We strive to create individualized treatment plans for each of our patients as each person has a unique history and unique needs. Some of our services include:
Birth Control
For women who are sexually active but do not wish to become pregnant, there are several birth control options, or contraceptives, available that are safe and effective. We will work with you to find a form of birth control that is right for you and your lifestyle.
As mentioned above there are various kinds of birth control:
- Barrier
These methods of birth control include male and female condoms as well as diaphragms, or cups, that work to prevent sperm from entering the uterus. - Hormonal
Hormonal birth controls may come in the form of pills, patches, shots, or implants. These methods alter your hormone production to either prevent your body from releasing eggs or to thicken cervical mucus so that fertilization does not occur. - Procedural
These birth control methods involve undergoing minor procedures to prevent pregnancy. An IUD, or intrauterine contraception device, is a device placed within the uterus and works to decrease ovulation, thicken cervical mucus, or block sperm from entering the uterus.
Another form of procedural birth control is tubal ligation. This form is permanent as the Fallopian tubes are cut, clamped, or burned off. This prevents eggs from traveling to the uterus or sperm from reaching the eggs.
Effectiveness
Abstinence, or refraining from sexual intercourse, is the only means of birth control that is proven to prevent pregnancy 100%. However, many of the birth control options listed above have excellent rates with less than 1% of women becoming pregnant when using birth control correctly.
Risks and Benefits
Every contraceptive has its own risk and benefits. It is important that you make this decision together with your doctor so that you are aware of all your options and choose the one that is right for you.
Endometriosis
1 in every 10 women of child-bearing age has endometriosis, which is the overgrowth of uterine lining beyond the uterus. Our practice offers treatment options for those who struggle with this condition.
What is Endometriosis?
It is a common gynecological condition, in which the tissue that lines your uterus, known as the endometrium, grows outside of your uterine cavity. It can grow on other parts of the reproductive system such as the ovaries or spread to the bowels and tissues lining your pelvis. It is unusual for the tissue to spread beyond the pelvic region, but it is not impossible. Endometrial tissue outside of the uterus is known as an endometrial implant.
Symptoms
Symptoms of endometriosis vary. Some women may experience mild symptoms while others may have more moderate to severe experiences. The severity of your pain does not indicate the degree or stage of your condition. Some women with severe cases only experience minimal symptoms.
The most common symptom of endometriosis is pelvic pain, but you may also experience:
- Painful periods
- Pain in the lower abdomen before and during menstruation
- Cramps one or two weeks around menstruation
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Bleeding between periods
- Pain following intercourse
- Infertility
- Discomfort with bowel movements
- Lower back pain at any time during your menstrual cycle
You may also experience no symptoms, which is why it is important to attend routine gynecological exams. This will allow your doctor to note any changes. If suspected, your doctor may recommend laparoscopy as it is the only certain method of identifying endometriosis by viewing it directly. A tissue sample will be sent and analyzed by the lab to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
There is no cure, so treatment focuses on the management of symptoms and improving your quality of life. Everyone reacts differently, so we will work with you to design the right treatment plan for your condition.
Pain medication can be used to help manage some symptoms of pain and inflammation. Hormonal therapies can also relieve pain and stop the progression of endometriosis in some cases. By blocking the natural production of estrogen, endometriosis can be slowed but may also bring on early symptoms of menopause.
Laparoscopy, a minimally invasive surgery, may also be used to remove endometrial tissue from various sites. In severe cases and if your condition does not respond to other forms of treatment, your doctor may suggest undergoing a hysterectomy. A hysterectomy removes the uterus, cervix, and ovaries as well as any visible implant lesions. Undergoing this surgery means you will be unable to become pregnant.
Fibroids
Fibroids are noncancerous growths that develop either in or on your uterus. These growths can cause pain, heavy periods, and difficulty becoming pregnant. If you know or suspect you may have fibroids, we will help you achieve relief with the latest treatment options for fibroids.
What are fibroids?
Fibroids are abnormal growths that develop in or on a woman’s uterus. These are typically benign or noncancerous tumors. However, they can become quite large and cause severe pain in addition to other symptoms that may affect your quality of life.
- Intramural
This is the most common type of fibroid and appears within the muscular wall of the uterus. These growths may become large and stretch your womb. - Subserosal
Subserosal fibroids form on the outside of the uterus which is called the serosa. These growths can become large and make your womb appear bigger on one side. - Pedunculated
This type of tumor grows from a subserosal fibroid that develops a slender base or stem to support the tumor. - Submucosal
These fibroids develop in the middle muscle layer of the uterus and are the least common type.
