Q: What should I know about the Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) news?

Q: What is your new patient referral program?

Q: What new services do you offer patients?

A: Many women are on hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to help relieve the symptoms of menopause and to prevent osteoporosis. In July, the news broke that for some women taking a combination of estrogen and progestin (PREMPRO™), the risks of HRT may outweigh the benefit. However, the news was confusing to many women and it is difficult to clearly understand all the issues.

What we'd like you to know is this: don't panic! These increased risks must be viewed in the context of several other factors. As always, it is important to individualize treatment based on each woman's situation. HRT is still approved for many conditions, and is very effective when used where indicated. If you are currently on HRT, please DO NOT stop your therapy without speaking to your physician. If you have any concerns, please continue with your current regimen and discuss your options with us. Understanding how important this issue is to you, we have made additional appointments available for HRT consultation.

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A: We want to thank all of you who have told your friends about our new clinic. We continue to grow and offer new programs because of your generous support. To thank you for spreading the word we are offering a free MicroPeel facial for each new patient you refer to our clinic. The MicroPeel facial is an easy, three-step process that removes a pore-clogged, micro-thin top layer of skin, leaving you with clearer skin, more even skin tone and uniform color. It will be provided by The Edina Skin Care Clinic, located just across the hall from our office. Just tell your friends to let us know they have been referred by you and we will send you a certificate good for one free treatment.

At Minnesota Gynecology and Surgery, our motto is "Your Partner in Women's Health." While many women share the same concerns about their health, we know that each woman's needs are personal and unique. Our objective is to work with you as an individual to ensure you get the best possible care. And, while we are excited about the new services we are offering, we will continue to evolve to offer you the most modern health care we can. Currently, we are considering adding a varicose vein clinic, weight management classes, sexual counseling and educational seminars. If you are interested in these, or have other suggestions, please let us know. Thanks again for you support.

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A: In our continued efforts to serve you better, we are now offering several new services including state-of-the-art bone density screening; biofeedback to help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles; a clinical research study for prolapsed uterus; and a new alternative for women with a heavy menstrual flow.

Bone Density Screening

To promote earlier diagnosis of osteoporosis or its precursors, the American College of OB/GYN recommends that all women have a bone density scan at the time of menopause and every two years thereafter. Since we installed a GE Prodigy Dexa Scanner in our office in May, we have performed over 400 bone density screenings and have been very pleased with its performance. Unlike some scanners, which evaluate only the finger or heel, our scanner assesses the bone density of both hips and the lumbar spine, a much more reliable indicator of disease. The test is painless, is completed in a few minutes and results are available instantly. If the scan reveals osteopenia or osteoporosis, we will prescribe a therapeutic regimen; the test should then be repeated every year to monitor the effectiveness of therapy. With the new scanner, we have helped many women identify potential problems which we can now help them treat. Bone density scans are covered by most insurance companies as well as Medicare.

Pelvic Floor Biofeedback

The evaluation and treatment of urinary incontinence is a major emphasis of our clinic. Incontinence is most often the result of weakened pelvic muscles. Kegel exercises are important in maintaining or regaining strength in the pelvic floor. However, most women do not do the exercises correctly and usually have no way to tell if they are making progress. We are now pleased to offer pelvic floor biofeedback for the early treatment of stress and urge incontinence, as well as pelvic pain and some sexual dysfunctions. With biofeedback, patients sit comfortably clothed - in a private room with a trained therapist - and learn how to exercise the pelvic muscles properly and objectively follow their improvement. Biofeedback sessions last less than 30 minutes and are covered by most insurance.

Clinical Trial for the Treatment of Uterine Prolapse

In the past, hysterectomy was the standard treatment for uterine prolapse. However, our practice is one of several sites around the country currently participating in a clinical trial investigating a new, minimally invasive surgical technique called Elevest™ that could prevent the need for a hysterectomy. If you or anyone you know is affected by uterine prolapse we invite you to schedule a consultation.

New Treatment for Heavy Menstrual Flow

There is now an exciting new procedure, called Novasure™, for the treatment of menorraghia (heavy menses). With Novasure™, a catheter-like device is placed in the uterine cavity to destroy the endometrium (uterine lining), which greatly decreases or stops menstrual flow. Discomfort associated with menstruation, such as uterine cramps and some symptoms of PMS, are often improved or eliminated. Novasure™ does not affect the ovaries, so hormone levels are left unchanged. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, with sedation. It is an option only for women who do not plan on becoming pregnant. Patient satisfaction with Novasure™ is higher than 90%, and more than 40% of patients will stop having their period. For more information about Novasure™, visit the Novacept website at www.novacept.com.

Adolescent and Teen Care

Many of you have asked when your daughters should see a gynecologist. Generally speaking, if a young woman is doing well and has no special concerns, a pelvic exam and pap smear should be performed by age 18. However, if she is experiencing problems, such as heavy, prolonged or painful periods; pelvic pain; unusual discharge; delayed sexual maturation; or has other concerns, she can be seen at any age.

It is very important that a young woman's first pelvic examination be a positive experience. Our office is very fortunate to have an excellent, board certified women's health nurse practitioner. Tina Sonnek is a sensitive and caring provider who will take time to explain the importance of wellness examinations and preventive care and answer all questions thoughtfully and properly. Examinations and discussions are age-appropriate. You can make an appointment for your adolescents and teens either with your physician or directly with our nurse practitioner.

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