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In the ever-evolving landscape of telehealth and digital health solutions, MIRA - Fertility Tracker has gained significant attention for its innovative approach to at-home health monitoring. However, it's crucial to shed light on a significant aspect that might be overlooked by users – MIRA doesn't employ doctors. This means that if you find yourself relying on MIRA for health and fertility insights without a reliable OBGYN familiar with MIRA, you might be left with data that are challenging to interpret accurately.
Biological data, especially when it comes to women's health, is complex and nuanced. Attempting to interpret such data in isolation can lead to misinterpretations and unnecessary concerns. Google might be a tempting source for self-diagnosis, but it's essential to recognize the limitations of trying to understand your health without the expertise of a qualified physician. Biological data cannot be properly interpreted so easily, and the guidance of a healthcare professional is invaluable in ensuring accurate understanding and appropriate actions.
In this context, My Virtual Physician stands out as a beacon of comprehensive women's health telemedicine. Unlike many other national telehealth companies that are one-trick ponies with limited scopes, My Virtual Physician offers full-scope gynecology services. Take NuRx, for example – its limitations in service offerings and the exclusion of insurance options make it clear that not all telehealth platforms are created equal.
What sets My Virtual Physician apart is the direct experience its gynecologists have in consulting with MIRA patients. This means that women using MIRA to track fertility can rest assured that the healthcare professionals at My Virtual Physician understand the intricacies of MIRA's data and can provide meaningful insights and guidance.
So, if you're a MIRA user facing the challenge of interpreting your data, consider booking a visit with My Virtual Physician. Our expertise, full-scope gynecology services, and direct experience with MIRA make us the go-to option for comprehensive and reliable healthcare in the era of digital health solutions. Your health is too important to be left to interpretation – trust the experts at My Virtual Physician to guide you through your health journey.
You may have wondered what labor looks like and how it feels. You are not alone. Many pregnant women also ask questions about how it will feel, what to expect, and how long it will last.
This article will discuss what labor is and how to know you are in labor.
Labor is the process of childbirth that starts with strong uterine contractions and cervical dilation and ends with the expulsion of the fetus.
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There are early signs that labor is soon or imminent. Some may occur 3-4 weeks before actual labor sets in. At other times, these signs happen just before labor starts or hours before active labor.
Some very early signs of labor include the following:
This is also known as lightening, where your baby (ideally, your baby's head) descends into your pelvis. If you are a first-time mum, this may occur a few weeks before labor. If you're not a first-timer, lightening may not happen till you're truly in labor.
Your healthcare provider may notice your cervix dilating (opening) and effacing (thinning out) during your antenatal visit. This may happen weeks to days before delivery. Note that some women do not dilate at all till labor starts.
As labor nears, you may feel cramping and pain in your lower and groin. Not to worry, your abdominal and pelvic muscles and joints are loosening up and stretching in preparation for labor and childbirth.
While your joints and ligaments may have loosened up during pregnancy, you may feel them loosen as labor nears. This is your body's way of preparing for the passage of your little one.
You may experience diarrhea as your expected date of delivery nears. Ensure you drink lots of water and stay hydrated.
During the last days of pregnancy, you may feel very tired and sleepy with your big belly and active bladder.
You may have bursts of energy and a compelling urge that sees you through cleaning, arranging baby clothes, putting up a baby's room, organizing your home, and many more.
The following are signs of true labor:
Unlike Braxton Hicks contractions, labor contractions increase in intensity, are regular, painful, frequent, and don't get better with changing positions. Also, real labor contractions last anywhere between 30 to 70 seconds, depending on far you've gone into labor.
During pregnancy, a mucus plug seals off your uterus at the cervix. However, as the cervix dilates or the body prepares for labor, it may come off as a large piece or in bits.
When the mucus plug comes off, it may be with blood. Hence, a thickened, pinkish vaginal discharge is called bloody show. When you notice a bloody show, it indicates you are close to or in labor.
If you're having strong abdominal cramps, abdominal pain or pressure, and/or pain in your lower back that radiates to your legs, you are most likely to be in labor.
This may occur just before labor or after you've experienced other labor symptoms. When your water breaks, your membranes rupture, and amniotic fluid escapes from the sac. It could be in big gush. At other times, it could be a trickle or leak.
Not all women's water break before labor. Usually, it happens later during childbirth and occurs in a small percentage of pregnancies. Hence, it is not a definitive sign of labor.
Call your doctor when your contractions are painful, intense, regularly spaced, and last for 30 to 70 seconds
Also, if you have doubts about whether or not you're in labor, call your healthcare provider. If you also experience or notice any of the following, immediately contact your healthcare provider:
A visit to us helps you get your prenatal care started while you await your appointment with your local OB doctor. Your virtual physician can help to electronically order prenatal care labs and/or send an order to the nearest radiology facility for you to get an ultrasound.
At My Virtual Physician, we are available to help guide you through your pregnancy and answer any questions that may arise. We are in network with many insurance health plans, including Medicaid, Medicare, United HealthCare, and Blue Cross.
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For most pregnant women, it is safe to exercise during pregnancy. To a large extent, it has health benefits for you and your baby. However, talk to your doctor about exercising during pregnancy before you do. Certain types of exercise may cause harm to you or your baby.
Healthy pregnant women need at least two and a half hours of moderate-intensity aerobic activity weekly. In other words, you do not need to have 2½ hours of exercise at a single time. Instead, spread it over the week. You may have 30 minutes of exercise on most or all days.
Aerobic activities make you breathe faster and deeper and make your heart beat faster. However, ensure it is moderate-intensity where you are active enough to sweat and have your heart beat faster.
Don't forget to take breaks if you need them. Listen to your body.
Regular physical activity in healthy pregnant women provides the following benefits:
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Not all exercise is good for pregnant women. Some may be too intense and cause more harm than good to both mother and baby.
Examples of exercises that pregnant women can do and benefit from include:
Brisk walking is a simple and great workout for any pregnant woman.
Water is easy on your joints and muscles and relieves pain and tension. As you swim or do water workouts, the water supports your weight and that of your baby.
A stationary bike is preferred to a regular bike because there is a reduced risk of falls and injury.
You can sign up in gyms or community centers that offer prenatal yoga and Pilates classes. If there are no specialized gyms, tell your yoga instructor that you are pregnant to avoid dangerous poses such as lying on your belly or flat on your back (after the first trimester).
Low-impact aerobics do not put a lot of strain on your joints and muscles. You will always have one foot on the ground or equipment. Examples are walking, riding a stationary bike, and using an elliptical machine. Tell your instructor you are pregnant so that you avoid high-impact exercises like running, skipping, and doing jumping jacks.
Working with weights is safe during pregnancy as long as they're not too heavy. Strength training helps you build stronger bones and muscles.
You do not have to belong to a gym to exercise during pregnancy. You can take advantage of your normal daily activities at home. Do an active hobby like gardening, taking the stairs, dancing to music, etc.
Avoid exercise or activities:
Other activities to avoid include diving, water skiing, skydiving or scuba diving, and surfing.
If you are pregnant and have the following conditions, please avoid exercise:
A visit to us helps you get your prenatal care started while you await your appointment with your local OB doctor. Your virtual physician can help to electronically order prenatal care labs and/or send an order to the nearest radiology facility for you to get an ultrasound.
At My Virtual Physician, we are available to help guide you through your pregnancy and answer any questions that may arise. We are in network with many insurance health plans, including Medicaid, Medicare, United HealthCare, and Blue Cross.
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Your body is a miraculous thing. For the most part, it operates autonomously. Your heart beats effortlessly and your reproductive system knows just what to do each month with your menstrual cycle.
The body maintains many processes instinctively; no direct involvement from yourself or your gynecologist is required. But when these subconscious processes are interrupted by disease or ailment, our bodies do another incredible thing–they tell us something’s wrong so that we can temporarily intervene and return to health.
When it comes to a woman’s health, paying attention to the body’s red flags is crucial to maintaining optimal reproductive health. Here’s a list of eight signs that your body is calling out for help–and your Las Vegas gynecologist may be able to help.
All vaginas have a scent. It’s normal to have a slightly acidic smell. Get to know your personal vaginal aroma so that you are familiar with your healthy scent. When your vaginal fragrance changes drastically, pay attention. Your body is telling you that something is off.
For example, a forgotten tampon will create a stench, reminding you that you’ve got to do something about it. Bacterial Vaginosis and Trichomoniasis are infections often easily detected by your body’s radiation of unusually foul-smelling, fishy odors. These two culprits require your gynecologist’s intervention to prescribe medication that kills the odor-causing bacteria.
Vaginal swelling is another red flag that you should never ignore. Noticeable swelling usually happens on the outer vulva and there are many possible explanations. Some common reasons that your lady parts are inflamed can include:
If you’ve recently switched laundry detergents or personal hygiene products, you can try going back to what you used before to see if the swelling subsides. But if you have a fever or pain that accompanies your vaginal swelling, or if swelling persists longer than a few days, contact your gynecologist promptly for proper assessment and quick treatment.
Pain is the body’s uncomfortable way of getting your attention; so never ignore it. Painful periods are not a normal part of life and neither is painful intercourse. If you’re experiencing debilitating pain in your reproductive organs, contact your gynecologist to identify the cause and provide relief. Some common causes of pain include infections, dryness, pelvic floor dysfunction, and endometriosis. All of these have treatment routes.
One in four women have experienced abnormal menstrual cycles in their lifetime. Period abnormalities can be especially alarming when they include excessive blood loss, large clots, or non-stop bleeding between cycles.
If your period becomes irregular, or you find yourself heading to the bathroom non-stop to change your super tampon and pad, your body is alerting you that it needs your attention. Stress, hormonal imbalances, infections, growths, and other diseases may be to blame. Our staff can help you online, or in-person at our Las Vegas hybrid clinics, to help uncover the root cause of your bleeding and get you back to normal quickly.
Related: Irregular Periods: What is Normal & When to See Your Online OBGYN
If your menstrual cycle is irregular or non-existent, it can be a sign that your body is not ovulating. It’s called amenorrhea, and it’s a problem if you are trying to conceive. Periods are a sign that your reproductive system is functioning properly; so a lack of a period means something is off.