Symptoms
Symptoms will depend on the number of tumors present as well as their size and location. Often smaller fibroids do not cause symptoms, but common signs and symptoms of fibroids include:
- Heavy bleeding between and during your period
- Pain in the pelvis or lower back
- Increased menstrual cramping
- Increased urge to urinate
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Menstruation that lasts longer than a week
- Pressure or fullness felt in the lower abdomen
- Difficulty becoming pregnant
Your doctor can diagnose fibroids by feeling for any signs of abnormal growths in your uterus during a routine exam. An ultrasound or MRI can help to confirm the diagnosis and show the size and location of the fibroids.
Treatment
If the fibroids are small, do not cause health concerns, or do not affect your quality of life, treatment may not be necessary. Medications, lifestyle changes, and home remedies can help to relieve some discomfort. Other recommendations include:
- Yoga
- Massage
- Dietary Changes
- Regular exercise
- Stress management
Birth control may also help to control any excessive bleeding during your periods. In severe cases, surgery may be recommended to remove fibroids from your uterus.
Infertility
Struggling with infertility can be a frustrating, heartbreaking experience for many couples. Nearly 10%-15% of couples are affected by infertility.
Here at Empowered Women's Health we have compassion for those families, and we are proud to provide evaluations and treatments for common causes of infertility. Whether you are suffering from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or another cause for infertility, we are here to help find the right solution for you.
Pap Smear
A Pap Smear is a test that is usually performed yearly after a woman turns 21 or becomes sexually active. The test is a simple, quick collection of cells. While a Pap Smear is not a diagnostic test for cervical cancer, it can detect any abnormalities which can then lead to further testing.
What to expect during a Pap Smear
At the start of the exam, you will be asked to remove your clothing from the waist down. You will be given a medical gown and a half sheet to cover your lap. At the medical center office, there is an examination chair with stirrups at the end for your feet. You will position yourself in the chair, with your feet in the stirrups, so that you can be examined. An instrument, called a speculum, is lubricated and inserted into the vagina. This tool allows the doctor to have a clear path to the cervix. It is important to remember to relax and breath. This will relax the muscles of the vagina and allow for an easier examination by the medical professional.
After the speculum is inserted, a tiny, thin bristle brush is used to collect some tissue from the back of the cervix. Most women do not feel anything besides a light sensation when this is performed while some experience a feeling similar to menstrual cramps. From here, the medical professional places the sample in a small tube to be sent off to a laboratory for testing. The speculum is removed and the Pap Smear is over. A Pap Smear procedure only takes a few minutes to complete. After the Pap Smear is completed you can get dressed and conclude your medical examination.
Pregnancy
Regardless of where you are in your pregnancy or your journey to conceive, our team here at Empowered Women's Health is here to provide the support and care you need each step of the way.
From preconception counseling and prenatal care to pregnancy management and preparation for childbirth, we offer expert advice and medical care to our patients. In fact, we are proud to be the champions of vaginal birth after Cesarean (VBAC) in Huntersville, NC !
Women’s Health
At Empowered Women's Health, we provide comprehensive women’s health services while making you feel at ease and comfortable with your body and any health concerns you may have.
What is women’s health?
Women’s health treats conditions that mainly affect women. These conditions could be related to the female sex hormones, female reproductive organs, and conditions that primarily affect women.
- Endometriosis
- Uterine fibroids
- Ovarian cysts
- Pelvic pain
- Vaginal atrophy
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Pelvic organ prolapses (POP)
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PIDS)
- Menstrual symptom management
- Menopause symptom management
What is a well-woman exam?
A well-woman exam is an annual examination that ensures you are healthy with a particular focus on your sexual and reproductive health. It is also an opportunity to discuss any concerns or questions you have such as contraceptives, testing for STDs and STIs, or symptoms that may indicate a hormonal imbalance or a greater women’s health condition.
During your well-woman exam, we may also do preventive screenings for cervical cancer, endometrial cancer, breast cancer, and colorectal cancer to ensure optimal health and wellbeing. We will check for any underlying causes of your symptoms or concerns and prescribe effective treatment options that fit your lifestyle and needs.
STD Screenings
A sexually transmitted disease, or STD, is an infection passed from one person to another through sexual contact. These diseases can become serious and require immediate medical treatment to prevent further spread of infection. Symptoms will vary depending on the disease contracted but may include bumps or sores, rashes, or pain felt during urination or intercourse.
At Empowered Women's Health we offer STD screenings, diagnosis, and treatment recommendations as well as education on various prevention methods. Testing may involve urine or blood samples, genital exams, or physical exams. For more information on our STD services or to schedule an appointment, please contact us today at (704) 885-5655.
Annual Well-Woman Exam
The providers at Empowered Women's Health offer annual well-woman exams to their patients as a preventive health care measure. Empowered Women's Health is an OB-GYN practice located in Huntersville, NC that serves residents from many North Carolina communities.
What is Included in an Annual Well-Woman Exam?
