International Women’s Day is a moment to celebrate the strength, resilience, and accomplishments of women everywhere. It’s also a powerful reminder of something deeply personal yet universally important: the role you play in your own health care. Advocating for your health isn’t just about speaking up — it’s about participating actively in your care, understanding your body, and ensuring your needs are not just acknowledged, but addressed thoughtfully and respectfully.

At Cary OB/GYN, we see every day how empowered patients — those who ask questions, express concerns, and engage in shared decision-making — experience more personalized, effective care. This International Women’s Day, we want to explore what health advocacy looks like at different stages of life, why it matters, and how you can be the best partner in your own care.

“Amazing staff who make me feel heard and take the time to make sure I feel comfortable.”
Cary OB/GYN Patient Review

What Does Health Advocacy Really Mean?

Health advocacy isn’t a medical term; it’s an action. At its core, it means:

• Listening to your body and recognizing when something feels off
  
• Speaking up honestly and directly with your care provider
• Asking questions until you understand your diagnosis, options, and next steps
• Sharing your personal values, goals, and concerns in a clinical setting

   

None of this requires medical training — it just requires confidence in your own experience and a willingness to communicate.

Across healthcare settings, research and advocacy organizations emphasize that women’s health has historically been under-represented in clinical research, funding, and policy priorities — meaning women often bear the burden of advocating for care that should be standard and equitable. Recognizing that dynamic is part of why your voice matters.

Why Advocacy Matters for Every Woman

Women’s health changes — and evolves — throughout life. Advocacy looks different in each stage, but the principle remains the same: your needs should guide your care.

In Adolescence and Young Adulthood

This is often when traditional health decisions begin to shift from caregivers to the individual. You may face questions about:

• Irregular or painful menstrual cycles
• Birth control and reproductive planning
• Sexual health and STD screening

• Significant body or hormonal changes

   

It’s common for young women to feel uncertain about what to ask or when to seek care. Speaking up early builds confidence and establishes a lifelong pattern of proactive health engagement.

During Pregnancy and Postpartum

Pregnancy is one of the most transformational phases in a woman’s life. It brings joy, anticipation — and many questions. Advocating for yourself during pregnancy means:

• Being open about symptoms, discomfort, or emotional concerns
• Asking why specific tests are recommended and what results mean
• Discussing birth preferences and making an informed plan

   

Postpartum care is equally important. Hormonal shifts, physical recovery, and mental health changes deserve attention and honest discussion.

In Midlife and Beyond

As hormones shift with perimenopause and menopause, symptoms like sleep changes, mood swings, hot flashes, and irregular periods can emerge. Many women are conditioned to dismiss these as “just aging,” but that perspective can delay effective care.

Advocating here means:

• Asking about treatment options for symptom relief
• Exploring long-term health concerns like bone health and cardiovascular risk
• Discussing testing or screenings appropriate for your age and health history

Every stage brings new questions and needs — and your voice is the connector between your lived experience and the care you receive.

“This was my first visit with Dr Piper - I was a 20-year patient of Dr Anthony. Changing GYNs is a big deal for me at 73 years old. I was delighted with the visit with Dr Piper. She had obviously read my file as her questions were appropriate to my issues. Her demeanor was professional yet warm and encouraged questioning. She inspired confidence in her knowledge and skill based on her responses to my questions.”
Cary OB/GYN Patient Review

Barriers Women Often Face — and How Advocacy Helps

Women — particularly women of color — may face bias, dismissiveness, or under-recognition of symptoms in clinical settings. This isn’t just anecdotal; multiple studies and news reports document patterns where women’s concerns are normalized or minimized, resulting in delayed diagnoses and poorer outcomes.

Advocacy isn’t about confrontation; it’s about clarity and persistence. For example:

• If you’ve felt dismissed in the past, bring documented symptoms or logs to your appointment
• If a provider’s explanation was unclear, ask them to explain alternatives or next steps
• If something still feels unresolved after a visit, ask for a follow-up plan or second opinion

   

Your clinical team is there to help, and a collaborative relationship yields better outcomes.

Practical Tips for Advocating Effectively

To make your voice heard in healthcare settings, consider these practical steps:

1. Prepare before your appointment.
   Write down symptoms, questions, and any changes since your last visit. This ensures nothing gets overlooked during the visit.