Possible causes of missed periods, or absence of menstruation, include: pregnancy, hormonal imbalances, stress, low weight, certain medications, or menopause. If you’ve missed three or more periods, it’s time to contact your gynecologist.
If your lady parts develop new sores, bumps, or blisters, you may be wondering if you need to contact your OBGYN. There are many causes, including:
In most cases, if your sores, bumps, or blisters are accompanied by pain, pus, blood, odor, or itching that causes disruption to your normal lifestyle, then you may want to have your gynecologist take a look.
Vaginas use discharge to perform self-cleaning and flush out dead skin cells and other foreign materials. So a certain amount of discharge is expected in a healthy vaginal environment. If you’re not sure whether your discharge is normal or not, check out the related blog below:
Related: Here’s What’s Normal Vaginal Discharge… and What’s Not
Abnormal discharge can be yellow, green, or foul-smelling. An increase in discharge that is accompanied by other symptoms such as pain, bleeding, itching, soreness, or burning is also a cause for concern. Changes in your discharge are your body’s way of communicating changes in your body to you. The most common cause of abnormal discharge is an active infection, so it’s important to see your gynecologist as soon as possible.
Saving the best for last: there’s nothing more embarrassing or irritating than vaginal itching. It is not normal to experience itching down there, so if you have vaginal itching, your skin is talking to you. The most common culprits are irritants like soaps, detergents, and fragrances. Infections, from yeast or bacteria are another cause. If you’re unable to rule out irritants or the itching doesn’t stop, your online OBGYN can help.
Learn to read your body’s language and recognize red flags early on. My Virtual Physician has board-certified gynecologist available to meet virtually with you online, or with staff at our Las Vegas hybrid clinics, to help calm your body back to normal. Schedule your appointment now to get treatment today.
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If you are pregnant, some tests can help you predict your baby's chances of developing certain genetic disorders.
Getting a prenatal genetic test is your choice. You may decide what test you want or not get any done. In this article, we'll discuss the different prenatal genetic tests performed in the first trimester.
The three tests we will discuss are:
The first trimester screening helps provide an early risk estimate of the following chromosomal abnormalities:
It is performed between 11 and 13 weeks of gestation. The first trimester screening includes a blood test and an ultrasound exam.
The blood test measures the levels of two pregnancy hormones- free β-human chorionic gonadotrophin (β- hCG) and pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A)- in the pregnant woman's blood.
On the other hand, the ultrasound exam measures the baby’s fetal nuchal translucency (NT)- the amount of fluid in the back of the baby’s neck.
Results usually are ready within a week and show two pieces of information:
Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT), also called non-invasive prenatal screening (NIPS), is another type of genetic screening that measures your baby's risk for genetic abnormalities. It can be done as early as ten weeks.
NIPT is performed by drawing a simple blood sample and analyzing small DNA fragments (cell-free DNA/cf-DNA).
Compared to traditional first trimester screening, NIPT has a much higher detection rate and lower false-positive rate for the three most common genetic abnormalities. They are:
NIPT can also detect sex chromosome abnormalities like Turner syndrome (monosomy X), Triple X (XXX), and Klinefelter’s syndrome (XXY). It can also reveal your baby's sex with more than 99% accuracy.
Usually, results return after 2 weeks. A result that is “negative,” “low risk,” or “normal” shows that your baby is unlikely to have any of the chromosomal disorders tested. However, your baby is likely to have any of the genetic disorders tested if the result is “positive,” “high risk,” or “abnormal.”
The only tests that can diagnose genetic disorders are chorionic villus sampling (CVS) and amniocentesis. Hence, they are called diagnostic tests.
Diagnostic tests state whether or not your baby has a particular genetic disorder rather than measure the risk or chances.
The only diagnostic test that can be done during your first trimester is chorionic villus sampling (CVS). It is performed between 10 and 13 weeks of pregnancy.
During CVS, a doctor inserts a needle into the villi of the placenta to harvest some cells. These cells are used for testing in the laboratory. You do not have to be afraid for your baby. During the procedure, an ultrasound is used to prevent the needle from pricking your baby or other areas of your uterus. Results are often ready within a week.
The second diagnostic test, amniocentesis, is performed in the second trimester (between 16 and 18 weeks of pregnancy).
A visit to us at My Virtual Physician helps you get your prenatal care started while you await your appointment with your local OB doctor. Your virtual physician can help to electronically order prenatal care labs and/or send an order to the nearest radiology facility for you to get an ultrasound.
We are also available to help guide you through your pregnancy and answer any questions that may arise.
We are in network with many insurance health plans, including Medicaid, Medicare, United HealthCare, and Blue Cross.
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Pregnancy is marked with several symptoms. However, it is important to know that while certain symptoms are "normal", others are cause for alarm.
Telemedicine in prenatal care helps bridge the gap and save time during emergencies. You can get in touch with a virtual physician before you book an appointment with your local OB doctor. Your questions could get an immediate answer and help prevent your symptoms from worsening and resulting in complications.
In this article, we will be discussing alarming signs you should watch out for during pregnancy. These signs require immediate medical attention either by getting a call across to a doctor or getting to a medical facility as soon as possible.
Light bleeding, also known as vaginal spotting during the first few weeks of pregnancy can be normal. At such times, it may be described as implantation bleeding.
However, bleeding could be a warning sign, especially if it is heavy and accompanied by other symptoms. Bleeding accompanied by severe abdominal or pelvic pain, feeling faint, and shoulder pain could be indicative of ectopic pregnancy.
Additionally, the timing of the bleeding could mean different things. Heavy bleeding with severe cramping in the first or early second trimester is a sign of a miscarriage. However, if the heavy bleeding with cramps occurs in your third trimester, it may be a sign of placental abruption or placenta previa.
Any form of bleeding in pregnancy is an alarming sign. Immediately, call your doctor or go to the emergency room.
Nausea and vomiting, also referred to as morning sickness, is a common sign of pregnancy, especially in the first trimester.
However, severe nausea and vomiting can make you dehydrated which isn't safe for you and your baby. Contact your healthcare provider who will assess you, and may prescribe medication or advise changing your diet.
Headaches, although worrisome, can be normal in pregnancy. They could be due to stress, hormonal changes, fatigue, etc.
However, a severe headache is a warning sign. It may be a sign of high blood pressure or preeclampsia, which is a serious high blood pressure disorder that develops usually after the 20th week of pregnancy. Symptoms include high blood pressure, swelling, and excess protein in your urine. Seek immediate medical attention as it can affect your health, and your baby's health, and is potentially fatal.
Visual disturbances such as light sensitivity, blurred vision, and temporary loss of vision are warning signs. They could be due to many factors including gestational diabetes and preeclampsia, which require medical attention and monitoring. Call your healthcare provider if you experience any changes in eyesight.
Sudden, extreme weight gain can be linked to serious conditions such as preeclampsia. Swelling (edema) and puffiness often occur in the face, hands, and feet. This may be normal, however, it should be monitored. It may also be a sign of preeclampsia. Call your doctor when you experience any of these.
Usually, women begin to feel the baby's movements between 18 to 25 weeks of pregnancy. By the third trimester, the baby's movements are more frequent and trackable.
Once you feel your baby's movements are absent or have significantly declined, you may first eat a light snack or drink something cold. Then, lie on your side and try again. However, if this continues, call your health provider.
Contractions early in the third trimester refer to the contractions you feel before the end of the 37th week of pregnancy. Typically, you may have felt light or false labor contractions known as Braxton Hicks contractions. These usually stop when you move or change positions, and drink water.
However, if your contractions persist, become regular, and increase in intensity despite a change in position, it may be a sign of preterm labor. Seek medical attention immediately.
Medically, this is known as "premature rupture of membranes" where you feel or see a trickle, leak, or gush of fluid from your vagina before the end of the 37th week of your pregnancy.
Your water breaking normally is a sign of labor. If it happens before the end of the 37th week of your pregnancy, you may be having preterm labor. If this happens, call your doctor immediately.
At My Virtual Physician, we help you get your prenatal care started while you await your appointment with your local OB doctor. We are also available to help guide you through your pregnancy and answer any questions that may arise.
Additionally, we are in-network with many insurance health plans including Medicaid, Medicare, United HealthCare, and Blue Cross.
The Covid-19 pandemic and technological advancement in healthcare delivery have introduced telemedicine in prenatal care. It might seem that telemedicine is here to stay and in a few years, will become a major approach in delivering health care to pregnant women.
With telemedicine, expecting mothers receive consistent and necessary care via videoconferencing, at-home monitoring, and consultation with remote specialists. These were said to improve health outcomes while allowing for less frequent antenatal visits.
However, certain challenges may affect the use and outcome of telemedicine to provide care to patients. Below are perceived barriers to telemedicine in prenatal care.
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Several factors affect the use and health outcomes of telemedicine. Patients and healthcare providers alike play a significant role in the provision and delivery. However, other non-human factors exist which may affect the successful outcome of virtual visits and at-home monitoring.
The following are perceived barriers to telemedicine in prenatal care:
Poor internet connection and slow speed result in loss of connection, poor audio and video quality, hence affecting the smooth interaction between patients and providers. Due to poor signal, online consultations can experience multiple interruptions leading to frustration, low patient satisfaction, and reduced use of the virtual approach to healthcare delivery.
In some cases, factors such as weather conditions, living in rural areas, and home interior can affect the network service in homes and workplaces, hence reducing the frequency, duration, and efficiency of virtual visits for healthcare delivery.
Lack of technological knowledge and skills is a challenge to the use and success of telemedicine in prenatal care. Unfamiliarity with communication technology is common to both patients and providers.
Healthcare providers who have little to no knowledge on how to use communication technology may not want to take up online consultations.
Likewise, patients may find it difficult to install and navigate the telemedicine software on their digital devices. In other cases, patients lack knowledge and training on how to use certain monitoring devices. Hence, they may find it difficult or impossible to interact and provide adequate information during online consultations.
