When Is My Vaginal Discharge a Cause for Concern?
Vaginal discharge warrants medical attention if you notice one or several of the following signs:
- It has a thick, clumpy consistency akin to cottage cheese. It may also appear frothy.
- The colour is greenish or yellowish instead of the usual clear or white.
- Your vaginal area is itching or irritated due to the discharge.
- The discharge emits a fishy odour.
- You may also experience some pain in your pelvic area.
It would be best to check with your gynae clinic regarding your discharge so they can determine the root cause.
What Are The Likely Reasons Behind My Abnormal Vaginal Discharge?
The possible causes are quite diverse. It could range from yeast infections to sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhoea. You may also have pelvic inflammatory disease instead.
There’s also the possibility that you are allergic to the soap or feminine hygiene products you use on your intimate parts, or have a skin infection in your vulva that isn't necessarily sexually transmitted.
Whatever the case, it would be difficult to try to diagnose the actual cause of the discharge without medical testing.
Visit Your Gynae Clinic Instead
It’s highly advisable to get checked at your gynae clinic instead of trying to diagnose the problem yourself. A self-diagnosis can lead to dangerous consequences, such as using the wrong treatments or overdosing on medications. It also makes you less likely to seek professional medical attention unless your issue worsens and becomes harder to treat.
Take Your Symptoms Seriously
Abnormal vaginal discharge may seem like a minor inconvenience. However, it’s often a sign of a deeper problem with your intimate health. So don’t ignore your symptoms before it’s too late. Instead, pay a visit to your gynaecologist as soon as you can. The earlier you can get diagnosed properly, the more effective the treatment will be.
Let’s always take our well-being seriously and keep watch of any warning signs our bodies show us. It can make all the difference in our future.
Why Should You Visit Your Gynae Regularly?
When it comes to staying healthy as a woman, visiting a gynae or another healthcare centre should always be part of our to-do list. These medical experts provide specialised care for our reproductive system when our family doctors cannot.
Are you still unsure about the need for regular check-ups with a gynae? Let us give you several reasons to do so.
6 Reasons to Visit a Gynaecologist Often
Menstrual Problems
If you experience severe menstrual cramps, irregular cycles, or heavy bleeding, do not hesitate to consult your gynae about it. There are many possible conditions behind these problems, ranging from endometriosis to PCOS. The gynae can help diagnose the root cause and make an appropriate treatment and management plan for it.
You Have An STI
Sexually active women would do well to get checked regularly for sexually transmitted infections such as herpes and syphilis. A gynae and other clinics can offer testing and treatments, as well as tips on preventing recurring infections.
Family Planning, Fertility Problems, and Pregnancies
Do you have dreams of starting a family with your partner? A gynaecologist may help you and your partner plan and prepare for a healthy pregnancy. These include when and how you want to have the baby. They can also help deal with fertility problems if you have trouble conceiving.
And if you do not want to get pregnant, the gynae can also advise you on your contraceptive options. You can also visit them whenever you need a prescription for birth control pills, which you cannot buy over the counter in Singapore’s pharmacies.
Sexual Dysfunction
Women suffer from sexual dysfunction disorders as men do. For instance, we can have low sex drives and feel dry or in pain during intercourse. Part of a gynae’s job is to help uncover the reason and treat it if they can. They may also direct you to another specialist, such as a counsellor if the disorder has psychological causes.
You Are At Risk of Cancer
Regular visits to the gynae can also help in detecting gynaecological or breast cancer early–or better yet, reduce your risk of developing cancer at all. They can assess risk factors such as your weight and family history and recommend a personalised screening schedule if necessary.
Incontinence Issues
If you have trouble controlling your bladder, your gynae may be able to help deal with it by recommending exercises and medications. Urinary incontinence, particularly stress incontinence, is a common complication during pregnancies or postpartum due to weakened pelvic floor muscles.
Tips for Choosing the Right Gynaecologist for You
Do you not have a gynae yet? Here are a few questions to ask yourself to help you choose:
Are You Comfortable With Them?
Even if the gynae has been recommended by friends and family, are you comfortable in their presence? Keep in mind that you may have to share sensitive personal health issues with them. Feeling at ease around the doctor would make it easier to discuss your concerns more openly.
