Hormones, Obstetrics and Gynecology FAQ

Understanding Unexplained Pain: Gynecological Concerns and Early Detection

Unknown pain Hello Dr. Lin: (1) How are vaginal cancer and endometrial cancer examined? Is it the same as doing an ultrasound? (2) Do we have to wait until there are symptoms to discover these diseases? How can we prevent them early? What are the symptoms? (3) For some gyne...

Dr. Lin Zhaopei Reply:
1. Vaginal cancer is extremely rare, while endometrial cancer typically presents with abnormal bleeding in its early stages. The definitive diagnosis for both is made through biopsy rather than ultrasound. 2. Vaginal cancer can be easily detected through Pap smears, while endom...

Understanding the Differences Between Ovarian Cysts and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

What is the difference between ovarian cysts and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)? Hello Dr. Lin: I apologize for bothering you again... (1) I would like to ask, what is the difference between ovarian cysts and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)? Some people say that ovarian cysts ...

Dr. Lin Zhaopei Reply:
1. A simple cyst generally refers to a fluid-filled sac larger than 3 centimeters, and it is usually solitary. In contrast, polycystic ovaries contain multiple small follicles (typically more than 7), with each follicle rarely exceeding 1.2 centimeters in size. 2. The tumor mar...

Are Breast Abnormalities Linked to Cervical Health Issues?

Is there a correlation between breast abnormalities and cervical issues? Hello Doctor: My mother (46 years old and has been taking female hormones for the past three months) has been experiencing breast milk discharge for about six months. Initially, it was clear and colorless, b...

Dr. Li Guanghan Reply:
Hello: 1. The first step in evaluating abnormal nipple discharge is to rule out the possibility of breast cancer. If the mammogram is normal, the next step is to check for elevated prolactin levels or the possibility of a pituitary adenoma. You are welcome to come for a consultat...

Understanding Endometrial Cancer Treatment: Questions and Nutritional Support

Endometrial cancer My mother underwent laparoscopic surgery for uterine fibroids, during which her uterus and cervix were removed. The uterine tissue was sent for pathology, and it was found to contain malignant cells. She has been referred to radiation oncology for further treat...

Dr. Zhang Tingzhang Reply:
Dear devoted daughter: After reading your letter, I can feel your concern for your mother. Due to uterine fibroids, she underwent laparoscopic hysterectomy, and subsequently, it was discovered that she has endometrial cancer. This is a consultation we sometimes receive in our gyn...

Understanding Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Symptoms, Concerns, and Vaccination Queries

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Hello Dr. Lin, Q1: I had an abdominal ultrasound at an obstetrics and gynecology clinic on December 15, 2006. The doctor informed me that I have a higher number of follicles on my right side, and the diagnosis seems to be polycystic ovary syndrom...

Dr. Lin Zhaopei Reply:
1. The factors contributing to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) include being overweight, elevated levels of male hormones, and individual constitution, which can affect ovulation and lead to irregular menstruation or infertility issues. It is advisable not to go too long without...

Why Are Ants Attracted to My Underwear? A Gynecological Perspective

There are ants in the underwear? I would like to ask about an experience I had. After work one day, I took off my underwear (I usually don't wear underwear after work) and left it on the bed. When I went to wash it later that evening, I found that there were ants on the unde...

Dr. Huang Jianxun Reply:
Hello: First, please perform a urine test to rule out the possibility of glycosuria. Generally, women of reproductive age have vaginal epithelial cells that contain glycogen due to the influence of female hormones. The vaginal discharge contains shed vaginal epithelial cells, and...

Does Borage Oil Affect Breast Cysts and Increase Cancer Risk?

Does borage oil have any side effects on breast cysts? Hello, I have not had my period for two to three months this year, and it only comes when I take medication. The doctor at the clinic did not perform any tests and only said it is premature menopause and recommended hormone r...

Dr. Li Guanghan Reply:
Hello: Long-term use of preparations containing female hormones, whether they are Western medicine or traditional Chinese medicine, natural or synthetic, animal-based or plant-based, may slightly increase the risk of breast cancer. You are welcome to come for an examination; a bl...

Understanding Bilateral Hydrosalpinx: Treatment Options and Risks

Bilateral hydrosalpinx Doctor, I went to the hospital yesterday and the doctor said I have bilateral hydrosalpinx, with one side measuring 4.7 cm and the other side over 5 cm. Do I definitely need surgery to remove it? Is there any danger involved? If I have both ovaries removed,...

Dr. Li Guanghan Reply:
Hello: 1. The decision to perform surgery for hydrosalpinx generally depends on the presence of symptoms, such as abdominal pain, etc. 2. Any surgical procedure carries certain risks. 3. Some scholars believe that postmenopausal ovaries are useless and carry a risk of ovarian can...

Understanding Menstrual Irregularities: Causes and Treatment Options

Menstrual irregularities 1. My menstrual cycle has always been regular (28 days) and lasts for 7 days. However, in October 2005, I suddenly experienced abnormalities. From the start of my period until it completely ended, it lasted a total of 15 days (with a lighter flow than usu...

Dr. Li Guanghan Reply:
Hello: 1. Provera is a progestin, not an estrogen; its function is to suppress estrogen. 2. Any medication may have potential side effects, and Provera may cause fluid retention, which could lead to slight changes in weight. 3. You are welcome to bring the pathology report from y...

Addressing Low Breast Milk Supply: Can Lactation Hormones Help?

Insufficient breast milk supply? I gave birth in March, and due to insufficient breast milk supply, I am unable to provide milk for my 3-month-old niece. Since he is a low birth weight infant with poor immunity, he has been experiencing recurrent colds since he was 2 months old a...