The lack of certain equipment and instruments poses a challenge to the success of telemedicine in prenatal care. Some patients may not have certain instruments such as a fetoscope, weighing scale, sphygmomanometer, amongst others, resulting in non-availability of data to work with.
Consequently, this can lead to poor monitoring which may affect health outcomes of prenatal care via telemedicine.
While patients may enjoy convenience at home, they may be faced with discussing health concerns at the risk of being heard by family members and friends.
In-person visits provide the privacy of the doctor's office which may not be possible with audio and video calls from the homes of patients. This may affect the use of telemedicine in providing and accessing prenatal care.
In other cases, the patient may feel their conversations are being recorded and hence, lose trust in both the service and the healthcare provider.
Telemedicine switches up the order of the conventional hospital visit. The presence of family members, children, colleagues, and other persons may make engagement difficult. Activities in the background may cause distraction during virtual visits.
On the other hand, certain patients may feel disconnected due to a lack of social presence and physical contact with their healthcare provider. The online interaction may be alien to some patients and affect their ability to bond with their healthcare provider.
Nonverbal communication is as effective as verbal communication and in some cases, more. Virtual visits limit communication with body language and facial expressions. Healthcare providers can read these cues during in-person visits and act accordingly.
While telemedicine might be said to save cost, it does not come cheap. Patients may lack the financial ability to buy smartphones, airtime and data, and instruments and equipment.
Unfortunately, patients may not have insurance, or their insurance companies may not cover telemedicine healthcare services.
Healthcare providers are not left out as they also need airtime and data to call and interact with patients.
Telemedicine is a novel approach to access and delivery of prenatal care. Like the conventional in-person approach of care, it has its pros and cons.
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At My Virtual Physician, our team is committed to ensuring that patients get the best of health care as needed. We provide virtual care at any point in your pregnancy while you await your appointment with your local OB doctor. We are in network with many insurance health plans including Medicaid, Medicare, United HealthCare, and Blue Cross.
Every woman desires to have a healthy pregnancy and birth without complications. Prenatal care helps improve an expecting mother's chances of a healthy pregnancy and birth. In prenatal care, a pregnant woman visits a health care provider at intervals to assess and monitor her health and that of the growing baby.
Prenatal care, also known as antenatal care, is the health care a woman receives during pregnancy. Accessed by 4 million women every year, prenatal care is one of the most common preventive health services in the United States.
Prenatal care involves regular checkups with your healthcare provider and routine testing to ensure you are healthy throughout your pregnancy and have a complication-free birth and a healthy baby. During these appointments with your healthcare provider, you get to ask questions and report any complaints you may have. A doctor, nurse, or midwife provides answers to these questions, advice, and possible treatments for whatever complaint you report.
Appointments during prenatal care depend on the age of your pregnancy and your risk for complications.
Telemedicine is simply the use of technology to access and provide health care remotely. The Covid-19 pandemic made healthcare less accessible and unsafe for both healthcare providers and patients. However, with telemedicine, pregnant women and their families could access healthcare without being physically present. Information such as readings and test results could be exchanged via videoconferencing, voice calls, text messaging, and other formats on mobile devices and computers.
Hence, telemedicine has made healthcare more accessible, cost-effective, and convenient with patients receiving care from the comfort of their homes. Consequently, telemedicine has reduced the number of ER visits and the workload at hospitals.
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Although telemedicine is not new to the healthcare system, its use in prenatal care is low. In prenatal care, telemedicine provides an avenue for pregnant women to keep appointments and receive care via apps and other software on digital devices. These apps provide opportunities for home monitoring of vital signs including temperature and blood pressure, fetal heart rate, blood sugar, and weight amongst others. Besides having routine appointments with their general physician, pregnant women can book consultation sessions with specialists such as Obstetricians, Psychiatrists, Genetic Counselors, and Lactation Consultants.
With telemedicine, you can have your appointment from the comfort of your home. The physicians at My Virtual Physician are there when you have concerns, issues, and questions that do not require hands-on physical examination. Hence, we supplement the care you will receive from your local Obstetrician.
You can book an appointment or call for an appointment with our Obstetric and Gynecology specialists. To book your appointment, we will collect some data such as your name, address, and date of birth. You will be asked to specify the reason for your visit, your preferred day of the week, and your preferred time frame.
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During the video call, we will collect confidential medical, obstetric, and gynecology history. Privacy is very important and we adhere to all ethical rules binding that. We will ask you to agree or "consent" to the terms and conditions of the telemedicine visit.
During the video visit, we will ask you for other data such as vital signs including weight, temperature, and blood pressure. We will ask about medications you're using, allergies, diet and food cravings, complaints, and other important information. The data collected inform what action of care will be provided.
A visit to us helps you get your prenatal care started while you await your appointment with your local OB doctor. Your virtual physician can help to electronically order prenatal care labs and/or send an order to the nearest radiology facility for you to get an ultrasound.
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At My Virtual Physician, we are available to help guide you through your pregnancy and answer any questions that may arise. We are in network with many insurance health plans including Medicaid, Medicare, United HealthCare and Blue Cross.
Most women only learn about sexually transmitted infections during one short period in their lives: junior high health education class. Formerly and more widely known as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), you probably haven’t reviewed the symptoms since high school, except for a quick scare a time or two when you had possible signs of an STI.
Did you know that the CDC is continually updating its recommendations on STI treatment? In 2021, the CDC released new STI Treatment Guidelines that update recommendations for diagnosing and treating STIs.
In general, from time to time, it’s a good idea to freshen up your knowledge on STI’s. So let’s begin by taking an in-depth look at chlamydia.
Chlamydia is an infection caused by a specific bacteria called C. trachomatis that is transmitted through bodily fluids during sexual contact. Chlamydia can be spread through intimate activity with an infected person during vaginal, oral, or anal sex.
If left untreated, chlamydia can cause serious complications and devastation to a woman’s body. Some of the damage that can occur with untreated chlamydia includes:
Clearly, chlamydia is a serious infection that should be treated as early as possible once detected, but how do you recognize the signs of an infection?
Although most people do not have signs when infected with chlamydia, there are some symptoms that some people experience.
Unfortunately, chlamydia can go undetected because many people, both men and women, are asymptomatic. That is why regular annual screening is critical. The demographic with the highest number of reported chlamydia cases are women under 25. The CDC’s current recommendation on who should be screened yearly includes:
Testing for chlamydia is simple and easy. My Virtual Physician can order a screening test from your local lab when you schedule an online OBGYN appointment. Typically, a urine test or genital swab is used to diagnose chlamydia; however, the new CDC guidelines also recommend rectal and pharyngeal (throat) testing if a rectal or oral chlamydial infection is suspected.
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Luckily, if you’ve tested positive for chlamydia, there is a simple cure. Antibiotics are used to kill uninvited bacteria. It is important to listen to all of your doctor’s instructions and complete the medication, even if symptoms disappear. Refraining from sexual activity for 7 days after being treated is also very important to prevent re-infection. The CDC recommends that patients who have been treated for chlamydia should schedule a follow-up STI test within three months of treatment.
Chlamydia can be a devastating diagnosis, but it doesn’t have to be. Regular testing can catch the infection early on before any damage can be done to your reproductive system. Have you had your annual chlamydia or other STI screening this year? Schedule your appointment with My Virtual Physician so we can take care of your testing needs.
Due to a number of factors, including the Las Vegas OBGYN shortage, online OBGYN appointments have become increasingly popular and accepted among patients, doctors, and insurance companies. Everyday more practices are opening their virtual doors to allow patient access through an online portal.
Healthcare executives are predicting that by 2040, our healthcare system will be completely transformed; a substantial component of our healthcare will be virtual. With all these new virtual options starting to become available now, how does a patient choose which one is right for her or her family? Although we can’t make that decision for you, we will show you what set My Virtual Physician apart from other telehealth companies.
How much is this going to cost me? Cost is a huge factor when it comes to choosing a doctor. Traditional doctor appointments have proven to be very expensive, and more commonly, led to surprise bills that continue to trickle into your home long after you thought you were done paying.
With most health insurance, you still pay for 100% of your medical care out of pocket until you meet a deductible amount. Once your deductible is met, you continue to pay a portion of the doctor appointment, but largely, the amount you will be charged remains a mystery until the bill goes through your insurance company and you’re stuck with the remaining balance.
With My Virtual Physician, whether you have insurance or not, the cost of your appointment is up-front and will not change. There is no surprise billing. We make our pricing plans very transparent and affordable. If you decide to use our telehealth services and schedule a one-time appointment, your cost will be $49. That meets or beats our competitors’ rates which can be as high as $75.00 per visit (Doctor On Demand).
What if you need to see your virtual OBGYN more frequently? An example would be a condition where your physician would like you to try a treatment option for a specified period and re-visit your symptoms at regular follow-up virtual appointments. If you’re in this situation, we have options to keep your medical bills from stacking up.
My Virtual Physician offers individual subscription plans with two additional membership levels above the pay-per-visit option. The complete care plan grants you unlimited telemedicine visits with not just your OBGYN, but also your primary care physician. This option is truly unique to My Virtual Physician and we are proud to offer this practical service to our patients. That means you pay a flat subscription rate per month and you could see your online OBGYN (and PCP if available in your state) many times for just $99.
If you just love the freedom and certainty you get from having the complete care plan for yourself, we now have the option to expand it to the ones you love. Our family plan covers your whole family. The basic family rate includes up to two adults and two children for $149/mo and additional children can be added for $10 per child/mo. With the family plan, your whole family can see the doctor as many times as needed for a flat rate. So whether it’s your OBGYN, your children’s pediatrician, or your husband’s primary doctor; My Virtual Physician has you covered.
Although going to the doctor is not usually a very happy time for anyone facing a condition, we love to see your smiling face, and a familiar face is comforting when you are in need. Most of the big-name virtual care websites have countless doctors working for them; which means you’ll be seeing a different face every time you visit. You will also have to rehash your history every time you see a new doctor.
Fortunately, we have a different approach to your virtual care. My Virtual Physician has a small team of board-certified physicians. This means that you will see our same smiles every time you come back. We enjoy seeing your smile and can easily monitor your condition with our virtual tools without wasting appointment time gathering history repetitively.
