December 2021 - Eva Hospital

Month: <span>December 2021</span>

Importance of Semen Analysis in Male Infertility Treatment

December 29, 2021March 29, 2024
by Eva Hospital

What Is Semen Analysis?

Semen is the fluid that contains sperm plus other sugar and protein substances and is released during ejaculation.

A procedure in which fertility specialists examine and evaluate the health, vitality, and overall quality of a man’s semen and sperm is known as Semen Analysis. Also known as the sperm count test, a semen sample is used by a lab technician to check for a number of aspects that may affect overall fertility.

The examination is an important part of many fertility treatments, ranging from in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intrauterine insemination (IUI) to a general diagnosis of infertility.

Usually, two or three different sperm analysis tests are conducted to get a good idea of sperm’s health. Conducted at least seven days apart and over the course of two to three months, an average of the sperm samples taken gives the most conclusive result.

Conducted at Least Seven Days Apart and Over the Course of Two to Three Months, an Average of the Sperm Samples Taken Gives the Most Conclusive Result.

Why Undergo Semen Analysis?

If a man sees problems in getting his partner pregnant after trying to conceive for a few months or a year, then semen analysis is recommended. This assessment of male fertility is to be performed in addition to a female fertility assessment.

Semen analysis is able to measure a number of different things regarding semen as well as sperm. This includes all of the following:

- Sperm Count – The number of sperm per milliliter of semen is known as the sperm count. The normal sperm count in the semen analysis should be between 20 million to over 200 million. Low sperm count can make conceiving difficult.
- Sperm Motility – The ability for the sperm to swim properly is known as sperm motility and is important to fertility because sperm must travel to fertilize an egg and is less likely to fertilize eggs if it is unable to do so.
- Sperm Morphology – The shape and anatomy of the sperm play a major role in fertility. More than 50 percent of abnormally shaped sperms reduce fertility to a large extent. The lab tests can identify abnormalities in the sperm’s head, midsection, or tail. There is also a possibility that the sperm can be immature and therefore not able to effectively fertilize an egg.
- Semen Volume – The amount of semen present when a man ejaculates has a major impact on his ability to get his partner pregnant. A normal measure should be greater than 2 milliliters and a low semen volume indicates a low amount of sperm reducing its ability to fertilize an egg. However, an excess of fluid volume could also indicate the dilution of the amount of sperm present.
- Liquefaction Time – Generally gel-like for 20 minutes after ejaculation, semen eventually turns into liquid. Lack of ability of the sperm to liquefy, within 15 to 30 minutes can lead to reduced fertility as the liquefaction helps sperm to move.
- Fructose Level – The sugar present in semen that helps nourish and give energy to the sperm is called fructose. Low fructose levels can affect the viability of the sperm.
- Semen pH – Any issue with acidity or alkalinity of the semen can compromise the health of the sperm.
- pH level – The ideal pH level should be between 7.2 and 7.8. Higher than 8.0 Ph level could indicate an infection and less than 7.0 could indicate that the specimen is contaminated or that the ejaculatory ducts of the man are blocked.
- Appearance – The semen should be whitish to grey and opalescent in appearance. A red-brown tint could indicate the presence of blood, while a yellow tint could indicate jaundice or a side effect of medication.

What do abnormal results mean?

It is difficult for an abnormal sperm to penetrate eggs, making the conception difficult.

Abnormal results may indicate the following factors:

infertility
infection
hormonal imbalance
disease, such as diabetes
gene defects
exposure to radiation

Some additional tests can be recommended by the doctor if the results come back. These tests may include:

genetic tests
hormone testing
urinalysis after ejaculation
taking a tissue sample from the testicles
anti-sperm immune cells testing

After the tests have been done, the semen analyzed and notes of the issues taken, the fertility specialist can develop a custom treatment plan for the patient.

Treating Male Infertility

A fertility specialist may address some cases of male infertility through lifestyle changes like wearing the right kind of underwear and an optimized diet to resolve issues with semen composition and pH. These changes can be discussed in greater detail with the fertility specialist depending on your needs.

