Conditions

Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows outside the uterus. This misplaced tissue responds to the menstrual cycle just like the uterine lining, thickening, breaking down, and bleeding. However, because this blood has no way to exit the body, it becomes trapped, leading to inflammation, pain, and scar tissue formation.

• Symptoms:
  Painful periods, chronic pelvic pain, pain during intercourse, and infertility. Some women may also experience fatigue, digestive issues, or heavy periods.

• Treatment Options:
  Treatment may include pain management with medications, hormonal therapy to slow endometrial growth, and laparoscopic surgery to remove the endometrial tissue. In severe cases, a hysterectomy may be considered.

Fibroids, or uterine leiomyomas, are benign (non-cancerous) growths that develop in or around the uterus. They can vary in size from tiny seedlings to large masses that can distort the uterus and cause symptoms.

• Symptoms:
  Heavy menstrual bleeding, prolonged periods, pelvic pressure or pain, frequent urination, and complications during pregnancy. Some women may also experience backache or leg pain.

• Treatment Options:
  Treatment depends on the size and location of the fibroids and may include medication to regulate hormones, non-invasive procedures like MRI-guided focused ultrasound, or surgical options such as myomectomy (removal of fibroids) or hysterectomy.

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop on the ovaries. While most cysts are harmless and resolve on their own, some can cause symptoms and may require treatment.

• Symptoms:
  Bloating, pelvic pain, pain during intercourse, and irregular menstrual periods. In some cases, large cysts can cause the ovary to twist (ovarian torsion), which is a medical emergency.

• Treatment Options:
  Treatment options range from monitoring the cysts with regular ultrasounds to surgical removal through laparoscopic cystectomy. Hormonal contraceptives may also be prescribed to prevent the formation of new cysts.

PCOS is a hormonal disorder common among women of reproductive age. It is characterized by the presence of multiple small cysts on the ovaries and an imbalance of reproductive hormones.

• Symptoms:
  Irregular periods, excess hair growth (hirsutism), acne, weight gain, and infertility. Women with PCOS may also have insulin resistance, increasing their risk of type 2 diabetes.

• Treatment Options:
  Management of PCOS includes lifestyle changes, medications to regulate menstrual cycles, fertility treatments if pregnancy is desired, and treatments for excess hair and acne. In some cases, metformin may be prescribed to address insulin resistance.

Urinary incontinence is the involuntary leakage of urine. It can occur when the muscles that control urine flow weaken or if there are issues with the nerves controlling the bladder.

• Symptoms:
  Leakage during activities like coughing, sneezing, or exercising (stress incontinence), a sudden, intense urge to urinate (urge incontinence), or a combination of both.

• Treatment Options:
  Treatment options include pelvic floor exercises (Kegels), bladder training, medications, and in more severe cases, surgical options like sling procedures or bladder neck suspension.

Menopause marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years, typically occurring between the ages of 45 and 55. It is diagnosed after 12 months without a menstrual period. The transition into menopause, known as perimenopause, can bring a range of symptoms.

• Symptoms:
  Hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, sleep disturbances, vaginal dryness, and decreased libido. Some women may also experience osteoporosis due to the decline in estrogen levels.

• Treatment Options:
  Treatment includes hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to alleviate symptoms, non-hormonal medications, lifestyle changes, and alternative therapies. Dr. Khoo works with each patient to develop a tailored plan to manage the symptoms of menopause effectively.