Pregnancy Archives - Cary OB/GYN

Gestational Diabetes and Your Diet: Simple, Realistic Changes That Make a Difference

by Marketing Manager | Nov 3, 2026 | Pregnancy, Women's Health

You leave your appointment with a new diagnosis and a head full of questions. Can I still eat pasta? What about fruit? Do I have to give up my morning bagel forever? If you've just learned you have gestational diabetes, it's natural to feel like your whole relationship with food is about to change overnight.

Here's the reassuring part: managing gestational diabetes through diet is less about strict rules and more about small, steady adjustments. Most women are able to keep their blood sugar in a healthy range with food choices and regular activity alone. In honor of American Diabetes Month this November, the team at Cary OB/GYN is sharing simple, realistic changes that can make a real difference for you and your baby.

Why Food Matters So Much Right Now

During pregnancy, hormones from the placenta make it harder for your body to use insulin effectively. When your body can't keep up, sugar from the food you eat stays in your bloodstream longer. That's gestational diabetes, and it's not caused by anything you did wrong.

Because carbohydrates have the biggest effect on blood sugar, the way you eat them, including how much, how often, and what you pair them with, becomes one of your most powerful tools. The goal isn't to eliminate carbs. Your baby needs them to grow, and cutting them out entirely can cause other problems. The goal is balance.

1. Eat Smaller Meals, More Often

Instead of three large meals, aim for three moderate meals plus two or three snacks spread throughout the day. Eating every two to three hours helps prevent big spikes and dips in blood sugar. It can also ease pregnancy heartburn and nausea, which is a welcome bonus.

2. Always Pair Carbs With Protein

Protein and healthy fats slow down how quickly sugar enters your bloodstream. A few easy pairings:

An apple with peanut butter instead of an apple on its own
Whole-grain crackers with cheese
Greek yogurt with a handful of berries and nuts
Whole-wheat toast with an egg or avocado

3. Build a Balanced Plate

The plate method is a simple visual guide that doesn't require counting. Fill half your plate with non-starchy vegetables like broccoli, salad greens, green beans, or peppers. Fill one quarter with lean protein, such as chicken, fish, beans, tofu, or eggs. Fill the last quarter with a fiber-rich carbohydrate, like brown rice, quinoa, sweet potato, or whole-grain pasta.

4. Go Easy on Breakfast

Many women find that their blood sugar is hardest to control in the morning, when hormone levels naturally run higher. Keeping breakfast lower in carbohydrates and higher in protein often helps. Think veggie omelets, cottage cheese with a few berries, or a small portion of plain oatmeal with nuts. Cereal, juice, and sweetened coffee drinks tend to cause the biggest morning spikes.

5. Choose Whole Foods Over Refined Ones

Fiber slows digestion and keeps blood sugar steadier. Simple swaps can add up quickly: brown rice for white rice, whole fruit for fruit juice, whole-grain bread for white bread, and beans or lentils as a hearty side.

“Jessica is usually very clear with any questions I have and she was helpful in clearing up some of my upcoming visits.”
Cary OB/GYN Patient Testimonial

6. Rethink Your Drinks

Sweetened beverages are one of the fastest ways to raise blood sugar. Water is your best friend during pregnancy. If you need something with more flavor, try sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or lime, or unsweetened iced tea.

7. Don't Skip the Bedtime Snack

A small snack with protein before bed, like a cheese stick and a few whole-grain crackers, can help keep your fasting blood sugar steadier the next morning. Going too long overnight without food can actually cause your body to release stored sugar.

8. Take a Walk After Meals

Physical activity helps your muscles use sugar for energy. Even a 10- to 15-minute walk after eating can lower your after-meal blood sugar. As long as your provider says it's safe, gentle movement is one of the easiest habits to build into your day.

What a Day of Eating Might Look Like

Every plan should be tailored to you, but here's an example of how these ideas can come together:

Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with spinach and a slice of whole-grain toast
Morning snack: Plain Greek yogurt with a few berries
Lunch: Grilled chicken salad with chickpeas, plenty of vegetables, and a small whole-wheat pita
Afternoon snack: Celery or apple slices with peanut butter
Dinner: Baked salmon, roasted broccoli, and a half cup of brown rice, followed by a short walk
Bedtime snack: A cheese stick and a few whole-grain crackers

Notice that every meal and snack includes protein, and carbohydrates are spread evenly through the day rather than saved for one big meal.

What About Treats and Eating Out?