However, if there are issues with sperm count or sperm motility, it is advisable to consider fertility treatments like IVF and IUI, which can boost the likelihood of having a child to great extent. The use of a sperm donor may be recommended as the best option in some cases for starting a family.

Why undergo semen analysis?

Semen analysis is an optimum method of finding male infertility. Mostly recommended when couples are having problems getting pregnant, the test helps a doctor to determine if a man is infertile.

The analysis can also help establish if low sperm count or sperm dysfunction is causing infertility.

Outlook after a semen analysis

A careful collection and analysis of multiple specimens can lead to appropriate semen analysis and can provide a variety of information that can be a determining factor that affects male fertility. In case of abnormal tests, the fertility specialist can help establish the line of lifestyle changes and an appropriate line of treatment.

For more information about treating male infertility and how we can help you, be sure to contact Dr. Shivani Bhutani, a top fertility specialist at Eva Hospital Ludhiana.

The hospital uses state-of-the-art technology to improve the fertility chances for couples who are looking to start a family

Eva Hospital

What Are the Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis?

December 27, 2021March 29, 2024
by Eva Hospital

A chronic inflammatory disorder that affects more than just joints is called Rheumatoid Arthritis. The condition can be damaging to many body systems including the skin, eyes, lungs, heart, and blood vessels.

Rheumatoid arthritis test is an Autoimmune disorder that occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks one’s own body’s tissues.

Rheumatoid arthritis affects the lining of the joints which causes a painful swelling that can eventually result in bone erosion and joint deformity.

The inflammation related to rheumatoid arthritis can damage other parts of the body as well and may cause physical disabilities.

Though the exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown, it is generally believed to be caused by a combination the following factors:

Genetics
Abnormal immunity
Environmental factors
Hormones

Generally, the immune system safeguards the body from disease. But in some people, possible infections, cigarette smoking, and physical or emotional stress, among other causes trigger the immune system to attack the joints and sometimes other organs causing Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Gender, heredity, and genes determine a person’s risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis largely. Women are about three times more likely than men to develop rheumatoid arthritis.

Signs and symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis may include:

Tender, warm, swollen joints
Joint stiffness is especially worse in the mornings and after a long period of inactivity
Fatigue, fever, excessive sleepiness, and loss of appetite

In the beginning rheumatoid arthritis affects the smaller joints, especially the joints that attach the fingers to hands and the toes to the feet.

With the advancement of the disease, symptoms spread to the wrists, knees, ankles, elbows, hips, and shoulders. In the majority of patients, symptoms occur in the same joints on both sides of the body.

About one-third of people who have rheumatoid arthritis also experience signs and symptoms where joints are not involved. Other areas that can be are affected are:

Skin
Eyes
Lungs
Heart
Kidneys
Salivary glands
Nerve tissue
Bone marrow
Blood vessels

Rheumatoid arthritis signs and symptoms affect each person differently and in some, the symptoms might come and go.

Intervals of high disease activity, called flares, alternate with periods of remission, where the swelling and pain fade or disappear.

Gradually, rheumatoid arthritis can cause joints to deform and shift out of place.

One must make an appointment with your doctor if one has lasting discomfort and swelling in the joints which is hindering normal activity.

Timely medical intervention can slow down the progression of the disease considerably.

Dr. Tanveer Bhutani at Eva Hospital has experience in treating Rheumatoid Arthritis and helping people live a pain-free life.

Eva Hospital

Best Breastfeeding Tips for New Moms

December 23, 2021November 16, 2023
by Eva Hospital

The immense joy and happiness a newborn brings to your life come with a few responsibilities too.

Feeding a newborn is a round-the-clock commitment that every new mother embraces wholeheartedly. An opportunity to start establishing a bond with her baby.

Dr. Shivani Bhutani, a renowned gynecologist, infertility specialist, and counselor shares some tips on breastfeeding for new moms.

She says Breastfeeding is a skill that mother and baby learn together and that these tips may help the mothers to reach their breastfeeding goals.

