Cervical cancer was once one of the leading causes of cancer death in women, but thanks to early screening and the HPV vaccine, rates have declined significantly. Still, cervical cancer remains a serious health concern, and prevention is key. At Cary OB/GYN in North Carolina, we want women to understand how HPV (human papillomavirus) is linked to cervical cancer, and how screening and vaccination can protect your health.

What Is HPV?

HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection. Most sexually active people will contract it at some point, often without symptoms. While many infections clear on their own, certain high-risk strains can cause cervical cancer, as well as other cancers of the reproductive and throat areas.

How HPV Leads to Cervical Cancer

When high-risk HPV strains persist in the body, they can cause abnormal cell changes in the cervix. Over time, these changes may progress to precancer or cervical cancer if not detected and treated early.

The Role of Screening

Routine cervical cancer screening saves lives by detecting precancerous changes before they progress. Screening methods include:

• Pap smear (Pap test): Collects cervical cells to look for abnormalities.
• HPV testing: Checks specifically for high-risk HPV strains.
• Co-testing: Combines Pap smear and HPV testing for the most comprehensive approach.

Screening recommendations:

• Women ages 21–29: Pap test every 3 years.
• Women ages 30–65: Pap test every 3 years, HPV test every 5 years, or co-testing every 5 years.
• Women over 65 with a history of normal results may not need further screening.

The HPV Vaccine

The HPV vaccine is a powerful tool for prevention. It protects against the high-risk HPV strains most likely to cause cervical cancer.

• Recommended for preteens at age 11 or 12, but can be given as early as age 9.
• Catch-up vaccination is available through age 26.
• Some adults ages 27–45 may benefit, depending on individual risk factors.

Why Vaccination and Screening Work Best Together

The HPV vaccine prevents many cases of cervical cancer, but not all. Screening ensures that any abnormalities are caught early. Together, vaccination and routine exams provide the strongest protection.

Final Thoughts

Cervical cancer is largely preventable with regular screening and HPV vaccination. At Cary OB/GYN in North Carolina, we provide compassionate care, advanced screenings, and vaccination guidance to help women stay healthy at every stage of life. To schedule your appointment, visit: https://www.caryobgyn.com/contactus/

Further Reading

CDC – HPV and Cancer: HPV and Cancer

Hormonal birth control is widely used for preventing pregnancy and managing reproductive health, but many people wonder how it impacts mood and mental well-being. While some users experience no emotional changes, others report mood swings, anxiety, or even improvements in mood depending on the method and their individual response. This article explores how hormonal birth control may influence mental health, the science behind it, and what to do if you notice changes.

How Does Hormonal Birth Control Work in the Body?

Hormonal contraceptives—such as the pill, patch, ring, injection, implant, and certain IUDs—use synthetic estrogen, progestin, or both to prevent ovulation, thicken cervical mucus, and thin the uterine lining. These hormones not only affect the reproductive system but also interact with neurotransmitters in the brain, including serotonin and dopamine, which play a role in regulating mood.

Possible Mood-Related Effects

The relationship between hormonal birth control and mental health varies greatly among individuals. Some possible effects include:

• Mood swings – Hormonal fluctuations can sometimes lead to irritability or emotional ups and downs.
• Increased anxiety or depression symptoms – Some users report a rise in anxiety or depressive symptoms, especially when starting a new method.
• Improved mood stability – For others, regulating hormonal fluctuations may actually reduce PMS-related mood symptoms.
• Changes in stress response – Hormonal contraceptives can influence cortisol levels, potentially affecting how your body handles stress.

Why Do Some People React Differently?

Several factors can influence how hormonal birth control affects mood, including:

• Individual hormone sensitivity – Some people are more sensitive to hormonal changes.
• History of mental health conditions – Pre-existing depression or anxiety can be influenced by hormonal shifts.
• Type and dose of hormones – Progestin-only methods may have different effects than combination methods.
• Other lifestyle factors – Sleep, diet, exercise, and stress levels can all affect mood.

When to Talk to Your Doctor

While mild mood changes can be common during the adjustment period, you should contact your healthcare provider if you experience:

• Persistent sadness, hopelessness, or loss of interest in activities
• Significant anxiety or panic attacks
• Difficulty functioning at work, school, or home
• Mood changes that impact relationships or quality of life

Your provider may recommend adjusting the dosage, switching to a different hormonal method, or exploring non-hormonal options.

Supporting Your Mental Health on Birth Control

If you choose to use hormonal birth control, consider these strategies to help maintain emotional balance:

• Keep a mood journal to track patterns and discuss them with your provider
• Practice stress management techniques like mindfulness or yoga
• Prioritize regular exercise and balanced nutrition
• Maintain a strong support system of friends and family

The Bottom Line

Hormonal birth control can affect mood and mental health differently for everyone. While some people notice mood changes, others experience no effects—or even positive benefits. If you suspect your contraceptive is impacting your emotional well-being, Cary OB/GYN in North Carolina can help you find the best option for your needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment: https://www.caryobgyn.com/contactus/

Further Reading

Mayo Clinic- Birth Control

Scheduling your annual Pap smear is an important part of protecting your cervical health—but what if your period starts right before your appointment? Can you still go? Should you reschedule? In this article, we’ll answer the common question: Can you get a Pap smear on your period?