What Subspecialty Are You Looking For?
Gynaecologists have different areas of expertise, so you ought to consider what health concerns need to be taken care of. Some may specialise in cancer, while others are more knowledgeable in fertility issues.
Where is the Gynae Clinic Located?
Do consider where you live and how convenient it would be for you to visit the clinic. For example, if you live near Mount Elizabeth, a gynae running a clinic there would be more convenient to travel to. But if you live far from a Mount Elizabeth hospital, try a healthcare facility closer to your home.
Gynae Check-ups are Essential to Our Health
Whether you’re dealing with a specific gynaecological problem or want to reduce your risk of developing it, routine visits to your gynae can help you stay in good condition for years to come. Take the time to choose a doctor you trust to have more peace of mind when consulting them.
So take charge of your health today – visit your gynae!
How To Treat PCOS By Helping Your Hormones Naturally
PCOS, or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, is something we hear more often nowadays. It is a disorder that plagues around 1 out of 10 women worldwide, causing cysts to form in their ovaries and produce an abnormal amount of male sex hormones or androgens. As a result, women with PCOS suffer symptoms ranging from irregular periods and unnatural hair growth to weight gain and difficulties conceiving.
It should be no surprise that many fellow Singaporean women suffer from this condition due to our increasingly unhealthy lifestyles. But it is not too late for us to change for the better. You can still get help from your gynae at Mount Elizabeth to treat the problem. Besides prescribing medications, they can also guide you in taking a more holistic approach to treating this problem.
What Makes PCOS Symptoms Worsen?
While no one truly knows what exactly causes PCOS, several risk factors increase your chances of developing this condition and experiencing more severe symptoms. These include:
Insulin Resistance
Women suffering from PCOS are often found to have high insulin resistance, which keeps them from breaking sugars down effectively. As our resistance increases, so can our androgen levels.
Excessive Weight Gain or Obesity
Although many women with PCOS have a healthy BMI, those who are overweight are more likely to have higher insulin resistance, making them more likely to get the health problem.
Genetics Plays a Part Too
We may also simply be genetically predisposed to having hormonal imbalances and have PCOS. If your mother or sister suffers from PCOS, there is a good chance of you developing it as well. It would be best to speak head to your Singapore women's clinic at Mount Gynae so your gynae can discuss ways to reduce your risk.
How You Can Improve Your Symptoms Besides Medications
Depending on how severe your issue is, your gynaecologist will likely prescribe medications to help bring your androgen levels down and lower your insulin resistance.
But in other cases, PCOS symptoms can be treated by making some significant lifestyle changes, namely:
Improving Your Diet
What we eat daily plays a large role in managing PCOS. If your weight and insulin resistance are the problems, you should avoid sugary or starchy foods and empty carbs. These would only cause your blood sugar levels to spike.
Instead, focus on reducing your calorie intake so you can lose weight while consuming more food with better nutritional value. These include lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
Take care when eating foods from the latter groups, as some are starchy. These include apples, grapes, pineapples, potatoes, and peas. You can still eat them, but do be more mindful of your portions.
Exercising Regularly
Physical activity is our second key to weight loss, as moving about helps our bodies burn calories faster. Exercising can also improve our mood, which is also often impacted by PCOS.
For more favourable results, your workout routine should mix aerobic exercises and strength training. The former boosts blood flow and helps you lose body fat, while the latter supports muscle growth and improves your insulin sensitivity.
What About Hair Growth?
Hirsutism or excessive hair growth is a distressing symptom to have. While dealing with it is not going to cure PCOS, it can still boost your mood as it improves your appearance.
Natural hair removal treatments such as waxing, plucking, and shaving regularly can help keep hair growth at bay. You could also apply depilatory cream to remove unwanted hair.
Work With Your Gynae to Bring A More Positive Outcome
Exercise and a healthier diet are the two main ways you can manage your PCOS symptoms naturally. But it is important that you stay committed to doing them both if you want to see more sustainable improvements.
You do not need to face PCOS alone. Do approach your gynae at Mount Elizabeth if you struggle with your condition. They can develop or adjust your treatment plan and see what is effective for you.
Exercising While Pregnant: How Active Can You Be?
