by Dr Neelima Mantri | Feb 16, 2025 | Blog, Female Gynaecologist
Millions of women go through severe pain and have to hide their painful periods due to cultural and societal stigma surrounding menstrual hygiene and health. A few women go through their monthly periods with little to no discomfort or inconvenience for a few days. However, for many women, their monthly period is a battle against excruciating pain, fatigue and emotional distress that interferes with their normal daily routine.
One of the causes of severe menstrual pain is endometriosis, which affects millions of girls all over the world. Despite the condition affecting a large percentage of women, little to no information is said about the topic, leaving many women feeling alone and isolated while experiencing debilitating pain every month. In this article, we’ll break the silence regarding endometriosis and elaborate on its symptoms and treatment.
What is Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a chronic medical condition where the tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows outside of the uterus which causes inflammation and swelling. The tissue can develop on the outer layer of the uterus, the fallopian tubes or the ovaries. Normally, this tissue responds to hormonal changes like the tissue found in the inner lining of the uterus and should pass as menstruation.
Unfortunately, this tissue is located on other organs and, after shedding, cannot pass out of the body, leading to complications. Research has been carried out to discover the cause of endometriosis. While no concrete evidence has been found, several theories of possible causes exist, such as genetic disposition, immune system dysfunction and many others.
Symptoms
Various endometriosis symptoms usually manifest in numerous ways, a few of which are listed below:
- Severe Pain: Intense cramping, heavy and painful bleeding and pelvic pain are common symptoms experienced due to endometriosis. It is medically known as dysmenorrhoea, and the cramps could begin days before the period and continue till the end of the period.
- Chronic Pelvic Pain: Many women experience pain in the lower abdomen, back and pelvis when suffering from endometriosis. The pain can occur at any time from intercourse, menstruation, bowel movement or urination.
- Heavy Bleeding: It often comes with the issue of heavy menstrual flow, which leads to health complications like anaemia and fatigue.
- Infertility: The health complications caused by endometriosis, such as scarring, make it difficult to conceive as the condition affects various reproductive organs like the uterus, fallopian tube and ovaries.
- Bloating and Swellings: The condition often causes its bearers to experience bloating and swelling in various parts of the body.
Treatment Options for Endometriosis
Although there is no cure for endometriosis, various treatment options are available to improve quality of life, reduce pain and manage symptoms that occur. There are traditional and natural treatment options available for endometriosis. Natural endometriosis treatment includes:
- Dietary/Lifestyle Changes: Having a balanced diet is key, as consuming a diet rich in omega-3 acids, antioxidants, and fibre will reduce inflammation.
- Herbal Remedies: Consuming herbs like turmeric, chamomile and ginger can help reduce pain.
- Yoga and Relaxing Activities: Performing relaxation activities like yoga can reduce anxiety and stress.
Conclusion
A condition as serious as endometriosis isn’t something to remain silent on, as millions of women and girls are in severe pain every month. The condition affects not only the physical well-being but also the mental and emotional well-being of people with the condition. It is important to ask questions and clear any doubts you may have about endometriosis symptoms in women. Dr Neelima Mantri is ready to address all your concerns.
by Dr Neelima Mantri | Feb 6, 2025 | Blog, Women Health Issues
When was the last time you thought about your cervical health? If the answer is never or barely, you are not alone. Many young women focus more on fitness, skincare and mental well-being, but when it comes to reproductive health, especially the cervix, it often takes the back seat. However, the cervix plays a crucial role in overall health, and taking care of it is just as important as eating well or staying active.
From infections to cervical cancer prevention, understanding potential risks, prevention strategies and scheduling regular screening can make all the difference. This article will walk you through everything you need to know.
The Cervix and Its Role
The cervix is the lower, narrow part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Think of it as a protective gatekeeper. It helps keep harmful bacteria out, produces mucus to aid fertility and even expands during childbirth. But just like any other part of the body, it requires care and attention to be healthy.
The cervix is a small but mighty part of the female reproductive system and plays a crucial role in overall wellness. However, misconception and lack of awareness will keep many women from taking necessary steps to protect it. Talking about cervical health should not be embarrassing or taboo. Share what you learn with friends and encourage each other to schedule check-ups with the best lady gynaecologist in Mumbai.
Common Cervical Health Issues
Many women live with a healthy cervix, but certain conditions can arise. Some without giving you a heads-up. Here are some of the common ones:
●Infection. The cervix is prone to bacterial and viral infections, including STIs like chlamydia and gonorrhoea, which can lead to severe complications if not treated.
●Cervical dysplasia: This is when there’s abnormal cell change in the cervix, often caused by HPV, and if not monitored, it can lead to cervical cancer.
