Texoma Living Well Magazine March/April 2018 | Page 45

bone density if it is something that ap- plies to you. (7) Many women battle with depres- sion, and this is something your OB/ GYN can discuss with you as you talk through the severity of your symptoms and how often they occur. The Menstrual Cycle (8) Problems with menstrual periods are another issue you can always dis- cuss with your OB/GYN. Your doctor can educate you about what your first period will be like if you haven’t had one yet, ways to improve heavy or ir- regular periods, and changes to look for during your monthly period that may be abnormal. (9) Your OB/GYN can also provide you with remedies for painful periods. (10) Your physician is also a great resource for discussing premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms. These symptoms vary among women, and you can talk with your doctor about solutions that work best for you. Sexual Relationships (11) The topic of sex can be openly discussed with your OB/GYN. Your physician can explain what happens during intercourse, what may be caus- ing pain during intercourse, and how hormonal changes can affect discom- fort during sexual activity. (12) Your OB/GYN can also discuss the ways to have safe and healthy sex- ual relationships with your significant other. (16) When you are ready to get pregnant, it’s important to discuss with your physician what steps to take to ensure a healthy and safe pregnancy. (17) Your OB/GYN can also con- duct an official medical test to deter- mine if you are pregnant. Menopause (13) Preventing sexually transmitted and Post-Menopause infections (STIs) is very important. You should discuss with your doctor what steps you can take to lower your risk of becoming infected with an STI or with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). (14) Your OB/GYN can also admin- ister a test for STIs and HIV if you are sexually active and would like to be tested. Preventing Pregnancy and Getting Pregnant (15) Seeing an OB/GYN gives you the opportunity to discuss birth con- trol options with your physician. OB/ GYNs can help you determine which is the best method for you and your body, whether it be a pill, a patch, an implant, an intrauterine device (IUD), or another option. (18) An OB/GYN physician can also help you with the challenges you are experiencing during the meno- pausal and perimenopausal stages of your life. Vaginal dryness, hot flashes, and irregular bleeding are all issues that should be discussed with your physician. There are a vari- ety of treatment options available to ease these common problems. As you can see, there are plenty of reasons to make seeing an OB/GYN in 2018 a top priority on your list of resolutions for a healthier 2018. Make sure you get your annual exam scheduled with your OB/GYN. If you do not have one, Dr. Kristen Carmi- chael at the Medical & Surgical Clin- ic of Irving is accepting new patients and is happy to welcome you into her office. Dr. Kristen Carmichael is an OB/GYN with the Medical & Surgical Clinic of Irving. After completing her undergraduate degree at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, TX, she went on to attend medical school at the University of Texas in Houston. She has been in private practice since 2004. She is a member of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the American Medical Association, the Texas Medical Association, and many other organizations. Dr. Carmichael has been awarded the Best OB/GYN in Las Colinas, Coppell, and Irving and has been recognized as a Mom- Approved Doctor by DFW Child. She loves helping her patients achieve their best health and is most satisfied when they feel educated, engaged and empowered in their healthcare. TEXOMA AREA Living Well Magazine | MARCH/APRIL 2018 43