Should You Get Tested for HPV? Understanding Risks and Precautions
Should a check-up be done? Hello Doctor: I have a concern. Three years ago, I had sexual intercourse without using a condom with my ex-girlfriend. I am not very clear about her past sexual history, but I believe it is not very complicated; however, I cannot be completely certain ...
Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: 1. Instead of worrying, it's better to bring your girlfriend for an HPV test. For males, a sample is taken from the glans penis. For females, if the hymen is no longer intact, a sample is taken from the cervix. If the hymen is still intact, a careful vaginal sample ca...[Read More] Should You Get Tested for HPV? Understanding Risks and Precautions
Abortion Methods: Surgical vs. Medication - Which is Safer?
Abortion I would like to ask whether an abortion procedure or medication is less harmful to the body.
Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: An embryo is life, and no life should be easily harmed. Please think carefully before making a decision. Medication-induced abortion causes less damage to the endometrium, but it is not guaranteed to result in a complete abortion. Therefore, it is essential to follow the p...[Read More] Abortion Methods: Surgical vs. Medication - Which is Safer?
Does Evening Primrose Oil Shorten Your Menstrual Cycle?
Does evening primrose oil shorten the menstrual period? I took evening primrose oil capsules in July to alleviate menstrual pain, but my menstrual cycle changed from 28 days to 25 days, with periods on 5/31, 6/28, 7/25, and 8/19. I had sexual intercourse (with ejaculation) on 8/2...
Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: 1. Only the correct and consistent use of condoms can prevent sexually transmitted infections and provide effective contraception; the rhythm method is unreliable. 2. I am not familiar with the product evening primrose oil. 3. A menstrual cycle of 21 to 35 days is generall...[Read More] Does Evening Primrose Oil Shorten Your Menstrual Cycle?
Is High-Level Ultrasound Necessary for Healthy Pregnancies?
Regarding high-frequency ultrasound? Hello, I am a pregnant woman undergoing prenatal check-ups in the province. Recently, a friend of mine had a high-level ultrasound and discovered heart issues with her fetus, which led to an abortion. I would like to know if it is necessary to...
Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: Fetal echocardiography is a specialized technique that not every obstetrician-gynecologist is trained in, nor is it necessary for all to possess this skill. Based on my personal training in ultrasound at Taichung Veterans General Hospital, I perform fetal heart assessments...[Read More] Is High-Level Ultrasound Necessary for Healthy Pregnancies?
Managing Urinary Tract Infections During Pregnancy: Safety and Concerns
Urinary bladder infection during pregnancy? Hello, Doctor! I have been experiencing recurrent vaginal yeast infections and urinary tract infections on May 8, June 21, and July 20, almost once a month. Despite following the prescribed medication from various doctors, the infection...
Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: After learning about your pregnancy, it is important to be cautious with medication. You should know the generic names of any medications previously taken, the gestational week during which they were used, and the dosages. Then, check the literature for any reports of adve...[Read More] Managing Urinary Tract Infections During Pregnancy: Safety and Concerns
How to Properly Supplement Folic Acid Before Pregnancy?
Folic acid supplementation before pregnancy? If you are planning to become pregnant, how should you supplement folic acid before conception? Do you need to buy vitamins (e.g., prenatal vitamins) to take?
Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: Start taking 5mg orally from the beginning of the pregnancy plan until the mid-pregnancy. Hsinchu Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.[Read More] How to Properly Supplement Folic Acid Before Pregnancy?
Can Two Follicles Lead to Twins? Plus, Effects of Halogen Lights on Pregnancy
The number of follicles does not directly determine how many babies will be born. Each follicle contains an egg, and typically, one egg is released during ovulation. If multiple eggs are released and fertilized, it can result in multiple pregnancies, such as twins or triplets. Ho...
Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: 1. In cycles without ovulation medication, typically only one egg is released. If this egg is fertilized and divides into two, it results in identical twins. If you have two follicles, both larger than 18mm, and both ovulate and are fertilized, this results in fraternal tw...[Read More] Can Two Follicles Lead to Twins? Plus, Effects of Halogen Lights on Pregnancy
Understanding Emergency Contraceptive Pills: Side Effects and Cost-Effective Options
Emergency contraceptive pill..? I would like to ask if there are any side effects from frequently using emergency contraceptive pills? Also, buying emergency contraceptive pills at a regular pharmacy costs 350 NTD for just three packs. Would it be more cost-effective to get a pre...
Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: 1. The potential risks of long-term use of hormonal medications include hyperlipidemia, heart disease, venous thromboembolism, and an increased risk of cancer, among others. 2. You are welcome to visit, but please note that there will be a registration fee and the cost for...[Read More] Understanding Emergency Contraceptive Pills: Side Effects and Cost-Effective Options
Why Is My Period Late After Taking Emergency Contraceptive?
After taking emergency contraception, my period is still delayed? I have a question. On August 3rd, I had sexual intercourse with my boyfriend just a couple of days after my period ended. Since there was no ejaculation and it was right after my period, I didn't take emergenc...
Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: 1. Only the correct and consistent use of condoms can prevent sexually transmitted infections and provide effective contraception; the rhythm method is unreliable. 2. If your period is overdue, please take a pregnancy test weekly. If all tests are negative and you are more...[Read More] Why Is My Period Late After Taking Emergency Contraceptive?
Post-Cesarean Pain and Delayed Menstruation: What to Know
Seven months after a cesarean section, the incision still hurts, and menstruation has not yet returned? Hello, I underwent a cesarean section at your hospital on January 21 of this year. The incision site still experiences pain, and although I am not breastfeeding, my menstruatio...
Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: 1. There is no specific timeframe for postoperative pain resolution, as individual recovery varies. It is also possible for pain to develop into a chronic condition, so please consult a gynecologist for an examination. 2. It is unreasonable to have milk secretion when prol...[Read More] Post-Cesarean Pain and Delayed Menstruation: What to Know
Understanding Unusual Growths and Itching in the Vaginal Area
Strange growths appearing on the genital area? In March or April of this year, a small growth appeared on the right side of the vaginal opening. At first, I didn't pay much attention to it because it wasn't painful or itchy. However, by June or July, it suddenly became ...
Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: It is possible that you have genital warts (commonly known as "cauliflower"). Please seek medical attention promptly and refrain from sexual intercourse to prevent transmission. Hsinchu City Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.[Read More] Understanding Unusual Growths and Itching in the Vaginal Area
Persistent Vaginal Itching: Causes and Solutions for Relief
Persistent itching in the genital area? I have been experiencing itching in my genital area for about 3 to 4 months. The symptoms include an excessive amount of vaginal discharge, sometimes so much that it soaks through my underwear. The discharge is mostly clear, but occasionall...
Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: It is most likely that the itching in the genital area and increased vaginal discharge are due to a yeast infection. The white bumps may be molluscum contagiosum. Please visit our outpatient clinic for an examination so we can provide you with appropriate treatment. Hsinch...[Read More] Persistent Vaginal Itching: Causes and Solutions for Relief
Is It Safe? Understanding Menstrual Cycles and PMS Symptoms
Is this dangerous? Hello Doctor: My last two menstrual periods were on July 20 and June 20. My usual menstrual cycle is longer than 30 days, lasting about seven days each time. This month, due to work and other stressors, I feel that my period may be delayed, and I haven't e...
Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: 1. The safe period is unreliable. 2. No, ovulation can be assessed using basal body temperature, ultrasound, blood tests, or urine tests. 3. Not necessarily; ultrasound and Pap smear examinations are required. 4. Generally, menstruation is considered to be significant only...[Read More] Is It Safe? Understanding Menstrual Cycles and PMS Symptoms
Can Women Get Pregnant from Eating Semen? Condom Use and Risks Explained
Question If a woman comes into contact with sperm, there is a possibility of pregnancy, but it is generally low if there is no direct ejaculation inside the vagina. Using a condom significantly reduces the chance of pregnancy, especially if it is used correctly and does not break...
Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: 1. No. 2. If condoms are used correctly (ensuring proper air release, avoiding substances that can damage the lubricant, and withdrawing immediately after ejaculation), and there is no visible leakage after ejaculation, the likelihood of pregnancy is low. Hsinchu City Hosp...[Read More] Can Women Get Pregnant from Eating Semen? Condom Use and Risks Explained
Postpartum Bleeding Concerns: Understanding Your Symptoms After Childbirth
Hemorrhage Hello, Doctor: I am six months postpartum and had an episiotomy. I had a Pap smear 50 days after giving birth, and since then, I have experienced a few episodes of bleeding. The earlier episodes had a similar volume to the bleeding after the Pap smear and were somewhat...
Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: If both the Pap smear and the obstetric and gynecological ultrasound examinations are normal, there is no need to worry. Hsinchu City Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.[Read More] Postpartum Bleeding Concerns: Understanding Your Symptoms After Childbirth
Understanding Severe Anemia: Which Specialists Should You See First?
I'm not sure where to start checking..? Hello, doctor: On April 12 of this year, I underwent a health check-up arranged by my company at Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital due to work requirements. The examination included blood tests, urine tests, X-rays, and other detaile...
Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: You need to see both specialties. If the hematology diagnosis is iron deficiency anemia, it may be caused by excessive menstrual bleeding, the cause of which should be diagnosed by obstetrics and gynecology. Hsinchu Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.[Read More] Understanding Severe Anemia: Which Specialists Should You See First?
Understanding Polyhydramnios: Implications and Management During Pregnancy
Polyhydramnios Currently, at 25 weeks of pregnancy, the doctor mentioned: 1. There is an excess of amniotic fluid; is this condition good or bad? 2. The doctor noted that the abdomen feels firmer; how can this be assessed and what measures can be taken for care? Thank you!
Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: 1. Both polyhydramnios and oligohydramnios are abnormal conditions; an objective assessment should be made using ultrasound to measure the amniotic fluid index (AFI). 2. The statement "the abdomen is too hard" is too subjective; a uterine monitor should be used t...[Read More] Understanding Polyhydramnios: Implications and Management During Pregnancy
Missed Birth Control Pill: Impact on Effectiveness and Long-Term Use
Forgot to take the birth control pill on the second day? Hello, doctor: I would like to ask you about birth control pills. I took the first pill on the 5th day of my cycle as scheduled, but I forgot to take the second pill and took it the next day along with the third pill. Will ...
Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: 1. The contraceptive effectiveness may be compromised, but if you only miss a dose once and take a supplement, the impact should be minimal. 2. Whether contraceptive pills can be taken long-term should be evaluated by your obstetrician-gynecologist. Generally speaking, ind...[Read More] Missed Birth Control Pill: Impact on Effectiveness and Long-Term Use
Managing Post-Hysterectomy Discomfort: Headaches and Tinnitus Solutions
Discomfort Symptoms After Hysterectomy Since my surgery on July 20, 2005, I have experienced persistent headaches and tinnitus, and I even have dizziness. What self-care measures should I take?
Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: After a hysterectomy, if you experience headaches and tinnitus, please consult an otolaryngologist. Hsinchu City Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.[Read More] Managing Post-Hysterectomy Discomfort: Headaches and Tinnitus Solutions
Can Sperm Survive on Hands After Contact? Cleaning Tips Explained
Question If a hand comes into contact with a male's dried semen and some time has passed, the sperm in the semen is no longer viable. Sperm cells typically die shortly after exposure to air and drying. Washing the hands with water alone may not be sufficient to remove all tr...
Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: 1. Most of them should be dead. 2. Sperm may be washed away, but sexually transmitted infections cannot be washed away. Hsinchu Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.[Read More] Can Sperm Survive on Hands After Contact? Cleaning Tips Explained