Stay Together After the Birth

Keeping the baby with you after the birth facilitates a feeling of intimacy, closeness, and a powerful hormonal response that is associated with breastfeeding success.

Holding the newborn close during each feeding, making eye contact, and talking to him or her in a gentle voice during each feeding serve to build the newborn’s feeling of safety, trust, and comfort.

Get Your Position and Attachment Right

The initial few days after the birth offers the best chance for the mother and the baby to learn to breastfeed.

The mother’s breasts are still soft for a few days after the birth. However gradually as breast milk changes from highly nutritious colostrum to mature milk, the breasts become fuller and ﬁrmer.

The first few days can be utilized to get your position and attachment right. This will go a long way to help to avoid any potential issues.

Be Patient

A skill that both you and your baby need to learn together, breastfeeding is harder for some mothers and babies than it is for others. It requires time and patience.

Both you and your baby must relax. If you find you are getting irritable with yourself while you’re trying to breastfeed, take a break and try again in a little while.

Feed on Demand or According to Need

A newborn needs to be fed between seven and twelve times in 24 hours initially while being breastfed but this will settle over time. Frequent and effective feeding aids in making enough milk for the baby.

Signs of readiness to feed, like moving the hands to the mouth, sucking on fists and fingers, and lip-smacking are the first signs to watch out for initially.

Fussing and crying come later. The stopping of suckling, closing his or her mouth, or turning away from the nipple might be signs of the baby being full or simply taking a break. Burp the baby or wait a minute before offering the breast again.

As the babies get older, they take in more milk in less time at each feeding.

Only Breast Milk for the First Six Months

The babies need no other food or drink except exclusive breastfeeding until at least six months of age. Six or more heavy, wet nappies and at least one bowel motion a day is a sign that your baby is receiving enough breast milk in the early weeks. The baby settling down after most feeds is also a good sign.

Vitamin D Supplements

Breast Milk May Not Provide Enough Vitamin D, Which Aids the Absorption of Calcium and Nutrients Necessary for Strong Bones by the Baby. Consult the Doctor to Discuss If Vitamin D Supplements Are Needed for the Baby.

Breast milk may not provide enough vitamin D, which aids the absorption of calcium and nutrients necessary for strong bones by the baby. Consult the doctor to discuss if Vitamin D Supplements are needed for the baby.

Trust your instincts

Mothers tend to worry that the newborn is not eating enough, but babies know just how much they require. Instead of how much feed the newborn is taking keep a tab on steady weight gain and satisfaction between feedings

When to ask for help

A lactation consultant or your baby’s doctor can help if you are having trouble feeding, especially if feeding is painful or the baby is not gaining weight.

Bottomline

Breastfeeding is a technique and skill which is not only important to feed the newborn but goes a long way in taking care of the Child’s nourishment and health.

These are some resources for support during the lactation period.

Eva Hospital

What Not to Do After Knee Replacement?

December 22, 2021March 29, 2024
by Eva Hospital

The knee joints take a lot of battering all our lives, which can ultimately lead to osteoarthritis and various other knee injuries. Designed to rebuild and restore knee function and reduce pain by replacing the knee joint with an artificial one, Knee replacement surgery (knee arthroplasty) is very popular these days, and is helping people resume normal lifestyles.

An important part of recovery following knee replacement surgery is stretching and strengthening of the muscles. But one needs to keep in mind that some types of movements and exercises may be more harmful than beneficial.

It is vital to learn what types of movements should be avoided after a knee replacement surgery.

Exercises and Movements to avoid after a knee replacement

The knee replacement surgery aims at enabling one to return to everyday activities without pain. As tempting as it is to return to a normal routine as soon as possible, there are some exercises and movements one should avoid during recuperation and healing.

Activities with a high risk of falling

Loss of strength, range of motion, and balance lead to an increased risk of falling lost knee replacement surgery. A fall can be damaging to the prosthesis and can deter the healing process.