A pregnancy can be a physically and mentally draining experience for any mother. However, it is still important to stay active and exercise when you are pregnant. It offers numerous benefits beyond having less stressful checkups at your gynaecology clinic here in Singapore.
But what kinds of exercises can you do during your pregnancy? Let us break down the different workouts you can add to your routine.
How Does Exercising Benefit Pregnant Women?
First, we must understand why being active is good for expectant mothers:
Have you informed your Singapore gynaecology clinic that you want a vaginal birth? Exercising will help develop the stamina needed to deliver the child without complications.
Regular exercise helps relieve the stress and anxiety that pregnancy-induced hormonal imbalances cause. It also minimises your mood swings.
Strengthening your body makes you less likely to suffer from back pain.
Exercise is also good for managing your weight during and after the pregnancy.
What Exercises Can You Do While Pregnant?
The gynaecology clinic in Singapore will advise you on what exercises are most suitable for you based on what trimester you are in. Generally speaking, it is best to do low-impact exercises such as:
- Swimming
- Walking
- Tai Chi
- Yoga
- Pilates
Exercises to Avoid While Pregnant
You will want to avoid doing physical activities that can directly harm you or your child. Sports that make you prone to falling, bouncing, or physical contact are best avoided. These include:
- Football
- Several types of martial arts
- Volleyball
- Gymnastics
- Badminton or Tennis
- Cycling (unless on a stationary bike)
How Active Should You Be Per Trimester?
First Trimester
During the first trimester, it is usually alright to continue exercising as you normally would have before your pregnancy. Your gynaecologist will also recommend starting your pelvic floor exercises. These strengthen your pelvic muscles to improve your posture, reduce your risk of urinary incontinence, and ease the labour process.
Second Trimester
At this stage, consider switching to low-impact workouts if you have not done so yet. However, you can still consult your doctor if you feel confident doing exercises such as running. You should continue with your pelvic muscle exercises to further strengthen them.
Third Trimester
As your due date approaches, you should be gentler on your body and reduce the intensity of your workouts as advised by the gynae. It is alright to stop exercising altogether if you no longer feel comfortable.
How to Stay Safe While Exercising
If you are new to exercising, start slowly so you do not overexert yourself.
Remember that the aim of exercising during your pregnancy is to stay fit. You are not working on losing weight, so do not worry yourself too much if you gain a few kilos.
Do your exercises in an air-conditioned or well-ventilated room to avoid overheating. High temperatures can lead to complications for your baby. If you exercise outdoors, do so only when it is not too hot.
You should also drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and keep your body cool.
Know your limits. A pregnant body is a delicate one, so stop exercising if you experience problems such as:
- You feel dizzy and short of breath
- You have sudden difficulties walking
- You are overheating
Exercise Moderately: You and Your Child's Safety Come First
Before you start exercising, be sure to visit your gynaecology clinic here in Singapore and consult your doctor. They will determine the exercises that will benefit you most based on your overall health.
Physical fitness can certainly help make deliveries easier and improve your recovery after the pregnancy. However, your health and your child's is always the top priority. Make the most of this milestone in your life, but remember not to overwork yourself.
https://www.tommys.org/pregnancy-information/im-pregnant/being-healthy/exercise
Why Do Irregular Periods Happen?
Missed or late periods happen to many women at some point in their lives. But they can be concerning if they happen too frequently, as they can indicate an underlying health problem. It would be prudent to speak with your gynaecologist in Singapore to get examined.
There are many possible culprits behind your unusual menstrual patterns, so let us discuss the most common ones.
10 Possible Causes of Irregular Periods
You Have Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, or PCOS as we often call it, is a condition although you have cysts in your ovaries. This leads to high amounts of testosterone in your system, which can delay the ovulation process or completely halt it.
PCOS also causes other complications, such as weight gain, acne breakouts, and excess hair growth in areas where males usually have hair. Your gynaecologist in Singapore can prescribe treatments to help alleviate your PCOS symptoms.
You Suffer From Eating Disorders
Eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia often lead to other health problems like malnutrition and extreme weight loss. These can also cause hormonal imbalances that inhibit ovulation. If you suffer from these issues, consider getting professional help to address them properly.
