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Imperforate Hymen: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Imperforate Hymen: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

The hymen is a fragile membrane that is located at the entrance of the vagina in women. Made of delicate tissue, the hymen often has a tiny opening to let out menstrual blood. Hymens vary in size and shape, and the opening size can change too. In a few cases, the space may be tiny or even non-existent. A hymen without an opening may cause challenging compacta’s for women, and this condition, where the hymen lacks an opening, is called an imperforate hymen.

According to the gynaecologist in Mumbai, Dr. Neelima Mantri, the lack of an opening in the hymen is a rare condition that may lead to a host of complications like infection, menstrual pain, cramping, difficulty in intercourse, and, in rare cases, may even damage the uterus and fallopian tubes.

However, all the possible complications can be avoided by quickly identifying the condition and consulting a qualified gynaecologist for treatment. But what causes imperforate hymen, how to identify an imperforate hymen, and what are the treatment options available today? With insights from the best female gynaecologist in Mumbai, Dr. Neelima Mantri, we have delved into these topics for you. Read on to know.

What causes imperforate hymen?

Imperforate hymen is a congenital condition that children are born with, and it becomes apparent only in menstruation. A child may develop an imperforate hymen right at the embryological stage due to a lack of proper development. It can occur due to genetic predisposition, and even hormonal imbalance problems are also found to cause this rare condition.

How do you identify imperforate hymen?

Delay in the first menstruation is often a sign of a soft imperforate hymen. The lack of an opening results in the menstrual blood lacking a way to get out, leading to a lack of the first period. Because the menstrual blood cannot find its way out, the girl may experience pain that coincides with the menstrual cycle. As the blood doesn’t come out, the menstruation is not accounted for, making pain in the lower abdomen another sign of an imperforate hymen.

In some cases, the accumulated menstrual blood can cause urination problems and back pain, which are the other signs of the imperforate syndrome,” says Dr. Neelima Mantri, the best female gynaecologist in Mumbai for the treatment of imperforate hymen.

Treatment for an imperforate hymen:

While the complications of an imperforate hymen can be severe, the treatment for an imperforate hymen is a simple surgical procedure that involves creating an opening in the hymen.

“After carefully diagnosing the condition, the healthcare provider creates an appropriate opening for the menstrual blood. This simple procedure involves quick recovery, and the patient may resume normal activities the next day,” says a gynaecologist in Mumbai, Dr. Neelima Mantri. If you are experiencing a delay in the first menstruation and any other symptoms mentioned above. In that case, there is a high probability of an imperforate hymen, which can be treated with a simple procedure. You can contact Dr. Neelima Mantri here for more queries about the condition or process.

braxton hicks contractions causes and symptoms

braxton hicks contractions causes and symptoms

Braxton Hicks contractions are uterine contractions that are termed as ‘practice’ or ‘false’ contractions. They are normal contractions of the uterus that mimic labour contractions but do not lead to labour and are also painless. They are, in fact, a regular part of the body’s preparation for labour and are commonly felt during the second and third trimesters.

So, all good and harmless about ‘Braxton Hicks contractions,’ right? Not necessarily. These uncomfortable and unpredictable uterine contractions can cause significant problems in the longer run, leading to a host of problems during the pregnancy journey.

In this blog, with the inputs from the best gynaecologist in Mumbai, Dr. Neelima Mantri, let us know more about these contractions, their causes, symptoms, and also the ways to combat them.

How do Braxton Hicks Contractions they Differ from Regular Uterine Contractions and Pressures?

Braxton Hicks contractions are the practice contractions that often occur in the second and third trimesters. They differ from regular labour contractions in timing, discomfort cases, and also frequency.

Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular contractions that cause mild abdominal tightening or discomfort and last for less than a minute. There is no one specific reason for their occurrence, but they are generally thought to be triggered by a full bladder, physical activity, and dehydration. Because they are irregular and practice contractions, they do not lead to internal cervical changes.

On the other hand, regular uterine contractions are symptoms of labour and hence they follow a consistent pattern of occurrence, eventually leading up to childbirth. As popularly known, they are painful aches and cramps which last longer. As the due date nears, the contractions and symptoms become more frequent and intense and also last longer. These uterine contractions are the body’s preparation for labour, unlike Braxton Hicks contractions, which are just practice contractions.

Braxton Hicks Contractions Symptoms: How do Braxton Hicks Contractions Feel?