    

2. Ask clear, direct questions.
   Examples include: “What are my options?” “What are the risks and benefits?” and “What can I expect next?”

    

3. Request clarification if needed.
   Medical terms and treatment pathways can be complex — it’s okay to ask for plain-language explanations.

    

4. Be your own health historian.
   Keeping track of medications, past diagnoses, and treatment responses helps your provider see the full picture.

    

5. Know your rights.
   You can ask for second opinions, explore referrals, and choose providers who listen and respect your perspective.

    

These actionable steps help transform anxiety into confidence and uncertainty into clarity.

The Power of Partnership

Healthcare should never feel like a one-way transaction. At Cary OB/GYN, we value your input, your experiences, and your questions. When you advocate for yourself, you give us the information we need to tailor care that fits you — not a generic standard.

This International Women’s Day, celebrate not just your strength, but your agency. Your health is your story — and your voice helps shape it.

Because when women speak up, care improves — for themselves and for communities everywhere.

Ovarian cysts are fluid‑filled sacs that commonly form on or in the ovaries. For most women, ovarian cysts are a normal part of the menstrual cycle and often resolve on their own without treatment. However, not all cysts are benign, and some can cause symptoms that warrant medical evaluation. Understanding when to see a doctor about ovarian cysts can help you get timely care, avoid complications, and gain peace of mind.

At Cary OB/GYN, we believe that informed, proactive care helps women stay healthy and confident in their reproductive health. This guide explains what ovarian cysts are, typical symptoms, when to seek medical attention, and what to expect at your appointment.

“From the time I called and spoke with Tivona I was impressed. Tivona was very helpful in finding me an appointment. Once I saw Jessica, I knew I was in the right place. Jessica made me feel so comfortable and she was very attentive to my needs. I am so glad that I found Cary OBGYN. The team work/service surpassed my expectations.”
Cary OB/GYN Patient Review

What Is an Ovarian Cyst?

An ovarian cyst is a fluid‑filled sac that forms within or on the surface of an ovary. Most ovarian cysts are functional cysts, meaning they develop as part of the normal menstrual cycle:

• Follicular cysts form when a follicle (the structure that holds an egg) does not release the egg and continues to grow.
• Corpus luteum cysts develop after ovulation when the follicle closes and fluid accumulates inside it.

Functional cysts are common and usually harmless. They often disappear spontaneously within a few menstrual cycles without treatment.

Other types of cysts, such as dermoid cysts or endometriomas, are less common and may require closer monitoring or treatment depending on size, symptoms, and growth over time.

Common Symptoms of Ovarian Cysts

Many ovarian cysts are asymptomatic and only discovered incidentally during a pelvic exam or imaging for another reason. When symptoms do occur, they can vary depending on the cyst’s size and type. Common signs include:

• Lower abdominal or pelvic pain, often on one side
• Bloating or a feeling of fullness
• Pain during intercourse
• Irregular menstrual cycles
• Pressure or heaviness in the pelvis
• Frequent urination if the cyst presses on the bladder

These symptoms can overlap with other gynecologic and gastrointestinal conditions, so clinical evaluation is important to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate care.

When to See a Doctor

While occasional mild discomfort may be normal, certain symptoms should prompt you to contact your healthcare provider promptly:

1. Intense or Sudden Pelvic Pain

Severe pain that comes on suddenly, especially if it is sharp, persistent, or localized to one side of the pelvis, may indicate a cyst that has grown, twisted (ovarian torsion), or ruptured. Ovarian torsion is a medical emergency because it can cut off blood supply to the ovary.

2. Pain With Fever or Vomiting

If pelvic pain is accompanied by fever, nausea, or vomiting, this may signal a complication such as cyst rupture or infection. These symptoms merit urgent evaluation.

3. Heavy or Unusual Bleeding

Significant changes in menstrual bleeding—especially bleeding that is heavier than normal or occurs between periods—should be evaluated. While not always caused by cysts, abnormal bleeding can point to hormonal imbalances or other gynecologic concerns.

4. Persistent or Worsening Symptoms

If symptoms like bloating, pelvic pressure, or discomfort persist beyond a few menstrual cycles or worsen over time, you should schedule an appointment. Persistent symptoms may require imaging and further assessment.

5. Difficulty With Daily Activities

Pelvic pain or discomfort that interferes with work, exercise, sleep, or other daily activities is a signal that your symptoms deserve medical attention.