Times are changing and to take full advantage of your options to see your physician online, it’s important to consider why you would choose one virtual physician company over the rest.
At My Virtual Physician we’ve taken a unique approach towards online healthcare by making regular care affordable and transparent for our patients.
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Many women enjoy the feel of soft-shaven skin. But the red, itchy patches that come after can be a real pain. Razor bumps in sensitive areas like the bikini line are annoying. So how can men and women deal with razor bumps down there?
Razor bumps, technically called pseudofolliculitis barbae, are a common skin complaint. Fortunately, they are preventable to some degree. By protecting skin before, during, and after hair removal, men and women can minimize the effects of razor bumps.
If you're wondering how to save your skin, check out these tips to steer clear of painful razor bumps.
Razor bumps are an uncomfortable sign of skin irritation. For those who already have them, the first step is to keep them from getting worse.
A compress made with salt water can also help soothe the skin. Saltwater cleans and heals the skin by osmosis. To make a "saline soak" at home:
Consider adding a couple of drops of an essential oil, like tea tree oil, to the saline solution for more relief.
When bumps don't go away or become more painful, it may be best to see a doctor.
A physician can tell if the problem is razor bumps or may be something else. Some doctors use antibiotic gels, steroids, or retinoids to treat severe cases.
They say an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. When it comes to razor bumps, it's very true.
Here's how you can lower your risk of getting razor bumps from shaving.
Find more tips on how to prevent razor bumps here.
Taking care of skin before, during, and after hair removal can go a long way in preventing razor bumps.
If you've tried to treat pseudofolliculitis barbae yourself but find the situation getting worse, it may be time to check with a doctor.
Are you looking for a doctor near you to treat your sensitive issues? My Virtual Physician has board-certified physicians who can address gynecological and primary care problems via video visits.
If you would like to talk with a board-certified doctor, you can schedule your appointment online now. My Virtual Physician offers health screening, lab tests, and counseling to meet all of your healthcare needs.
Every 13 minutes, a woman dies from breast cancer. Unfortunately, many women with the disease do not show symptoms. So, regular screening for breast cancer is critical for early detection and diagnosis.
Breast Cancer screening typically occurs as a part of routine preventative care. Individuals do not have to have any signs or symptoms to have a screening performed by their doctor. Manual exams, ultrasound, thermography, and mammography are a few ways patients are screened for abnormalities. A doctor can explain screening options and when it is time to consider certain tests.
To find out how breast cancer screening aids in the diagnosis of the disease, read on.
Breast cancer can be asymptomatic. In other words, it may have no symptoms. In fact, cases may show different symptoms and examination findings. That is why screening should be individualized for each patient.
Screening means looking for or testing for something when there are no signs.
Many people think that only someone with a family history should worry. Yet, about 85% of breast cancers occur in women who do not have any family history of breast cancer. Rather, genetic mutations that occur as women age increase their risk. The most significant risk factors for breast cancer are being a woman and growing older.
Doctors are trained in the latest research and guidelines. They can tell their patients about the options. And doctors help women decide when it is a good idea to be tested.
Breast cancer is typically diagnosed in one of the following ways:
Mammography is the most common screening method used today. Other testing methods include Digital Breast Tomosynthesis (DBI) and thermography, although these are not widely used.
According to a recent article, doctors are seeing later-stage cancer cases in younger women. This is worrisome because cancers detected in younger women in their 20s and 30s are more aggressive. And they may lead to poorer outcomes.
Doctors are seeing later-stage cancer cases in younger women. This is worrisome.
Early detection is key in cancer treatment. The cost of treatment, risks of complications including death, and length of treatment go down with earlier detection.
If not caught early, cancers can grow and spread. When cancer cells move to other organs, this is called metastasis. Thus, cancer is harder to treat.
The best way to catch cancerous changes early is through regular check-ups with a doctor and routine screening tests to help detect changes early. Online doctors or virtual gynecologists can order mammograms or other imaging tests, and tailor screening plans for women who do not usually see a primary care physician.
Medical researchers continue to look for ways to help doctors with better and more accurate tests.
In 2019, the National Cancer Institute presented a new study that showed Doctors could detect breast cancer up to five years before any clinical signs appear, using a blood test for tumor-associated antigens (TAAs).
Newer research from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine paired blood tests with other screening tests to determine whether finding and treating cancers identified by blood tests reduced mortality rates. Researchers said that “some screening may actually cause more harm than good.” And so, they used bloodwork with standard imaging procedures.
Results were promising. Researchers concluded that there is hope for a blood test that could eventually reduce deaths from cancers that typically go undetected until late stages. But “any blood test needs to complement and add to standard-of-care screening because standard-of-care screening works.”
Current recommendations encourage most women to have a mammogram beginning at age 40. Here are the most recent guidelines on screening.
My Virtual Physician can offers virtual gynecology services in many states. Women can talk with experts about individualized screening plans. Don’t worry about your risk. Talk to the doctor now.
My Virtual Physician is now accepting new patients.
My Virtual Physician has great news to share. Nevada’s favorite telemedicine provider is now in-network with Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS). Nevada residents looking for an online doctor may be able to book an appointment now with little to no out-of-pocket expense.
Anthem leads the health insurance industry with a strong desire to make healthcare easier and change lives. Anthem health plans serve more than 42 million families. That is why My Virtual Physician (MVP) is proud to join the Anthem Nevada provider network.
BCBS is known for offering members value-added services.
Anthem Nevada’s member support services are unmatched.
And when Anthem Nevada members need to see a doctor, that’s where MVP comes in. Their board-certified, expert doctors care for Nevada patients from the convenience and safety of home.
MVP offers Obstetrics/Gynecology (OB/GYN) and primary care services to residents of Nevada. Whether using insurance or paying out-of-pocket, My Virtual Physician’s pricing is competitive, and the patient care is unmatched.
Take a look at a few of the current online physician services they treat for Nevada residents:
Patients who need to see an online doctor can book now through a secure patient portal. My Virtual Physician is excited about the new Anthem Nevada partnership and is now accepting new patients. Virtual doctor visits are now easier than ever.
Residents of Nevada can find more information about Anthem BCBS in Nevada at www.anthem.com.
To meet our book an online doctor appointment with our physicians, simply click “Book Appointment Now” to book your visit. Or visitors can contact the office for questions about their virtual/online doctor benefits. My Virtual Physician is standing by to help.
Telemedicine is a great choice for women with gynecologic concerns. The My Virtual Physician founder, Dr. Howard, recently joined a call to explain the value of telemedicine in gynecology. So how can virtual gynecology address women's health concerns?
Irregular periods are one of the most common reasons that women see gynecologists. Here's a look at what Dr. Howard shared.
One of the most common questions about Virtual Gynecology is, "how much of gynecology can be dealt with through telemedicine?" How can diseases or conditions be dealt with through a video visit?
One of the most common reasons women see their gynecologist is irregular periods.
Some women have regular but heavy periods, which are abnormal periods. Abnormal or irregular periods are one of the most frequent reasons why a woman will go to the gynecologist. In young or premenopausal women, the most common reason for irregular periods is a hormonal imbalance. In other words, they're not ovulating regularly. Other times, the lining of the uterus is dysfunctional.
One of the most common ways in young women to fix irregular periods is to manage hormones through a trial of hormonal contraception. To be clear, this is through the use of birth control pills.
For a young woman who visits a doctor for irregular periods, the doctor will take a good history. He or she will make sure that there is not a specific reason for the irregularity. For example, if the young woman has previously had an ultrasound that showed she has fibroids, or other specific structural pathology in the uterus, that could explain the abnormal periods.
An online physician can take a thorough patient history through a video visit and prescribe birth control pills. This is one of the most common things that gynecologists do for young women: start a trial of birth control pills.
Young women with irregular periods do not need a pelvic exam initially.
However, if birth control pills fail to regulate periods, then a woman may need imaging. In some cases, a doctor may even need to look inside the uterus with a camera to see if there is any pathology. And before any invasive procedure, the doctor must do an exam to see how big the uterus is and which way it points because that will guide any surgery.
But initially, when a woman first presents with irregular periods, a video visit is appropriate because a pelvic exam is not needed up front. The doctor needs a good history followed by a trial of hormonal management. Birth control pills can be prescribed electronically, and the entire visit can be be done virtually.
After a few months, if the patient's periods are still irregular, then it may be time for a pelvic ultrasound. This test can be ordered electronically.
The patient will go to a radiology facility for an ultrasound and the report will be faxed to the physician. In some cases, the doctor will have electronic access to the images if the radiology site has a provider portal. Many facilities do. They may provide referring doctors with usernames and passwords they can use to log in and view the ultrasound results. Depending on what the imaging shows, the doctor may move forward with certain treatments.
Although many people would stereotypically think, "oh, I've got to go in," for irregular periods in a young woman, this problem can actually be dealt with through a video visit, at least initially. Depending on ultrasound results, there may ultimately be a time when a patient must go into a gynecology office. But initially, the assessment and management of abnormal periods can be done entirely through a video visit.
"A lot of people would stereotypically think, 'oh, I've got to go in,' ... you can see that actually, abnormal bleeding can be dealt with through a video visit."
- DR. DAVID HOWARD
Now consider the opposite extreme, a woman who is postmenopausal, having bleeding or spotting, the first thing the OB/GYN might do is get a pelvic ultrasound. If the uterine lining is less than five millimeters thick, a biopsy is not indicated. Current evidence shows that.
This transcript was exported on Sep 16, 2021
Still, a patient who has postmenopausal spotting should be evaluated. Since a pelvic ultrasound is not necessarily needed on a first visit, a woman can choose a video visit.
However, if bleeding is heavy, they should go to an emergency room (ER). An ER doctor can assess why the bleeding is heavy. They can assess the amount of bleeding.
If a woman has one episode of postmenopausal spotting but is worried, they can book a video visit. Through a virtual consultation, the doctor can take their history. Then a pelvic ultrasound can be ordered for the physician to review. After this, the doctor will schedule a follow-up visit by video to discuss results with the patient.