What Is a Pap Smear?

A Pap smear (or Pap test) is a screening procedure that checks for abnormal cervical cells that could lead to cervical cancer. During the test, your OB/GYN gently collects a sample of cells from your cervix using a small brush or spatula. It’s quick, usually painless, and an essential part of women’s preventive care.

Can You Get a Pap Smear During Your Period?

Yes—but it depends on how heavy your flow is.

• Light spotting or very light flow? You can usually go ahead with the Pap smear.
• Moderate to heavy bleeding? It’s best to reschedule. Menstrual blood can interfere with the test results and make it harder for the lab to detect abnormal cervical cells.

If you're unsure whether your flow is too heavy for a Pap smear, give your provider’s office a call. They can help you decide whether to keep or move your appointment.

When Is the Best Time to Schedule a Pap Smear?

For the most accurate results, try to schedule your Pap smear:

• Mid-cycle, about 10 to 20 days after the first day of your period
• When you're not menstruating, especially if your cycles tend to be heavy

That said, if your period is irregular, don’t delay your appointment indefinitely—talk with your OB/GYN about the best plan.

How Often Do You Need a Pap Smear?

According to current guidelines:

• Women ages 21–29: every 3 years with a Pap test
• Women ages 30–65: every 3–5 years depending on whether HPV testing is done at the same time
• Women over 65: may not need Pap smears if they’ve had normal results for many years

Always follow your provider’s personalized recommendations.

Final Thoughts

Your Pap smear is a vital part of staying ahead of cervical cancer and other reproductive health issues. If your period is light, your test can likely proceed. But if you’re bleeding heavily, rescheduling is the better choice to ensure clear and accurate results.

At Cary OB/GYN in North Carolina, we’re here to make your wellness simple and stress-free. If you’re due for your Pap smear—or have questions about when to come in—contact us today to schedule your appointment or get advice.

Further Reading

ACOG: Cervical Cancer Screening

Endometriosis is a condition that affects millions of women, yet it often goes undiagnosed or misunderstood. If you're experiencing painful periods, pelvic discomfort, or unexplained infertility, you may be wondering: Could it be endometriosis? In this blog, we’ll explore the symptoms, diagnostic process, and treatment options for endometriosis to help you better understand your health and when to seek care from Cary OB/GYN in North Carolina.

What Is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (the endometrium) grows outside the uterus, often on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and pelvic lining. This misplaced tissue continues to act like uterine lining—thickening, breaking down, and bleeding with each menstrual cycle—but it has no way to exit the body, causing inflammation, pain, and potentially scar tissue or adhesions.

Common Symptoms of Endometriosis

Symptoms can vary widely, and some individuals with endometriosis may have no noticeable symptoms at all. However, common signs include:

• Pelvic pain before and during menstruation
• Pain during intercourse
• Painful bowel movements or urination, especially during periods
• Heavy or irregular periods
• Fatigue
• Infertility or difficulty getting pregnant

Because these symptoms can overlap with other conditions, many women go years before receiving a proper diagnosis.

How Is Endometriosis Diagnosed?

Diagnosing endometriosis can be challenging because it often mimics other conditions like IBS or ovarian cysts. Your provider at Cary OB/GYN may use several tools to evaluate your symptoms:

• Medical history and pelvic exam
• Ultrasound or MRI to identify cysts or areas of concern
• Laparoscopy, a minimally invasive surgical procedure, remains the gold standard for confirming a diagnosis. This allows your provider to see and potentially remove endometrial implants.

Treatment Options for Endometriosis

There is no cure for endometriosis, but a range of treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Your care plan may include:

1. Medications

• Hormonal therapy to suppress endometrial growth and reduce pain
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain relief

2. Surgical Options

• Laparoscopic excision or ablation of endometrial tissue
• Hysterectomy, in severe cases, may be considered when other treatments have failed and fertility is no longer desired

3. Lifestyle and Supportive Therapies

• Physical therapy for pelvic floor support
• Dietary changes to reduce inflammation
• Support groups and mental health care for emotional well-being

When to Seek Help

If you're experiencing chronic pelvic pain, painful periods, or fertility struggles, don’t wait—speak with a provider at Cary OB/GYN. Early diagnosis and treatment can help protect your reproductive health and improve your daily comfort.

Compassionate Care at Cary OB/GYN

At Cary OB/GYN in North Carolina, our experienced team offers comprehensive care for women with endometriosis, from symptom management to surgical intervention. Schedule a consultation today to take the first step toward relief. Contact us: https://www.caryobgyn.com/contactus/

Further Reading

ACOG- Endometriosis

July is Uterine Fibroids Awareness Month—a time to shine a light on a condition that affects up to 70% of women by age 50. Uterine fibroids are common, noncancerous growths of the uterus that can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life. In this article, we’ll break down what fibroids are, how they affect women, and when you should speak with your provider at Cary OB/GYN in North Carolina.