You don't have to say goodbye to every food you love. A small portion of dessert eaten after a balanced meal tends to affect blood sugar less than the same treat eaten alone. When dining out, ask for vegetables in place of fries, choose grilled over fried, and consider boxing up half of a large pasta or rice dish right away.

Let Your Numbers Guide You

Your home blood sugar readings are the best feedback you have. They show which meals work well for your body and which ones might need adjusting. Everyone responds a little differently, so if a certain food consistently raises your numbers, try a smaller portion or a different pairing. Bring your log to every visit so your provider can help spot patterns.

If diet and activity aren't enough to keep your numbers in range, medication may be recommended. That isn't a failure. It's simply another tool to keep you and your baby healthy.

Support Beyond the Exam Room

At Cary OB/GYN, we know that making changes to how you eat is easier with a little extra help. Through our Advanced Care Team, we can connect you with nutrition specialists who offer in-person and telehealth consultations focused on women's health. We also offer dedicated high-risk OB case management, and our providers work closely with Maternal-Fetal Medicine specialists in the Triangle when additional support is needed.

Our board-certified physicians, certified nurse midwives, and nurse practitioners provide collaborative, team-based prenatal care at our Cary and Morrisville offices, with deliveries at WakeMed Cary.

“My appointment with Dr. Maydew was the best visit I've had during my time with the practice. Her bedside manner was great, her communication was clear and she was meaningfully engaged in the appointment. Her NP/PA was also very professional and kind.”
Cary OB/GYN Patient Testimonial

If you're pregnant or planning a pregnancy, call Cary OB/GYN at (919) 467-5941 or book an appointment online. Small changes really do add up, and we're here to help you make them with confidence.

Switching OB Providers Mid-Pregnancy: What to Expect When You Transfer to Cary OB/GYN

by Marketing Manager | Oct 29, 2026 | Babies, Pregnancy

Maybe your job relocated you to the Triangle area partway through your pregnancy. Maybe your current OB relationship just does not feel like the right fit anymore. Whatever the reason, if you are considering switching providers in the middle of a pregnancy, you are not alone, and it is far more manageable than it might feel right now. At Cary OB/GYN, serving Cary and Morrisville, we welcome transferring patients at every stage of pregnancy.

Why Women Transfer Care Mid-Pregnancy

There are plenty of legitimate reasons to switch OB providers partway through a pregnancy. A move to a new area is one of the most common. Others include wanting a practice with collaborative midwife and physician care, needing a provider who takes your specific insurance, or simply feeling like your current provider relationship is not the right match for the birth experience you are hoping for. None of these reasons require justification. Your comfort and confidence in your care team matter throughout your entire pregnancy, not just at the very beginning, and there is no wrong trimester to make a change that feels right for you.

If you have been hesitant to make the switch because it feels like a hassle, or because you worry about starting over with someone new this late in the process, please know that transferring care is far more routine than it feels from the outside. We see it regularly, and our team is set up to make the transition as smooth as possible.

What the Transfer Process Actually Involves

Transferring your care is more straightforward than most women expect. The main step is authorizing your previous provider to send your medical records over to us, which we make simple with a Medical Records Release Form available right on our website. Once we have that signed authorization, we can request your prenatal records directly, including your ultrasounds, lab results, and visit history, so your new care team has the full picture before you even walk in the door.

From there, we will schedule your first visit with us, and depending on how far along you are and what records we have received, that visit may include catching up on any screenings or ultrasounds that are due, along with getting to know your history and your goals for the rest of your pregnancy. In most cases, this entire process moves quickly enough that it does not create a gap in your care.

“I loved my provider[Courtney Braswell, WHNP-BC ]! She was personable, thorough, and made me feel so comfortable and reassured during a really hectic time (expecting twins).”
Cary OB/GYN Patient Testimonial

What to Expect at Your First Visit With Us

Your first appointment after transferring will feel a bit like both a fresh start and a continuation. We will review everything your previous provider sent over, confirm your due date, and talk through your pregnancy so far, including anything that has felt uncertain or has not been fully explained to your satisfaction. From there, your visit schedule falls into our regular rhythm: every four weeks during the first and second trimesters, every two weeks in the third trimester, and weekly in the final month as we prepare for labor and delivery together.

This is also a good opportunity to ask any questions that have been building up, whether about your previous care or simply things you were never quite sure how to bring up before. A fresh start with a new provider is often exactly the moment those questions finally get asked.