If the lining of the uterus is less than five millimeters thick, then the doctor does not have to do a biopsy. The chances of a patient having endometrial or uterine cancer then is very low.
On the other hand, if the lining of the uterus is thick, more than five millimeters, then a woman does need to go into the gynecologist's office for an exam and possibly a procedure such as a biopsy. Yet, the initial part of the assessment and management of postmenopausal bleeding can be done through video visits.
In summary, medical management for abnormal bleeding can be thought of as a three-step process:
As discussed, the first steps can be done through a video visit. At step three, that is when a woman needs to go in office to see a provider.
In short, abnormal uterine bleeding is a common condition that many women would go in to see their gynecologist for. And a lot of people would think, "how can you deal with that through a video visit?"
It is clear that a doctor can start off with a history through video and order a pelvic ultrasound electronically. In some cases, a young patient in their 20's with irregular periods can start with a trial of birth control pills. Postmenopausal women with irregular bleeding can also be treated through a video visit. In the best case scenario, the case can be managed entirely through video visits.
The uncomfortable truth is that doctors probably do too many pelvic exams. Many times they are not necessary. Sensitivity and specificity of pelvic exams, in many cases, is actually really low. Gynecologists should probably be doing a lot less pelvic exams. And when it is really necessary, physicians should be doing them in a very targeted manner.
History, imaging, and blood work, that is the trifecta that accounts for the overwhelming majority of the diagnostic process in gynecology.
"A careful history, imaging, like a pelvic ultrasound, and sometimes blood work. The combination of those three things, that's what really makes the diagnosis overwhelmingly the majority of times in gynecology."
- DR. DAVID HOWARD
Hopefully, eyes are opened as to how abnormal uterine bleeding can be managed through a video visit. A lot of people would not think that it could. Many still don't realize the value of telemedicine in gynecology.
Connect with Our Board-Certified Gynecologists online now. MVP’s founder Dr. Howard is a board-certified physician practicing in Las Vegas, Nevada. He is passionate about medicine and research. He has authored/co-authored several publications and is among the top 10% of scientific reviewers in the United States. Dr. Howard and his team are now accepting new patients.
This transcript was exported on Sep 16, 2021
One in five Americans face poor access to medical care. In some parts of the country, there are serious shortages of doctors and healthcare services. And this is the case for many women living in Georgia.
Georgia has been greatly affected by a nation-wide healthcare shortage. The need for care, specifically women’s healthcare, has increased dramatically over the past decade. Especially in the rural areas outside of major cities, Obstetrical and Gynecological (OB/GYN) services can be hard to find. Fortunately, My Virtual Physician (MVP) has been able to fill the need for some.
Why is there such a need for OB/GYN services in Georgia? And what can be done about the problem? Here's a closer look at the problem.
According to the Georgia Board for Physician Workforce, the state has:
Hence, the lack of doctors is part of the issue. Some women have no choice but to travel to other cities for care. And others even go without.
In many rural areas, there are no OB/GYNs. And in other parts of Georgia, facilities are closing. According to Becker’s Hospital Review, over 100 hospitals have closed during the past decade. Georgia ranked third for most hospitals closed, behind Texas and Tennessee.
To sum it up, a lack of doctors and hospitals is one piece of the puzzle.
Finding a doctor is one problem. But paying for services is another. Many women in Georgia do not have health insurance. Notably, Georgia's insured rate is ranked 48th in the nation.
Another problem is the state's low high school graduation rate. Lack of education is a barrier for access to healthcare. Women struggling with their health may not know where to go for answers.
Speak to one of our board certified OB/GYN virtual doctors today:
Birth control, sexual health, and menopause are sensitive topics. Women need doctors they can trust. OB/GYNs help women through complicated health changes.
OB/GYNs can treat common problems such as:
In addition to new or worrisome symptoms, gynecologists also provide preventative health services.
For example, OB/GYNs encourage women to have breast cancer screenings after age 45 and bone density scans every two years following menopause.
Without regular checkups, women may face major health concerns as time goes on.
Despite the dismal circumstances, care for women in Georgia and other states is changing.
Telemedicine providers offer a new solution. Board-certified OB/GYNs are treating women in Georgia virtually.
According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), patients can get the same quality care via telemedicine as they would in person. In some cases, patients say their online doctor experience is even better.
Online doctor appointments are affordable and easy to schedule. As well as that, virtual gynecology visits provide a greater sense of safety and security from the comfort of home.
It is getting easier for the women of Georgia to see top-rated doctors for the virtual gynecology care they need. Dr. Howard of MVP treats patients across the U.S., including Georgia. MVP is a multi-state, multi-specialty telemedicine provider that is quickly becoming the preferred choice for many.
Women who want an online gynecology appointment can text the office at 725-228-8277 or visit the patient portal to set up self-scheduled appointments.
My Virtual Physician offers comprehensive virtual gynecology services to address women’s healthcare needs. Our caring doctors can talk with you about your concerns and provide the experience you've been looking for.To talk with one of our expert physicians near you, book an appointment today.
Have you been looking for a Nevada healthcare provider that is in your Prominence Health Plan network? Look no further.
My Virtual Physician (MVP) is excited to announce a new partnership with Prominence Health Plan. Prominence is a respected plan provider that offers a broad network of hospital and healthcare services to its members. Together, MVP and Prominence are serving more individuals with the high quality online healthcare services they need.
Here’s what this new relationship can do for you.
Prominence Health Plan is a subsidiary of Universal Health Services (UHS), which was recognized by Fortune and Forbes as a top company in 2021.
Prominence focuses on providing their members with options for quality, convenient, cost-effective care close to home.
Prominence Health Plan began in Reno, Nevada as a commercial Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) in 1993. Since then, they have expanded to include Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) and Medicare Advantage (MA) service lines in multiple states including Nevada, Texas, and Florida.
What Does Prominence Cover?
Prominence Health Plan, like most insurers, offers different types of medical plans. Health insurance plans are similar because they cover many of the same services. Yet they can be different when it comes to:
If a plan is called a Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), the insurance plan gives members a list of doctors that are in the network. Choosing a provider that is not on the list may mean that the insurance will not cover any of the visit costs. Members are encouraged to choose an in-network provider so the services will be covered by the plan.
On the other hand, if a plan is called a Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) the member has more options. They can pick any doctor. But choosing an in-network doctor makes services more affordable because of discounts or additional coverage for using in-network providers.
It is easy to see why it is best if your doctor is in-network with your insurance plan. This is one reason why MVP is excited to announce that they have joined the Prominence Health Plan network.
MVP and Prominence have a lot in common.
They both started in Nevada.
They are both well-respected companies.
And both work to provide options for quality, convenient, cost-effective care close to home.
Prominence Health Plan and MVP are a perfect match.
MVP is a multi-specialty telemedicine team, treating patients across the US. They provide comprehensive online doctor visits to treat patients of all ages with care for obstetrical-gynecological, primary care, and pediatric services.
Virtual physician appointments are affordable and easy-to-schedule. Plus, they offer the safety and security of being seen from your home or workplace in convenient after-hours and weekend appointment times. Now with more in-network insurance coverage, MVP’s online physician services are better than ever.
MVP’s online doctors treat gynecological issues including:
As well as primary care concerns such as:
If you need to see a doctor and you’ve been looking for the best care at an affordable price, your search can stop here.
Many health concerns can be solved with a simple online consultation. The team at MVP is available now to meet with you.
Did you know My Virtual Physician is offering a promotion for September? Book now to get a free home blood pressure kit for new patients who complete an online consultation in the month of September. Don’t wait, grab your appointment spot now!
MVP’s founder Dr. Howard is a board-certified physician practicing in Las Vegas, Nevada. He is passionate about medicine and research. He has authored/co-authored several publications and is among the top 10% of scientific reviewers in the United States. Dr. Howard and his team are now accepting new patients.
Women looking for a great Obstetrics and Gynecology provider (OB/GYN) in Las Vegas, Nevada, may have trouble. There is an OB/GYN physician shortage in Las Vegas. And the situation is getting worse.
Factors such as physician burnout, population growth, and competition from other parts of the country have created a shortage of OB/GYNs in Las Vegas, Nevada. As a result, some may have difficulty finding the perfect provider to care for their reproductive health.
Women and their partners want an OB/GYN they can trust. Issues like birth control, childbirth, and menopause are delicate matters. Unfortunately, a shortage means there are not enough providers to meet Las Vegas’ needs. Thus, those doctors who are available may be overworked or stretched thin.
Here is why it’s hard to find a good OB/GYN in Las Vegas and what to do about it.
When there are too few doctors to meet a city's demands, it can be hard to find a provider to respond to each patient’s needs. According to NBC News, America is facing an OB/GYN shortage.
Las Vegas, overall, has the most severe OB/GYN workforce shortage.
Other parts of Nevada face an even more serious situation. Some counties lack even one OB/GYN provider. Hence, patients face delays in care. In some cases they are forced to look far away to find a doctor.
Here’s why it is hard to find OB/GYN care in Las Vegas.
And while Las Vegas OB/GYNs may have it rough, the patients suffer too.
OB/GYNs offer services that women need. They provide health counseling, sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing, and more. From puberty to menopause, women need a health expert they can trust. Many patients depend on OB/GYN advice.
Fortunately, Las Vegas residents can now find the best OB/GYNs, right in their neighborhood.
My Virtual Physician has an answer for the physician shortage crisis. Two of the best board-certified OB/GYNs in the nation are on staff and available for appointments near you in Las Vegas.
My Virtual Physician offers OB/GYN visits in Las Vegas with flexible scheduling through telemedicine. While most providers are busy and feel the pressure to treat many patients quickly, My Virtual Physician is different. Online video visits eliminate travel time and the feel of a busy waiting room. Virtual consultations provide a relaxed, personalized, and patient-centered care experience.
During the pandemic, many patients have had questions about staying safe. Some want to know if vaccination is right for them. Women in Las Vegas can now book a visit with My Virtual Physician to discuss their concerns and get real medical advice. Booking an appointment with an OB/GYN in Las Vegas has never been easier.
Are you looking for an OBGYN near you in Las Vegas? My Virtual Physician has two board-certified physicians licensed in Nevada who can address gynecological problems via video visits.