●Cervical cancer: This is one of the most serious cervical conditions. It is often linked to persistent HPV infection. The good news, however, is that it is preventable with regular screening and vaccination.
HPV and Cervical Health
One thing every young woman should know is that the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the most commonly sexually transmitted infection. Most times it clears up on its own, but some high-risk strains can cause cervical cancer. The HPV vaccine protects against the most dangerous strains of the virus and is most effective when taken in early adolescence, although young adults can still benefit from it.
Screening and Early Detection
Cervical cancer does not develop overnight. It will take years for abnormal cells to turn into cancer, which is why it is important to schedule a regular screening.
1.Pap smear (Pap test): This test will detect abnormal cervical cells before they turn into cancer. Most women should start getting pap smears around age 21 and follow their doctor’s recommendations.
2.HPV Test: The test checks for high-risk HPV strains. A pap smear might be a little uncomfortable, but it is quick, and the benefits outweigh the current discomfort.
Preventive Measures and Lifestyle Choices
Apart from screenings and vaccinations, some of the other things you can do to keep your cervix healthy include:
●Practice safe sex: Condoms do not eliminate, but they reduce the risk of HPV and other infections.
●Do not smoke: Smoking would weaken the immune system, which makes it harder for your body to fight off HPV infections.
●Eat a balanced diet: To support cervical health, eat foods rich in vitamins A, C, and folate.
●Listen to your body: When you have unusual bleeding, pelvic pain, or discomfort, do not ignore it. Check it.
Conclusion
Cervical health is an important part of your overall well-being. Getting vaccinated, staying on top of screenings, and making smart lifestyle choices can help your health. So, when was your last check-up? If it has been a while, consider booking an appointment today. If you have any questions or need further clarification, you can connect with one of the best gynaecologists in Mumbai, Dr Neelima Mantri.
by Dr Neelima Mantri | Jan 30, 2025 | Blog, Gynecologist
Vulvodynia is a common condition that affects the vulva. The experience for many women is confusing! It isn’t caused by infection or any physical thing that can be seen which makes it hard to diagnose. However, the pain can be unbearable and negatively impacts the quality of life.
It is a common issue that isn’t often spoken about. Vulvodynia affects up to 16% of women at one point or the other in their life. Knowledge is important. This article discusses the causes, symptoms, and treatment options available to women so they can seek the required help and get relief.
Understanding Vulvodynia
It is the pain in the vulva area that can last up to 3 months or longer, and no clear cause is known. Generally, it is qualified into two:
- Generalized Vulvodynia: Here, the pain occurs in different parts of the vulva. It may be constant or occur at different intervals.
- Localised Vulvodynia: The pain here is only to a specific area. It could be triggered by pressure or by touch, like during sexual intercourse or when inserting a tampon.
Causes of Vulvodynia
It is not a consequence of bad hygiene or sexually transmitted infections. However, these myths still exist, and the lack of awareness does not do good to the women in pain. What causes Vulvodynia is not always clear, but it can be a combination of the following:
- Neurological Factors: Nerve damage or hypersensitivity in the vulvar region would lead to severe pain. This could be after an injury, surgery or even without any reason at all.
- Hormonal Changes: As women grow older and experience hormonal changes, it can affect their health. Hormonal changes like those from oral contraceptives or menopause can affect the tissue around the vulva and cause pain.
- Inflammation: When a person has to deal with a series of infections or inflammation, the vulva area can become sensitive long after the initial issue has been sorted.
- Psychological Contributors: Experiencing anxiety, depression, or a history of trauma can increase the pain and make it harder to manage.
It is important to remember that the pan is real and doesn’t exist just in your head. In addressing it, several underlying factors need to be addressed.
Symptoms of Vulvodynia
The human body is different, so the symptoms vary from person to person. Common symptoms include:
- Constant vulvar pain, which comes as burning, stinging, rawness, or itching.
- Pain during specific activities, such as sitting, wearing tight clothing, or engaging in sexual intercourse.
- Sensitivity to touch, even from something as light as underwear.
It can range from mild discomfort to unbearable pain, which affects daily activities. If these symptoms sound familiar, it’s important to consult a gynaecologist in Mumbai like Dr Neelima Mantri.
Vulvodynia Treatment
There’s no one-size-fits-all treatment. Each treatment is peculiar to each individual.
- Medical Treatments: You could be given a cream to numb the area, which can bring temporary relief. Some drugs may also be prescribed.
- Physical Therapy: Pelvic floor therapy involves exercises that can help relax tight muscles, and it may help reduce pain.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Avoiding things that irritate the body, like scented soaps, tight clothing, or rough fabrics, can prevent you from having flare-ups. Use cotton underwear and adopt a gentle cleansing routine.
- Surgical Interventions: In rare, severe cases, a procedure called Vestibulectomy (removal of painful tissue around the vulva) may be recommended.
