From adolescence through menopause, a woman's body is changing, adjusting to the biological pattern created thousands of years ago. And when it comes to good women's health, knowledge really is power. A woman's health means more than just keeping your yearly PAP appointment.

• Cramps are not always symptom of PMS. Although they often are part of PMS, severe cramps during a menstrual period may be an indicator of dysmenorrhea, a problem requiring special treatment.
• Menopause has many symptoms, including hot flashes, vaginal dryness and painful frequent urination. If you are experiencing any of these problems, please call us immediately. We may be able to help you with hormone therapy or even counseling.
• Breast Cancer is more preventable now than ever before! We provide in-office mammograms and ultrasound for breast examinations.

In the United States, the risk of death from a hip fracture is 12% - 20% and current estimates say that 50% of hip fracture victims never regain full mobility. At Health Care Institute we can pre-screen women for osteoporosis and treat those who are found to be at risk. Risk factors can include:

• Estrogen deficiency and family history
• Lack of weight gain since age 25
• High caffeine intake, smoking and low calcium intake

If you suffer from or think you may be at risk of osteoporosis, we recommend that you schedule an appointment to see how we can help you at Health Care Institute Medical Group.

If you are a woman over the age of 40 and have trouble controlling your bladder, you may be suffering from incontinence. Bladder problems are most common in mothers and older women. At Health Care Institute we can offer a variety of solutions and provide you with the care and sensitivity you need.

• Treatment for STDs
• PAP smears
• Endometriosis
• Cysts
• Infections