Should Spinal Injury Patients See a Gynecologist After a Month?

Q: Should Spinal Injury Patients See a Gynecologist After a Month?

Dear LL： Hello, even for patients with spinal cord injuries, if the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes are functioning normally, and there are no specific gynecological diseases, pregnancy is still possible if there has been sexual intercourse. <br>Therefore, if your period is

Please ask your question, and I'll do my best to assist you?

Hello Dr.
Lu: I am a patient with spinal cord injury and I haven't come in for a month.
Should I get tested? Do I need to see a gynecologist?

LL, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/11/05

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Dear LL: Hello, even for patients with spinal cord injuries, if the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes are functioning normally, and there are no specific gynecological diseases, pregnancy is still possible if there has been sexual intercourse.
Therefore, if your period is late and you have had recent sexual activity, it is necessary to take a pregnancy test to confirm.
If your period continues to be delayed, I recommend consulting with a gynecologist.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Li-Cheng Lu, Attending Physician, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2009/11/05

More Info

When it comes to spinal injuries, particularly those resulting from trauma such as car accidents, the recovery process can be complex and multifaceted. Your question about whether spinal injury patients should see a gynecologist after a month is quite relevant, especially considering the potential impacts of such injuries on overall health and well-being.

Firstly, it is essential to understand that spinal injuries can affect various bodily functions, including those related to the reproductive system. Depending on the severity and location of the spinal injury, patients may experience changes in their menstrual cycle, sexual function, and overall reproductive health. This is particularly true for injuries that involve the lower back or pelvis, as these areas are closely linked to the nerves that control reproductive organs.

If you have not had a menstrual cycle for a month following your spinal injury, it is advisable to consult with a gynecologist. This is important for several reasons:
1. Hormonal Changes: Stress from an injury, changes in physical activity, and alterations in body weight can all impact hormonal balance, which in turn can affect menstrual cycles. A gynecologist can help assess whether these changes are temporary or if they require further investigation.

2. Potential Complications: In some cases, spinal injuries can lead to complications such as pelvic organ dysfunction, which may affect bladder and bowel control, as well as reproductive health. A gynecologist can evaluate any symptoms you may be experiencing and provide appropriate care or referrals if necessary.

3. Psychological Impact: The emotional and psychological toll of dealing with a spinal injury can also affect reproductive health. Stress, anxiety, and depression can all contribute to menstrual irregularities. A gynecologist can offer support and resources to help manage these aspects of recovery.

4. Preventive Care: Regular gynecological check-ups are essential for maintaining reproductive health, especially after a significant injury. These visits can help ensure that any potential issues are identified and addressed early on.

In summary, it is advisable for spinal injury patients, especially those experiencing changes in their menstrual cycle or reproductive health, to see a gynecologist. This consultation can provide valuable insights into any underlying issues and help ensure a comprehensive approach to recovery.
In addition to seeing a gynecologist, it is crucial to maintain open communication with your primary care physician or the specialist managing your spinal injury. They can provide guidance on the overall recovery process, including physical rehabilitation and any necessary imaging studies to monitor healing.
As you continue your recovery, be attentive to your body’s signals. If you notice any new symptoms or changes, do not hesitate to seek medical advice. Recovery from a spinal injury is a journey that requires a multidisciplinary approach, and addressing all aspects of health, including reproductive health, is vital for a successful outcome.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Spinal Compression: When to See a Neurosurgeon or Rehab Specialist

Hello, doctor. My mother fell on her buttocks at the beginning of February and experienced incontinence and inability to move. After an X-ray in the emergency department, it was determined that she had a spinal compression and needed to rest. If her condition did not improve, she...

Dr. Zhao Shaoqing reply Neurosurgery
You can consult a neurologist for evaluation.

Understanding Spine Issues: Recovery After Injury and Treatment Options

Hello: I was in a car accident where I suffered a herniated disc. I was taken to the hospital, but there were no available beds, so I went to see a folk healer who pushed my spine back into place and applied some ointment. I continued to apply the ointment for about one to two mo...

Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics
Grace: You did not mention where the spinal disc herniation occurred. Generally, significant trauma is required to cause spinal misalignment, and it often accompanies neurological symptoms, even paralysis. With appropriate treatment and rehabilitation, most patients recover withi...

Managing Post-Accident Rehabilitation: Coping with Pain and Weakness

Hello, doctor. I was hospitalized for over a month following a car accident in April of this year. The diagnosis from Hospital A included: head trauma, concussion, cervical spine contusion, chest wall contusion, and a fracture of the fourth lumbar vertebra. The neurosurgery depar...

Dr. Wang Zhaomin reply Rehabilitation
Generally, taking muscle relaxants or anti-anxiety medications does not affect the examination as long as the patient can maintain normal consciousness and cooperate with simple movements during the examination.

Severe Lower Back Pain: When to See a Neurosurgeon or Internist?

I would like to ask you, I have been experiencing severe back pain for the past 1 to 2 months, specifically in the lower back area. Whenever I lift something or have a slight hunch, my lower back hurts a lot. Should I see a neurosurgeon or an internist? Do I need to see a doctor?...

Dr. Zhang Yuanyi reply Neurosurgery
Dear Xiao Rou, There are many causes of back pain, and it is important to consider any events that may have occurred prior to the onset of pain (such as exercise, trauma, or lifting heavy objects). The issue may be related to muscles, the spine, or intervertebral discs, with a v...