If you would like to talk with a board-certified OB/GYN, you can schedule your appointment online now. My Virtual Physician offers health screening, lab tests, and counseling to meet all of your healthcare needs.
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), also called sexually transmitted infections (STIs), are very common, with around 25 million new diagnoses made yearly in the United States. Young people, ages 15-24 years of age, appear to be the most prevalent group to acquire and spread STDs, accounting for about half of newly diagnosed cases in 2018 per the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Notably, 1 in 5 people in the United Stated have had an STD.
Oral, vaginal and anal sexual encounters are the methods of transmission and these infections vary greatly in their symptoms, severity, curability and prognosis. Treatment has improved over the years and some lifelong conditions now do not preclude a good quality of life. However, some of these diseases can be quite quiet in terms of initial symptoms, and screening tests, or tests to check if a disease is present even when symptoms are not, are a critical way to help reduce transmission and consequences of these infections.
Bacterial Vaginosis, not categorized itself as a sexually transmitted disease, is a condition named for alterations in the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina, which can lead to an increased risk for susceptibility to STDs, as well as preterm labor. A fishy odor may be noted after vaginal intercourse, and pain, itching and burning in this area or during urination, as well as thin, grey-white vaginal discharge, are among associated complaints. Although many cases of bacterial vaginosis clear on their own, antibiotic treatment may be needed at times. Currently, there is no recommendation for routine screening for BV.
Two of the most predominant, but easily treatable STDs, include chlamydia and gonorrhea. Both can spread through oral, vaginal or anal sex. Though either condition may be asymptomatic, some suspicious findings include abnormal vaginal or penile discharge, burning while urinating and pain or swelling of the testicles. Chlamydia and gonorrhea can also reoccur if infectious sex continues, despite prior treatment. Also, having these infections increases a woman’s risk to develop pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which is damage to the internal reproductive organs, making future fertility a challenge. If infected during pregnancy, risk for miscarriage, preterm labor, low birth weight or an infection in the fluid surrounding the fetus, called chorioamnionitis, increases. Newborns of untreated mothers may also suffer postnatal complications such as eye infections and pneumonia. Pregnant women < 25 years of age, or older pregnant women at increased risk of exposure to gonorrhea or chlamydia, are typically screened at their first prenatal visit. Similarly, it is recommended to screen all sexually active women < 25 years of age, yearly, for gonorrhea and chlamydia, and older women who have multiple sexual partners. All sexually active gay or bisexual men, should also be screened at least yearly, but more often depending on frequency of new sexual encounters/multiple partners. Testing for these diseases can be as simple as a urine sample ordered by a virtual physician, however it is prudent to discuss symptoms and history to determine the best course of screening.
According to the CDC, every 1 out of 6 people in the United States has herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection, oftentimes without knowing it. HSV can be divided into HSV 1, more commonly known as oral herpes, and HSV 2, known as genital herpes. Although designated as such, either can occur orally or genitally. Many people are infected with HSV 1 in their childhood, through non sexual mediated contact with infected saliva. Oral herpes results in cold sores or fever blisters, around the lip and mouth area. Genital herpes, likewise, can demonstrate sores throughout the genital region of infected individuals. Lack of active sores however does not negate infectious activity and the disease can still spread through unprotected oral, vaginal and anal routes. There is no curative treatment for HSV and the virus can go into a dormant phase where no symptoms occur for years, though patients are at risk for recurrent outbreaks, where an antiviral medication may be prescribed. Devastating effects can occur if left untreated during pregnancy, including life-threatening infection to the newborn. If there is history of infection or active infection at the time of labor, a Cesarean section may be indicated. The United States Preventive Services Task Force does not recommend routine screening for HSV in asymptomatic sexually active adolescents or adults, including pregnant women.
Syphilis is a bacterial infection spread through sexual contact, and is divided into distinct phases, first beginning as painless mouth/oral, genital or anal sore(s) several days to several months after initial exposure. This sore or sores will resolve after a few weeks, even without medication. Then a body rash develops, sometimes with swollen lymph nodes, general fatigue and a fever, later. There can be a long period of “latency”, or no symptoms, followed by the last stage classified by neurological, ocular and cardiac symptoms. This is a curable condition, but can cause life-long consequences if untreated, including dementia and blindness, and can lead to death. Screening is indicated for sexually active individuals on a yearly basis, but more often such as every 3-6 months for high risk features, such as multiple partners. This can be performed through a blood test, which may be ordered through a virtual physician’s visit.
Although there are other methods of transmission, typically hepatitis B may be acquired through the sexually transmitted routes mentioned above. Hepatitis C is less commonly sexually transmitted, but spreads through exposure of infected blood, such as in activities like sharing needles in illicit IV drug abuse. Both conditions, though incited by different viruses, have the same impact on the liver and symptoms can overlap, with fever, fatigue, yellowing of the eyes and skin, abdominal pain and changes in urine color. With the exception of individuals living in extremely low prevalence areas, it is recommended that hepatitis C screening be given to a person at least once after the age of 18 years. Additionally, although hepatitis B is a vaccine preventable illness, the USPSTF recommends screening by blood test, those individuals at high risk such as those who inject drugs or share needles, men who have sex with men and immunocompromised patients, such as those with HIV, as well as those living in areas with a 2% or higher prevalence of the hepatitis B surface antigen, regardless of vaccination status. This is especially important given that hepatitis B is a chronic illness that will need lifelong treatment and both viruses present a higher susceptibility to liver cancer.
HIV, or human immunodeficiency virus, eventually progresses to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Fortunately, through screening and early detection, appropriate prophylactic and supportive agents can be provided to help maintain CD4 counts and stable immune status in order to prevent, or at least slow, this advancement. It is generally recommended that adolescents beginning at 13 years, through adulthood, into the 60s, be screened via blood test, at least once as part of routine health maintenance. For those in higher risk categories, such as individuals with multiple sexual partners, men who have sex with men and those who share needles, screening may be advised yearly or with more frequent intervals depending on individual circumstances. Once again, this is a blood test that may be ordered through a virtual doctor visit.
While prevention of any illness is optimal through regular visits with a physician, screening tests have proven to be useful in early detection of otherwise asymptomatic diseases, allowing for quicker treatment. In particular, sexually transmitted diseases are relatively easy to screen for through blood or urine samples. If you have questions or concerns regarding your need to be screened for these conditions, it is quite simple to schedule a virtual visit with one of our physicians at My Virtual Physician, and we can help determine which testing is right for you. In addition, depending on the results, oftentimes follow up guidance or medication can also be provided! Schedule a visit today!
Half of adults over the age of 50 are at risk for broken bones. Maintaining healthy bones is important for a long healthy life.
Osteoporosis (OP) is a condition of weakened bones. Thin bones are at risk for fractures. OP screening can be an important part of staying healthy. Early disease detection and treatment may prevent complications later. Broken bones are painful and costly. Luckily, screening tests like the Dual-Energy Xray Absorptiometry (DEXA) scan alert doctors of problems early.
DEXA scans or other OP screening tests are advised for some at-risk groups. To find out if you should be concerned about bone testing today, read on.
OP is more common in adults than you may believe. One health department called it a major public health threat.
OP screening may prevent:
People with OP may not know anything is wrong until they suffer an injury. With advanced bone disease, normal activities can cause bones to break. Studies have shown that many patients do not get the right treatment for low bone density (LBD) despite the great prevalence, complications, and costs of fractures related to bone disease.
Therefore screening tests for bone loss are important to your health. Doctors or specialists can diagnose problems with weak bones before they become serious.
OP affects one-in-three women above 50 years old. It is also a serious condition for men.
It is best to talk to a doctor about when to get a screening test. They can explain the test and treatment options. Physicians will also answer questions about what to expect.
Currently, we have a few recommendations for OP screening.
The NOF advises a DEXA scan of the hip and spine for:
Also, they also encourage testing in those with:
The ISCD has similar guidelines. They recommend DEXA scan of the hip and spine for the same groups above, but also in:
AACE recommends a DEXA scan for
The AACE says that the lumbar spine and proximal femur are the best sites for testing.
The USPSTF recommends screening for OP in women 65 years or older. Also in younger women with certain risk factors. At this time the USPSTF does not have a recommendation for men.
ACOG currently urges screening for women 65 or older and those under age 65 with risk factors for fracture. They also say physicians should screen patients using the FRAX tool to define their risk of a major fracture.
The FRAX® tool evaluates fracture risk in patients. Based on the score, a 9.3% or higher risk should be referred for a DEXA scan.
The DEXA scan is a quick and reliable test for measuring bone mineral density (BMD). It aids in the diagnosis of OP.
The scan usually takes around 15 minutes. And it doesn't hurt. First, the patient lies down on an open table.
Next, a scanner passes over the body. It sends two X-ray beams. And the machine tells how the rays pass through the bones. This shows how thick or thin they are. The results give the doctor a good idea of how healthy the bones are.
Like other medical tests, a DEXA scan is ordered by a healthcare professional. Typically, doctors or specialists can write a prescription or send a referral. Virtual doctors and online physicians can also arrange this test for their patients.
OP screening may be a part of your yearly check-up. Or it can be used to check on certain risk factors.
Thanks to telemedicine, it is now fairly easy to get this important test. An online doctor can tell you about OP screening and answer your questions. Online appointments are convent. Patients meet doctors from wherever they are, on a mobile device or smartphone.
My Virtual Physician offers screening consultations at little or no out-of-pocket cost. They can order blood tests, imaging or scans, X-rays, and more. And in some cases, same-day appointments are available.
Many screening tests are covered by health insurance or medical benefits. Check with your insurance to see if any out-of-pocket payment is required. Medicare pays for bone density testing every two years for adults over 65 with some risk factors.
My Virtual Physician offers full preventive care services for men and women. To talk with one of the top physicians, click to book an appointment now. The MVP caring experts help patients with screening plans that are tailored to their healthcare needs.
If you have ideas for other topics you want to read about, let us know! Don’t forget to follow us on social media.
