What can wait & what cannot….until the COVID-19 crisis concludes…
At the beginning of the year 2020, almost all the forecasts promised a smooth sailing through the year; but no one saw the coronavirus creeping up on each one of us, country by country. Today we all have become inevitably paranoid to leave the safe confines of our homes. This could come in the way of consulting the doctor for your gynaecological issues. Until the time life gets back to normal, let us discuss what types of gynaecological concerns require a visit to the clinic, what can be dealt with on telemedicine and what issues can comfortably wait for later times.
Concerns for which we need you to come to the clinic:
If you have been facing heavy per vaginal bleeding during your periods or otherwise, do not ignore it. You can either find yourself changing more than usual pads in a day or getting easily exhausted. As heavy bleeding leads to low hemoglobin and anemia, it is wise to consult your doctor before things get complex.
Bleeding after menopause has already occurred is also an important concern. Spotting/ bleeding after you have attained menopause is not a normal entity. You will require a USG to rule out the presence of any polyp or something more sinister in the uterus.
- Severe pelvic pain:
Severe cramping that debilitates your routine needs to be evaluated further. If you experience such pain, which does not relieve with simple painkillers, you need to visit the clinic.
- Pain/ bleeding in early pregnancy:
If you have conceived amidst these difficult times, you might not have had the feasibility to visit your gynaecologist. Thus, if you experience cramps or vaginal spotting/bleeding after conceiving, and ultrasonography could be essential to rule out any complications. This can help us devise a proper treatment strategy for you in order to help your pregnancy grow successfully.
Mid / late pregnancy:
Sometimes, women in mid-pregnancy can experience reduced fetal movements due to some specific reasons. It is always wise to let your doctor examine you and advise the way forward during such anxious circumstances.
Domestic violence:
The worst feared problem of domestic abuse can create havoc for women in abusive homes during this lockdown. If you feel you are unsafe and need to share your woes, you can visit us for the same.
Concerns that can be taken care of via Telemedicine:
- If you have been suffering from irregular periods, acne, or weight gain; you might be probably having PCOS. We can determine the diagnosis by your history, various tests, and help you cope with your symptoms.
- Complaints of any menopausal symptoms like bloating, hot flushes, or mood swings can be resolved.
- Contraception options can be discussed and the ideal option suitable for your needs can be decided.
- Pre-conceptional counseling and relevant tests and medications can be discussed thoroughly.
- Mild vaginal discharge, non-foul smelling, and not associated with any other complaints.
- Any minor queries or doubts regarding your current medications can be easily discussed over the phone.
Fertility Treatment
With the Covid-19 cases escalating daily, fertility treatments have unfortunately taken a backseat. Due to the pandemic, no new fertility treatments are being commenced as the virus has been shown to affect embryos if IVF is done at this stage. Also, most of the fertility treatments require you to come to the clinic frequently, which is not feasible due to the current situation. But all the consultations and tests can be dealt with via telemedicine. This time can be utilized to help you make an individualized treatment strategy for you. Also, those who are scheduled for an upcoming cycle can use this time for the pre-treatment part of the cycle.
Annual check-ups/routine examinations can wait until the current situation brightens up. Since this is a difficult time for all of us, unnecessary excursion outside the house or even to the hospital can be troublesome to you and your family due to uninhibited exposure. But, serious gynaecological issues that could take a toll on women’s health and fertility also cannot be ignored.
We, as a team are available for you to address your concerns and queries. You can schedule an appointment with us by calling us. Consults are available with Dr. Duru Shah and chargeable at a discounted price due to the prevailing condition. Till then, stay home and stay safe!!
From the team of Gynaecworld