Our obstetric care is collaborative, provided by a team of physicians and certified nurse midwives working together, which means that even as a new patient, you are joining a team already set up to communicate closely and coordinate your care without gaps.

If You Have High-Risk Needs

If your pregnancy involves additional monitoring due to conditions like gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, or other maternal or fetal health concerns, transferring care does not mean starting over on that front either. We work closely with Maternal Fetal Medicine specialists across the Triangle region, so any high-risk coordination already in place can continue smoothly alongside your new OB relationship here.

This coordination extends to birth planning too. Whether you are hoping for a natural delivery, considering an epidural, or working through a more complex birth plan given your medical history, your new care team will pick up that conversation rather than starting entirely from scratch.

“Jessica is very thorough in her responses and explaining pregnancy symptoms to expect. She has good listening skills and a positive, confident attitude which made the visit easy and comfortable.”
Cary OB/GYN Patient Testimonial

We Would Be Glad to Welcome You

Switching providers mid-pregnancy can feel like a big decision, but it does not have to be a complicated one. Our team at Cary OB/GYN would love to welcome you, whatever trimester you are in. Book an appointment or contact our Cary or Morrisville office to get started with your transfer today. We are genuinely glad you are considering us for the rest of this journey.

Navigating the Seasons of Womanhood: A Guide to Health at Every Age

by OB/GYN | Nov 3, 2025 | Pregnancy, Women's Health

At a Glance

Women’s health needs change dramatically from adolescence through menopause.
Routine OB/GYN care promotes prevention, education, and early detection.
Cary OB/GYN offers personalized, compassionate care for every life stage.
Focusing on long-term relationships helps women feel confident and supported.
“I’ve been a patient at Cary OB/GYN since my twenties. They’ve guided me through every chapter of womanhood with care and understanding.”

Quick Summary

Topic: Comprehensive women’s healthcare across the lifespan.
Purpose: To help women understand how their health evolves and what care matters most at each stage.
Goal: Encourage women to build ongoing relationships with their providers for lasting wellness and peace of mind.

The Journey of Womanhood

A woman’s body tells a story — one written through growth, transformation, and change. Each phase brings new needs, from learning about menstrual cycles to navigating pregnancy, hormonal transitions, and preventive screenings later in life.

At Cary OB/GYN, we see women not just as patients but as lifelong partners in care. That means focusing on your unique goals, history, and wellness journey from your very first visit through your postmenopausal years.

“Healthcare for women isn’t just about treatment — it’s about understanding, education, and empowerment.”

Adolescence: The First Chapter

When to Start OB/GYN Care

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends the first OB/GYN visit between ages 13 and 15. This initial appointment is often educational — no pelvic exam required — and focuses on helping young women understand their bodies.

Common Topics Covered

What to expect during periods
How to manage cramps, acne, or heavy bleeding
Emotional health and body image
The importance of nutrition and sleep
Building confidence and open communication about reproductive health

Cary OB/GYN providers create a welcoming, judgment-free space for teens and parents alike. These early visits establish trust and empower young women to take ownership of their health.

“We want young women to see their OB/GYN as a trusted guide, not a source of anxiety.”

Reproductive Years: Fertility, Family Planning, and Balance

The 20s and 30s often bring major transitions — building careers, starting families, or deciding to delay pregnancy. During these years, reproductive health and preventive screenings are essential.

Family Planning and Birth Control

Cary OB/GYN offers comprehensive contraceptive counseling, helping women choose the method that best fits their health, goals, and lifestyle. Options include:

Hormonal birth control (pill, patch, ring, injection)
Long-acting reversible contraception (IUDs and implants)
Non-hormonal options for women who prefer natural cycles

Providers also guide women through preconception planning, ensuring a healthy foundation for future pregnancies.

Fertility Support

If conception doesn’t happen easily, early intervention matters. Fertility evaluations at Cary OB/GYN include hormonal testing, cycle tracking, and ultrasound imaging to identify underlying causes and recommend personalized solutions.

Annual Exams and Screenings

Regular wellness visits are key to prevention. During these years, women should schedule:

Pap smears to screen for cervical cancer
Breast exams and, beginning in the late 30s, mammograms as recommended
STD screenings for sexually active patients
Pelvic exams for reproductive health and early detection of conditions like endometriosis or fibroids

Pregnancy and Postpartum: A Season of Growth

Pregnancy is one of the most transformative times in a woman’s life — physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

At Cary OB/GYN, maternity care is rooted in compassion, communication, and support. Providers guide families from conception through delivery and postpartum recovery with expertise and empathy.