A few lifestyle changes that can reduce the risk of falling include:

Use the handrail when climbing up and down the stairs
Use a rubber mat or shower chair when taking a bath
Always sit down to put on shorts or pants
Keep the floor clear of toys, slippery mats & rugs, and other items that may present a risk of tripping.
Avoid slippery terrains like mud, ice, or wet grass

Prolonged sitting

The risk of developing a blood clot, especially in the first 2 weeks after surgery is increased due to long duration of sitting, post a knee replacement surgery. It can also hinder the drainage of fluid in the lower leg, making the swelling worse.

It is advisable not to sit continuously for more than 40 to 45 minutes. In case prolonged sitting is unavoidable, prop the legs up on a chair or something similar to minimize swelling.

Excess weight-bearing

Most people use a walker, crutches, or other assistive devices after knee replacement surgery. Early weight-bearing and moving around as soon as possible after surgery is recommended by most surgeons. However, for the initial days, this will need the help of a nurse, a family member, or a physical therapist.

A should be avoided until one is allowed to do so by the surgeon or physical therapist. While climbing up the stairs, lead with the leg that has not had surgery and while climbing down, step first with the leg that has had surgery.

Kneeling: Difficulty in kneeling or an inability to kneel after a total knee replacement is reported by many people. Though there is not much evidence to such that kneeling shortens the life of the prosthesis, if one is uncomfortable, it should be avoided.

Running and Jumping

The knee joint bears three times the normal force while running than when walking. And jumping involves an even higher amount of force at work. One must totally avoid activities that involve running and jumping while recovering from a knee replacement surgery. These activities may not only delay healing but also cause damage to the prosthesis.

In fact, such high-intensity activities should be avoided even when fully healed.

Sports with high impact or quickly changing directions

Here are some sports to avoid after the knee replacement:

Weight training: Heavy weight lifting, particularly during squats or similar exercises, which exert pressure on the joints should be totally avoided. Ask your doctor or physical therapist for suggestions or techniques which are suitable for the new knee.

Hiking: Even while being low impact, routes with uneven ground and erupting roots or rocks can cause falls and be hazardous to the knee. So avoid hiking in rough terrain after knee replacement.

Skateboarding and Rollerblading: Holding a substantial risk of twisted knees and possible fall on hard surfaces these sports can lengthen the recovery process.

High-impact Sports or Aerobics: The negative impact of running with the risk of hitting other players in the process of damaging the knee is combined in some sports. One must avoid taking part in contact sports or sports that lead to a sudden twisting or jerking of the knee like soccer, football, rugby, basketball, skiing, hockey, gymnastics, etc.

Some great options to stay active after the knee replacement surgery are low-intensity sports like cycling, golf, and swimming.

Bottomline

Knee replacement surgery is a highly successful method of getting rid of knee pain which can hamper your life and normal activity.

Dr. Tanveer Bhutani at Eva Hospital has been helping people lead a pain-free life by very competently treating Knee replacement

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However, one may have to make a few adjustments to their lifestyle while the knee heals. Some of these changes might seem apparent, but they do a long way to make a difference in the long-term use of the knee.

Eva Hospital

How to Improve Egg Quality After 40?

December 20, 2021March 29, 2024
by Eva Hospital

Overview

The quality of the eggs is the most important factor for a successful pregnancy and is a matter of concern for women over 40, how to get pregnant naturally or with the help of IVF.

Women are born with about one to two million eggs out of which only 300-500 mature and become available for use throughout their lifetime.

As one age, the quality of eggs deteriorates and so does the ability to conceive. Poor egg quality can also cause chronic health problems in the offspring.

A woman’s odds of achieving pregnancy after 40 are considerably decreased and the odds of a pregnancy loss in case a pregnancy occurs are quite higher.

The main important factor in reduced pregnancy and increased pregnancy loss rates is egg quality.

Egg Quality and Age

The best measure of egg quality usually is the proportion of a woman’s eggs that are genetically normal. As the woman ages, the amount of genetically normal eggs she produces decreases.

The ovaries also become less able to meet the demands of a growing egg as the women age, so the eggs in a 40+-year-old woman are more likely to have errors in their genetic makeup.

