Tubal ligation or “tying the tubes” is the most common form of permanent contraception for women. Often times, women might regret this decision and desire another child. Studies show that this regret is about twice as likely for women undergoing tubal ligation under the age of 30.

Options for having another child after tubal ligation include In Vitro Fertilization and Tubal Reversal. In Vitro Fertilization involves stimulating the ovaries to produce many eggs and then removing those eggs from the ovaries and joining them with sperm. Uniting the egg and sperm produces an “embryo” which can be placed back inside the uterus where it will, hopefully, implant.

An alternative option is reversing the tubal ligation. This can be done surgically. The success rate of opening, at least, one tube is about 90%. This depends on what type of tubal ligation was originally performed. As long as there is enough of the fallopian tubes left, then tubal reversal can be quite successful. Pregnancy rates following reversal are variable but can be about 70%. Advantages over In Vitro Fertilization include a lower cost, less risk of twins and triplets, and the ability to have more children in the future at no additional cost.

If you or someone you know is interested in tubal ligation reversal, please call our office at 518-482-1007 to schedule a consultation.

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

There are many factors predisposing a woman to urinary incontinence such as, older age, childbirth, medical problems like diabetes, asthma and lung problems, neurologic disorders, gynecologic surgery, obesity and smoking. It can be worsened by certain medications, alcohol and caffeine.

The two most common types of incontinence are overactive bladder or urge incontinence and stress incontinence. Sometimes a woman may suffer from a combination of both types called mixed incontinence.

We can make the diagnosis simply in our office with a good history and simple diagnostic testing. We offer all management options including behavioral, medical and surgical treatment. Surgical procedures have changed dramatically and are now minimally invasive with patients going home the same day and resuming most activities within days.

Let us help you take the first step toward taking back control of your active lifestyle. No woman should ever settle for incontinence as an inevitable part of aging or wear pads to compensate. Don’t  be embarrassed to get help for this treatable condition and don’t be left on the sidelines while an active lifestyle passes you by.

Nicholas Montalto, Jr., M.D.
Albany Gynecology and Fertility
130 Everett Road
518 482-1007.

Lifestyle changes should be incorporated in every woman’s treatment plan in an effort to alleviate VMS.  Interventions such as regular exercise, light cotton clothing, drinking cool fluids and using fans may be helpful in regulating body temperature. Some women explore herbal remedies to treat their symptoms.  While not FDA regulated, they are sometimes a viable option.  Women should be counseled regarding their use and the possibility of drug to drug interactions.

Another alternative for women in treating VMS is medication to increase the serotonin level of the body. Although usually used for depression, they can be very effective for VMS.  Of the non-hormonal therapies, this group of medications has been studied most extensively. Serotonin is a chemical in the brain thought to have a role in regulating body heat and in addition can improve symptoms of irritability and sleep disorders associated with VMS.

Please call our office to help you with this transitional time in your life. 
Albany Gynecology and Fertility 
518.482.1007.