Getting pregnant and starting a family is an exciting and important decision in a woman’s life, but it can sometimes be difficult. You might have a lot of questions preconception about how to have a healthy pregnancy. Our NYC ob/gyns are ready to help answer your questions and make your pregnancy journey as easy as possible for you and your little one. 

In the meantime, here are some answers to a few of the most frequently asked questions about getting pregnant and what affects fertility.

What lifestyle changes should I make?

Whether you are just considering getting pregnant or have been trying for a while, it is a great idea to talk to your health care provider about lifestyle changes you can make to increase your chances of conceiving and having a healthy pregnancy. 

Even if you don’t intend to get pregnant any time soon, it is important to have family planning conversations with your doctor or gynecologist to be sure you are informed about your reproductive health and how lifestyle choices can affect your chances of conceiving.

Having a healthy diet and eating nutrient-dense food is important for every one, but women considering getting pregnant may especially want to follow a healthy diet. Getting lots of protein and nutrient-dense fruits and veggies can be critical lifestyle changes if you want a healthy menstrual cycle and to get pregnant. 

It is also important to be at a healthy weight, have low blood pressure, and exercise regularly, but strenuous exercise or over exercising should be avoided. Over excising can lead to decreased progesterone production and even amenorrhea (loss of your period).

In addition to a healthy diet, supplements such as prenatal vitamins and folic acid are important to take preconception. These supplements can help prepare your body to support conception and healthy growth and development of the baby. Your gynecologist can help determine what vitamins and levels of supplementation are best for you to take.

If you are thinking of getting pregnant, it is best to also consider reducing or stopping any alcohol, drug, cigarette, and caffeine consumption. It is best to avoid these substances while pregnant or trying to conceive for both your health, your reproductive health, and the health of the baby.

You may also want to consider the health and beauty products that you use, as well as other products you use around the home. Some products may expose you to harsh chemicals, hormones, or other substances that might not be recommended for pregnant women.

Finally, it is a good idea to reduce stress as much as possible and get lots of restful sleep.

Talk to your doctor about these questions and evaluate what lifestyle changes you might need to make if you are considering getting pregnant or having trouble conceiving.

What health conditions affect my chances of getting pregnant?

There are several women’s health conditions that may affect fertility, such as PCOS, endometriosis, STDs, ovulation disorders, irregular periods, thyroid problems, uterine or cervical abnormalities such as fibroids, diabetes, autoimmune disorders, and more.  

Fertility does decrease as you get older. Women over the age of 35 are more likely to have trouble conceiving, although not all women will necessarily have issues getting pregnant. If you have any concerns about your fertility, you can also receive fertility testing to determine if you have a normal ovarian reserve and are healthy enough to conceive.

If you have a medical history or family history of any of these conditions or are over the age of 35, you should speak with your obstetrician or fertility specialist about your options for getting pregnant, and if fertility treatments such as IVF might be required. 

Does my partner’s health affect my chances of getting pregnant?

Yes, your partner’s health can affect your chances of getting pregnant! To increase your chance of getting pregnant, your partner should take care of their reproductive health too and talk to their doctor about any existing medical conditions or family history of health issues. 

There are many similar lifestyle changes that your male partner can make to increase fertility.

Being a healthy weight and eating a nutrient-dense diet is not only good for you, but it can increase the health of the man’s sperm as well. It is a great idea to start eating healthy and working out together as a couple to make sure your reproductive health is great.

It is also a good idea to cut back on alcohol and drug use and smoking. These substances can decrease sperm count and health, decrease testosterone production, and affect fertility. It is also best for you to avoid second-hand smoke and being around these substances.

And just like it is good for you to reduce stress and get lots of sleep, your man can benefit from this as well!

Finally, it is best to avoid sources of high heat, such as saunas, steam rooms, hot showers, and hot tubs. Extreme hot environments can reduce sperm count and increase infertility.

If I’m on birth control, how soon should I stop?

