We have learned that whether or not a woman has Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is critical to her chances of developing cervical cancer or precancer.  If negative for HPV and over 65-70 years old with normal pap smears, continued screening is probably unnecessary.  Furthermore, after hysterectomy with no abnormal pap smears, screening can be discontinued.

Breast cancer screening changes are much more controversial.  Recently, the United States Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) has recommended NOT performing screening mammography on women until the age of 50 instead of age 40.  After age 50, screen every two years until age 74.  There is insufficient evidence on mammographic screening after age 74.  The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists still advocates screening every 1-2 years from age 40 to 50 and yearly afterwards.  They are reviewing the new USPSTF guidelines.

Cancer screening guidelines will continue to change as we gain more advanced understanding of the disease processes, as well as, advances in screening technology. At Albany Gynecology and Fertility we strive to keep you informed of changes and provide you with the most “up to date” care.

Albany Gynecology and Fertility, 130 Everett Road, www.albanygyn.com, 518.482.1007

Fibroids are benign tumors (or growths) on or in the uterus (womb).  They can cause infertility, heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and painful intercourse. There are multiple treatments for fibroids; some medical and some surgical.  The method of treatment depends on the desires of the individual patient.

Available treatment options include: surgical removal of the fibroids, endometrial ablation, hyterectomy, uterine artery embolization, and focused ultrasound treatment.  While definitive treatment would be hyterectomy, often we can treat fibroids more conservatively.  If a woman desires to preserve her fertility or is experiencing fertility problems, surgical removal of the fibroids is the most appropriate treatment.  Our surgeons are able to accomplish this in a minimally invasive fashion.  If fertility is not a concern, the other options mentioned may be utilized.

For women who desire reproductive capability and any women who wish to retain their uterus, removal of the fibroids can be accomplished in a minimally invasive fashion.  Our surgeons have advanced training in minimally invasive gynecologic surgery.  We are able to remove fibroids through small incisions during an outpatient procedure called laparoscopic myomectomy.  In addition, we now offer Robotic Assisted Fibroid Removal with the DaVinci Robot from Intuitive Surgical, Inc.  This state of the art system allows us to operate on larger fibroids and those located in difficult locations within the uterus.

Women who do not desire preservation of fertility may elect other treatment options.  Uterine artery embolization uses particles that are placed within blood vessels which feed the fibroids.  This causes a decrease blood flow and reduction in the size of the fibroids, as well as fibroid symptoms.  This procedure is performed by interventional radiologists.  Other options which are being developed include ‘focused ultrasound’ and radiofrequency ablation.  These techniques are not approved for women desiring future fertility.

Fibroids can dramatically effect a woman’s quality of life by causing pain, pressure, and heavy menstrual bleeding.  If fibroids are causing these problems for you, please call to schedule an appointment and look into getting relief.

If you would like more information or to schedule a consultation please call our office.

Dr. Nicholas Montalto
Albany Gynecology & Fertility
130 Everett Road
Albany, NY 12205
518.482.1007

Date: June 6th , 2009
Time: 11:30am-4:00pm
Schedule of events:

11:30am – Arrival, and sign in.
11:45am – Dr. Montalto Speaks about taking control of your health and happiness.
12:15pm – Cheryl Anderson speaks about CNY Healing Arts and how taking care of yourself makes you feel better
12:45pm–1:15pm – Break for snacks and refreshments
1:15pm-2:00pm – Dr Kiltz Speaks about positive thinking and living your best life.
2:15pm-3:00pm – Tour the CNY Healing Arts Center and meet different practitioners, watch demonstrations, etc.
3:00pm-3:30pm – Break for a sample yoga class.
3:30pm-4:00pm – Q&A with whole group, closing, etc.

All are welcome to join us, this event is offered at no charge by Albany Gynecology & Fertility.

* Please RSVP by June 1st, 2009 via email to dburke@albanygyn.com or by calling the office at 1-518-482-1007.