What Are Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine fibroids are muscular tumors that grow in the wall of the uterus. They can vary in size from very small (like a seed) to as large as a melon. While some women never experience symptoms, others deal with significant discomfort or reproductive issues.

Common Symptoms Include:

• Heavy or prolonged menstrual periods
• Pelvic pressure or pain
• Frequent urination
• Constipation
• Pain during intercourse
• Difficulty getting pregnant or maintaining pregnancy

Who Is Most at Risk?

Fibroids are more likely to occur in women who:

• Are between the ages of 30 and 50
• Have a family history of fibroids
• Are African American (higher risk and more severe symptoms)
• Are overweight or obese
• Consume a diet high in red meat and low in fruits and vegetables

Treatment Options for Uterine Fibroids

Not all fibroids require treatment—many are managed with regular monitoring. When treatment is needed, it depends on the size, location, symptoms, and a woman’s desire to have children.

Treatment options may include:

• Medications to control bleeding and pain or shrink fibroids
• Minimally invasive procedures like uterine artery embolization or radiofrequency ablation
• Myomectomy, a surgery that removes fibroids but preserves the uterus
• Hysterectomy, a permanent solution for women with severe symptoms who no longer wish to become pregnant

At Cary OB/GYN, our team will help guide you through the most appropriate treatment based on your goals and symptoms.

When Should You See Your OB/GYN?

If you’re experiencing heavy periods, pelvic discomfort, or changes in urinary or bowel habits, don’t ignore it. Uterine fibroids are treatable, and early evaluation can prevent complications. Fibroids can also interfere with fertility, so if you're trying to conceive, it's important to address them early.

Take Charge of Your Health

Uterine Fibroids Awareness Month is the perfect time to learn more and prioritize your reproductive wellness. At Cary OB/GYN in North Carolina, we’re here to help you understand your options and provide compassionate, expert care. To schedule an appointment, visit: https://www.caryobgyn.com/contactus/

Further Reading

ACOG- Uterine Fibroids

Pelvic pain during pregnancy can be an uncomfortable and sometimes alarming symptom. But how common is it, and when should you seek help? In this blog, we’ll break down the common causes of pelvic pain during pregnancy and offer relief strategies to help you stay comfortable. If you’re experiencing persistent or severe pain, the team at Cary OB/GYN in North Carolina is here to help: https://www.caryobgyn.com/contactus/

What Causes Pelvic Pain During Pregnancy?

Pelvic pain is most often caused by the natural physical and hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy. Some of the most common causes include:

1. Round Ligament Pain: As your uterus grows, the round ligaments stretch, often causing sharp or jabbing pain on one or both sides of your lower belly or groin.
2. Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (SPD): Hormones loosen the joints in your pelvis in preparation for childbirth, which can cause instability and discomfort in the pelvic area, especially when walking or climbing stairs.
3. Braxton Hicks Contractions: These "practice contractions" can sometimes feel like pressure or tightening in the lower pelvis and abdomen.
4. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Pelvic pain accompanied by burning during urination, urgency, or fever may be a sign of a UTI, which requires prompt treatment during pregnancy
5. Constipation and Gas: Digestive slowdowns due to pregnancy hormones can lead to uncomfortable bloating and pelvic pressure.
6. Pelvic Pressure from Baby: As your baby grows, especially in the third trimester, increased pressure from the weight of the uterus can cause general pelvic heaviness or aching.
7. Preterm Labor (Less Common, but Serious): Persistent pelvic pressure, back pain, and cramping in the second or third trimester could indicate early labor and should be evaluated immediately.

Relief Strategies for Pelvic Pain

Fortunately, several strategies can provide relief from pelvic discomfort:

• Prenatal yoga or stretching to gently ease pelvic tension
• Warm baths or applying a warm (not hot) compress to sore areas
• Pelvic support belts to stabilize the hips and lower back
• Sleep with a pregnancy pillow to support your hips and spine
• Stay active with low-impact exercise like walking or swimming
• Use proper body mechanics when getting up, sitting, or lifting
• See a physical therapist who specializes in prenatal care
• Hydration and fiber-rich diet to prevent constipation

When to Call Your Doctor

Call your provider if your pelvic pain is:

• Severe or sudden
• Accompanied by fever, bleeding, or dizziness
• Associated with painful urination
• Getting worse despite self-care
• Rhythmic or cramp-like in the second or third trimester

These may be signs of an infection, preterm labor, or another condition that needs medical attention.

Supporting You Through Every Trimester

Pregnancy comes with many changes, and pelvic pain is a common—but manageable—symptom. If you’re unsure whether your discomfort is normal or something more, the experienced team at Cary OB/GYN in North Carolina can guide you through it. Contact us for personalized prenatal care: https://www.caryobgyn.com/contactus/

Further Reading

Cleveland Clinic- Round Ligament Pain