If you are on any type of birth control but want to get pregnant soon, you should talk to your gynecologist about when you should stop taking birth control and how long after stopping until you can safely try to get pregnant. 

If you are taking the pill, you might be able to stop right away. If you have an IUD or implant device, you may be able to stop soon but will need to make an appointment to get it removed.

Luckily, most birth control methods allow you to try to get pregnant shortly after stopping and you should not face any long-term effects. Your regular menstrual cycle should return quickly. 

Schedule a preconception checkup 

Discuss these questions and more with our obstetrics specialists so that you are prepared once your are ready to conceive. We will review your health history and help you determine the best lifestyle changes you can make before starting a family. Schedule your preconception visit with us today!

Birth control pills, also known as “the pill,” is a very popular oral contraceptive used to prevent pregnancy. The pill is a very effective form of birth control when taken regularly. It is 99% effective at preventing pregnancy with perfect use, and approximately 91% effective with almost perfect use — which is a more realistic number for most women. 

The better you are at taking the pill every day, the more effective it will be, but no method is 100% perfect so it is important to learn more about the pill and proper birth control. This article answers some FAQs about the birth control pill and how to know if the pill is working for you.

What is the Birth Control Pill?

The birth control pill is type of hormonal birth control that needs to be taken orally at the same time every day. It is a very small, round pill that is easy to swallow. Some pills are even chewable!

Combination birth control pills work by delivering a small dose of estrogen and progestin that signals to the body to reduce or stop ovulation, to thicken the cervical mucus to prevent sperm from entering the uterus, and to thin the lining of the uterus to reduce the likelihood that an egg would be able to attach to the uterine lining if it were fertilized. 

There are also progestin-only pills, known as the mini-pill, that are a better option for some women, including women who are breastfeeding, are at high-risk for blood clots, or who cannot otherwise take estrogen.

In addition to preventing pregnancy, the pill can lighten or stop your menstrual cycle, help reduce hormonal acne, reduce painful cramping, reduce the risk of ovarian and cervical cancer, treat endometriosis, as well as other reproductive health benefits.

Birth control pills often come in a pill pack that includes four weeks of pills. There is usually three weeks (21 days) of active pills and one week (7 days) of inactive pills or placebo pills. Some pill packs can include 24 days, 90 days, or even up to 365 days of active pills. The active pills and inactive pills are often different colors so it is easy to keep track of where you are in the cycle.

Most women will have a menstrual cycle or spotting while taking the inactive pills and may experience some spotting if taking a pill pack with a longer active pill section.

How Do you Know if the Pill is Working?

Based on what type of pill you are taking and when you start, your doctor can help you figure out how long it will take for your pill to start working.

It can take up to seven days for the combination pill to be effective and up to two days for the progestin-only pill to be effective at preventing pregnancy after you take the first dose. If you have intercourse during this time period after starting the pill, be sure to use another form of contraception to be sure you are protected against unintended pregnancy. 

There might not be any obvious external signs that the pill is working, but if you are taking it at the same time every day and not experiencing any adverse side effects then the pill should be effective.

If you are using the pill for other reasons, such as controlling irregular bleeding or hormonal acne, it can take up to four months to see signs that the pill is working. Be patient as your body adjusts to the new treatment and stay consistent with taking it regularly.

Long-term signs that the pill is working might include clearer skin, regular periods, and lighter and less painful periods.

Is it Possible for Birth Control to Not Work?

With perfect use of the birth control pill, it is possible but very unlikely to have an unintended pregnancy. Unintended pregnancies while on the pill can be serious and in case of ectopic pregnancy life-threatening, so call your NYC gynecologist or women’s health professional right away if you have missed a period or think you might be pregnant. Your doctor can discuss emergency contraception and pregnancy test options with you.

Of course, sometimes you forget a pill. If you forget a pill, take it as soon as you remember. If you missed a whole day, take the previous day’s pill plus your regular dose. Be sure to use a backup method of contraception or abstain from intercourse until you’ve gotten back on a regular regimen with your pill pack. It is a good idea to set calendar reminders or an alarm on your phone to help you remember to take your pill each day.

