Women’s Health

Women’s healthcare extends beyond basic gynecological services, covering a wide array of areas crucial to the well-being of female patients. At Nirvana Healthcare Management Services, we offer personalized and prevention-focused healthcare tailored to meet the unique needs of women of all ages. Our team of doctors and patient coordinators ensure easy access to high-quality and seamless care throughout Essex County.

Women’s Preventative Health Screenings

We offer a wide range of services to support women’s health, including breast cancer screening, cervical cancer screening, and ovarian cancer screening. We prioritize known risk factors and emphasize early detection. Furthermore, we provide guidance on lifestyle and medical history to address increased risks. Our commitment to comprehensive care aligns with the recommendations of the Preventive Services Task Force, showcasing our holistic approach to women’s health.

Bone Mineral Density Screening

A bone mineral density (BMD) test is to identify if the patient has osteoporosis, a condition that causes weak, brittle bones. The frequency of this test depends on the results of previous screenings. Some women ages may have one every 15 years, while others may need more frequent routine bone density screening. As stated by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), women who meet the following criteria should be evaluated:

• Are ages 65 or older
• Are younger than age 65 and past menopause

Due to the link between osteoporosis and menopause, aging women are at greater risk of developing this condition. While other tests are available, the DEXA (DXA) scan is the primary screening method.

Breast Cancer Screening

Breast cancer screening is a crucial aspect of breast cancer early detection, involving various methods such as clinical breast examinations and mammograms. However, it’s also advisable for women to incorporate regular self-exams at home into their breast cancer screening routine and promptly report any abnormal findings to their healthcare providers. According to breast cancer screening experts at the American Cancer Society, mammograms are recommended as follows:

• For women aged 40 to 44, the option to initiate yearly breast cancer screenings is available.
• Women aged 45 to 54 are strongly encouraged to undergo annual breast cancer screening.
• Once women reach the age of 55 and older, they can opt for a mammogram every other year or continue with yearly breast cancer screenings for effective breast cancer screening and early detection.

Signs of Breast Cancer

Signs of breast cancer can vary, but some common signs and symptoms to be aware of include:

• Lump or Mass: The most common sign is the presence of a new lump or mass in the breast. These lumps may feel hard and painless, although some can be tender or painful.
• Change in Breast Size or Shape: Any noticeable changes in the size or shape of the breast, including asymmetry between the two breasts, should be evaluated.
• Skin Changes: Look for changes in the skin of the breast, such as redness, dimpling, puckering, or the appearance of an orange peel texture.
• Nipple Changes: Changes in the nipple, such as nipple inversion (when it turns inward), discharge (other than breast milk), or a scaly or rash-like appearance, can be signs of concern.
• Breast Pain: While breast pain is often not associated with breast cancer, persistent, unexplained pain or discomfort in the breast should be investigated.
• Swelling or Thickening: If you notice swelling or thickening in part of the breast, it should be examined by a healthcare professional.
• Lymph Node Changes: Enlarged lymph nodes in the armpit or near the collarbone may indicate the spread of breast cancer.
• Unexplained Weight Loss: Sudden, unexplained weight loss can sometimes be a sign of advanced breast cancer.

It’s important to note that these signs do not necessarily indicate breast cancer, as they can be caused by various benign conditions as well. However, if you notice any of these changes in your breast, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider at Nirvana Healthcare Management Services for a proper evaluation and, if necessary, further diagnostic tests like mammograms or biopsies. Early detection and prompt medical attention can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment if breast cancer is present.

Cervical Cancer Screening

To conduct cervical cancer screening and identify potential cervical cancer, patients can undergo tests such as the human papillomavirus (HPV) or Papanicolaou (Pap) test. Following current cervical cancer screening guidelines, individuals should begin screening at age 25. Women between the ages of 25 and 65 should receive an HPV test every five years and a Pap test every three years. These tests, as outlined below, can be administered individually or concurrently during a medical appointment:

Cervical Cancer Screening:

• HPV Test: The human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and a significant risk factor for the development of cervical cancer. This test is utilized to detect high-risk HPV types that are most closely associated with this disease.
• Pap Test: The Pap test, also known as a Pap smear, is a cervical cancer screening method that identifies both cancerous and pre-cancerous cells located on the cervix.

These essential cervical cancer screening procedures are vital in assessing risk factors and detecting potential issues related to cervical cancer and sexually transmitted infections.