You Have Diabetes
Having diabetes can also disrupt menstrual cycles. When you have high blood sugar levels, your insulin resistance increases too. This affects the hormones regulating your periods to the point where you might stop ovulating.
Your Ovaries Have Stopped Working
Premature Ovarian Failure is a health condition where your ovaries completely stop working before you reach 40 years of age. Some women may still have periods, while others may experience none at all.
Side Effects of Birth Control Pills
Hormonal birth control pills will prevent you from ovulating so you do not get pregnant. It is not unusual to have irregular periods for a few months after you stop taking birth control. Your body can take time to adjust.
But you should see your gynaecologist in Singapore if your periods still do not normalize after at least three months.
Thyroid or Pituitary Complications Could Be To Blame
Thyroid and pituitary diseases cause hormonal imbalances affecting various bodily functions, including ovulation. Menstrual irregularities can happen when these glands are not working properly.
You Exercise Too Much
Athletes and other physically active women often have irregular periods too. Too much exercise can hinder the hormones responsible for your menstrual cycles, so consider toning down your workouts.
Chronic Stress Can Be A Culprit
Stress also causes hormonal imbalances. You may find yourself with irregular periods if you cannot manage your stress well. Try learning stress-relieving methods like meditation and yoga, or take a break from whatever is causing your stress.
You Are Entering Menopause
Are you entering your late 40s or 50s? Infrequent periods can also signal that you are transitioning into the menopausal stage. You may experience irregular cycles until you stop ovulating altogether.
Some Gynaecological Cancers Cause Bleeding Too
Sometimes, your irregular periods may not be periods at all, but symptoms of cervical or endometrial cancer. These can cause vaginal bleeding that can easily be mistaken for periods.
Your Singapore gynaecologist can have you tested to determine whether cancer is behind your unusual periods.
See Your Gynaecologist in Singapore To Be Certain
Irregular periods are often worrisome. The best option for dealing with them is to visit your women's clinic. You stand a better chance of bringing your menstrual cycle back to normal when you get treated early.
Of course, you can also embrace a healthier lifestyle to reduce your risk of period problems! The best gynaecologist in Singapore will give you tips on improving your menstrual health.
6 Things Singaporeans Should Know About Birth Control Pills
Birth control pills are one of the most popular contraceptives used by Singaporeans. It allows women to have sexual intercourse without worrying as much about getting pregnant, even if their partners do not use condoms.
Have you considered taking birth control pills to prevent pregnancies? If so, here are some things your Singapore gynaecologist would want you to know about them.
Things to Know Before Taking Birth Control Pills in Singapore
You Cannot Buy Birth Control Pills Over the Counter
Unlike in other countries like the USA, Singaporeans cannot buy birth control pills in pharmacies. You must get a prescription and buy them from a polyclinic or your gynaecologist here in Singapore.
Are you not keen on seeing a gynae in person? Another option would be to have an online consultation with your doctor to get the prescription and order the birth control pills.
Females Below 16 Are Prohibited from Buying
Do keep in mind that women below 16 years of age are not allowed to buy or use birth control pills. This is because the legal age for consensual sexual intercourse is 16 years old.
It is also illegal for Singapore gynaes to prescribe or sell birth control pills to minors under 16.
Birth Control Pills Are Not Only for Preventing Pregnancies
Your gynaecologist in Singapore can also prescribe birth control pills for other purposes besides contraception. Many sexually inactive Singaporean women also take these pills to control acne breakouts and regulate menstrual periods and their symptoms.
Birth control pills can also reduce your risk of PCOS and ovarian and uterine cancer.
Birth Control Pills Are Not 100% Effective
Birth control pills are actually only 99% effective! There will always be that 1% chance you will get pregnant.
But it is also important to take the pill daily according to the brand's instructions. The more times you forget the pill, the higher your chances of pregnancy. In fact, you are no longer safe from pregnancy if you miss three or more pills. You would have to consult your gynae on what to do next.
Birth Control Pills Do Not Prevent STIs
You should always keep in mind that birth control pills do not protect you against sexually transmitted infections. Be sure to get vaccinated for HPV and use condoms if you want to have sexual intercourse safely.
Who Should and Shouldn't Take Birth Control Pills?
Any sexually active Singaporean woman can take birth control pills if she has no plans of getting pregnant. The pills do not make you infertile, so you can stop taking them at any time if you want to start a family.
