Ovarian Cancer up Close
Every September, the Ovarian Cancer National Alliance recognizes “30 Days of Teal” to help raise awareness of the often deadly disease during National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.
The symptoms of ovarian cancer – bloating, feeling full quickly, urinary frequency, backaches, fatigue and nausea –can be subtle or easily mistaken for other things, which is why ovarian cancer often goes untreated until the disease has spread to the pelvis and abdomen. While the five-year survival rate is currently less than 50 percent, when ovarian cancer is found early, that figure jumps to 94 percent, according to the National Cancer Institute.
Ask Sofia: What are fibroids?
Affecting nearly one-quarter of women at some point, fibroids are benign growths on the uterus that often appear during or after childbearing years. They can be as small as a pea and as large as a melon. Fortunately, fibroids are not linked to an increased cancer risk and they rarely develop into cancer.
Get to know: Dr. Amy Hammers
Dr. Amy Hammers joined Clinic Sofia last month, coming back home to Minnesota to be with her family after receiving her medical degree at Creighton University and completing her residency at the University of Florida College of Medicine. She looks forward to welcoming new patients and helping women understand more about their bodies and obstetrics: “As a provider, my job goes beyond medical care. I love being an advocate, supporter and educator for women, too. The emotional dynamic of working with women and their unique personalities gives me something to look forward to every day.”
How to Get the Most Out of Your Annual Exam
Whether you dread or look forward to your health report card and check-up, if this is the one time you see your doctor each year, try to make the most of it!
Your Monthly Cycle Explained
Whether you are having issues, are preparing to explain periods to your daughter or simply haven’t had a refresher since junior high, understanding your cycle can help you manage side effects and maybe even appreciate how amazing your body is each month.
Ask Sofia: What Does a Normal/Abnormal Pap Smear Mean?
Pap smears swab the cells in your cervix. Many women have normal results, but what does it mean if yours is abnormal?