Signs of Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer may not always exhibit noticeable symptoms in its early stages, which is why regular screenings are crucial. However, as the disease progresses, some signs and symptoms may manifest. A few signs of cervical cancer can include:

1. Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding: This is one of the most common symptoms. It may include bleeding between periods, after sexual intercourse, or post-menopause.
2. Pelvic Pain or Discomfort: Persistent, unexplained pelvic pain or discomfort, which may radiate to the lower back or legs, can be a symptom.
3. Unusual Vaginal Discharge: An increase in vaginal discharge that may be watery, bloody, or have a foul odor, especially if it’s unrelated to your menstrual cycle, can be a warning sign.
4. Pain During Sexual Intercourse: Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse (dyspareunia) can be a symptom of cervical cancer.
5. Changes in Menstrual Patterns: Changes in menstrual cycles, such as heavier or longer periods than usual, can be indicative of a problem.
6. Weight Loss and Fatigue: Unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and a general feeling of weakness or illness may occur in the advanced stages of cervical cancer.

Ovarian Cancer

Patients commonly undergo ovarian cancer screening as part of a clinical pelvic examination. During this examination, a healthcare provider assesses the ovaries for size, shape, and consistency. While early detection of ovarian tumors using this method can be challenging, there are other available screening tests, such as transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) and pelvic ultrasound.

Healthcare providers use health report cards as a foundation for patient care, revisiting the patient’s medical record during each visit. These report cards adhere to the guidelines set forth by the United States Preventive Services Task Force and take into account individual medical history, risk factors, and overall health to ensure that every patient, especially women in the age group outlined by the National Cancer Institute, receives personalized care. For the convenience of our patients, laboratory services are available at all locations to facilitate these crucial screening tests for ovarian cancer, especially for those at increased risk, as recommended by the National Cancer Institute for women.

Signs of Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is often referred to as the “silent killer” because it may not present obvious symptoms in its early stages. However, as the disease progresses, some signs and symptoms may develop. A few signs of ovarian cancer can include:

1. Pelvic Pain or Discomfort: Persistent pain or discomfort in the pelvic area, which may feel like pressure, bloating, or fullness.
2. Abdominal Pain: Chronic or frequent abdominal pain or discomfort, often accompanied by a feeling of fullness, bloating, or swelling.
3. Difficulty Eating or Feeling Full Quickly: If you experience changes in your appetite, such as feeling full after eating a small amount or difficulty eating, it could be a symptom.
4. Frequent Urination: Increased urgency to urinate or more frequent urination, even if you don’t have a urinary tract infection.
5. Changes in Bowel Habits: Persistent changes in bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhea, that are not explained by other factors.
6. Unexplained Weight Loss: Sudden and unexplained weight loss, particularly if it is significant and occurs without a change in diet or exercise.
7. Fatigue: Ongoing, unexplained fatigue or a general feeling of low energy.

Overall Health Evaluations

Clinicians at Nirvana Healthcare Management Services dedicate time to comprehensively evaluate each patient’s health, with a focus on risk assessments, prevention, and overall health management. Treatment recommendations are crafted based on several factors, ensuring that every patient receives tailored, high-quality care. In addition to routine screenings, our healthcare providers offer various types of healthcare evaluations, including assessments for:

• Diabetes
• Gastroenterology and hepatology conditions
• Hypertension

We also prioritize family planning, providing access to a range of options, from prescribing birth control methods to performing IUD placements. These recommendations are made by physicians who take into consideration the patient’s health, comfort level, and lifestyle while also encouraging proactive measures to address future medical problems, especially for individuals with a weakened immune system, such as those with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Our commitment extends to addressing specific screenings like blood pressure screening, colorectal cancer, skin cancer, and lung cancer to ensure comprehensive healthcare services.

Conditions that Commonly Affect Women

Women’s health encompasses a wide range of medical concerns, and even conditions that affect both genders may have unique implications for women. At Nirvana Healthcare Management Services, our board-certified providers employ additional preventive measures tailored to the needs of female patients. Some health issues that exhibit gender-specific differences in impact include:

• Chronic Pelvic Pain
• Depression and anxiety
• Cardiovascular disease
• IBS (Inflammatory Bowel Disease)
• Leaky Gut
• Urinary tract infection (UTI)
• Colon cancer
• Vascular diseases, such as varicose veins and spider veins

In addition to these considerations, we offer specialized testing services that include pelvic, transvaginal, and breast ultrasounds. These tests serve to pinpoint the root causes of pain, assist physicians in assessing bladder and reproductive organ health, and identify any abnormalities. We prioritize patient convenience by offering flexible appointment scheduling to accommodate their daily routines. Unlike some providers with two to three months of wait time for appointments, Nirvana Healthcare Management Services coordinators routinely arrange appointments within days, ensuring timely access to care.

Book an Appointment with a Provider

Experience top-quality women’s health services in various convenient locations across Essex County, NJ, including Newark and East Orange. Trust Nirvana Healthcare Management Services for all your comprehensive and holistic healthcare needs. Our network includes esteemed medical practices such as Salerno Medical Associates, Metropolitan Medical Group, Roseville Medical Society, North Ward Medical Arts, and Armenti Medical Group. We also offer in-home services for patients through CHOP/SHOP. Reach out to us today to schedule an appointment or inquire about our women’s health and wellness offerings.