Dr. Li Guanghan Reply:
Hello: Prolactin is a hormone secreted by the pituitary gland that is not a medication. It can be stimulated to rise by actions such as nipple stimulation (such as expressing milk or allowing the baby to suckle more frequently). Hsinchu Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gyne...

Understanding Treatment Options for Adenomyosis: Risks and Benefits

What are the treatment options for adenomyosis? Hello: I have experienced two ectopic pregnancies and have had both fallopian tubes removed. Regarding fertility, that is no longer an option for me. Last week, my doctor informed me that I have moderate to severe adenomyosis, but m...

Dr. Li Guanghan Reply:
Hello: 1. Assisted reproductive technology is now quite common. Even if the fallopian tubes are absent, there is still a chance for in vitro fertilization. May God bless you and do not give up easily. 2. Adenomyosis can indeed lead to heavy menstrual bleeding and dysmenorrhea. Ma...

Understanding Irregular Menstrual Cycles: Causes and Solutions

Menstrual cycle is very irregular? My first menstruation occurred around the age of 12 or 13, and since then, at 26 years old, my menstrual cycle has been very irregular. Sometimes it takes a long time for my period to come (three to four months, or even six months), while at oth...

Dr. Dai Qihan Reply:
I can only suggest that you cooperate with your physician and not give up halfway.

Understanding Menstrual Irregularities and Sexual Health After Childbirth

Sexual function or menopausal symptoms? Hello Dr. Tsao, I am 33 years old, and I had my first child at 29. My husband and I have not been using contraception, but we have not been able to conceive again, so I would like to ask a few questions: 1. After giving birth to my first ...

Dr. Cao Guotao Reply:
Hello! In response to your questions, I will answer them one by one. A dilation and curettage (D&C) procedure generally does not affect future pregnancies. Considering your age of 33 and the fact that you still have menstrual periods, it is unlikely that you are in menopause....

Understanding Eye Pain and Headaches During Pregnancy: Causes and Solutions

Pregnancy-related eye pain and headaches? Hello: I have a concern that I hope your medical team can help me with. It all started with an appendectomy at the age of 11, which led to peritonitis because the doctor left a piece of gauze in my abdomen. After undergoing another surger...

Dr. Li Guanghan Reply:
Hello: We understand your pain and desire for treatment. Please come to our Neurology Department for an examination. We will first investigate the causes of your headaches that are not related to pregnancy. Hsinchu City Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Can You Test Progesterone Levels at Home with Saliva Strips?

Methods for testing progesterone deficiency? I previously had my estrogen and progesterone levels checked at the hospital through a blood test. Now that I am taking the hormones prescribed by my doctor, there has been some improvement, but self-monitoring is quite inconvenient. I...

Dr. Chen Nengjin Reply:
1. The progesterone test strip is for urine testing, not for saliva testing. 2. Although the test strip can conveniently provide information about the condition, the use and discontinuation of medication should still follow the instructions of the prescribing physician.

Understanding Hormone Levels After Hysterectomy: What You Need to Know

Hormone reference values? Hello Doctor, I underwent a hysterectomy for uterine fibroids in January of this year. Recently, my attending physician conducted a hormone test, and my result was 422 (the doctor mentioned that the standard is 50). In comparison, my peers of the same ag...

Dr. Lin Zhaopei Reply:
General hormone testing typically measures follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S). The normal reference range for FSH is up to 40, while DHEA-S usually ranges from 10 to 400. A blood value of 422 should still be considered normal. If DHEA-S...

Understanding Post-Pill Bleeding: Causes and Concerns

Bleeding after taking emergency contraceptive pills? Hello Doctor: About a week ago, I took the emergency contraceptive pill. However, approximately 6 days later, I experienced some spotting (similar to menstruation), but my period is not due for another two weeks. Therefore, I w...

Dr. Cao Guotao Reply:
Hello, Miss: Emergency contraceptive pills are essentially high doses of hormones. Some individuals may experience abnormal bleeding or an early onset of menstruation after taking these hormones. Each person's body reacts differently, so the effects can vary. However, genera...

Managing Hormone Therapy: Balancing Treatments for Vaginal Atrophy

Hormone I have been using hormones for over a decade, which has improved my bone density, but my Pap smear results indicate atrophic vaginitis. I usually take Premarin, one tablet a day; another doctor prescribed Estriol gel and Progesterone. My question is: Is it too much to use...

Dr. Lin Zhaopei Reply:
The local smear report indicates atrophic vaginitis. Treatment with hormonal suppositories may be more effective than oral medications. However, the smear is primarily a screening test for cervical pre-cancerous lesions, and atrophic vaginitis is not a significant concern. Taking...

Can You Confirm Pregnancy After Taking Emergency Contraceptive?

Postoperative? Can a pregnancy test taken more than two weeks after taking emergency contraception determine if the contraception was successful? I took the pill right after sexual intercourse, but it has been over a week and I still haven't gotten my period. My previous two...

Dr. Huang Jianxun Reply:
Hello: It is advisable not to use emergency contraception as a regular method of birth control, as emergency contraceptive pills contain high doses of hormones. You should still take a pregnancy test if your period is late to confirm whether contraception has failed. Sincerely, D...

Can Birth Control Pills Enhance Breast Size? Risks and Considerations

The issue of using birth control pills for breast enhancement? I previously saw a television program that mentioned taking birth control pills can enhance breast size. Are there any side effects? Also, my menstrual cycle is very irregular, occurring approximately every 2-3 months...

Dr. Li Guanghan Reply:
Hello: 1. Female hormones during puberty cause breast enlargement, but the effects are limited after puberty. 2. Birth control pills can have potential side effects; for more information, please visit our outpatient clinic. Hsinchu City Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gyne...

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