Ways to Improve Egg Quality after 40

Though nothing can be done to prevent the regular loss of eggs as one age, there are several fertility supplements one can take and dietary and lifestyle changes that can be made to improve egg quality after 40 and ultimately improve one’s chances of pregnant

1. The Fertility Diet

A diet high in fat and low in carbohydrates helps to improve overall fertility and egg quality.

Fat is crucial for the development of every cell in the body, giving the body energy, supporting cell growth, absorbing nutrients, and producing hormones.

The eggs are also made of fat like everything else in the body so the fat provides eggs with the energy & nutrition needed to develop properly.

2. Quality Sleep

Quality sleep is related to egg quality and fertility directly. Our bodies repair cells, rebuild energy and release hormones required for reproductive and other processes while we sleep, allowing the body to support the development of high-quality and healthy eggs.

3. Avoid Smoking

Nicotine impairs egg quality and quantity. Also, Smoking increases egg loss in the ovaries and increases the number of abnormal eggs produced.

4. Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol

Limiting caffeine consumption and restricting or completely excluding alcohol while you are trying to get pregnant helps to improve egg quality.

5. Manage Stress

Stress can cause many imbalances and issues throughout the body related to fertility and egg quality. Our bodies produce increased levels of cortisol and prolactin when we are stressed and they can decrease ovulation, impeding egg production.

6. Light Exercise/ Yoga

Exercises like walking, stretching, and yoga are great ways to reduce stress, increase blood flow to your reproductive organs and balance the immune system. Moreover, obesity can increase oxidative stress on the cells.

7. Supplements

The use of Fertility supplements to improve the egg quality of women over 40 can prove beneficial.

Some supplements which have been shown to increase antioxidant levels, and support a healthy ovarian environment to improve egg quality are:

Fish Oil (Omega 3s): Omega 3s is a practical way to delay ovarian aging and can help to preserve fertility and encourage the production of higher quality eggs, especially for women over 40.
Co-Enzyme Q10 (Coq10): Co-enzyme q10 levels within the body decrease as we age. It is vital for women over the age of 40 to take Co q10 supplements when they are trying to get pregnant. Co q10 is the primary antioxidant that protects and supports mitochondria. The number of healthy mitochondria and levels of CoQ10 decline as women age. CoQ10 supplements can improve the energy in the egg cells.
Vitamin A: Vitamin A plays a significant role in ensuring egg quality and also blastogenesis, an essential portion of embryo development. Other Vitamins and Nutrients which aid Egg Quality after 40 are:

Vitamin E has strong antioxidant effects and can reduce oxidative stress and increase follicular blood supply that is vital for the development of high-quality eggs.
Zinc and certain B vitamins play a key role in DNA synthesis, important for the development of high-quality oocytes.
Adequate folate levels help in promoting oocyte quality, maturation, fertilization, and implantation.
DHEA supplements can turn around low levels of androgens in the ovaries which may result in reduced ovarian reserve and poor-quality eggs.

Glutathione’s powerful antioxidant fights free radicals and reduces the oxidative stress on the egg cells, stemming in healthier eggs and hence, better embryos.

Additional Note

Generally, women over the age of 40-41 years are instantly referred for donor eggs because of their eggs being of poor quality.

Studies have shown that preponing the time of egg retrieval in women with poor ovarian reserve or premature ovarian failure, can make it possible to extract better quality eggs and improve the success rates of IVF.

Otherwise, Donor eggs are an optimal option for women over 40 who wish to get pregnant.

Dr. Shivani Bhutani a renowned infertility specialist from Eva Hospital lays great emphasis on improving Egg quality before opting for Fertility treatments.

She has been treating patients with poor egg quality with adequate treatments for several years.

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Eva Hospital

How to Cure Frozen Shoulder Quickly?

December 15, 2021March 29, 2024
by Eva Hospital

Introduction

Severe pain in the shoulder when moving and while resting, a pain that affects sleep and limits your mobility in any way, especially while rotating the arm above shoulder level, can indicate frozen shoulder exercises syndrome

A disease that attacks the shoulder joint, medically known as Adhesive Capsulitis, frozen shoulder is difficult to bear.