It is recommended to always use a backup birth control method while on the pill, such as condoms, especially if you have any missed pills. It is also important to use a barrier method of birth control, such as condoms, to protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). 

How Do you Know if your Birth Control isn’t Working for You?

There are many different types of birth control pills so it is possible you will need to try a couple different kinds before you find the one that is right for your body. If you’re experiencing negative side effects from the pill, you may need to switch to another type of pill with different hormone dosages.

If you are experiencing any side effects, such as headaches, nausea, irritability and mood swings, breast tenderness, or abnormal spotting or breakthrough bleeding, speak with your health care provider about your birth control options. These side effects are common and can usually be resolved by a doctor.

If you don’t think birth control pills are working for you and you are interested in trying another method, ask your health care provider about other birth control options such as a hormonal intrauterine device (hormonal IUD), a non-hormonal copper IUD, or a vaginal ring such as the NuvaRing. These options are great for women who struggle with taking the pill on a regular daily basis because they are inserted into the body rather than taken orally. The vaginal ring can be used for three weeks at a time and IUDs can last for years.

There are several doctors that women should see annually to ensure general wellness and prevent future health concerns. The most important doctors a woman should see every year should be her primary care physician and her gynecologist. However, there are a few other doctors, like dentists and dermatologists, that women should also see regularly. Keep reading to learn what type of doctor a woman should see annually and how these regular visits contribute to overall wellness and disease prevention.

Scheduling a Visit with your Primary Care Physician

Most people know they should have a yearly physical exam with their primary care provider (or PCP) to ensure they are in good health and keep track of any known risk factors before becoming more pressing concerns. Visiting your primary care doctor regularly is a great way to prevent major illnesses and build a comprehensive medical history that can follow you to every specialist you see.

Most PCPs are family medicine doctors or general physicians, which means that they can perform a wide range of medical functions. Your yearly physical generally starts with measuring your vital signs like pulse rate, blood pressure, height, and weight. These key indicators are the first signs of the state of your health and can help the doctor assess your wellness during your checkup. Keeping a record of these vital signs means your doctor can track any changes that may indicate the onset of illness, giving them the opportunity to act proactively. 

Since most people visit their PCP regularly, these doctors are usually well-versed in your family history. They can provide guidance regarding hereditary conditions like high cholesterol, high blood pressure, cancer, or diabetes. If you have a family history of these illnesses and start to show risk-factors that could progress, your doctor may order some tests or give you a referral to follow-up with a specialist.

For example: If you’re over 45 or have a family history of colon cancer, your primary health doctor will likely refer you to a gastroenterologist to get a colonoscopy. This regular cancer screening isn’t an annual requirement, and most people only need to have one every ten years. However, you might need them more frequently if you have a family history of colon cancer.

Your yearly physical exam also is an opportunity to bring up any concerns about your health. For example, you can discuss mental health concerns like depression or fatigue with your doctor. Telling your doctor about these troubles can put you on a path to finding the right mental health professional for you, so you can start building a plan to feel better.

Your Yearly Visit With Your Gynecologist

Most women start having regular gynecologic appointments after puberty to make sure they have a full picture of their reproductive health. Generally, a woman should see her gynecologist every year for a regular pelvic exam. This routine check-up is essential for staying well and preventing disease in the future. 

Your yearly exam with an ob/gyn will include some of the same features as an annual physical, including the gathering of vital signs like blood pressure, height, and weight. After that, your doctor will do an internal pelvic exam, which usually includes a pap smear. This procedure involves scraping the cervix to collect cells that are sent for testing. Results from a pap smear can be used to diagnose sexually transmitted infections like HPV. It can also be used to detect cervical cancer and other abnormalities.

Of course, gynecologists also oversee the prescribing and use of birth control. Doctors don’t prescribe hormonal birth control just for contraception. Women can also use it to manage hormone levels. If you use hormonal birth control, your doctor may add a round of blood tests to your yearly check-up to ensure that your levels are consistent.

