While every woman endures menopause differently, hot flashes and night sweats are relatively common at this stage of life. About 85% of women experience these symptoms, which are brief and sudden increases in body temperature. Hot flashes and night sweats, or excess sweating overnight, can start as early as two...
Your uterus is a much more complicated organ than you may realize. It has a lining called the endometrium, which is essential when it comes to your menstrual cycle and reproduction. Each month during your period, your endometrium breaks down and bleeds away, then during your next cycle, it regrows. ...
From condoms to pills, women have many choices when it comes to birth control. A little over 10% choose an intrauterine device, also known as an IUD. Dr. Rachel Spieldoch and her professional staff at McDowell Mountain Gynecology provide all aspects of women's healthcare. From annual pelvic exams to skincare...
If you’re a woman undergoing the hormonal fluctuations that accompany perimenopause or menopause, you may wonder if you’re ever going to feel normal again. Though you’d originally considered HRT, all the studies that associate it with life-threatening conditions such as breast cancer and heart disease give you pause. While there’s...
The COVID-19 pandemic has triggered dramatic changes throughout everyday life — and in the medical community as well. Not only are providers across the country postponing elective procedures, but many are also encouraging people to avoid in-office appointments to reduce their risk of exposure to this highly contagious coronavirus.But what...
Chilly winter breezes may feel refreshing, but they aren’t all that good for your skin. Winds and low temperatures can interfere with your skin’s protective moisture barrier, leading to dry skin, itchiness, and an overall loss of shine and glow. To help you out, we asked our experts at McDowell...
Deciding which doctor you need to see for a particular health issue isn’t always clear. You probably already have a primary care provider who is a generalist and can treat a wide variety of conditions, and they can also refer you to specialists for more specific needs. But what about...
By Laura Van Steyn PA-C Receiving an abnormal test can be scary. We are here to help! Pap Smear Test: Let’s face it, no woman enjoys getting a Pap Test, but it is the ONLY WAY to effectively screen the cervix for cellular changes associated with Human Papilloma...
Birth control is a personal decision a sexually active woman must make to avoid an unwanted pregnancy. When considering your options, how do you know what method is right for you? Which types of birth control are most effective? Learn the facts about birth control so you can make an...
After the physical turmoil of menopause, you're likely to notice changes in your vaginal appearance and function. You may feel unattractive or worry that your partner may no longer feel attracted to you. You might experience discomfort and dryness, even when you're ready for comfort and pleasure. You could also...
It’s not uncommon for women to experience pelvic pain, especially during the first day or two of their period. But not all pelvic pain is the same. 15% of childbearing age women suffer from chronic pelvic pain, which is pain that lasts longer than six months. Your pain may develop...
The natural ebb of the menstrual cycle begins in most women in their late 40s or early 50s. Once you haven’t had a period for 12 consecutive months, you’re in menopause. It’s a normal part of aging, but it can bring frustrating symptoms, such as: Hot flashes Night sweats Decreased...
Birth control is a general term used for a variety of methods that prevent pregnancy. It’s also commonly called contraception. While no single birth control method is right for everyone, there are dozens of options to choose from to meet your specific needs. At McDowell Mountain Gynecology in Scottsdale, Arizona,...