Pain and stiffness develop gradually, get worse, and eventually go away. However, the full recovery can take up to 3 years.

The Shoulder consists of three bones that form a connection called a ball-and-socket joint, namely the upper arm (humerus), shoulder blade (scapula), and collarbone (clavicle).

The tissue surrounding the shoulder joint that holds everything together is called the shoulder capsule.

The frozen shoulder makes the capsule so thick and tight that it’s hard to move. Scar tissue forms and there is a reduction of synovial fluid, a liquid that keeps the joint lubricated.

This leads to further limiting of the motion.

Frozen shoulders can be very painful, making simple tasks like dressing and bathing impossible.

Symptoms and Signs of a Frozen Shoulder

Shoulder pain
Stiffness
Loss of freedom of movement.
Limiting the range of shoulder movement on trying to move the joint.
Increased pain in the shoulder when used.
A pain that worsens at night

Stages of a Frozen Shoulder

The symptoms of frozen shoulder are divided into three stages. They slowly get worse and go away within 2 to 3 years.

Freezing or Painful Stage:

Pain in the shoulder while moving it, which gradually increases, making shoulder movements more difficult and stronger and hurting more at night. This phase generally lasts from 6 weeks to 9 months.

Frozen Stage:

The pain does not worsen and may get better at this stage. However, the stiffness in the shoulders may worsen. This stage can last for 4 to 6 months or even more, restricting your movement, and making daily activities even harder.

Thawing Stage:

The range of motion becomes more comfortable and ultimately returns to normal. The pain is much better, but sometimes it may return too. This takes anywhere between 6 months and two years.

Causes of Frozen Shoulder

A frozen shoulder can be caused by an injury of the shoulder, including tendinitis, bursitis, and rotator cuff syndrome.

Patients with diabetes, chronic shoulder arthritis, and having had breast surgery are at a higher risk. Frozen shoulder usually affects people aged between 40 and 60 years and it happens in more women than men.

Diagnosis

A physical exam to check how badly the shoulder hurts and how far it moves is usually enough to diagnose a frozen shoulder. However damaging tests such as X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI to rule out other problems like arthritis or a torn rotator cuff can also be done

Treatment

The main aim of the treatment is controlling the shoulder pain and preserving as much range of motion in the shoulder as possible. There are many ways to alleviate pain and ease the condition.

Most frozen shoulder treatments involve:

Physical Therapy:

Physiotherapy is the most popular treatment for frozen shoulders. The therapist recommends and teaches range-of-motion exercises to help recover as much mobility in the shoulder as possible by stretching the shoulder joint and regaining lost movement.

Any improvement can take at least a few weeks to nine months. But if no improvement is noticed after six months of exercise every day, one should talk to a doctor for other options.

Medications:

Pain relievers, such as aspirin and ibuprofen can help lessen pain and inflammation attributed to frozen shoulders. In some cases, anti-inflammatory drugs are recommended to treat pain and reduce joint inflammation.

Steroid injections:

Injecting corticosteroids into the shoulder joint help ease pain and improves range of motion, especially in the early stages of a frozen shoulder

Joint detention:

Injecting sterile water into a joint capsule can help stretch it, allowing an easier movement of the shoulder.

Surgery:

However, if the symptoms do not improve with therapy and other conservative methods or if the patient is looking for a quick solution to the problem, the doctor can recommend surgery in which the surgeon removes scar tissue and adhesions from inside the shoulder joint.

The aim of this surgery is to stretch & release the stiff capsule of the joint.

The two most popular methods of surgery are

Manipulation: It is a procedure where the surgeon moves the shoulder when the patient is under anesthesia. The shoulder joint is then moved in various directions by the doctor to loosen tight tissue.

Arthroscopic capsular release: A relatively small operation performed as a “key” operation, the tight capsule from the joint is removed with a special lighted, tubular instrument inserted through small incisions.

Conclusion:

If you have pain in your shoulder or the movement is painful, a Free orthopedic doctor near me. The doctor will recommend medicines and physical therapy to ease the pain.