Annual wellness exams at Empowered Women's Health go far beyond pap testing to include genetic screening for hereditary cancer and other health conditions. Along with comprehensive cancer screening and laboratory testing, dietary concerns and lifestyle recommendations are offered to help improve overall health and increase longevity for each woman. Well-woman exams are designed to uncover problems that range far outside of the reproductive system. This type of exam evaluates a woman’s overall, general health, giving the doctor a complete picture. Receiving an annual exam helps women to create and maintain positive health habits on a long- term basis.
Why are Annual Exams Important?
Annual OB-GYN exams are extremely important for several reasons. First and foremost, they help maintain good reproductive health. Secondly, they can uncover potential problems within the reproductive system while they are in the earliest stages. Early detection provides doctors with the most treatment options and can help women correct poor lifestyle and dietary habits before they can cause major health issues. During an annual exam, the provider will perform a variety of tests to uncover potential health problems, answer any questions the patient may have and offer recommendations to improve diet and lifestyle habits.
What can an Annual Well-Woman Exam Uncover?
An annual well-woman exam can uncover many different potential health problems. Pap smears can indicate the beginnings of cervical cancer or other sexually transmitted diseases. Blood work and other laboratory tests can indicate diabetes, hormone imbalances, and bacterial and viral STDs. By detecting fibroids, endometriosis, cervical dysplasia and other health conditions, the doctor can create an effective treatment program to prevent many of these conditions from getting any worse. Providers also can answer questions and provide sound advice on taking better care of the body and providing proper nutritional support.
Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery
The providers at Empowered Women's Health offer state of the art surgical techniques for procedures like hysterectomies and other minimally invasive surgeries. The practice serves residents throughout North Carolina, including those who live in Mooresville, Lake Norman, Davidson and Huntersville.
What Does a Hysterectomy Entail?
A hysterectomy is a surgery performed to remove a woman’s uterus. A woman who has had a hysterectomy can no longer become pregnant. In addition to the uterus, a hysterectomy, may also include removal of the fallopian tubes and ovaries. Your doctor will discuss which option is best for you. Tubes are often removed to reduce the risk of ovarian cancer (which has been shown to often actually be fallopian tube cancer deposited on the ovary rather than true ovarian cancer. This discovery has led to the new term “tubo-ovarian cancer”). Without risk factors for ovarian cancer, most often the ovaries are left in place even for postmenopausal women. Research shows that removal of ovaries can actually increase a woman’s risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
Can Hysterectomies be Performed Laparoscopically?
With today’s technology and advancements in surgical techniques, most hysterectomies can be performed either laparoscopically or vaginally. This reduces the amount of time it takes to perform the procedure, as well as, reduces the amount of time it takes to heal. In addition, the tiny incisions used make for excellent cosmetic results, as well. Even though a hysterectomy is a serious procedure, healing time is still considerably less – generally just two weeks – when it is performed laparoscopically.
When is a Hysterectomy Recommended?
Hysterectomies are often recommended when a woman begins to have reproductive health issues that can no longer be controlled by other methods. Endometriosis, chronic fibroid tumors, excessively heavy periods and severe abdominal cramping are issues that can continue to worsen over time. If a woman is no longer interested in becoming pregnant, the doctor may recommend surgical intervention. Performing a hysterectomy may alleviate the majority, if not all, of her symptoms. A woman who has a family history of ovarian or uterine cancers may also be asked to consider a hysterectomy to reduce her cancer risks.
Menopause
At Empowered Women's Health, we are proud to help our patients who are going through menopause.
Most women experience menopause naturally after the age of 45, though symptoms can begin earlier. During this time, women typically stop having a monthly period as the ovaries stop producing progesterone and estrogen.
Common symptoms women experience during menopause include hot flashes, vaginal dryness, difficulty sleeping, mood swings, hair loss on the head and growth on the face, and difficulty focusing.
We know that these changes to the body can be difficult to navigate, and we are here for our patients who are learning to cope with menopausal symptoms. We take patient health and wellbeing very seriously, and we will carefully consider your medical and family history before recommending treatment for your symptoms. Be sure to let your doctor know if you are at an increased risk for osteoporosis, breast cancer, or heart disease, as these are important considerations when creating a treatment plan.
If you are experiencing symptoms associated with menopause, contact us today at (704) 885-5655. We would love to help you!
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Ultrasound
Routine gynecologic (GYN) and obstetric (OB) ultrasounds provide essential imaging for women’s health. GYN ultrasounds assess the uterus, ovaries, and reproductive organs, detecting conditions like fibroids, cysts, or abnormalities. OB ultrasounds monitor fetal growth, development, and overall pregnancy health. These non-invasive, safe, and painless scans offer critical insights for early diagnosis and prenatal care.
Schedule your GYN or OB ultrasound today for proactive reproductive health and peace of mind!
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