6. Pregnancy With Pelvic Pain

Any pelvic pain during pregnancy should be evaluated promptly. Ovarian cysts can occur during pregnancy and may have implications for both maternal and fetal health.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

When you see your provider at Cary OB/GYN regarding ovarian cyst concerns, your evaluation may include:

• Detailed Medical History

Your clinician will ask about your symptoms, menstrual history, sexual history, and any relevant risk factors.

• Physical Examination

A pelvic exam allows your provider to assess for tenderness, masses, or abnormalities.

• Ultrasound Imaging

Transvaginal ultrasound is the primary tool used to visualize ovarian cysts. It provides detailed images of the cyst’s size, structure, and location.

• Blood Tests

If indicated, blood work—such as a CA‑125 level in select cases—may be ordered to assess for markers associated with certain types of ovarian masses. CA‑125 testing is most useful in post‑menopausal women or when cyst characteristics raise concern. Your provider will determine if this is appropriate.

• Follow‑Up Plan

Many small, simple cysts can be monitored with repeat ultrasounds. Your provider will recommend a follow‑up schedule based on the cyst’s characteristics and your symptoms.

Treatment Options

Most ovarian cysts resolve on their own and only require observation. However, treatment may be recommended if:

• The cyst is large or growing
• Symptoms are bothersome or persistent
• There is suspicion of a complex cyst
• Complications such as torsion or rupture are suspected

Treatment options may include:

• Watchful Waiting

Repeating imaging over time to monitor changes.

• Hormonal Birth Control

Certain contraceptives can help regulate the menstrual cycle and reduce the formation of new cysts.

• Surgical Evaluation

In cases of large, persistent, or complex cysts, minimally invasive surgery (laparoscopy) or open surgery (laparotomy) may be recommended. Surgery may be necessary to remove the cyst while preserving ovarian function.

Your provider will tailor recommendations to your individual health needs, reproductive goals, and clinical findings.

“This was my first time with Jessica Ramirez-Trower. She was knowledgeable, and she patiently listened to me. She provided great information and followed up with an email that included education and suggested products to help manage my problem.”
Cary OB/GYN Patient Review

When to Seek Emergency Care

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Sudden, severe pelvic pain
• Fainting or dizziness
• Rapid breathing or heart rate
• Severe abdominal pain with fever and vomiting

These symptoms may indicate a ruptured cyst, ovarian torsion, or another urgent condition.

Ovarian cysts are common and often harmless, but recognizing when to seek medical care is key to protecting your reproductive health. Regular gynecologic visits at Cary OB/GYN provide an ideal opportunity to discuss symptoms, assess risk, and determine whether monitoring or treatment is necessary.

If you are experiencing persistent pelvic pain, unusual bleeding, or symptoms that interfere with daily life, don’t wait—schedule an appointment with our team. We are here to support your health with compassionate, evidence‑based care.

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), also known as sexually transmitted infections (STIs), are common across the United States—and women are uniquely affected due to both biological and social factors. At Cary OB/GYN, we believe that open, honest conversations about sexual health and regular STD testing are essential components of comprehensive women’s health care.

Whether you are sexually active, entering a new relationship, planning a pregnancy, or simply prioritizing your long-term health, understanding STD testing can empower you to make informed decisions and protect your well-being.

Why STD Testing Matters

STD testing offers benefits that go far beyond a simple diagnosis. Regular screening:

• Prevents long-term health complications. Many STDs, like chlamydia and gonorrhea, can be asymptomatic—meaning you may not notice symptoms until complications develop, such as pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, or chronic pain.
• Supports healthy relationships. Knowing your status helps you communicate openly with partners and make informed decisions together.
• Protects future pregnancy outcomes. Some infections can impact fertility or increase the risk of pregnancy complications. Testing before conception and early in pregnancy is vital.
• Reduces transmission risk. Treatment eliminates or suppresses infection, reducing the likelihood of spreading an STD to a partner.

Health professionals emphasize that STD testing is preventive care, not a reflection of character—just as you would screen for blood pressure or cancer, STD testing is a proactive approach to your health.

“Dr.BonPain always takes the time to listen to your concerns and address them . She has an excellent bedside manner. At my age I sometimes feel dismissed but not with Dr.BonPain.”
Cary OB/GYN Patient Review

Who Should Get Tested and When

Recommendations for STD testing vary based on age, risk factors, and sexual activity. General guidelines include:

All Sexually Active Women

If you are sexually active, especially with multiple partners or a partner with unknown STD history, testing should be part of routine health care. Many infections do not cause noticeable symptoms, so testing is the only reliable way to know your status.

