A Pap smear is a routine screening test that examines cells from the cervix under a microscope. Its purpose is to catch abnormal cell changes early, before they have a chance to develop into cervical cancer. A human papillomavirus (HPV) test, which is sometimes done at the same time, checks for high-risk strains of HPV…
The first trimester covers the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, and it brings some of the most noticeable changes you will experience. During this time, your body is building the placenta, your hormone levels are rising quickly, and your blood volume is increasing. These shifts are responsible for most early pregnancy symptoms, and understanding which…
Infertility is the inability to become pregnant after one year of regular, unprotected sex. For women 35 and older, most providers recommend starting an evaluation sooner, usually after six months, because fertility naturally declines with age. Infertility is more common than many people realize, and it does not mean something is wrong with you. It…
Menstrual cycles vary among women. A normal menstrual cycle happens every 21 and 35 days, with bleeding that lasts about two to seven days. Flow is usually heavier in the first couple of days and then tapers off, and mild cramping or the occasional small clot is common. When bleeding falls outside that range, happens…
Care for Womens Medical Group is proud to announce that Dr. Toni D. Vu, DO has been named a Castle Connolly Top Doctor for 2026, extending an unbroken streak of recognition that began in 2019. Eight consecutive years of this distinction places Dr. Vu among a select group of physicians who have demonstrated sustained excellence…
When most people think about heart disease, they picture chest pain and cardiology visits. But for many women, early warning signs show up in a different place first—at routine OB/GYN appointments. Blood pressure checks, weight trends, lab results, pregnancy history, and hormonal changes can all offer clues about your long-term risk. But first, here are…
Vaginal symptoms can be uncomfortable and stressful, especially when you are not sure what is normal. Many women notice changes in discharge, odor, itching, irritation, dryness, or discomfort with sex and wonder if it is an infection or something else. The good news is that most vaginal concerns are treatable, and getting the right care…
Deciding to grow your family is an exciting step. Whether this is your first child or you are hoping to expand your family, the process of getting pregnant can feel both joyful and uncertain. While conception sometimes happens quickly, for others it may take more time and planning. The good news is that there are…
Women’s health changes naturally over time. Pregnancy, childbirth, aging, and menopause can all affect the body in ways that impact comfort, intimacy, and confidence. While many women assume they just need to live with it, the truth is that safe, effective treatments are available to restore vaginal health and function. Vaginal rejuvenation is an umbrella…
Endometriosis: Diagnosis and Treatment Endometriosis is a common yet often misunderstood condition that affects millions of women worldwide. It occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus begins to grow in places where it does not belong, such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or pelvic cavity. Because this tissue responds to hormonal changes…