While a gynecologist is a doctor who specializes in women’s health, an obstetrician is a kind of doctor that takes care of pregnant women. Many doctors combine these specialties as ob/gyns. All three of these doctors are overseen by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, making sure that these doctors are practicing with the best information and care for their patients.

Other Doctors You Should See Regularly

While you may already see your primary care physician and NYC gynecologist annually, there are a few other doctors you should visit regularly. These doctors fit into a holistic healthcare plan that treats your whole body, preventing mild symptoms from becoming more significant concerns.

Dentists

Visiting a doctor accredited by the American Dental Association is a great way to make sure that you’re taking care of an integral part of your health. While most people see their dentists several times a year for cleanings, it’s essential to visit at least once a year for regular x-rays of your mouth and preventive services. Poor dental hygiene is linked to health concerns outside of the mouth, such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. A regular dental exam can be an early screening for different types of health issues. 

Dermatologist

Most women know that dermatologists are important for preventing signs of aging, but they also serve an essential role in preserving your overall health. Many dermatologists do skin cancer screenings as part of their regular checkups, which can help prevent melanoma, which is one of the most dangerous cancers in women. Several other health concerns have risk factors that show in your skin, like liver complications or diabetes, so visiting a dermatologist for an annual visit is a great way to ensure your well-being.

Optometrist

You should schedule regular eye exams even if you have 20/20 vision. Living with an incorrect eyeglass prescription (or not having glasses when you need them) can headaches or result in dangerous situations while driving. Annual visits with your optometrist can also prevent eye disease, ensuring that your future always looks bright.

Visiting the Doctor During the Covid-19 Pandemic

Every doctor is well-versed in the signs and symptoms of Covid-19 and is doing everything they can to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Some doctors have noticed their patients are avoiding regular appointments during the pandemic to avoid visiting medical offices. This is causing a secondary healthcare crisis, as people aren’t engaging in the preventive care needed to prevent significant health issues.

If you’re worried about transmission of the coronavirus during regular checkups, call your doctor’s office ahead of time and ask them about the measures they’re implementing to ensure all patients are safe from the virus. Personal health practices like wearing a mask and washing your hands are generally enough to ensure your well-being and make sure you can get the health screenings you need to stay well.

If you haven’t had a checkup in a few years, finding a new provider can be a stressful experience. However, it doesn’t have to be. If you reach out to us at Great City Medical, we can get you scheduled for an annual exam with one of our primary care doctors or gynecologists to get you on a long-term healthcare plan that will serve you for years to come. We believe that regular wellness appointments don’t have to be stressful or inconvenient. Contact us today to learn how we can help you get on the path to better health.

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Can a Gynecologist Be Your Primary Care Physician?

Most experts recommend that women have both an annual physical and yearly visit to the gynecologist to ensure their overall health and wellbeing. However, it can seem overwhelming to keep track of so many doctor visits throughout the year. If you’re worried about frequently going to the doctor, you might wonder if it’s possible to combine your yearly checkups into one with a visit to your NYC gynecologist.

Generally speaking, it’s best to have both a primary care physician and a gynecologist. This is because gynecologists and ob/gyns specialize in women’s health and may not provide care for more general medical conditions. Having both a primary care doctor and a gynecologist is a great way to build a health team prepared to assist you in all stages of your life.

Keep reading to find out how gynecologists and primary care physicians differ and how you can make the most of your regular healthcare visits with them.

The differences between a Gynecologist and a primary care physician 

Gynecologists and primary care physicians have different specialties that help them treat their patients. Here is what you need to know about these specific doctors so you can tell the differences between them. 

Gynecologist or OB/GYN

Gynecologists are doctors that focused on women’s health, or gynecology, during their residency after medical school. These doctors can cover a wide range of women’s health concerns, from prescribing contraception to regular checkups and hormonal monitoring.

