When it comes to sexual and reproductive health, it can be hard to know what's "normal" and what may be a sign of a potential health problem. Even if you feel embarrassed about certain issues, your gynecologist has seen and heard it all and is there to help you, not to pass judgment. For many women, getting your period is an unpleasant time. Cramps, breast soreness, and headaches are just a few of the most common menstruation symptoms. But for some women, period pain goes beyond cramps and can be incredibly severe. If your periods are very painful or have been getting worse over time, it can be a sign of endometriosis or uterine fibroids. "It's important to speak with your doctor about this, as there are many solutions that can make these...

Although elbow joint replacement is much less common than the knee, hip, or shoulder replacement, it is just as successful in relieving joint pain and returning people to daily activities. Whether you have just begun exploring treatment options or have already decided to have elbow replacement surgery, this article will help you understand more about this effective procedure. The surfaces of the bones where they meet to form the elbow joint are covered with articular cartilage, a smooth substance that protects the bones and enables them to move easily. A thin, smooth tissue called a synovial membrane covers all remaining surfaces inside the elbow joint. In a healthy elbow, this membrane makes a small amount of fluid that lubricates the cartilage and eliminates almost any friction as you bend and rotate your arm....

Sports injuries are commonly caused by overuse, direct impact, or the application of force that is greater than the body part can structurally withstand. Common injuries include bruises, sprains, strains, joint injuries and nose bleeds. Medical investigation is important, as leaving an injury untreated can have far more severe consequences. Sports injuries are commonly caused by overuse, direct impact, or the application of force that is greater than the body part can structurally withstand. There are two kinds of sports injuries: acute and chronic. An injury that occurs suddenly, such as a sprained ankle caused by an awkward landing, is known as an acute injury. Chronic injuries are caused by repeated overuse of muscle groups or joints. Poor technique and structural abnormalities can also contribute to the development of chronic injuries.

Laparoscopy is a procedure a doctor uses to look inside the abdomen (belly) and pelvis. This is done with a laparoscope, a thin, flexible tube with a light, and a small video camera on the end. The tube is put in a small cut made through the abdominal wall near the navel (belly button). A second or third incision may also be made in other parts of the belly to put in other instruments. Laparoscopy is also known as minimally invasive surgery or keyhole surgery. This test is used to look for the causes of problems such as pelvic pain or to look at an abnormal area seen on an imaging test. This is a general outline of what typically happens before, during, and after a laparoscopy. But your experience might be a...