Reassurance when it comes to women’s health
A new website recently launched by Whitfield’s Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Dr. David McMurray, provides a wealth of information on a wide range of women’s health issues.
The site, assurewomenshealth.ie, offers pertinent advice and information on issues such as gynaecology, sub-fertility and urogynaecology.
Dr. David McMurray, who conducts weekly clinics at Whitfield, devised the site in order to ensure that the highest quality gynaecological care and information is delivered to patients in Waterford and the South East.
“The range of issues affecting women knows no age barrier. In our Whitfield clinic we treat women of all ages, with many different conditions.”
“Most commonly, women in their twenties and thirties will present to us with pelvic pain or painful periods. This can often be a symptom of endometriosis, which left untreated can have implications for fertility.”
It is estimated that between 2% and 10% of women within the general population have endometriosis and that up to 50% of infertile women have endometriosis. It is a long-term condition which can affect women during their reproductive years.
“Sub fertility issues become more common as women get into their thirties. Women in their mid to late thirties may take longer to conceive. Couples within that age group should seek investigation if conception has not happened within a year of trying. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) would be the commonest disorder diagnosed. Not only is it associated with reduced fertility, PCOS can cause period problems and excess hair growth. It is thought that as many as one in ten women have PCOS, but with treatment and lifestyle changes the condition can be remedied or pregnancy achieved if desired.”
“Conditions such as endometrial cancer are usually identified by symptoms such as post-menopausal bleeding and tend to present more commonly in women in their fifties and sixties.”
Dr. McMurray stresses that one of the most effective preventative measure is awareness, “Being aware of your body and its changes is crucial. If something doesn’t feel right, visit your G.P. Don’t ignore it, because the chances are that it won’t get better or go away.”
Dr. McMurray also recommends lifestyle changes which can reduce the risk of cancer.
Maintain a healthy weight; being overweight is one of the biggest risks associated with cancer and ill health.
Exercise daily; exercise can alleviate painful period cramps
A healthy diet; calcium and Vitamin D help maintain bone strength and minimise bone loss (osteoporosis)
Regular smear testing; cervical screening by smear tests can pick up early cell changes so they can be monitored or treated. The earlier abnormal cell changes are found, the easier they are to treat.
Dr. McMurray holds weekly Outpatient clinics in Whitfield Hospital, Cork Road, Waterford. For further information, visit www.assurewomenshealth.ie or call his Whitfield clinic on 051 359704.