Gynecologists may share their practices with obstetricians, who focus on pregnancy, labor, and delivery. These doctors can provide pre-pregnancy health checks, such as ultrasounds of the ovaries and uterus, or consultations throughout pregnancy. Your obstetrician will likely work with you throughout your entire pregnancy and may even deliver your baby.

Primary Care Doctors

Primary care physicians (or PCPs, which most people call them) are doctors with the broadest range of specialization. Most primary care doctors focus on internal medicine or family medicine as a specialty, which gives them the versatility to be a one-stop-shop for most healthcare needs. 

Most people will go to their PCP before seeing a specialist when something goes wrong. That’s because these general practitioners can handle anything from a cold to diabetes and joint pain. However, a primary care doctor’s real value comes from yearly physical exams where they can offer preventative services like monitoring vital signs and cholesterol screenings.

Pediatricians are specialized primary care doctors for children, but they can provide medical guidance for the whole family as family medicine doctors. These medical professionals can provide vaccinations and immunizations for common illnesses like chickenpox or measles. Regular visits to your child’s pediatrician are a great way to build a robust medical history that can help them later in life.

Should I have a primary care physician and a gynecologist?

While there may seem to be some overlap between primary care physicians and gynecologists, it’s typically a good idea to have both of them as part of your care team. Since these two doctors are relatively specialized, they provide the best care when performing services in their specialty.

Having both a PCP and a gynecologist helps ensure that all of your specific care needs are met before they become more significant health issues. 

Should I see a gynecologist or regular doctor?

If you’re not sure what kind of doctor you should see, there are a few things you can consider before making your appointment. Are you interested in getting advice regarding birth control, menopause, or other reproductive health concerns? In that case, you should reach out to an ob/gyn.

Suppose you’re worried about something more general, such as a cold, or are interested in a yearly physical, or are looking for more general medical advice. In that case, it might be best to visit a primary care physician or general practitioner. 

You shouldn’t worry about picking the wrong doctor when it comes to medical care. If you accidentally go to the wrong doctor, it’s generally not a big deal. Both general practitioners and ob/gyns can provide referrals to another specialist to ensure you get the best care. For example, while primary care providers may provide some guidance during pregnancy, they are not experts. Your doctor may suggest you follow-up with an ob/gyn for more specialized care, like monitoring fetal development or testing for genetic defects.

Similarly, your gynecologist may recognize that you have high blood pressure while taking your vital signs during an appointment. Since they do not specialize in internal medicine outside of women’s health, they may refer you to an internist to ensure that there is no underlying cause of heart disease. Your gynecologist may also refer you to a dermatologist if they notice a rash during a physical exam.

Can a primary care physician do a pap smear?

Some primary care physicians can do exams that a gynecologist would typically do during your yearly physical. If you’re interested in getting a pelvic exam or pap smear as part of your regular wellness check, ask your doctor if they provide that service. 

Typically, a family practice doctor will provide these services if they see younger patients. However, if they tend to work with older patients, they may not offer these services. It’s important to ask a general practitioner if they will perform well-woman exams, such as breast cancer screenings, pelvic exams, and pap smears, before building a relationship with them, so you know what to expect during your yearly visits.

Even if your PCP does provide these services, you should still consider having a full-time gynecologist specializing in women’s healthcare. If any of the test results done by your general practitioner come back suspicious, your doctor may refer you for a gynecological consultation for further investigation. 

Your health can’t be guaranteed by just one doctor, which is why you need both a gynecologist and a primary care physician. While your gynecologist can give you great insights into your health, you still need a PCP to provide guidance for more general health issues. Many women have a closer relationship with their gynecologist than their PCP, making it attractive to use them as their sole medical professional. 

It’s important to realize that even the best ob/gyn may have limited resources when treating conditions outside of reproductive health. Going to a gynecologist for chest pains or a cold is not ideal, and you might not get the best care. That’s why you need to have a full team of health professionals in your corner to ensure that you get the best care possible.

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