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Postmenopausal bleeding is any vaginal bleeding that occurs after a patient has entered menopause, which is the point in time 12 months after a woman's last period. Because one of the primary signs of endometrial cancer is postmenopausal bleeding, it is important that this symptom be evaluated. It is

A spinal headache is one that occurs after accidental puncture of the dura (tough membrane enveloping the brain and spinal cord) with an epidural needle. This can occur after placement of an epidural or spinal for anesthesia. The headache symptom is believed to be caused by leakage of cerebrospinal fluid

Preeclampsia is a serious condition diagnosed after 20 weeks gestation in patients with new onset of high blood pressure, evidence of protein in the urine, signs and symptoms, and possibly abnormal laboratory findings. It is further classified as either preeclampsia without severe features (also known

When the membranes rupture and there is leakage of amniotic fluid before the start of contractions, this is called premature rupture of membranes (PROM). When this occurs at term, the vast majority of women will deliver within 24 hours of membrane rupture. When this occurs in a preterm pregnancy, depending

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is also known as premenstrual dysphoria and is thought to occur in 3-5% of reproductive-age women. It is characterized by cognitive, mood, and physical disturbances. Cognitive symptoms include poor concentration or confusion. Mood disturbances include irritability, mood swings,

Preterm labor occurs when a patient begins labor before 37 weeks gestation. Preterm labor does not always lead to preterm birth. If it does lead to preterm birth, prematurity can increase the newborn's risk for many complications such as respiratory problems, cerebral palsy, and others. Any signs or

Pyelonephritis is an infection in the upper urinary tract (kidneys) and occurs in 1% of pregnant women. A patient with pyelonephritis in pregnancy may present with symptoms of burning with urination, urinary frequency, back pain, nausea, vomiting, fever, chills or uterine contractions. Pyelonephritis

A rectovaginal fistula is an abnormal communication that develops between the rectum and the vagina. This is a serious problem and can present with symptoms of abnormal vaginal discharge since fecal material or gas can leak from the rectum into the vagina through the abnormal connection. Rectovaginal

CIN III is severe dysplasia of the squamous cells of the cervix. Another name for CIN III is carcinoma in situ or CIS and is a precursor to invasive cancer. It is caused by HPV infection and is considered a high grade lesion that requires treatment. Disclaimer: The information on this website is

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are common with the CDC estimating that there are 20 million new infections per year. Because many infections are asymptomatic in the initial stages, screening is an important step in diagnosing and treating STIs. Nearly half of all new STI infections occur among

A spontaneous abortion, or miscarriage, is defined as loss of a fetus weighing less than 500 grams or less than 20 weeks gestational age. Spontaneous abortions affect 10 to 20 % of pregnancies and the vast majority occur in the first trimester. Patients often present with vaginal bleeding and abdominal

Stress urinary incontinence is a condition characterized by involuntary leakage of urine upon physical exertion, coughing, exercising, or sneezing. It is the most common type of urinary incontinence in women. Disclaimer: The information on this website is provided for educational and information

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by a bacteria and is spread by having direct contact with a syphilis sore through unprotected intercourse or by blood products. In addition, it can be spread from mother to baby during pregnancy, labor or nursing. Disclaimer: The information on this

When a pregnant patient experiences vaginal bleeding before 20 weeks gestational age without cervical dilation, this is called a threatened abortion. Many women who experience a threatened abortion go on to deliver a healthy baby. However, the patient is at higher risk for a pregnancy loss. Disclaimer:

Trichomonas is a sexually transmitted infection caused by a parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. Symptoms include yellow-green vaginal discharge with odor, vulvar itching, burning with urination, pain with intercourse, lower abdominal cramping, and spotting after intercourse. However, up to 85% of