Finding the True Harmony within you

IUD and Pregnancy, FAQs

IUD and Pregnancy

(Some Frequently Asked Questions)

 Can I still get pregnant with an IUD?

 Yes, you can!  No contraceptive method, including the intrauterine device (IUD) is 100% effective.  It IS possible for a woman to become pregnant even though she has an IUD, though the risk is low. 

 What should I do if I find out I’m pregnant and have an IUD in place?

 You should call your doctor, let them know the situation and make an appointment at your earliest convenience.  If you are not experiencing vaginal bleeding or pain, it is not an “emergency”, but it is important that you are seen by your physician as soon as you can reasonably arrange an appointment.

 What are the risks of IUD and pregnancy?

 Risks include ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy occurring outside the uterus), miscarriage, infection and premature delivery.  An ectopic pregnancy that goes undetected can rupture, causing internal bleeding and even death.

 Should the IUD be removed?

 There are conflicting theories regarding removal of IUD with pregnancy.  Removing the IUD can cause miscarriage.  However, there are risks for leaving the IUD in place as well.  These risks include infection, miscarriage, premature delivery and other complications during pregnancy or delivery.  This is a personal decision that you will be better prepared to make after having an in-depth consultation with your doctor. 

Resource article written by MaryAnn Shostek for the Center for True Harmony Wellness and Medicine. Please contact our office if you have any questions so we may be able to assist you with your care: 480-539-6646 or info@trueharmonywellness.com

 

What is the MTHFR gene and should I be tested?

What in the world is the MTHFR gene?
Why should I be tested?

For some years now, fertility specialists have known about a relationship between the MTHFR gene, fetal defects and early miscarriage. Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) is an enzyme that converts folic acid from 5,10-Methylenetetrahydrofolate to 5-Methyltetrahydrofolate, which is the bioactive form of folic acid. This step is then necessary for converting homocysteine to methionine. If certain mutations occur in the MTHFR gene, folic acid production is lacking and homocysteine levels increase in the blood.

So, what does this all mean? Insufficient levels of folic acid may be associated with devastating affects on a developing fetus. Some mutations of the gene have been associated with defects of the brain and spinal cord, including anencephaly and spinabifida. Miscarriage in the first trimester may be a result of defects that are incompatible with life. A single miscarriage, in most cases, is a random event and not necessarily associated with the MTHFR gene. However, if a patient is experiencing recurrent early miscarriage, it is a good idea to evaluate for mutations in the gene.

When certain mutations occur, homocysteine builds up in the blood, and excess levels are excreted in the urine (homocystinuria). Homocystinuria has been linked to a variety of health problems, though the exact reason remains unclear. Some of these conditions include high blood pressure, preeclamsia, stroke, and some forms of cancer. Recently, psychological problems such as depression, bipolar disorder and autism are believed to be linked to MTHFR gene mutations as well, as it may cause decreased levels of certain neurotransmitters.

So, what can be done? In some cases, supplementation with 5-methyltetrahydrofolate may help. In my personal experience, we have observed OB patients with a history of recurrent miscarriage who will have a healthy pregnancy and live birth when started on high doses of folic acid. More research needs to be done to assess the effect on some of these other conditions.

Be sure to talk with your provider if you are having any medical problems you feel may be associated with mutations in the MTHFR gene.

This resource article was written by MaryAnn Shostek for the Center for True Harmony Wellness and Medicine. Please contact us at the 480-539-6646 or info@trueharmonywellness.com so we can assist you with your healthcare.

 

Self Breast Exams and Breast Health every Woman should Know

BREAST HEALTH

(Frequently Asked Questions)

 When should a woman start performing self breast examination (SBE)?

 It is generally recommended that a woman begin examining her breasts after they are fully developed (at puberty).  Consequently, age will vary with individuals.

 Why should I check my breasts?

 Regular examination will help you understand what is normal for your breasts.  When you notice a change, you should contact your physician and let them know.  Only a professional can help determine what is normal and what may require further evaluation.  Don’t be “afraid of finding something”.  The sooner breast cancer is found, the better your chances of recovery.

 Is there a certain time of the month that is better for SBE?

 Breasts may become tender and swollen prior to and during a woman’s period.  Once these symptoms have passed, examination can be done more easily.  Try to do your examination around the same time each month as hormone fluctuations can affect the way your breast tissue feels.

 What am I looking for when I do my exam?

 The breast consists of  a nipple, surrounded by a darker area called the areola.  Underneath the skin covering the rounded part of the breast, there are ducts and  lobules, and underneath that is the pectoralis muscle.  All or any of these parts may be detected on examination.  Breasts vary greatly in size, shape, and texture.  Only regular monthly examination will allow you to become familiar enough with your breasts to know when something “is not right”. 

 Any new lump or existing lump that has grown in size may be suspicious.  If you have “lumpy breasts” to begin with, this may be normal for you.  Compare both breasts to determine if they are similar.  This type of “symmetry” typically is not suspicious.  Discharge from the nipple is not “normal” unless pregnant or breastfeeding.  Also take note of any changes in color or texture as these should also be reported.

 What can I do to improve my breast health?

 Stay active, exercise, and eat a good diet.  Do not sleep wearing a bra or sports bra.  Err on the side of caution.  If you are concerned about your breast health, follow up with your provider.  The following website has a good example of how to conduct a comprehensive self breast exam:  http://women.webmd.com/healthtool-self-breast-exam

 Patients of the Center for True Harmony Wellness and Medicine: Call our office at 480-539-6646 or contact us through info@trueharmonywellness.com and we will be able to assist you. Resource Article written by MaryAnn Shostek PA-C.

Portion Control over the Holidays

Enjoy the Holidays without growing out of your Pants

 When you are at a Holiday party and you are suffering through trying to “be good”, relax a little and enjoy all the goodies that the Holidays have to offer by using your head and your hand to make good food decisions. 

 Use your head: consider these simple party tactics

 Choose the smallest plate available, not the largest

• If you are going to indulge in dessert, then have your dessert AFTER your meal
• It takes your Stomach 20 minutes to let your Brain know that you are full, so once you have eaten throw your plate away and spend the next 20 minutes chatting with friends and fellow party goers before deciding whether or not you are going to have seconds.
• This is the season of giving, so if you see a dish that looks amazingly decadent and you “must try it” then share half of it with a friend.  You get to eat something good and spend time with a friend.

Using you hand: consider these portion sizes as a general guideline for Holiday party eating

 

Full hand: Vegetables

Fist: Whole grains

Fist: Fruit

Palm: Protein

Thumb: Fats (avocado, olive oil, salad dressings)

Fingers: Dessert

 Maintaining a reasonable diet and healthy weight can be a daunting task in our busy world, especially during the Holidays.  So, if you feel that you need a little guidance on what foods to eat to lose or maintain weight and appropriate food portions then contact Dr. Denise Grobe @ 480-539-6646.  Dr Grobe specializes in Diet, Nutrition, and Weight Loss and has been providing guidance and support to her patients for many years. You may also contact her through www.trueharmonywellness.com.