Prenatal Care Includes:

Regular ultrasounds and prenatal checkups
Nutritional and exercise guidance
Genetic and glucose screenings
Emotional health monitoring
Birth planning discussions

The practice’s experienced team also helps expectant mothers manage high-risk pregnancies, ensuring safety for both parent and baby.

Postpartum Support

After birth, the body and mind continue to change. Postpartum care focuses on:

Recovery from labor or cesarean delivery
Pelvic floor and core health
Breastfeeding support
Contraception and spacing between pregnancies
Emotional well-being, including screening for postpartum depression

“We walk alongside women through every emotion and every milestone — because motherhood is not something you should have to navigate alone.”

Midlife: Hormone Shifts and Perimenopause

By the late 30s and 40s, many women begin noticing changes — irregular cycles, mood swings, weight fluctuations, and shifting energy. This is often the start of perimenopause, the transitional phase before menopause.

Common Symptoms

Hot flashes or night sweats
Sleep disruptions
Fatigue or mood changes
Irregular bleeding
Vaginal dryness or discomfort

Support and Solutions

At this stage, Cary OB/GYN focuses on personalized hormone and lifestyle management to help women maintain balance. Treatment options may include:

Hormone therapy for moderate to severe symptoms
Non-hormonal alternatives and supplements
Lifestyle adjustments (nutrition, exercise, stress reduction)
Counseling and emotional wellness support

Understanding perimenopause helps women take proactive steps instead of reacting to symptoms.

“Perimenopause doesn’t mean losing control — it’s about learning how to work with your body’s natural changes.”

Menopause and Beyond: Redefining Wellness

Menopause marks the end of menstruation, but not the end of health, vitality, or growth. With proper care, women can thrive well into their 60s and beyond.

Post-Menopausal Care Focuses On:

Bone Health: Regular bone density testing to prevent osteoporosis.
Heart Health: Blood pressure and cholesterol screening to reduce cardiovascular risk.
Pelvic Health: Addressing vaginal dryness, incontinence, or pelvic floor concerns.
Sexual Health: Safe, effective treatments for discomfort or libido changes.
Mental Wellness: Ongoing care for emotional balance and life transitions.

Menopause is also an opportunity to refocus on long-term wellness — including regular physical activity, balanced nutrition, and preventive screenings.

“The goal isn’t just living longer — it’s living well.”

Screening and Prevention at Every Age

Consistent checkups form the foundation of lifelong women’s health.

Age Range	Focus of Care	Screenings Recommended
Teens	Menstrual health, HPV vaccination	Education, basic wellness check
20s–30s	Fertility, contraception, pregnancy	Pap test, STD screening
40s–50s	Hormonal shifts, breast health	Mammogram, thyroid, perimenopause care
60s+	Menopause management, bone health	Bone density, heart health, annual pelvic exams

Cary OB/GYN ensures each stage of care transitions smoothly to the next — keeping women informed, supported, and confident.

Building Lifelong Relationships in Women’s Health

What makes Cary OB/GYN special isn’t just their technology or expertise — it’s their continuity of care. Many patients stay with the same provider for decades, building a relationship based on trust and understanding.

That consistency allows providers to recognize subtle changes, anticipate future needs, and personalize care across generations.

“Many of our patients started with us as teenagers and now bring their own daughters. That’s the kind of care that lasts a lifetime.”

Empowering Women Through Education and Compassion

The foundation of Cary OB/GYN’s philosophy is empowerment through knowledge. By educating patients at every step — not just diagnosing or treating — providers help women make confident decisions about their bodies and health.

Whether you’re managing your first cycle, navigating menopause, or anywhere in between, Cary OB/GYN ensures you feel seen, heard, and supported.

Final Thoughts

Your health evolves and your care should too. From adolescence to menopause, Cary OB/GYN is your lifelong partner in wellness, offering medical expertise, compassion, and respect through every chapter of your life.

Because when women are supported through every season, they thrive — physically, emotionally, and beyond. Want personalized guidance? Contact Cary OB/GYN in Cary and Morrisville, NC, to schedule an appointment: https://www.caryobgyn.com/contactus

Preparing for Cold and Flu Season While Pregnant

by OB/GYN | Oct 30, 2025 | Pregnancy, Women's Health

Cold and flu season can be challenging for anyone—but when you’re pregnant, your immune system is naturally less robust, making you more vulnerable to viruses. Protecting yourself during this time is essential for both your health and your baby’s. At Cary OB/GYN in Cary and Morrisville, North Carolina, our team provides guidance to help expectant mothers stay healthy and safe throughout pregnancy, even during peak cold and flu season.