Conclusion
While vulvodynia may be challenging, it can be managed with the right care and support. Let’s work together to break the silence, debunk the myths around vulvodynia, and ensure that no woman feels alone in her pain. If you or a loved one is experiencing this pain, consult the best lady gynaecologist in Mumbai, Dr Neelima Mantri, today.
by Dr Neelima Mantri | Jan 20, 2025 | Blog, Female Gynaecologist, Pregnancy Tips
Pregnancy is usually a thing that brings joy with it, but it comes with unexpected challenges. An example is the cervical insufficiency condition. It impacts a woman’s ability to carry a pregnancy to full term. It may be rare, but understanding it can ensure the best possible outcome for both mother and baby
What is Cervical Insufficiency?
It occurs when the cervix—the tissue connecting the uterus to the vagina—is weak or dilates too early in pregnancy. It usually occurs in the second trimester. It can be distinguished from preterm labour. Unlike preterm labour, which comes with contractions, cervical Insufficiency doesn’t show pain or any warning signs. It can lead to pregnancy loss or premature birth if not treated.
Causes of Cervical Insufficiency
There are many factors which contribute to this.
- Medical History: it could be a result of procedures like cervical biopsies, dilation and curettage (D&C), or even a traumatic childbirth experience for many women that can weaken cervical tissue.
- Factors from Birth: Some women may be born with abnormalities or genetic conditions, which makes them more likely to have cervix insufficiency.
- Hormonal Influences: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can soften and weaken cervical tissue, increasing the risk of early dilation.
Other risk factors are carrying multiple pregnancies, history of miscarriage, or uterine anomalies.
Symptoms of Cervical Insufficiency
Being able to differentiate between cervical Insufficiency and other pregnancy complications is important for much-needed early intervention. Cervical insufficiency often has no symptoms, which makes it harder to detect. However, there are some warning signs to watch for, including:
- Pelvic pressure or fullness.
- Vaginal spotting or changes in discharge.
- Early cervical dilation was noticed during routine exams.
Because these symptoms can be subtle or absent, regular prenatal checkups and open communication with your gynecologist and obstetrician, such as Dr Neelima Mantri, are essential.
The Diagnosis
Diagnosing cervical insufficiency typically involves:
- Medical History Evaluation: A review of past pregnancies, surgeries, or other risk factors is one.
- Physical Exams: Routine Pelvic exams to check for cervical changes.
- Ultrasound: Measuring cervical length can help assess the risk of insufficiency.
Detecting it early plays a major role in stopping complications.
Treatment Options
Cervical insufficiency treatment depends on how serious the condition is and what stage the pregnancy is at. Common options include:
- Cerclage: It is a surgical procedure. It involves stitching the cervix to keep it closed. Cerlage is often carried out between 12–14 weeks of pregnancy in high-risk cases or simply as an emergency measure if the cervix begins to dilate prematurely.
- Progesterone Therapy: Another way is therapy. Progesterone, a hormone essential for pregnancy, may be prescribed to help strengthen the cervix and reduce any inflammation.
- Restrictions: In some cases, doctors may recommend bed rest or minimal physical activity to reduce pressure on the cervix.
Pregnancy differs from person to person, so your doctors will work together based on your history to create a plan that works best for you.
Conclusion
Women can navigate this by understanding the causes, recognising the symptoms, and working closely with healthcare providers. If you or someone you know is at risk, encourage them to seek medical advice and consult the best obstetrician in Mumbai. Connect with Dr Neelima Mantri today.
by Dr Neelima Mantri | Jan 8, 2025 | Blog
Vanishing twin syndrome (VTS) occurs during pregnancy when one twin disappears in the uterus. This condition is usually experienced after it has been initially detected via ultrasound. It is a rare condition and is more prevalent in the first trimester.
For expectant parents, this experience is bittersweet because they are grieving the loss of one twin while celebrating the survival of the other. VTS is relatively common, especially with the use of early ultrasound technology. This article discusses the causes, symptoms, and how families can navigate this journey.
What is vanishing twin syndrome?
Vanishing twin syndrome occurs when a twin or multiple ones disappear in the womb. This is usually because of miscarriage early in the pregnancy. The surviving twin, the placenta, or the mother’s body, absorbs the remaining tissue from the vanished twin.
More cases of VTS have been detected than ever because of the advancement in ultrasound technology. In the past, such cases were not recognized. VTS is most commonly diagnosed during routine scans when multiple gestations are identified, but subsequent scans only show one fetus.
Causes of Vanishing Twin Syndrome
The loss of one twin is typically because of natural factors which no one can control. These are:
- Genetic abnormalities: Some vanished twins have chromosomal issues, which stop them from growing.
