How to Self-Advocate at a Doctor Appointment (and a list of resources)
Self-advocating for your health is hard. When a doctor has only fifteen minutes to see you, it is not always a lack of empathy on their part, but rather a structural constraint that forces them to sprint through a checklist. It is far from ideal, but unfortunately, the reality of a broken system. To make sure your concerns are heard and taken seriously, you have to approach your appointment with a strategy. Here are some practical tips to help navigate your next visit to the doctor’s office. (And a list of healthcare resources at the end!)
What is Overactive Bladder (OAB)?
Overactive Bladder, or OAB, is a clinical condition where the bladder muscle contracts involuntarily, even when it isn’t full. It creates a sudden, overwhelming urge to urinate that can be incredibly difficult to ignore. It is estimated that one in three women, or over thirty million adults in the United States live with OAB symptoms, though the real number is likely much higher because so many people assume it’s just a normal part of getting older.
Explaining the Different Types of Hysterectomies
The decision to undergo a hysterectomy is often a major turning point in a woman’s health journey, and it is one that usually comes after a long road of managing symptoms that have affected her daily life. In my practice, I find that much of the confusion surrounding this surgery stems from the terminology itself. So let’s discuss exactly what anatomical part each term refers to, and what is removed in each procedure, so you can understand exactly what is being proposed for your body and why.
What is Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
Do you have a sense of “heaviness” or discomfort or maybe even notice something bulging from the vaginal canal? Pelvic organ prolapse is a common condition where the muscles and tissues supporting your pelvic organs become stretched or weakened. When this happens, organs like the bladder, uterus or the rectum can begin to shift from their natural positions and drop into the vaginal canal. Fortunately, this is easily treatable, so let’s dive into talking about the different types of prolapse, signs and symptoms and ways to treat it!