Young Adults and Teens

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that sexually active women under age 25 receive annual chlamydia and gonorrhea screening, even without symptoms. These infections are common in younger populations and can cause serious reproductive complications if untreated.

Pregnant Women

STD testing is essential during pregnancy. Pregnant women routinely receive screenings for infections that can affect both maternal and fetal health, including:

• HIV
• Syphilis
• Hepatitis B
• Chlamydia and gonorrhea
• Other infectious concerns based on history and risk factors

Early detection and treatment can prevent transmission to the baby and reduce pregnancy-related complications.

Women With Symptoms or New Partners

If you experience symptoms such as unusual discharge, pelvic pain, burning with urination, genital sores, or itching, seek evaluation promptly. Likewise, talk with your clinician about testing when beginning relationships with new partners.

Common STDs and What Testing Involves

Health care providers use different methods to test for STDs, depending on the infection and your sexual history. Common tests include:

Chlamydia and Gonorrhea

• Testing method: Urine sample or swab of the cervix or genital area
• Why it matters: These bacterial infections may be asymptomatic but can cause serious reproductive complications if left untreated.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

• Testing method: Often detected through a Pap smear or HPV DNA test
• Why it matters: HPV is common and can lead to cervical changes that, over time, may increase the risk of cervical cancer. Vaccination and regular screening are key preventive strategies.

HIV

• Testing method: Blood test or rapid oral swab
• Why it matters: Early diagnosis allows for treatment that preserves health and significantly reduces transmission risk.

Syphilis

• Testing method: Blood test
• Why it matters: Syphilis can affect multiple organ systems if untreated but is curable with appropriate antibiotics.

Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)

• Testing method: Blood test or swab of active sores
• Why it matters: While lifelong, herpes can be managed with medication, and knowing your status allows for informed decisions about care and transmission prevention.

Hepatitis B and C

• Testing method: Blood tests
• Why it matters: These infections impact the liver and can have serious health consequences, especially if untreated.

Your clinician will recommend specific tests based on your history, sexual behavior, age, and symptoms. Open communication ensures you receive the most appropriate screening.

What to Expect During an STD Testing Visit

Visiting Cary OB/GYN for STD testing is straightforward and confidential. Here’s what typically happens:

1. Health history and discussion of risks. Your provider will ask about your sexual history and any symptoms you may have.
2. Physical exam (if indicated). Some tests may require a pelvic exam or swab. Others use urine or blood samples.
3. Laboratory testing. Samples are sent to a lab, with results usually available within a few days.
4. Follow-up. Your provider will review results, discuss any treatment needed, and recommend future screening.

Remember: no question is too small or too personal. Our team is here to provide support, education, and care without judgment.

Prevention and Protection

STD testing is only one part of a comprehensive strategy to protect your sexual health. Additional strategies include:

• Consistent condom use. Condoms reduce the risk of many STDs when used correctly.
• Vaccination. Vaccines are available for HPV and hepatitis B—talk to your provider about eligibility.
• Communication with partners. Discussing STD history and testing with partners fosters shared responsibility.
• Routine care. Annual exams include not just STD screening but also cervical cancer screening and overall reproductive health assessment.

Breaking Stigma, Supporting Health

Despite how common STDs are—millions of new infections occur each year—stigma often prevents women from seeking testing and care. At Cary OB/GYN, we want to normalize conversations about sexual health. Taking charge of your health through routine screening is a responsible and empowering choice.

STD testing is preventive care that protects your reproductive system, your relationships, and your future fertility. It reflects strength, not shame.

“Dr. Piper has an excellent bedside manner. She creates an environment of comfort and safety. She is personable, patient and answers all questions. I've seen her several times and really enjoy her!”
Cary OB/GYN Patient Review

Your Partner in Sexual Health

Whether you are seeking routine screening or have concerns about symptoms or exposure, Cary OB/GYN offers confidential, compassionate care tailored to your needs. Your sexual health matters at every stage of life, and we are here to support you with expert guidance, evidence-based testing, and individualized treatment.

Contact us today to schedule your appointment and take a proactive step toward your health and peace of mind.