Women’s Health with Dr. Huh UAB - Consumer

Menopause is a natural physiological process that can diminish quality of life for some women, usually occurring after age 40. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can address many of the symptoms of menopause. However, a series of large studies in the early 2000s pointed to increased risks for breast cancer and heart disease, and many providers and women shied away from HRT. William Hurd, M.D., an expert in reproductive endocrinology and infertility, explains the current – revised – state of knowledge about relative risks and benefits of HRT; how the HRT medications themselves have changed since those studies; and how the needle is moving back in favor of HRT for many women seeking to maintain quality of life.

Clinicians have the ability to eliminate cervical cancer thanks to improved screening and the HPV vaccine. At the same time, mortality rates in our mostly-rural state are roughly the same as they were in 1999. Isabel Scarinci, vice chair of global and rural health, introduces Operation Wipeout, a UAB-led plan that mobilizes civil society groups to encourage screening and vaccination across Alabama. Dr. Huh and Scarinci also discuss the hope that self-sampling for HPV screening could offer for women in rural areas who may not be able to travel to a clinic.

Girls and young women (0-18) may have unique gynecological issues, yet there are few pediatric and adolescent gynecologists. Blair Lacy, M.D., one of just four such subspecialists in Alabama, explains her training and the complex considerations of working with young women. She also conveys the importance of her clinic being a safe place for parents to seek specialty care and advice about sensitive issues facing their children.

The pelvic floor is an important muscle structure at the base of the pelvis, and when it is not functioning properly it can cause issues such as painful intercourse, incontinence, and prolapse. Jennifer Fagen, a physical therapist who specializes in pelvic floor physical therapy, discusses how she helps patients address pelvic floor dysfunction through internal exams, education and feedback, and specific tailored exercises. Most of her patients improve their pelvic floor function over time, whether their muscles had been chronically tense or lax.

As many as 85% of gynecologic cancer survivors face sexual health challenges. Learn from Christina Wilson, CNP, Ph.D., about the dimensions of sexual health and how UAB providers approach each case uniquely with an expanding array of treatment options for survivors. She emphasizes that this common and sensitive aspect of survivorship is important to address with your doctor. Wilson encourages patients to think about whether or when to include their partner in planning for the sexual health effects of cancer.

Obstetrical injuries, or those that occur during labor and delivery are more common than patients may realize. Six to seven percent of women undergoing vaginal deliveries will have damage to the anal sphincter muscles, or obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS). Holly Richter, M.D., and Clark Powell, M.D. discuss the complex care required for these injuries and describe their research-backed OASIS care bundle that offers a comprehensive approach bridging obstetrics and gynecology. Learn more about the importance of talking about and addressing OASIS, preferably at an institution that actively assesses quality of care.