The average menstrual cycle or gap between the periods is 28 to 30 days, but different women have different cycles, and this is perfectly normal. Things that affect your lifestyle such as stress, illness, weight (gain or loss) and exercise can all affect the cycle, as can hormonal contraception.

Most womens periods last between two and seven days. Generally this includes one or two days of heavy flow. However we are all different and therefore this will not be the same for everyone. Also, the amount of bleeding can vary from month to month, and this is totally normal. The bleeding will often have clots.

Most girls will get their first period between the ages of 11 and 14, but there will be girls who get it earlier or later, there is no right age. Sometimes the age your mother had her first period will be an indication, but not always.

Yes, problems with sexual function occur in women of all ages. These include problems with sexual interest, arousal, orgasm function, and pain.

Yes. After menopause, women are more likely to have cardiovascular problems, like heart attacks and strokes. Changes in estrogen levels may be part of the cause, but so is getting older.

There are many decisions to make when choosing the right birth control method for you, from what type of hormones to how often you want to remember to take it (daily, weekly, monthly, etc.). Your nurse practitioner will discuss which method of birth control is best for you and your lifestyle.

Yes. Paragard is a copper IUD that lasts for 10 years and is effective at preventing pregnancy. The Mirena IUD is another good choice to avoid systemic hormonal changes and lasts for 5 years. Our team of obstetrician-gynecologists and certified nurse midwives can discuss options with you.

Yes, especially if you frequently have irregular cycles.

The exact cause of the Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) is not known. However, it is certain that it is not caused by a single germ. It is caused by the overgrowth of various bacteria produced in the vagina. Usually, a number of harmless germs reside in balance inside the vagina to protect it. BV seems to occur when this balance is disturbed.

Fibroids grow in your womb. They are usually a non-cancerous tumor. They are sometimes called uterine myomas, fibromyomas or leiomyomas. One in every three women gets them, and about half of them are not aware that they have fibroids.

The best chance of avoiding or minimising menopausal symptoms when wanting to come off long-term HRT is to gradually reduce the dose. Change the dose at 3 to 4 weekly intervals, working down to the lowest available dose of tablet or patch. After getting onto the lowest dose, halve the tablets or patches and then stop after another 3 to 4 weeks. This works for most women, but a few will get a return of bad symptoms and may always have difficulty in trying to come off HRT.