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Samuel Van Kirk, M.D. Blog View all posts

Life After a Hysterectomy
If you’re considering a hysterectomy, it’s important to weigh your options before you make a decision. Having a hysterectomy means you’re no longer able to get pregnant, and it impacts your gynecologic health in a number of other ways too.
Oct 10th, 2021

Your Treatment Options for Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a common cause of pelvic pain and infertility. While there’s no cure, treatment can reduce your symptoms and improve your quality of life. If you have endometriosis, now’s the time to learn more about your treatment options.
Sep 7th, 2021

Everything You Didn't Know About HPV
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted disease in the United States. It usually doesn’t cause symptoms, but it could lead to cancer if it’s left untreated. Learn more about HPV and what you can do to stay healthy.
Aug 3rd, 2021

Why Every Woman Should Have a Gynecologist
A gynecologist specializes in women’s health. It might seem unnecessary to schedule annual well-woman visits with a specialist, but when you have a gynecologist, you have a partner in health at every stage of your life.
Jul 6th, 2021

Is There a Link Between Ovarian Cysts and Infertility?
Ovarian cysts are common. Many women get cysts during their menstrual cycles without ever knowing it. But since they grow on or in your ovaries, do they affect fertility? Find out more about ovarian cysts and when they might be linked to infertility.
Jun 8th, 2021

What Conditions Warrant Having a Hysterectomy?
A hysterectomy is surgery to remove your uterus. While it’s best known for permanent birth control, it can be an effective treatment option for severe gynecologic conditions from cancer to endometriosis. Find out if it could be right for you.
May 9th, 2021

What's Included in a Well-Woman Visit?
Your annual well-woman visit puts you in control of your health. It includes a physical exam and preventive screenings tailored to meet your needs — and it’s one of the best ways to ensure you’re enjoying your best health. Learn what to expect.
Apr 11th, 2021

Are You at Risk for Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a leading cause of pelvic pain and infertility. It can develop in any woman, but certain factors could make a diagnosis more likely. Learn your risk and familiarize yourself with the symptoms so you can get the care you need.
Mar 8th, 2021

All About Corpus Luteum Cysts
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form on ovaries. Corpus luteum cysts are some of the most common, but are they cause for concern? Find out why corpus luteum cysts form, and learn to recognize symptoms of ovarian cysts.
Feb 9th, 2021

When to Schedule an STI Test
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are common, and anyone who is sexually active is at risk. STIs don’t always have symptoms, but undiagnosed infections can lead to health complications. Learn when to schedule STI tests to maintain your health.
Jan 21st, 2021

5 Signs of PCOS
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is common — but symptoms vary from irregular periods and infertility to abnormal hair growth and fatigue, and getting a diagnosis isn’t always easy. Learn more about five telltale signs that you may have PCOS.
Dec 6th, 2020

Can Menopause Affect Your Sleep?
If hot flashes and mood swings during your busy day aren’t bad enough, these and other menopause symptoms can make it impossible to get a restful night’s sleep. Learn how menopause can affect your sleep, and explore how you can get the rest you need.
Nov 8th, 2020

Why You Shouldn't Ignore Heavy Periods
Only a fraction of women with heavy periods seek treatment. Because every woman’s period is different, it’s not always easy to know what’s normal — but ignoring symptoms could put your health at risk. So what is normal when it comes to your period?
Oct 6th, 2020

Tips for Living with Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a chronic condition that causes pelvic pain and heavy periods, but it doesn’t have to harm your quality of life. From finding the right treatment to considering your family planning goals, get these tips for managing endometriosis.
Sep 8th, 2020

What's in Prenatal Vitamins, and Do I Need Them?
Prenatal vitamins are packed with essential vitamins and nutrients to keep you healthy and support your baby’s development. If you’re pregnant or trying to get pregnant, it’s time to find the right prenatal vitamin for you.
Jul 21st, 2020

What's in Prenatal Vitamins and Do I Need Them?
Prenatal vitamins are packed with essential vitamins and nutrients to keep you healthy and support your baby’s development. If you’re pregnant or trying to get pregnant, it’s time to find the right prenatal vitamin for you. Learn more here.
Jun 24th, 2020

Alternatives to Hysterectomy
Hysterectomy is a popular procedure for women who are done having children, but it’s also recommended for women with chronic pelvic pain. If you have pelvic pain but you want children in the future, learn more about alternatives to hysterectomy.
May 28th, 2020

Do Your Symptoms Mean You're in Menopause?
Hot flashes, mood swings, and low libido are just a few symptoms characteristic of menopause. If you’re beginning to notice these changes, you might be wondering if you’re in menopause. Learn more about the stages of perimenopause and menopause here.
Apr 22nd, 2020

Should I Get the HPV Vaccine?
Millions of Americans have human papillomavirus (HPV), the most common sexually transmitted disease in the United States. The HPV vaccine protects against complications like warts and certain cancers. Find out if you should get vaccinated.
Mar 9th, 2020

Can Endometriosis Cause Infertility?
As well as the pain and menstrual complications caused by endometriosis, its sufferers are more likely to experience fertility issues and miscarriage, though the reasons why aren’t fully understood. With treatment, pregnancy is often possible.
Dec 2nd, 2019

Pregnant for the First Time? Here's What You Should Know
Congratulations on your pregnancy! If this is your first, you might be wondering what to expect while you’re expecting. We've got some of the most important things you’ll want to keep in mind as the weeks and months unfold.
Nov 1st, 2019

Myths and Facts About Ovarian Cysts
While many women develop ovarian cysts, common myths can leave them confused about typical treatments and outcomes. Read on to find out the facts behind this condition.
Oct 1st, 2019

Living with PCOS
PCOS, or polycystic ovary syndrome, is a condition that affects 10% of women of childbearing age. Learn how to treat and navigate this often-frustrating issue.
Sep 3rd, 2019

What Women Need to Know About HPV
Whether it’s benign or the kind that places you at risk for cervical cancer, HPV can be a problematic condition. Make sure you’re fully aware and protected when it comes to HPV.
Aug 1st, 2019

Staying Cool: Your Summer Pregnancy Survival Guide
Wow! It’s hot already! Are you pregnant and trying to beat the heat this season? These simple tricks will keep you cool and comfortable all summer, no matter how far along you are in your pregnancy.
Jul 1st, 2019