ovary disease

I (28) have been suffering from heavy menstrual periods and frequent cycles for the last four yea-rs. Now it has been diagnosed as polycystic ovary disease. Doctors have suggested ovarian surgery. Will it lead to a permanent cure?

Polycystic ovary disease is a condition in which multiple cysts develop within the ovary and this leads to hormonal imbalance within the body and irregular periods. Ovarian surgery in the form of ovarian drilling (making multiple holes in the ovary using a laparoscope) is a treatment option for patients having the problem along with infertility. However, this is not a permanent cure. Effective treatment centres around hormonal therapy or induction of ovulation or egg production in the ovaries.

mense problem

My daughter (15) has not had menstrual periods. What is the possible cause of the problem and how can it be treated?

Any girl not who has not experienced periods by the age of 16 needs a check-up. An important point to be considered is the presence or absence of secondary sexual characters (such as the typical feminine voice, growth of characteristic pubic hair and so on). There can be several causes of the problem cited by you, the commonest being physiological delay. However, she needs investigations to rule out any congenital or central nervous system problems.

miscarriages

I (31) have experienced three episodes of miscarriages in the early stages of pregnancy. What can be the possible cause? Is it possible to treat it?

Three spontaneous abortions in the early stages of pregnancy can indicate some chromosomal incompatibility between the husband and wife, or a blood disorder in the latter. Both you and your husband should be investigated accordingly. But don?t lose heart, because despite spontaneous abortions the chance of a successful pregnancy is about 60 per cent.

painful periods

I (29) suffer from extremely painful cramps during the first two days of menstrual periods. It is often accompanied by episodes of nausea and vomiting and is almost always preceded by migraine headaches. As several episodes of medications, hot water bag therapies and exercise provided no relief, a doctor advised me to take oral contraceptive pills; but I?m a little apprehensive about the suggestion. Are such pills safe for me? Won?t it lead to complications later in my married life?

Oral contraceptive pills are a very effective treatment for painful periods as they suppresses the ovulation (production of eggs) which is the primary cause of the pain. At your age, if there are no other medical problems like high blood pressure, you can safely take contraceptive pills, especially the low-dose ones for five years. But while taking the pills, keep a tab on your blood pressure levels.

conception

My wife (28) underwent a kidney transplant four years ago. She is under medication and is keeping fine. Is it the right time for her to conceive?

Usually after renal transplant, it is advisable to wait for two years before starting a family. If her blood pressure and the condition of her kidney is under control, then she can think of conceiving. However, the pregnancy should be thoroughly monitored and managed under the combined care of an obstetrician and a nephrologist (kidney specialist).

bad valve

My daughter (21) has undergone mitral valve replacement in her heart after having suffered from rheumatic fever for quite some time. I have been told that because of the surgery she won?t be able to conceive. Is it true?

What you?ve been told isn?t correct. Pregnancy after mitral valve surgery for rheumatic fever is safe. But the pregnancy has to be regularly monitored by an obstetrician and a cardiologist. The outcome is usually successful.