Physical therapy and pain killers can help you control your pain and increase shoulder mobility but it can take up to 3 years for the shoulder to get back to normal.

But if you are looking for a quicker cure, then surgery is a good option and when performed by a competent surgeon, it can restore mobility and set you free from pain in under three months.

Dr. Tanveer Bhutani at Eva Hospital has been helping people lead a pain-free life by very competently treating frozen shoulder problems.

Eva Hospital

Endometriosis VS PCOS- What’s The Difference

December 9, 2021March 29, 2024
by Eva Hospital

Overview

Endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are conditions that can affect women in their childbearing years. A cause of menstrual problems, both can lead to heavy bleeding and also make getting pregnant difficult.

Though can you get pregnant Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis are two different diagnoses, they are both hard to diagnose and affect about 5-10% of women in their reproductive years.

The symptoms for both are different and involve different hormonal issues. Endometriosis genetic is associated with excess estrogen, a female hormone whereas excess androgens or male hormones are the reason behind PCOS.

Endometriosis vs PCOS- Symptoms

Endometriosis and PCOS cause different symptoms and need different treatments

Symptoms of PCOS

PCOS causes irregular menstrual periods due to anovulation (not ovulating every month) and heightened levels of male hormones (androgens).

Women with PCOS have a higher risk of developing diabetes, obstructive sleep apnea, and infertility.

Irregular or missing periods are common PCOS symptoms. Other symptoms include excessive hair growth, weight gain, thinning of hair on the head, oily or acne-prone skin.

Symptoms of Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a disease that causes the endometrium or lining of the uterus to grow outside the uterus. The endometrial tissue growing outside the uterus frequently gets trapped and is not able to leave the body by way of a period.

Endometriosis often results in very painful periods for women and many times goes undetected. It can cause difficulties in getting and sometimes staying pregnant.

Pain during sex, pain with urination or bowel movements during the period, and other gastrointestinal issues can also be symptomatic of this disease.

Some common symptoms like heavy bleeding and difficulty in getting pregnant are shared by both Endometriosis and PCOS patients.

However, most of the symptoms for both conditions are different, and in some cases, these conditions may exist without any symptoms too or misdiagnosis.

Causes of Endometriosis vs. PCOS

Though the exact causes of endometriosis and PCOS are not known, there are some possible explanations identified by the researchers.

Also, some factors can indicate a higher risk of developing one or both conditions.

Causes of Endometriosis

Retrograde menstruation: The uterine endometrial tissue flowing back into the fallopian tube or other areas in the abdominal cavity and pelvic region builds up, but cannot flow out of the body as in a normal menstrual cycle.
Immune system problems: Retrograde menstruation affects almost all women who menstruate, it is normally managed by the immune system. However, a compromised immune system may make it difficult for the body to identify and destroy endometrial tissue outside of the uterus.
Coelomic metaplasia: It is a condition where some cells may turn into endometrial cells causing endometriosis in areas far from the uterus.
Endometrial cell transport: The lymphatic system or blood vessels may transport endometrial cells outside the uterus.
Post-surgery implantation: Endometrial cells might implant themselves at the surgical site, after some surgeries, like a hysterectomy,

Causes of PCOS

Hormonal imbalance: PCOS may be caused by high levels of certain hormones, like testosterone.
Insulin resistance: High insulin levels can make the ovaries produce more male hormones.
Inflammation: High levels of male hormones can also cause excess inflammation.
Transformation of embryonic cells: The cells that develop at the earliest stages of life are embryonic cells and they may transform into endometrial cells during puberty due to an excess of estrogen in one’s system.
Hereditary – PCOS can be correlated to certain genes. However, all-around physical activity and a healthy diet can help in dealing with PCOS.

Can one have endometriosis and PCOS together?

Yes, one can have endometriosis and PCOS at the same time. Women with PCOS may have more chances to be diagnosed with endometriosis.

Moreover, there is a strong connection between endometriosis and PCOS with pelvic pain and trouble getting pregnant.

Diagnosing Endometriosis vs. PCOS

The doctors generally use several tests including Ultrasound, imaging, MRI, and various blood tests to determine if one has endometriosis, PCOS, or both.