Though they are often referred to as practice contractions, Braxton Hicks contractions do cause discomfort in irregular intervals. The timing and intensity of these contractions vary and follow an inconsistent pattern, which can be quite bothersome. Dr. Neelima Mantri, a leading gynaecological laparoscopic surgeon in Mumbai, explains, “The contraction experiences usually feel like menstrual cramps or a gentle squeezing sensation in the abdominal area. They occur sporadically in each case and typically last for less than a minute.”

Relief and Treatment for Braxton Hicks Contractions:

Because these are practice contractions, they do not have serious repercussions and can often be relieved through rest, changes in posture (such as standing up or lying down), and staying hydrated. Emptying the bladder, taking a warm shower, distraction techniques, pelvic tilts, and relaxed breathing are other common options that could help a patient find relief from Braxton Hicks Contractions.

However, if none of these practices provide relief, there could be an underlying reason causing these contractions. In such cases, it is crucial to consult with an expert gynaecologist for a thorough examination and appropriate guidance. If you are in Mumbai and seeking the best gynaecologist for treatment, you can contact Dr. Neelima Mantri.

ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome: symptoms & risk reduction

ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome: symptoms & risk reduction

Fertility medications and Assisted Reproductive Treatments greatly help women with fertility problems today. “These treatments have significantly increased the chances of conception for women, bestowing them the chance at parenthood,” says the best gynaecologist in Mumbai, Dr. Neelima Mantri.

Promise of Parenthood Comes With a Minor Risk: Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome

Like every other beneficial treatment option, these treatments also have specific side effects, manifesting in rare cases. Ovarian Hyperstimulation is one such side effect of fertility treatment options, impacting women’s health through blood clots, dehydration, weight cysts, and kidney problems in sporadic cases.

So, any woman who aims to benefit from fertility medications or assisted reproductive technologies must also be aware of this rare ovarian syndrome to tread carefully on this path. In this blog, we help you understand this syndrome, discuss its symptoms, and then give you tips to reduce its chance of occurrence. Read on:

What is Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome?

If fertilization of eggs produces the baby, these eggs are produced by ovaries. Given assisted fertility treatments, more eggs than usual, ovaries are stimulated using medications to make multiple eggs, which are then used to induce fertilization, artificial or natural. In some cases, the ovaries may respond excessively to these medications, leading to unwanted side effects, which may cause problems for women in the form of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome.

What are the symptoms of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome?

“Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome doesn’t happen in all women. It is slightly rare, and the symptoms vary based on the severity of the syndrome. They can be mild, moderate, or even severe, halting the daily functions and leading to severe health problems,” says leading gynaecologist and best laparoscopic surgeon in Mumbai, Dr. Neelima Mantri. Here are the symptoms of Ovarian Hyperstimulation (OHSS) based on the severity:

Symptoms of Mild Ovarian Hyperstimulation: Mild OHSS symptoms may include abdominal bloating, pain, discomfort, cramping & nausea, vomiting & diarrhoea, mild weight gain & fluid retention.

Symptoms of Moderate Ovarian Hyperstimulation: Abdominal distension, increased pain and discomfort, intensified vomiting, nausea, dehydration, decreased yet concentrated urine, difficulty breathing and concentration, and rapid weight gain.

Symptoms of Severe Ovarian Hyperstimulation: Fluid accumulation in the chest, rapid and significant weight gain, severe abdominal pain, dry skin, fast heart rate, decreased or even no urine output, persistent vomiting, difficulty in breathing, shortness of breath, and rapid heartbeat are some of the symptoms in severe OHSS.

How to reduce the risk of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome?

Lower doses of medication, perfectly timing the trigger shot, regular monitoring, consistent hydration, avoiding high-impact exercises, and maintaining electrolyte balance are some of the standard best practices that can help reduce the risk of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome. “But the most effective way to reduce the risk of OHSS is to consult an expert gynaecologist and fertility specialist who can perfectly customize the fertility treatment and guide you with all the best practices for safe parenthood without the risk of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome,” says gynaecologist and best laparoscopic surgeon in Mumbai, Dr. Neelima Mantri.

Know About Transvaginal Mesh & Its Complications

Know About Transvaginal Mesh & Its Complications

Transvaginal mesh is a surgical mesh used to treat stress-related urinary incontinence, a condition where women, particularly those post-childbirth, experience urinary leakage from the bladder during high-impact activities such as running or jumping.

Around 20% of women suffer from this problem, and surgery using a transvaginal mesh provides a low-complication method for treating the incontinence problem. But all this information only scratches the surface of the transvaginal mesh. The topic needs to be delved into deeply to understand the usage of transvaginal mesh, its uses and complications, and the reasons for the ongoing controversy in gynaecological treatment.

