Frequently
Asked
Questions
At Guirguis Women’s Health, we understand that women in New York City often have questions about their gynecological care, from irregular periods and birth control options to fertility concerns and pelvic pain. Our FAQ page addresses the most common women’s health questions we hear at our Brooklyn and Staten Island locations, including guidance on Pap smears, STI testing, menopause symptoms, and when to see a gynecologist. Whether you're seeking care for endometriosis, ovarian cysts, or high-risk pregnancy, our expert OB/GYN team is here to support you with personalized, compassionate care.
1
How often should I see a gynecologist?
Women should visit a gynecologist annually for routine wellness exams, even if they’re not experiencing symptoms. At Guirguis Women’s Health, our Brooklyn and Staten Island OB/GYNs provide comprehensive exams, screenings, and preventive care tailored to each stage of life.
2
What are the most effective birth control options available in NY?
Our OB/GYNs offer a full range of contraceptive options including IUDs, birth control pills, implants, patches, and non-hormonal methods. We help you choose the best option based on your health, lifestyle, and reproductive goals.
3
What does irregular bleeding mean and when should I be concerned?
Irregular periods can be a sign of hormonal imbalance, fibroids, polyps, or conditions like PCOS. If you're experiencing heavy bleeding, spotting between periods, or cycles that are consistently off, schedule a visit at one of our NYC offices.
4
What should I do if I’m having trouble getting pregnant?
If you’ve been trying to conceive for 6–12 months without success, our experienced OB/GYNs and maternal-fetal medicine specialists can evaluate your fertility and discuss treatment options like ovulation support, IUI, or IVF referrals.
5
Is pelvic pain normal or should I see a gynecologist?
Chronic or severe pelvic pain can be caused by conditions like endometriosis, ovarian cysts, or fibroids. Don’t ignore persistent discomfort—our providers use advanced diagnostics and minimally invasive techniques, including robotic surgery, to treat pain at the source.
6
When should my teen daughter have her first gynecology visit?
We recommend scheduling a first visit between ages 13–15. This visit focuses on education, trust-building, and preventive care—not necessarily an exam—making it a great introduction to lifelong gynecological health.
7
How often should I get a Pap smear or pelvic exam?
Most women need a Pap smear every 3 years starting at age 21, though this can vary based on age, risk factors, and test results.
8
What are normal vs. abnormal menstrual cycles?
A typical cycle lasts 21–35 days. Irregular, painful, or very heavy periods may indicate conditions like PCOS, fibroids, or endometriosis.
9
What symptoms could mean I have a sexually transmitted infection (STI)?
Common concerns include unusual discharge, itching, pain during sex, or no symptoms at all. Many women ask when and how often to get tested.
10
Is it normal to have pain during sex?
Painful intercourse is common but not normal. It can be caused by dryness, hormonal changes, or underlying conditions like endometriosis or fibroids.
11
What are signs of early menopause or perimenopause?
Women often ask about hot flashes, irregular periods, mood changes, and sleep disturbances starting in their 40s.
12
How can I tell if I have a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis?
Differences in discharge, odor, and irritation are key—but many women are unsure and seek help to avoid self-misdiagnosis. At Guirguis Women's Health, an appointment is necessary for diagnosis.
13
I have a history of UTI's. Why can't my doctor just send a prescription to my pharmacy without an office visit?
1. Symptoms Can Be Misleading
UTIs share symptoms with other conditions like vaginitis, STIs, or interstitial cystitis. Treating based on symptoms alone without confirming the diagnosis can lead to misdiagnosis and ineffective treatment.
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2. Antibiotic Resistance
Frequent or inappropriate antibiotic use can promote antibiotic resistance, making future infections harder to treat. This is especially concerning in patients with recurrent UTIs, where resistance patterns may already be emerging.
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3. Need for Urine Culture
Even with a history of UTIs, a urine culture is often necessary to identify the specific bacteria and determine the most effective antibiotic. Not all UTIs are caused by the same organisms, and resistance can change over time.
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4. Risk of Masking a More Serious Condition
Prescribing antibiotics without evaluation can mask symptoms of more serious or chronic conditions like kidney infections, stones, or bladder cancer, especially in older women.
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5. Individualized Care Matters
Recurrent UTI patients may benefit from prophylactic strategies, lifestyle modifications, or further urologic evaluation. Automatically prescribing antibiotics misses the chance to offer long-term solutions.
14
What is a high-risk pregnancy?
A pregnancy may be considered high-risk if there are increased health concerns for the mother, baby, or both. Common conditions include:
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Gestational diabetes
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Preeclampsia or high blood pressure
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Advanced maternal age (35+)
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Multiple gestation (twins or more)
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Placenta previa
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Thyroid disorders
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History of preterm labor or miscarriage
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Chronic conditions like lupus or kidney disease
Our team provides early diagnosis, continuous monitoring, and specialized care plans to manage these risks and support the healthiest possible outcome.