Laparoscopy: A small incision is created by the surgeon to check for abnormal tissue growth is done for patients with Endometriosis.

Effects on Fertility

Infertility can be caused by both

PCOS and endometriosis, separately and together. The hormonal issues & physical pain are mostly ignored by women of reproductive age until they are trying to conceive.

PCOS mainly causes hormonal effects on fertility but one may have physical polycystic ovaries.

Endometriosis, on the other hand, causes mainly physical obstruction and fertility treatments can help one to get pregnant but if the removal of the endometrial tissue outside the uterus is not addressed, it may cause miscarriage.

Treatment

Both conditions are treated with various forms of medication and surgery.

Treatment for PCOS

The patient’s PCOS are put on certain medications to regulate hormones and to ensure the regularity of periods so that they do not have a build-up of endometrial tissue in their uterus.

If one is not trying to conceive presently, the treatment may include hormone and insulin level regulating medications to get the body in better working order.

A high follicle count in ovaries is common in women with PCOS. So if one wishes to have kids in the future, egg freezing is a very viable option.

However if one is actively trying to conceive with PCOS presently the fertility doctor will prescribe medications to control hormones and time out the ovulation so that the chances of natural conception can be increased.

However, In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a common and most effective method to get pregnant for patients with PCOS.

Treatment for Endometriosis

For the patients diagnosed with endometriosis, the reproductive surgeons will first aim to clear out the endometrial tissue with laparoscopy, depending on its location and severity.

For those not trying to conceive, painful symptoms can be eased through laparoscopic removal of endometriosis, and overall better health of the reproductive system can be ensured.

However one may not be able to get pregnant on their own until endometriosis is cleared out.

The need for fertility treatment is quite common and effective after endometriosis removal if one wishes to conceive and have a healthy baby.

Takeaway

Both Endometriosis and PCOS are common and have different symptoms and lines of treatment. Dr. Shivani Bhutani, an experienced gynecologist, and fertility specialist at Eva Hospital says that both can be treated through medications.

She adds that becoming pregnant and giving birth to a healthy baby is also possible in both conditions, through fertility treatments and IVF, which has a very high success rate for the patients with these problems.

If you experience irregular or painful periods and have trouble conceiving, visit your gynecologist immediately

Eva Hospital

Tips for Recovering from an ACL Surgery

December 3, 2021March 29, 2024
by Eva Hospital

Overview

ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) surgery is aimed at repairing the torn anterior cruciate ligament in the knee.

It is generally done to repair damage to the ligament that connects the femur (thighbone) to the tibia (shinbone) to keep the knee joint in working order.

A minimally invasive laparoscopic procedure, ACL surgery involves a graft to reconstruct or replace the injured ACL.

Though one can most likely go home the same or the next day, recovery after ACL surgery takes time and includes rest, physical therapy, and gradual return to activities. Following the rehabilitation plan is crucial to facilitate a speedy recovery.

Physical therapy is usually recommended to help build leg and knee strength and it may last for two to six months.

Tips For a Speedy Recovery

The path of recovery from an ACL surgery can be long and hard, but there are ways to speed up your recovery while achieving the best outcome.

Added Precautions

Be aware of possible complications while your knee heals. Do not hesitate to call your doctor if you have a fever, more swelling than expected, or increased pain as these could be signs of a complication.

Strengthen your knee to prevent future problems.

Takeaway

An ACL injury can be difficult to deal with, especially if you’re an athlete or a sportsperson. However, by following proper recovery guidance, you should be able to resume your regular activities within a year.

A competent orthopedic surgeon at Eva Hospital recommends making sure to monitor your recovery and inform your doctor if you have any adverse reactions to the surgery like swelling in your calf, yellow discharge from incisions, a high temperature, or continued bleeding of the incision area.

Making a commitment to follow Dr. Tanvir Bhutani, a highly experienced doctor’s directions, and attending all of your physical therapy sessions will help your knee to continue to grow stronger, and will help you to resume your normal activity level.