This contraceptive might not be suitable for you if you are under medication or have underlying conditions. Birth control pills contain hormones which could cause harmful side effects if they clash with your medicine or aggravate your illness.
A Singapore gynaecologist can help assess you to see if you are fit to take the pill.
Always Consult Your Singapore Gynae First
Birth control pills are generally safe to use. Of course, you should always speak first with your gynaecologist here in Singapore if you are interested in taking the pill. It is the legitimate way to procure pills, and the doctor can also help you try different brands to see which one works best for you.
Conclusion
Birth control pills are great for preventing unwanted pregnancies. But Singaporean women should also take the above factors into consideration before buying.
Make sure to seek out the best gynaecologist in Singapore who can cater to your health concerns so you can have a safe and effective experience with your birth control pills.
Genital Warts: What Are They and How Do You Treat Them?
Genital warts are sexually transmitted infections affecting both males and females. They generally show up as fleshy growths around your genitals and nearby areas.
The infection is not dangerous and usually goes away on its own when your immune system fights back. But its unsightly appearance can be uncomfortable for many, especially those who are sexually active. If your genital warts bother you greatly, head to your women's clinic here in Singapore for treatments.
What Causes Genital Warts?
Many strains of the human papillomavirus, or HPV, cause genital warts. As a sexually transmitted infection (STI), you contract HPV when you have sexual intercourse with infected individuals.
Genital warts typically take weeks or even months to appear afterwards. But in some cases, they do not show up at all. It makes identifying the infected individual difficult if you have had intercourse with other people. Be sure to inform your partner or partners if you find genital warts so they can get screened for HPV.
What Do Genital Warts Look Like?
Genital warts look like small lumps that can be on their own or in clusters that resemble cauliflowers. But some can appear flatter. The warts often start as soft growths but become rough later on.
Genital warts come in colours ranging from skin-coloured or brownish to pink or whitish.
Some mistake genital warts for herpes since they are both STIs. However, herpes results in open sores and blisters, not tiny fleshy growths.
When to Visit Your Sexual Health Clinic
Anyone is free to visit a recommended women's clinic in Singapore if they develop genital warts. They can also get checked, even if they do not have visible warts, if their partner has HPV.
The warts usually are not painful to have. But if you experience other side effects besides the lumps, contact the clinic immediately. These point to complications beyond the little lumps on your skin.
Some symptoms to watch out for include:
- Itching and irritated skin around the genitals
- Bleeding from the genitals
- Changes in your urine flow or painful urination
- Unusual-looking discharge
- Pain during sexual intercourse
What Are the Available Treatments for Genital Warts in Singapore?
Women's clinics in Singapore treat female genital warts through various methods, such as:
- Freezing the warts using liquid nitrogen
- Prescribing wart creams or applying podophyllum resin
- Removing the warts through surgery, laser treatments, or cauterisation
The health professionals will evaluate the warts and your overall condition before recommending a suitable treatment for you.
Safe Practices to Avoid Developing Genital Warts
The best protection you have against genital warts is getting the HPV vaccine. It is likely available at your Singapore women's clinic and other health centres nationwide. Do consult your doctor first to get cleared for the vaccination.
Practising safe sex with condoms or dental dams also helps. Keep in mind that these do not fully protect your skin but only minimise your risk of catching genital warts.
Sexually active people can also protect themselves by staying with only one partner or limiting themselves to those who do not have HPV. But they should also make it a habit to undergo regular testing so they can get treated promptly.
If both you and your partner have genital warts, do not hesitate to ask your sexual health physician for guidance on the matter. For the meantime, avoid having sexual intercourse so long as you remain infected.
Conclusion
Genital warts are indeed a bothersome sight down below. But they, fortunately, are relatively harmless, and treatments are readily available at your women's clinic here in Singapore.
If the warts are a recurring problem for you, consider practising safe sex and having you and your partner tested regularly for STIs.
https://www.healthhub.sg/a-z/medications/human-papillomavirus-hpv-vaccine
https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/genital-warts
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4209-genital-warts
https://www.thesexualhealthhub.co.uk/stis/types-of-stis/genital-warts/
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/genital-warts/