With inputs from the best gynec laparoscopic surgeon in Mumbai, Dr. Neelima Mantri, we provide the complete information you need in this blog. Read on:

Transvaginal Mesh – A Treatment for Pelvic Disorders:

Urinary incontinence is only one aspect of pelvic disorder treated by transvaginal mesh surgery. Gynaecologists have been actively leveraging transvaginal mesh to treat various pelvic infections. To understand the role of transvaginal mesh, let us provide you with a backstory of the pelvic floor and its conditions.

Pelvic Floor & Pelvic Organ Prolapse:

The pelvic floor in women is a hammock-like structure of connective tissue and muscle. It keeps the bladder, rectum, vagina, uterus, and cervix intact. More robust and healthier pelvic floor results in adequately functioning these pelvic organs.

In cases where the pelvic floor becomes weaker due to a medical condition, injury, or pregnancy, the pelvic organs may move and drop, resulting in pelvic-organ prolapse. Pelvic organ prolapse can result in various pelvic disorders, including urinary incontinence, sexual problems, pain or pressure in the pelvis, and loss of control over bowel movements.

Benefits of Transvaginal Mesh for Pelvic Disorders:

Transvaginal mesh is a medical-grade mesh made from animal tissues, which is used in surgeries to restore the anatomical positioning of pelvic organs and strengthen the support to the pelvic floor. “This surgery alleviates pain and discomfort and significantly improves bladder control to help urinary incontinence. It is a minimally invasive treatment option that involves lower surgical cuts and hence offers accelerated recovery”, says Dr. Neelima Mantri, a top female gynaecologist in Mumbai.

Then, what are the complications of transvaginal mesh that led to ongoing controversies?

Complications of Transvaginal Mesh: Why It Can Be Risky?

A mesh is a net-like implant that comes in different tape, mesh, ribbon, or hammock that provides reinforced support to weak pelvic organs. The mesh is implanted and held in its place with tissue fixation devices or statures through a small incision in the vaginal or abdominal wall. However, there have been reports around the world about the possible complications, which included:

Mesh Erosion: The mesh interacting and pushing through the sensitive vaginal area can cause pain and discomfort.

Infections: The mesh is historically made through artificial materials, which sometimes may lead to infections near the vagina.

Mesh Migrations: In a few cases, the mesh may dislocate and migrate, changing its orientation and displacing from the intended locations to harm other sensitive pelvic organs.

Painful Sexual Intercourse: In rare cases, mesh in its location may meddle with sexual intercourse, leading to pain.

“In addition to the pain caused by mesh erosion, nerve damage, and urinary problems are some of the transvaginal mesh complications reported across the globe,” says leading gynaecologist and laparoscopic surgeon in Mumbai, Dr. Neelima Mantri. Due to ongoing complications, transvaginal mesh is not recommended for treating pelvic prolapse and other pelvic disorders.

Fortunately, plenty of other surgical treatment options can now help women get rid of the pain and discomfort caused by pelvic disorders. For more information on the treatment of pelvic infections and alternatives to the transvaginal mesh procedure, you can contact gynaecologist Dr. Neelima Mantri here.

Retroverted Uterus: Is It Normal or a Health Issue

Retroverted Uterus: Is It Normal or a Health Issue

The Retroverted uterus is a gynaecological condition where the uterus sits tilted towards the spine instead of its usual forward position. In most cases, this condition doesn’t affect reproductive health and is considered a normal variation in female anatomy. However, in some instances, this may impact regular bowel, urinary, and menstrual health too.

“We often find a Retroverted uterus a common denominator of urinary tract infection, painful periods, and abnormal pain during pregnancy or sexual intercourse. Some women even find difficulties using tampons, which is usually the case with a Retroverted uterus,” says Dr. Neelima Mantri, a leading gynaecologist and best laparoscopic surgeon in Mumbai.

Is Retroverted Uterus Normal or a Health Issue?

A Retroverted uterus is a normal anatomical variation and is not considered a health issue. But it may cause complications and reproductive issues mentioned above in a few cases. The symptoms may vary from person to person, as does their severity.

However, this answer needs a more thorough approach involving its impact on various aspects of reproductive health. So, we have answered the most frequently asked questions here, along with the causes of the Retroverted uterus. Read on to know them:

Causes of Retroverted Uterus:

In general, some women are born with a Retroverted uterus. But surprisingly, in a few cases, a Retroverted uterus can develop later in life also. The reasons that could trigger this condition are diverse and they involve reproductive conditions like uterine fibroids, adhesions, endometriosis, or natural diseases like menopause or even childbirth. So does this condition cause problems for women? Let us find out.