- Placental issues: Problems with the placenta, like insufficient blood flow or nutrients not getting to the fetus, can result in the loss of one twin.
- Maternal factors: How advanced in age the mother is, uterine abnormalities or even underlying health conditions of the mother can contribute to VTS. Research shows that this is more common among women who are older than 30.
VTS is rarely preventable and does not indicate a problem with the mother’s health or care.
Symptoms of Vanishing Twin Syndrome
The symptoms vary from person to person, but in most cases, there are no noticeable signs, and it is only discovered during a routine ultrasound. Commonly, some women may experience:
- Vaginal bleeding is often mistaken for a miscarriage.
- Cramp pain or pelvic discomfort.
- Back pain
Diagnosis and Treatment
An early scan may detect two gestational sacs, but subsequent scans may show only one fetus. There is no direct treatment for the vanished twin itself. The only thing that can be done is to monitor the surviving twin. Gynecologists and obstetricians in Mumbai focus on ensuring that the surviving twin develops and that the mother is monitored to prevent any further complications.
In most cases, the surviving twin continues to develop normally, and the pregnancy proceeds without any further complications. There may be the feeling that something could have been done right to prevent the incident from occurring, but it is noteworthy that the irregularities could stem from the vanished twin’s DNA
Conclusion
Vanishing twin syndrome is natural, and for the most part, it cannot be prevented. It may be emotionally challenging, but seeking support can help families go through the experience by focusing on the health of the surviving twin. For the mother’s health, connect with the best gynecologist Mumbai, Dr Neelima Mantri.
by Dr Neelima Mantri | Dec 26, 2024 | Blog, High Risk Pregnancy
Twin Anemia-Polycythemia Sequence (TAPS) is a serious complication that can occur in pregnancies involving monochorionic twins, that is, identical twins sharing a single placenta. It would have you looking for the best obstetrician in Mumbai. This article discusses the causes, symptoms, and treatment of TAPS.
What is the Twin Anemia-Polycythemia Sequence
This condition occurs when tiny blood vessel connections in the placenta cause blood to flow unevenly from one twin to the other. This then makes one twin (the donor) lose blood, leading to anemia, while the other twin (the recipient) ends up with too much blood and that makes their blood thicker than usual—a condition called polycythemia.
It is important to note that TAPS differs from another condition called Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS). While TTTS is caused by larger blood vessel connections between the twins, which often leads to fluid imbalances in the amniotic sacs, smaller connections cause TAPS.
What Causes TAPS?
The primary cause of TAPS is the uneven flow between monochorionic twins. This is due to the tiny surface connections between the placenta’s arteries and veins, which cause blood to flow continuously from one twin to the other twin. Twin Anemia-Polycythemia Sequence can also be caused by a complication after a procedure called laser surgery, which is used to treat Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome.
The blood vessels are sealed using laser ablation to balance blood flow in the twins. However, the tiny blood connections may remain or develop and lead to TAPS. It is noteworthy that sometimes TAPS spontaneously develops, which shows how unpredictable monochorionic pregnancies are.
Symptoms of Twin Anemia-Polycythemia Sequence
TAPS develops gradually, so it may not show symptoms in the mother early on. However, the anemic twin(the donor) would have pale skin and low hemoglobin levels. The polycythemic twin (recipient) Wood would have a reddish or darker complexion because of thickened blood. In some cases, the placenta on the donor twin’s side may seem thickened, and the recipient twin’s liver may show bright white spots called starry sky.
The Treatment
The treatment depends on the stage of the pregnancy.
These treatments are done during the early stage of the pregnancy. The essence is to help keep both twins stable before delivery:
- Intrauterine Transfusion: For the twin with anemia, a direct blood Transfusion is given in the umbilical vein. This now helps restore hemoglobin levels to normal.
- Partial Exchange Transfusion: This is for the recipient twin who has thick blood. The procedure remixes a portion of the blood and replaces it with a fluid solution like saline or plasma. This would reduce blood viscosity and decrease clotting risk.
- Selective Fetoscopic Laser Surgery (SFL): For advanced cases of TAPS, this procedure is used to target the abnormal blood vessel connections in the shared placenta. A fetoscope (tiny camera) is inserted into the uterus, and a laser is used to seal the problematic vessels.
- Preterm Delivery: Where TAPS occurs towards the end of the pregnancy, the doctors may deliver the babies preterm. They would require intensive care if it comes to this.
Conclusion
The Twin Anemia-Polycythemia Sequence (TAPS) shows how complex monochorionic twin pregnancies can be. However, it shows that one must be vigilant and that timely care can do much good for the babies and the mother. Experienced professionals like Dr. Neelima Mantri have the knowledge and individualized care required for parents managing high-risk pregnancies.
