapevine, Keller, and Alliance areas. For more information about the ob-gyn services and care we provide, please visit us online or call us today at (888) 870-5671.

Our patients come to us from around the DFW metroplex, including Grapevine, Keller, Alliance, Southlake, Highland Village, Lewisville, Irving, HEB, Arlington, Grand Prairie, and the surrounding areas.

Dr. Barbara Coulter-Smith Provides "Exceptional... Kindness and Genuine Care"

Angelina, thank you for sharing such a personal experience with us. We are so sorry for your struggle but are honored that we could provide some small comfort and assistance during this difficult time. Please do not hesitate to call if you ever need anything!

At Women's Integrated Healthcare, we combine the latest in technology with compassionate care in obstetrics and gynecology to provide for patients throughout the  Grapevine, Keller and Alliance areas. For more information about the services and care we provide, please visit us online or call us today at (888) 870-5671.

What Are Your Options for Birth Control?

While pregnancy and childbirth can be among the most rewarding experiences in a woman’s life, the right time to start or grow a family is different for everyone. If you’re not yet ready to have a child, birth control will be a critical component of your pregnancy prevention plan. Because a variety of birth control methods exists, schedule an appointment with your ob-gyn to discuss your options. Depending on your health, lifestyle and future pregnancy plans, one form of contraception may work better for you than another.

• Barrier Methods: Barrier methods to birth control include contraceptive sponges, diaphragms, and cervical caps. These devices are designed to prevent pregnancy by blocking or covering the opening of the cervix, ultimately preventing sperm from reaching the egg.
• Oral Contraceptives: Oral contraceptives, also known as birth control pills, are among the most commonly used forms of birth control today. Birth control pills govern levels of estrogen and progestin to prevent the ovaries from releasing an egg. Most oral contraceptives also alter the thickness of the uterine lining and cervical mucus in order to prevent sperm from successfully fertilizing an egg.
• Injections: Women who have a hard time remembering to take their pill may prefer birth control injections. These injections also utilize hormones such as progestin and estrogen to prevent ovulation. These injections, though, are administered every few months rather than taken daily.
• Vaginal Rings: A vaginal ring is a birth control device that releases hormones into the body through a soft, flexible ring to prevent the release of a mature egg. Vaginal rings are usually worn for three weeks at a time, after which you can remove the ring in order to allow for your normal menstrual cycle. A new vaginal ring should then be inserted until it’s time for your next cycle.
• Permanent Birth Control: Permanent birth control refers to a sterilization procedure that can be performed either surgically through a tubal ligation or non-surgically through a procedure like Essure. Because permanent birth control cannot be reversed, talk at length with your doctor to see if this option may be right for you. If you have even the faintest plans for a future pregnancy, another birth control method would most likely be a better fit.

The best way to determine which birth control method is right for you is to consult with your gynecologist. For more information about your birth control options, contact the ob-gyns at Women’s Integrated Healthcare. Our practice combines the latest in technology in obstetrics and gynecology with compassionate care for women throughout the Grapevine, Keller, and Alliance areas. For more information about the ob-gyn services and care we provide, please visit us online or call us today at (888) 870-5671.