Does a Retroverted uterus cause menstruation problems?

Yes, a Retroverted uterus may interfere with regular menstruation, making it abnormally painful and even may contribute to painful sex. While pain is common in either of these cases, it is advisable to visit a gynaecologist as soon as the pain becomes unbearable.

Will a Retroverted Uterus Cause Pregnancy Complications?

The first question on everyone’s minds is whether the abnormal uterus position will impact their pregnancy health and cause complications. “Retroverted uterus should not be causing any problems during pregnancy despite the abnormal position. The orientation of the uterus does not affect pregnancy, labour, and delivery. In rare cases, the position may cause mild back pain, which is quite normal during pregnancy,” says the leading gynaecologist in Mumbai, Dr. Neelima Mantri. But it may impact the road to pregnancy by causing fertility problems in a few cases.

So Does a Retroverted Uterus Impact Fertility?

A Retroverted uterus does not impact the fertility of women. It may sometimes be present in women who, unbeknownst to them, suffer from gynaecological conditions like endometriosis, PCOS, or uterine fibroids, which cause fertility problems. So if you are worrying about the role of a Retroverted uterus, it is advisable to contact an expert gynaecologist to find the exact causes. If you are in Mumbai and are looking to consult a lady gynaecologist in Mumbai who can help you with your queries, you can contact Dr. Neelima Mantri here.

What Are the 4 Stages of the Menstrual Cycle?

What Are the 4 Stages of the Menstrual Cycle?

A woman’s body undergoes a monthly hormonal process known as the Menstrual Cycle, which readies it for the potential of pregnancy. The duration of the cycle varies from one woman to another but typically lasts between 28-32 days. According to the top 10 gynecologists in Mumbai, the Menstrual Cycle consists of four distinct phases, each with its specific characteristics and alterations.

Stage 1: Menstrual Phase

The first stage of the Menstrual Cycle is called the menstrual phase. This phase starts the Menstrual Cycle and lasts between three to seven days. The menstrual phase is characterized by the shedding of the endometrial lining, which lines the uterus, resulting in menstrual bleeding.

Low levels of estrogen and progesterone hormones are present in the body during this phase. These hormones regulate the menstrual cycle, and when their levels decrease, the body sheds the endometrial lining. As the lining sheds, it exits the body through the cervix and vagina, which causes menstrual bleeding.

Stage 2: Follicular Phase

The second of the four stages of the menstrual cycle, the follicular phase is the second stage that occurs after the menstrual phase ends. This phase usually lasts for around 10-14 days and is marked by a surge in estrogen levels in the body.

Each follicle contains an immature egg, and as they grow, they start to produce estrogen. The increase in estrogen levels signals the uterus to thicken the endometrial lining, preparing for a possible pregnancy. Any problems that one faces in this stage should be checked by the gynecologist in Mumbai immediately!!

Stage 3: Ovulation Phase

In the Menstrual Cycle, the ovulation phase is the third stage, and it involves the release of an egg from the ovary. The ovulation phase takes place around day 14 of the Menstrual Cycle and lasts for about 24-48 hours.

During ovulation, there is an increase in the levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) in the body, which causes the mature follicle to rupture and release the egg. The egg then makes its way through the fallopian tube toward the uterus. This phase is the most fertile time of the Menstrual Cycle, and if sperm is present, it can fertilize the egg, which can lead to pregnancy.

Stage 4: Luteal Phase

The luteal phase is the last stage of the Menstrual Cycle that starts after ovulation. It typically lasts for 10-14 days and is characterized by an increase in progesterone levels in the body. Once the egg is released from the ovary, the empty follicle turns into the corpus luteum. This structure produces progesterone that helps maintain the endometrial lining in the uterus.

If fertilization does not occur, the corpus luteum will eventually break down, resulting in a drop in the levels of estrogen and progesterone in the body. This decrease in hormone levels signals the start of shedding of the endometrial lining, which initiates a new Menstrual Cycle.

If you’re looking for expert guidance on managing your Menstrual Cycle or any other women’s health concerns, it is highly recommended to schedule an appointment with Dr Neelima Mantri, a well-known best female gynecologist in Mumbai. Taking charge of your reproductive health is crucial, and seeking the right medical advice can help you make informed decisions.