Sources:
This past year tested many young businesses. Telemedicine is not new. But the My Virtual Physician (MVP) business model is. The virtual doctor practice offers the best in online doctor services as a direct-to-consumer multi-specialty provider licensed in multiple states. Regardless of 2020's challenges, the MVP virtual doctor team didn't slow down. They focused on their path to becoming the #1 online doctor and forged ahead.
Over the last 12 months, MVP worked hard to bring high-quality medical care into homes in 15 states. They now offer online pediatric, gynecologic, and primary healthcare services for patients of all ages. Plus, they provide same-day scheduling for online physician appointments, some in-network insurance benefits, and five-star customer service.
As the #1 online healthcare provider, MVP doctors get to know their patients. Quality care is emphasized, and they aim to provide the best patient satisfaction in telemedicine. Here’s what patients are saying about MVP's online doctors:
“I would give My Virtual Physician more stars if I could”
“Dr. Howard has the best personality and is very friendly.”
“The future of medical visits; what better way to social distance.”
“A+ would recommend to everyone.”
Since their launch, MVP has opened new offices and added service lines such as nutrition and diabetic care. The practice has partnered with more online doctors and added office staff. Just this Spring, MVP enhanced their patient portal for self-scheduling, and integrated a program to trend patient reviews.
This one year anniversary milestone is cause for celebration. It is exciting, and this is only the beginning. Despite any challenges that lie ahead for this medical practice, their progress shows that the future is very bright for My Virtual Physician.
Congratulations to Dr. Howard, Dr. Masghati, Dr. Ayyagari, and all of the My Virtual Physician Staff.
Stefanie:
Welcome, everyone! Thank you for joining us today.
My name is Stefanie and I'm part of the team here at MyVirtualPhysician. We are a direct to consumer, multi-specialty, telemedicine provider operating in multiple states.
Welcome to Talk Tuesday. We are continuing our weekly educational series, talking with our expert physicians, exploring some common healthcare concerns, and hopefully answering some questions you may have.
Today our physician expert is Dr. Salome Masghati, a practicing gynecologist and minimally invasive surgeon who is one of our telemedicine providers. We are talking about a complaint our doctors commonly see or treat, and that is URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS or UTIs.
Dr. Masghati, thank you for joining us today.
Stefanie:
So let’s cut to the chase Dr. Masghati, can cranberries cure a UTI?
Dr. Salome Masghati:
Many people believe that cranberries or cranberry juice can treat a UTI, and the answer is it's complicated.
There have been many studies on cranberries as a UTI treatment, and research has shown that an active ingredient in cranberries called “proanthocyanidins,” or PCAs for short, is effective in preventing E. Coli bacteria, the most common cause of UTI infections, from attaching to the bladder wall lining and colonizing or creating an infection.
So PCAs or cranberries may help prevent a urinary tract infection but once there is already an infection, that treatment may not be effective.
A cup of cranberry juice may only contain a small amount of this active ingredient with a lot of sugar! Cranberry tablets or pills may be another option for prevention.
Stefanie:
So if someone wants to try cranberry juice for prevention of a UTI, how much should you drink?
Dr. Masghati:
A recent article in Pharmacy Today recommends at least 36 mg of PAC daily.
For the prevention of UTIs, 300–500 mL of cranberry juice cocktail (26% cranberry juice) daily and 400–800 mg cranberry extract twice daily.
Or 36–72 mg of cranberry PAC equivalents per day, found in about 360–720 mg of cranberry extract, has been shown to be effective.2
The research shows some evidence that cranberry products may reduce the incidence of UTIs but the most effective amount and concentration of PACs that must be consumed and how long they should be taken are unknown.
Stefanie:
So cranberry juice and cranberry extract tablets together may help prevent infections but what about someone who already has a UTI?
Dr. Masghati:
Truly if someone has an infection, either their body will be able to fight off the infection, or they may need an antibiotic medication to kill the bacteria that is causing the infection.
Stefanie:
That’s interesting, so you say in some cases a UTI can go away on its own because the body is able to fight off the infection?
Dr. Masghati:
Yes, in some cases. Approximately 25-42% of the time these uncomplicated UTIs may resolve without any medical treatment.
Stefanie:
Ok, so when would it be time for someone to see a doctor about their UTI?
Dr. Masghati:
Untreated infections can spread and become serious. You should talk to your doctor as soon as you suspect a UTI.
Also for signs such as fever, chills, flank pain, or abdominal pain with nausea or vomiting. These can be signs of a serious infection.
Stefanie:
For someone who is going to make an appointment but has not yet, is there anything that they can do to manage the UTI?
Dr. Masghati:
There are some things you can do for relief, or even after you have seen your doctor while you are waiting for an antibiotic to work.
It is important to stay hydrated, drinking plenty of water flushes out the bladder.
When going to the bathroom it is important to try to empty the bladder completely. Some adults with UTI have a frequent urge to urinate or sensation of pressure in the low abdomen which can make it feel as though you need to urinate. Going to the bathroom frequently to empty the bladder can help.
If there is pain in the low abdomen a heating pad may provide some relief.
Over the counter pain relievers such as Motrin or Tylenol can also be taken to help with discomfort.
Stefanie:
Dr. Masghati you have shared some great information today. I appreciate you joining us for Talk Tuesday and helping us understand more about UTIs and cranberry juice. For everyone else joining us as well, this has been Talk Tuesday with MyVirtualPhysician. If you would like to connect with one of our board certified OB/GYNs, or for more information you can check out our website at www.myvirtualphysician.com. We look forward to seeing you again and we hope you have a great week.
Starting a family is a goal for many couples. Unfortunately, one in ten couples may have some difficulty getting pregnant and require medical treatment. If you've been affected, you might be wondering about infertility: when is it time to see a doctor? My Virtual Physician has board certified physicians who specialize in infertility and are available for virtual doctor visits.
Infertility is a diagnosable medical condition in which a couple cannot conceive a pregnancy despite unprotected intercourse. It can be caused by many factors.
In women, most often, abnormal ovulation causes infertility. In men, usually problems with sperm cells, such as sperm count or function, cause difficulty conceiving.
Aside from these physiological causes, factors affecting a couple's fertility include their age, health status, and lifestyle factors such as stress, diet, or smoking.
According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, women who are overweight, underweight, or exercise too much may have difficulty getting pregnant, and men who are heavy drinkers or smoke marijuana since these are known to lower sperm count and movement.
In some cases, doctors cannot determine the cause and refer to these cases as unexplained infertility.
Generally, it is time to consult your physician about getting pregnant if you are under the age of 35 and have been unable to conceive after one year of unprotected sex. Women over the age of 35 and those who have irregular menstrual cycles or have known abnormalities with their reproductive system, should talk with their doctor much sooner, after six months.
Infertility affects both people in the relationship. There is a 30% chance the infertility is related to male factors in a traditional couple, 30% related to female factors, and a 30% chance a combination of both factors. Therefore, anyone in the relationship may need to discuss options for starting a family. Here are some reasons to see a virtual doctor:
When you consult your physician about infertility, you can expect that they will begin your care with a complete history and physical exam. They may order blood testing, urinalysis, hormone tests, or other diagnostics to check for abnormalities. It may be necessary to have your partner undergo an exam and diagnostic testing also. Your physician may order an ultrasound or an X-ray as well.
After all of the tests, you will meet with your physician to discuss the results and go over treatment options and recommendations. After you decide on the treatment plan that is best for you, you will receive support and guidance in your process to get pregnant.
Medical treatment and new technologies can increase your chances of getting pregnant. One or both partners in a couple may undergo treatment.
Medications may be taken by mouth or injected. There are drug therapies for both men and women aimed at increasing egg production or sperm count. A list of medicines frequently prescribed for infertility treatment can be found here.
In some cases, blockages, scar tissue, or abnormal growths require surgical intervention. Procedures may be laparoscopic: meaning performed through small incisions in the abdomen for a minimally-invasive procedure.
Today, the two most common infertility treatments are intrauterine insemination (IUI) and in vitro fertilization (IVF).
IUI is a procedure during which a physician injects sperm into the uterus at the ovulation time. This method is least invasive and most cost-effective but has lower success rates. The estimated success rate is 10-20% for a single cycle of IUI, but additional rounds increase chances, and in three to six cycles, the success rate is up to 80%.
IVF is a complicated procedure requiring surgical retrieval of a woman's eggs, fertilization in a laboratory, and then transferring the fertilized eggs back into the uterus. Women under the age of 35 can expect a 50% success rate for IVF treatment, but this process requires intense testing and monitoring and can cost $20,000 to $50,000.
Starting a family can be challenging, and your physician may offer options to guide you through the process. Infertility is a medical condition that affects many couples, and there are treatments available.
Need to talk to a physician now? My Virtual Physician has Board-Certified OB/GYN's that are available for virtual doctor appointments and are able to answer any questions you have and guide you in the right direction. The online doctors at My Virtual Physician, not only address infertility and reproductive endocrinology, but also irregular periods and painful periods, and many more gynecological conditions.
If you still have questions or you would like to discuss your problem with our board-certified OB/GYN specialists, click below to schedule an appointment. My Virtual Physician treats conditions, including infertility, irregular periods, sexually transmitted infections, and more. If you have any suggestions for additional topics you want to read about, let us know! Don’t forget to check out our podcasts for more and follow us on social media.
Speaker 1:
The information presented in this podcast is offered for educational purposes, only presenting it is not intended to and does not create a provider-patient relationship between any presenter and anyone else about the medical topics addressed presenters provide general information only not a diagnosis or recommended treatments or any other information specific to any individual listeners are encouraged to see their own health care professional about all topics address on Talk Tuesdays or for any other medical problem.
