Private Nurse Practitioner Services
NP Megan Dunn
Abnormal Bleeding
Abnormal menstrual bleeding refers to any changes in a women's menstrual cycle that deviate from what is considered normal for her. This can include heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, irregular cycles, spotting between periods, or any other unusual bleeding patterns. If your period is absent and there is a chance of pregnancy, you should first take a home pregnancy test.
If you are experiencing abnormal menstrual bleeding, the Nurse Practitioner can help determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.
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Painful Periods
Dysmenorrhea is a medical term for painful menstrual cramps that occur before or during a women's menstrual period. It is a common condition that can vary in intensity from mild discomfort to severe and sometimes disabling pain.
Primary dysmenorrhea is when pain is not associated with any underlying medical condition and usually begins a day or two before menstrual starts. It is caused by the release of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that cause the uterus to contract, leading to cramps.
Secondary dysmenorrhea is when pain is caused by an underlying medical condition, such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, or pelvic inflammatory disease. The pain is often more severe and may start earlier in the menstrual cycle.
If you are experiencing severe menstrual pain that disrupts your usual activities, the Nurse Practitioner can help determine the cause of the pain and recommend appropriate treatment options.
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Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a chronic medical condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows outside the uterus. The tissue may be found in the ovaries, fallopian tubes, the outer surface of the uterus, the pelvic lining, and even beyond the pelvic region. It responds to hormonal changes, just like the normal uterine lining, and can lead to a variety of symptoms and complications.
Symptoms of endometriosis can vary widely and may include: acute and/or chronic pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea (painful menstrual periods), painful intercourse, infertility.
Although there is no cure for endometriosis, various treatments can help manage symptoms to improve quality of life. These may include pain medications, hormone therapy, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, surgical removal of endometrial tissue.
If you suspect you have endometriosis or are experiencing symptoms, the Nurse Practitioner can assess and provide individualized treatment recommendations.
Fibroids
Uterine fibroids (leiomyomas) are noncancerous growths that develop in the uterus. They are quite common and can vary in size, number, and location within the uterus. While fibroids are typically benign, they can cause various symptoms and complications depending on their size and location.​
Many women with uterine fibroids do not experience any symptoms. however, whe symptoms do occur, they may include heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain or pressure, frequent urination, difficulty emptying the bladder, constipation, and lower back pain.
Treatment options for uterine fibroids depend on the severity of symptoms and the individual's preferences, ranging from pain relievers and hormonal medication, to surgical options such as fibroid removal (myomectomy) or uterine removal (hysterectomy).
If you suspect you have uterine fibroids or are experiencing symptoms, the Nurse Practitioner can help determine the best course of action based on your individual situation and medical history.
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Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS is a common hormonal disorder that affects women, typically during the reproductive years. It is characterized by a combination of symptoms, including irregular menstrual cycles, excess androgen levels, and the development of cysts of the ovaries. PCOS can lead to a variety of health concerns and may require management to address both its symptoms and potential long-term effects.
In addition to irregular menstrual cycles and cysts on the ovaries, women with PCOS may experience heavy menstrual bleeding, acne, excess hair growth (hirsutism), thinning hair on the scalp, weigh gain, and difficulty losing weight.
Women with PCOS are at an increased risk of metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, cardiovascular disease, endometrial cancer, and infertility.
If you suspect you have PCOS or are experiencing symptoms, the Nurse Practitioner can help determine the proper diagnosis, recommend appropriate treatments, and help you manage any potential health risks associated with the condition.
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