Why Pregnant Women Are More Susceptible

During pregnancy, your body’s immune system adapts to protect both you and your developing baby. While this helps prevent your body from rejecting the pregnancy, it can also make you more prone to viral infections like the common cold or influenza. In addition, pregnancy can cause the heart and lungs to work harder, which may make symptoms like congestion or coughing feel more intense.

That’s why prevention and early care are key.

Simple Ways to Prevent Cold and Flu During Pregnancy

A few small daily habits can make a big difference in keeping germs at bay.

1. Get Your Flu Shot

The flu vaccine is safe during pregnancy and highly recommended by the CDC. It not only protects you but also provides antibodies to your baby, offering protection for the first few months after birth.

2. Practice Good Hygiene

Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water.
Avoid touching your face, nose, and mouth.
Carry hand sanitizer when you’re out.
Clean commonly touched surfaces like doorknobs, phones, and keyboards.

3. Support Your Immune System Naturally

Eat a nutrient-rich diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and protein.
Stay hydrated—water, herbal teas, and warm broths can soothe congestion and support your immune system.
Get enough rest. Sleep is one of the best defenses against illness.
Exercise regularly (with your doctor’s approval) to boost circulation and overall health.

4. Avoid Close Contact with Sick Individuals

Even mild infections can feel more severe during pregnancy. Try to avoid crowds during peak flu months and limit contact with anyone showing symptoms.

What to Do If You Get Sick

Despite your best efforts, you may still catch a cold or the flu while pregnant. Fortunately, most cases are mild and can be managed safely at home.

Rest and hydrate. Give your body time to recover.
Use a humidifier to ease congestion and soothe sore throats.
Consult your OB/GYN before taking any over-the-counter medication. Some common cold and flu medicines aren’t recommended during pregnancy, but safe alternatives exist.
Seek medical care immediately if you experience a high fever, shortness of breath, chest pain, or signs of dehydration.

Safe Cold and Flu Medications During Pregnancy

Always confirm with your doctor before taking any medication, but in general:

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is considered safe for fever or mild pain.
Saline nasal sprays and humidifiers can help relieve congestion.
Honey and warm fluids can soothe sore throats naturally.

Avoid products containing ibuprofen, aspirin, or certain decongestants unless specifically recommended by your provider.

Stay Healthy This Season

With the right precautions, you can navigate cold and flu season confidently while protecting your baby’s health. Regular prenatal care, a balanced diet, and communication with your OB/GYN are your best tools for staying well.

If you’re pregnant and feeling under the weather—or want personalized guidance on cold and flu prevention—contact Cary OB/GYN in Cary and Morrisville, NC, to schedule an appointment: https://www.caryobgyn.com/contactus/

How Stress Affects Pregnancy and Tips for Managing It

by OB/GYN | Jul 28, 2025 | Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a time of profound physical and emotional change. While some stress is normal, chronic or intense stress during pregnancy can negatively impact both the birthing parent and baby. In this blog, we explore how stress affects pregnancy and offer practical tips for managing it. If you're wondering how stress during pregnancy impacts your health and what you can do about it, you're not alone.

How Does Stress Affect Pregnancy?

When you're stressed, your body releases stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. While these hormones are helpful in short bursts, prolonged exposure can contribute to complications during pregnancy. Stress can affect:

Hormonal balance: High stress may interfere with the hormones essential for a healthy pregnancy.
Immune function: Chronic stress can weaken your immune system, making you more vulnerable to illness.
Blood pressure: Elevated stress levels may increase the risk of hypertension or preeclampsia.
Fetal development: Some studies suggest that maternal stress may impact fetal brain development and increase the risk of preterm birth or low birth weight.
Mental health: High levels of stress increase the risk of perinatal anxiety and depression, affecting maternal-infant bonding.

Common Causes of Stress in Pregnancy

Fear about childbirth or parenting
Physical discomfort or sleep disturbances
Work or financial pressures
Complications in pregnancy
Relationship or family dynamics
Previous pregnancy loss

Signs That Stress Might Be Affecting You

Difficulty sleeping
Racing thoughts or constant worry
Fatigue and irritability
Muscle tension or headaches
Changes in appetite
Feeling overwhelmed or withdrawn

Practical Tips to Manage Stress During Pregnancy

Here are science-backed and OB/GYN-approved strategies to manage stress and protect your health:

1. Prioritize rest and sleep

- Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep per night.
- Use pillows for support and establish a calming bedtime routine.