Speaker 1:
Welcome, everyone. Thank you for joining us today. My name is Stephanie and I'm part of the team here at My Virtual Physician. We are a direct to consumer multi-specialty telemedicine provider operating in multiple States. It is Talk Tuesday and we are continuing our weekly educational series to talk with our experts, explore some common healthcare concerns that we see and hopefully answer some questions you may have today. Our physician expert is dr. Coleman. She is a general surgeon, and today we are going to talk about breast cancer screening and breast cancer surgery. So thank you for joining us today. Thanks for having me. Yeah. And welcome
Speaker 2:
Back October was breast cancer awareness month. So we're going to be doing
Speaker 1:
Again a blog and an episode or two of Talk Tuesday on breast cancer screening. When would someone go in to get a mammogram or if they feel something or they have any history of breast cancer in their family, what's kind of the age range,
Speaker 2:
What to look for. Okay. So there's actually three organizations, probably more, but there's at least three organizations that have opinions on breast cancer screening, depending on which organization you listen to, it could be 40 years old, 45 years old or 50 years old, either way. Everyone agrees that by the age of 50, you should be getting a screening mammogram, most people, uh, and I believe most insurance companies go with the age of 40 breast cancer. Under the age of 40 is pretty rare. If, if you have
Speaker 1:
Breast cancer under the age of 40, usually it's associated
Speaker 2:
With some sort of genetic predisposition. There's the BRC mutation that predispose people to, to breast cancer at a younger age. But there's some other things that can, can run in families. Some other genetic diseases that predispose you at a younger age and typically cancer at a younger age is more aggressive and more advanced when it's found, because who in their thirties thinks that they're going to have breast cancer. So what we learned in residency was at the age of 40, you started getting your screening mammograms, and that's just, you have no symptoms. You have nothing going on. You're 40 years old. It's time to get a mammogram. Just like when you turn 50, you got to get a colonoscopy. It's just a way of life. Some people will come in. Well, I feel a mass I'm worried. And this also kind of depends on your age.
Speaker 2:
If you're younger, the chances of you having a mass that's breast cancer is pretty low. You, you may have these little hard nodules called fibroadenomas. They're pretty common in younger people and they grow and shrink in size with your menstrual cycle. And that's something that people usually will point out like, Oh, I noticed this, I know I was on my period last week and now I don't really feel it so much. And so that's, that's pretty common and we can actually do ultrasounds in clinic. I mean, not everyone, but if you're, if the clinic has an ultrasound, we can do an ultrasound because sometimes it's just breast cyst that can feel like a lump and they can hurt. And if it is a cyst, they can drain it in the office and, and hopefully give you some relief. So when you turn 40, get a mammogram, if you feel something that's concerning, you would need to go into your doctor, talk to them about getting an ultrasound or a mammogram.
Speaker 2:
And again, depending on your age, it may dictate what screening that they do. If you have a family history of breast cancer, then that would be something to coordinate with your doctor to get a screening done earlier. They usually recommend doing screening before 40, uh, it may be an MRI and mammogram alternating every six months starting at the age of 25 30. It just kind of depends on when your family member had breast cancer and what genetic mutation it is that you have. So I've had my screening mammogram and I got called back in for more images, do I have cancer? So not necessarily, this is something we actually deal with quite a lot. It really kind of depends on your age and your breast tissue density. It can be really hard to evaluate the breast tissue on a screening mammogram. If you have really dense breast tissue, there's actually, uh, States that have a requirement when they report on your mammogram, that they disclose to you that there are certain regions, depending on the density of your breasts, that they may not be able to see.
Speaker 2:
So they have to give you that information because then if you end up having breast cancer, but you've, you've had a screening mammogram, you know, why wasn't it caught well, and it, it can just really depend on the density of your arrests. So sometimes you'll get a call that you need to come back in and it's for a more formal or what we call a diagnostic mammogram. The difference in that is with a screening mammogram, you kind of just, you go into a facility, they do the mammogram and you go home. And in a couple of days, they either call you with the results or you go into your doctor's office and they give you the results, a diagnostic mammogram, you go into a facility, but the radiologist is, is physically there. And when they do the mammogram, they try and focus on that area that was questionable in your screening mammogram.
Speaker 2:
And so the radiologist can actually look at it in real-time and determine, okay, well, we need a different view here, or we need to zoom in here and take a better look at that so that you don't get called back in for even more. This is, I'm a little bit better idea of, of what they're looking at. And if it, if it is something that looks suspicious for cancer or not, some patients may actually end up needing an ultrasound to go with their mammogram or an MRI. It's all pretty personalized. So it all just depends on what your breast tissue looks like and what, what exactly it is, that's going on, what was seen, or if you're having symptoms and things like that. So it could just be that you have dense breast tissue, and it does not look abnormal when they do the more focused imaging, or could be something that, that is concerning for breast cancer. But being called back does not mean that you have cancer. You could, but they just need to get better pictures. Yeah.
Speaker 1:
Since so, after I got called in my mammogram showed an area concerning for breast cancer and I need a biopsy. Can you explain what that is?
Speaker 2:
Yeah. So when you need a biopsy, it doesn't necessarily mean that it's cancer again. So, so don't panic, but chances are, they saw something that are concerning and suspicious for cancer, and chances are it is, but I need a tissue sample to say for sure what it is. There's different types of breast cancer, there's DCIS, which maybe you've heard of, or there's invasive cancers by doing the biopsy. It gives you a little sample of tissue to be able to determine what type of cancer it is, what hormone receptors it has if it has any. And, and that helps you tailor your treatment, not only for surgery, but if you need chemo or other things, or even additional surgery, when you meet a bias, it can be done a couple of ways, the most common way, or at least the way that I'm used to it being done from when I was in residency is if you have a mask that can be felt if you came in because you had an that you found and you get a mammogram and they, they say, we need to biopsy.
Speaker 2:
If they can see it, then you can get a biopsy done with an ultrasound and you don't have to go through a mammogram again. If you can't see it on an ultrasound, then you got to get a mammogram again. So not, not super fun for everybody when they do it with under a mammogram, it's done by a radiologist typically, and it's called a stereotactic biopsy. So essentially you lay down on this table and you lay face down and there's, there's a little opening in the table. And the breast with the concerning area goes through this little hole in the table and kind of hangs blue so that the arm on this machine can get in the right position and orientation to access the delusion that the arm on the mammogram machine has a needle on it. And once the area is targeted, the needle goes in, they take a sample of the breast tissue that comes out, but there's also a clip that gets placed in the area that they biopsied.
Speaker 2:
So that on later imaging, you can say, okay, well, we already biopsy this area and everything was normal. Or this is where they had a biopsy before we don't see anything different. Or, you know, now there's something there that, that wasn't there before. And we need to re-investigate it. Sometimes you can't do the stereotactic biopsy and that's for reasons, you know, maybe you can't lay flat, maybe it's too uncomfortable, or you can't breathe. There are weight limitations. And depending on your age, I mean, it may just not be something that you're very capable of laying there because it's not, it's not a five-minute procedure. I mean, it's a 20-minute procedure or so. And it depends on where the lesion is. If it's really close to your chest wall, like the muscles underneath your breasts, they don't usually do the stereotactic biopsy. They can still do a biopsy under a mammogram. It's just done a little bit differently. This is all kind of targeted and oriented and one process. Whereas if they have to do it with, without the stereotactic part, it's done a little bit differently. Now there are some stereotactic biopsy machines where you can actually sit up. I don't know how many places have those. Like I don't, I'm not real familiar with how prevalent they are, but they do exist. So that maybe something that they could do.
Speaker 1:
Thank you so much, Dr. Coleman. I know it's a really hard topic to talk about. Cancer is always something that's a pretty scary word. I appreciate you joining us for Talk Tuesdays and telling us what we need to know about breast cancer screening for everyone else. This has been Talk Tuesdays with My Virtual Physician. You can schedule a consultation with one of our doctors by visiting our website: www.myvirtualphysician.com. We look forward to seeing you again, and we hope you have a great week.
Speaker 1 :
Information presented in this podcast is offered for educational purposes, only presenting it is not intended to and does not create a provider-patient relationship between any presenter and anyone else about the medical topics addressed presenters provide general information only not a diagnosis or recommended treatments or any other information specific to any individual listeners are encouraged to see their own healthcare professional about all topics addressed on Talk Tuesdays or for any other medical things.
This week on Talk Tuesdays from my Virtual Physician, we have Dr. Daniel Kessler, a Family Practice Doctor.Before a manufacturer can introduce a new drug to the public, a lot of money goes into the research, development, testing, and marketing. Companies can patent their new medications, and are guaranteed exclusivity to make and sell them for five years. This allows manufacturers to recoup some of the cost associated with getting their new brand name drugs to market. After that time, the patent expires. This means other companies can come along and make and sell the same medication under a different name. This “copy-cat” medication is considered a generic medication.
In many ways a generic medication is like the brand name version. To be approved as a generic drug, the pharmacologic characteristics must be the same as the brand name. Generic medications are the same as the brand name when it comes to:dosages and strengthintended useeffects and side effectsroute of administration active ingredientsBy contrast, generic medications can be approved with different inactive ingredients. So different colors, additives, and fillers may be used to help with binding, flavoring, coloring, transporting, or preserving. That means that your generic medication will likely look different. Trademark laws in the U.S. prevent manufacturers from creating a generic that looks exactly like the brand name. The Federal Drug Administration (FDA) regulates generic drugs that are approved for sale in the United States. It provides a process that ensures the medications are safe, effective, and of sufficient quality. Keep in mind that the FDA also investigates complaints about generic and brand name medications including side effects. They can issue a recall any time there is a concern for safety. There are always risks and benefits associated with any medication. Everybody is different and some more sensitive to differences in the drugs.Because the inactive ingredients are not identical, some individuals may experience differences when taking a generic medication vs, a brand name, but this is not always the case. There have been reports of medications affecting patients differently. For instance, when they feel the onset of effects, how long the medication effects last, and even incidence of side effects. It is important to talk to your physician if you are concerned about a generic medication affecting you differently. Generic medications often cost substantially less than the brand name. Again, the company making the generic medication did not have to pass along the cost associated with getting a new drug to market. When a patient is going to be on a drug long term or even for a lifetime, choosing a generic medication can save thousands of dollars a year in medical expenses. Lower cost may mean better compliance for some patients.
The savings to the individual are important but it doesn’t stop there. When multiple manufacturers are able to make and sell a medication the competition can drive the cost down and makes healthcare more affordable for the public. Generic medications save our healthcare system millions of dollars every year. To learn more, schedule a consultation today!
