Obstetrics & Gynecology

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop within or on the surface of an ovary. These cysts are relatively common and can occur at any age but are most prevalent during a woman’s childbearing years. While many ovarian cysts are harmless and may go away on their own without treatment, some can cause significant pain and complications, such as menstrual irregularities, bloating, and pelvic pain.

Proper diagnosis and treatment by a Gynecology hospital in Chennai are crucial to prevent potential complications such as ovarian torsion or rupture.

Treatments

• Watchful Waiting: This approach involves regular monitoring of ovarian cysts through ultrasound examinations to track any changes in size or appearance. Watchful waiting is typically recommended for functional cysts, which often resolve on their own within a few menstrual cycles. Regular follow-up appointments with a Chennai best gynecologist doctor are essential to ensure that the cysts do not grow or cause any complications.
• Medications: Hormonal birth control pills or other hormonal medications can be prescribed to help regulate menstrual cycles and prevent the formation of new cysts. These medications do not shrink existing cysts but can help in managing symptoms and reducing the likelihood of new cysts developing. Hormonal therapy is particularly useful for women who experience recurrent ovarian cysts.
• Minimally Invasive Surgery: Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to remove ovarian cysts. During this procedure, a surgeon makes small incisions in the abdomen and inserts a laparoscope (a thin tube with a camera) to view the cysts and remove them. Laparoscopy is preferred for its quicker recovery time and reduced risk of complications compared to traditional open surgery. This treatment is often recommended when cysts are large, persistent, or symptomatic.
• Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate mild to moderate pain associated with ovarian cysts. In cases of severe pain, prescription medications may be necessary. It is important to consult a healthcare provider in the best gynecology hospital in Chennai, before taking any medication to ensure it is appropriate for your specific condition.
• Lifestyle Adjustments: Adopting a healthy lifestyle can play a significant role in managing symptoms of ovarian cysts. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help regulate hormone levels and reduce the risk of cyst formation. Regular exercise, such as walking, swimming, or yoga, can improve overall health and alleviate stress, which may contribute to the development of cysts. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight can help manage symptoms and reduce the likelihood of complications.

Symptoms of an Ovarian Cyst:

• Abdominal or pelvic pain, especially during menstruation or sexual activity
• Bloating or swelling in the abdomen
• Painful urination or difficulty emptying the bladder
• Changes in menstrual cycle, such as irregular periods
• Nausea or vomiting, particularly if the cyst twists or ruptures
• Pain in the lower back or thighs
• Breasts tenderness or discomfort
• Unexplained weight gain

Cervical dysplasia involves abnormal cell growth on the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina. This condition is typically caused by certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. If untreated, cervical dysplasia can progress to cervical cancer over time.

Treatments

• Observation: For minor dysplasia, known as low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (LSIL), regular monitoring is often recommended. This involves periodic Pap smears and HPV tests to ensure the condition does not worsen.
• Medications: Topical treatments, such as imiquimod or 5-fluorouracil, can be applied directly to the cervix to help remove abnormal cells. These medications stimulate the immune system to fight the abnormal cell growth.
• Cryotherapy: This procedure involves freezing the abnormal cells with liquid nitrogen. The extreme cold destroys the abnormal tissue, allowing healthy cells to replace it. Cryotherapy is typically used for treating low to moderate dysplasia.
• Laser Therapy: A high-energy beam of light is used to precisely remove abnormal tissue from the cervix. This method is effective for moderate to severe dysplasia and can be performed by the best lady gynaecologist in a doctor’s office or outpatient setting.
• Surgical Procedures: For severe dysplasia, also known as high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL), surgical interventions may be necessary. Two common procedures are:
  • LEEP (Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure): This technique uses a thin wire loop heated by electric current to remove abnormal cells from the cervix. LEEP is often performed under local anesthesia and is effective for both diagnosis and treatment.
  • Cone Biopsy (Conization): A cone-shaped piece of tissue is removed from the cervix containing the abnormal cells. This procedure can be done using a surgical knife (cold knife cone biopsy), laser, or LEEP. Cone biopsy is generally reserved for more severe cases or when cancer is suspected and can be expertly handled by the Best Gynecologist Obstetrician in Chennai.

Treatments

Antibiotics: The primary treatment for PID involves a course of antibiotics. The specific antibiotics prescribed depend on the bacteria causing the infection. Often, a combination of antibiotics is used to cover a broad spectrum of potential pathogens. It is vital for patients to complete the entire course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve, to ensure that the infection is fully eradicated.

Hospitalization: In severe cases of PID, hospitalization may be required. This is particularly true if the patient is severely ill, pregnant, or not responding to oral antibiotics. In the hospital, patients may receive intravenous (IV) antibiotics, which can be more effective in severe infections. Hospitalization also allows for close monitoring and supportive care, including fluids and pain management.

Pain Management: Managing pain is an important aspect of treating PID. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help alleviate mild to moderate pain. In more severe cases, stronger prescription pain medications may be necessary. In addition to medication, applying heat (such as a heating pad) to the lower abdomen can provide relief.

Partner Treatment: To prevent reinfection, it is essential that sexual partners of individuals diagnosed with PID are also treated, even if they do not have symptoms. This typically involves a course of antibiotics. Abstaining from sexual intercourse until both partners have completed their treatment and are confirmed to be infection-free is crucial to prevent recurrence.

Follow-up Care: Regular follow-up visits with a healthcare provider are necessary to ensure that the infection has been completely cleared and to monitor for any complications. These check-ups may include pelvic exams, ultrasounds, or other imaging studies. In some cases, additional laboratory tests may be needed to confirm that the infection has resolved.

Treatments

• Surgery: Surgery is often the first line of treatment for gynecologic cancers, involving the removal of cancerous tissues or organs. Depending on the stage and location of the cancer, surgical options may include a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus), oophorectomy (removal of the ovaries), or lymphadenectomy (removal of lymph nodes). The goal is to excise as much of the cancer as possible to prevent its spread.
• Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to target and destroy cancer cells. It can be administered externally, using a machine to direct radiation at the cancer, or internally (brachytherapy), where radioactive materials are placed close to the cancer site. This treatment is often used in conjunction with surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.
• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy involves the use of powerful drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from dividing. It can be given orally or intravenously and is typically used when cancer has spread beyond the reproductive organs. Chemotherapy may be administered before surgery (neoadjuvant) to shrink tumors or after surgery (adjuvant) to eliminate residual cancer cells.
• Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapy uses drugs designed to specifically target cancer cells while sparing normal cells. These drugs work by interfering with specific molecules involved in cancer cell growth and survival. For example, PARP inhibitors are a type of targeted therapy used in ovarian cancer patients with certain genetic mutations, offering a more personalized approach to treatment.
• Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy aims to boost the body’s immune system to recognize and fight cancer cells more effectively. This treatment involves the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors, which help the immune system identify and attack cancer cells. Immunotherapy has shown promise in treating certain gynecologic cancers, especially those that have not responded well to other treatments.