2. Stay active

- Gentle prenatal exercises like walking, stretching, or prenatal yoga can help lower cortisol levels and improve mood.

3. Eat a balanced diet

- Focus on nutrient-dense meals rich in omega-3s, whole grains, lean protein, fruits, and vegetables.

4. Practice mindfulness and deep breathing

- Techniques like guided meditation, journaling, or simply focusing on your breath can lower anxiety.

5. Talk it out

- Don't hesitate to share your concerns with your partner, a friend, or a mental health provider.

6. Join a prenatal support group

- Connecting with others going through similar experiences can ease loneliness and normalize your feelings.

7. Reduce external stressors

- Delegate tasks, avoid information overload, and set healthy boundaries with work or social commitments.

8. Attend regular OB visits

- Staying on top of your prenatal care provides peace of mind and early intervention for any issues.

When to Seek Professional Help

If stress is interfering with your daily life or you suspect you may be dealing with depression or anxiety, don’t wait. Talk to your OB/GYN about mental health support and resources.

You’re Not Alone

At Cary OB/GYN in North Carolina, we understand the emotional ups and downs of pregnancy. If stress is affecting your well-being, we’re here to help with compassionate care and support. Contact us today to schedule a prenatal visit or discuss ways to manage stress during pregnancy: https://www.caryobgyn.com/contactus/

Understanding Ovarian Cysts: What’s Normal and When to Worry

by OB/GYN | Mar 9, 2025 | Pregnancy, Women's Health

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop on or inside the ovaries. In most cases, ovarian cysts are harmless and go away on their own. However, some cysts can cause symptoms and complications that require medical attention. Understanding ovarian cysts—what’s normal and when to worry—can help you recognize when to seek care. If you have concerns about ovarian cysts, the team at Cary OB/GYN in North Carolina is here to help: https://www.caryobgyn.com/contactus/.

What Are Ovarian Cysts?

Ovarian cysts are common in women of all ages, especially during the reproductive years. The most common types of cysts include:

Functional Cysts: These cysts form during the menstrual cycle and usually resolve on their own. They include:
- Follicular cysts – When the egg does not release from the follicle during ovulation.
- Corpus luteum cysts – When the follicle reseals after releasing an egg and fills with fluid.
Dermoid Cysts: These are benign growths that may contain hair, fat, or other tissues.
Endometriomas: These result from endometriosis, a condition where uterine tissue grows outside the uterus.
Cystadenomas: Fluid-filled cysts that develop on the ovary's surface, which can become large but are usually benign.

What’s Normal?

Most ovarian cysts do not cause symptoms and disappear on their own within a few weeks or months. Many women have cysts without even knowing it, as they are often found incidentally during routine pelvic exams or ultrasounds. If a cyst is small and does not cause pain or other symptoms, it is generally considered normal.

When to Worry

Although most cysts are harmless, some may lead to complications. You should seek medical attention if you experience:

Pelvic pain: Persistent or sudden, sharp pain on one side of the lower abdomen.
Bloating or fullness: A feeling of pressure in the abdomen.
Irregular periods: Changes in menstrual flow, missed periods, or spotting.
Pain during intercourse: Discomfort or pain that worsens with deep penetration.
Frequent urination or bowel changes: Large cysts can press against the bladder or intestines.
Severe symptoms: Intense pain, dizziness, fever, or nausea could indicate a ruptured cyst or ovarian torsion, which is a medical emergency.

Diagnosis and Treatment

At Cary OB/GYN, diagnosing ovarian cysts often involves a pelvic exam, ultrasound, and sometimes blood tests to rule out malignancy. Most cysts do not require treatment, but if a cyst is large, painful, or persistent, treatment options may include:

Monitoring: Small cysts are often monitored to see if they resolve naturally.
Medications: Birth control pills may help regulate ovulation and prevent new cysts from forming.
Surgery: If a cyst is large, persistent, or suspected to be cancerous, minimally invasive surgery (laparoscopy) or open surgery (laparotomy) may be necessary.

When to See a Doctor

If you experience ongoing pain, irregular cycles, or any concerning symptoms, it’s important to schedule an evaluation. The specialists at Cary OB/GYN in North Carolina can provide expert diagnosis and treatment to help manage ovarian cysts. Contact us today: https://www.caryobgyn.com/contactus/.