Periods & Menopause Myths and Facts
Dr. Kudzai Dombo, MD, is a board-certified obstetrician gynecologist with nearly 20 years of experience. Her career has spanned across various countries including El Salvador, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, and South Africa. Dr. Dombo has navigated different health care systems and developed a deep passion for women’s health. She is excited to bring her diverse experience to Akasha Center, offering a 10-minute meet-and-greet session to discuss whether she is a good fit for prospective patients.
Managing Menstrual Irregularities
Dr. Dombo discusses the importance of addressing menstrual irregularities before they require hospitalization. She emphasizes the need to manage symptoms such as heavy or prolonged periods through early intervention. Options like in-office endometrial biopsies and the placement of a Mirena IUD, which contains progesterone to lighten periods, can be effective.
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS is a condition characterized by irregular periods and elevated androgen levels, such as testosterone. This can lead to symptoms like prolonged or absent periods and excessive hair growth. Dr. Dombo explains how hormonal imbalances in PCOS can increase the risk of cardiometabolic issues, including diabetes, hypertension, and weight gain around visceral organs. She stresses the importance of weight management and balancing hormones to mitigate these risks.
Menopause and Perimenopause
During perimenopause and menopause, women may experience various symptoms beyond the typical hot flashes. Dr. Dombo describes less commonly discussed symptoms such as restless leg syndrome, dry mouth, and dry eyes, often related to decreased estrogen levels. She suggests using a humidifier and taking breaks from screen time to alleviate dry eyes, and advises on ways to manage fluctuating body odors and changes in vaginal health.
Fibroids and Their Management
Fibroids are non-cancerous growths in the uterus that can cause heavy bleeding and other symptoms. Dr. Dombo discusses the factors contributing to fibroid development, including family history, diet, alcohol consumption, and obesity. She explains that treatment options vary, and early management can prevent more severe interventions.
Endometrial Biopsy and Colposcopy
Dr. Dombo performs procedures like endometrial biopsies and colposcopies to diagnose conditions such as abnormal bleeding or cervical abnormalities. An endometrial biopsy involves sampling tissue from the uterine lining to rule out precancerous or cancerous conditions, while a colposcopy provides a closer look at the cervix to investigate abnormal Pap smears.
Painful Intercourse
Pain during intercourse can stem from various causes including vaginal dryness, trauma, or structural abnormalities like fibroids. Dr. Dombo underscores the importance of discussing these symptoms openly to identify appropriate treatments, such as vaginal estrogen or addressing underlying issues.
Preconception Care
Before conceiving, Dr. Dombo advises optimizing control of preexisting conditions like diabetes and hypertension. She emphasizes the importance of managing these conditions to reduce risks during pregnancy and ensure a healthy environment for fetal development. Recommendations include proper folate intake, prenatal vitamins, and lifestyle modifications to support hormone balance and overall health.
Conclusion
Dr. Dombo invites potential patients to a 10-minute information session at Akasha Center to explore whether her approach aligns with their needs. Her experience and commitment to women’s health are evident through her extensive career and personal experiences.
