Toxoplasmosis is an infection caused by a parasite called Toxoplasma gondii. Although the infection often causes mild or no symptoms in healthy adults, it can pose a risk during pregnancy if a woman becomes infected for the first time while pregnant. The parasite can sometimes cross the placenta and infect the developing baby, resulting in…
Finding an abnormality in your baby’s lungs during a prenatal ultrasound can be frightening, particularly when the condition has a medical name that you have never heard before. One such condition is Congenital Pulmonary Airway Malformation (CPAM), a rare developmental abnormality of the fetal lung. CPAM was previously called congenital cystic adenomatoid malformation (CCAM). It…
Choosing whether to have another child is an important personal decision. For women who are certain that they do not want future pregnancies, tubal ligation is a permanent method of contraception that can provide highly effective pregnancy prevention. Also known as female sterilization, tubal ligation involves blocking, cutting, sealing, or removing the fallopian tubes so…
For many women, the journey of pregnancy begins with a positive pregnancy test. Behind that positive result is an important hormone known as Beta-hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin). This hormone plays a crucial role in confirming pregnancy, monitoring early fetal development, and helping healthcare providers assess the health of a pregnancy. Whether you are trying to…
Discovering that you are pregnant is often a joyful and exciting moment. However, not all pregnancies develop as expected. One of the most common causes of early pregnancy loss is a condition known as a blighted ovum, also called an anembryonic pregnancy. Receiving this diagnosis can be emotionally difficult, especially after a positive pregnancy test…
Pregnancy is an exciting journey, but it can also bring unexpected concerns. One condition that may cause anxiety for expectant mothers is a subchorionic hematoma (SCH). Hearing this diagnosis after experiencing bleeding during pregnancy can be alarming, but understanding what it means can help provide reassurance and guide appropriate care. A subchorionic hematoma is one…
Family planning is an essential aspect of reproductive healthcare that empowers individuals and couples to make informed decisions about when and how many children they wish to have. In the Philippines, access to reliable family planning services has become increasingly important in promoting maternal health, child well-being, and overall family stability. Whether you are planning…
Vacuum extraction is a type of assisted vaginal delivery used to help guide a baby out of the birth canal during labor. While many births progress naturally, certain situations may require medical assistance to ensure the safety of both mother and baby. Understanding why vacuum extraction is used, how it works, and what to expect…
Ovarian cancer is one of the most serious gynecologic cancers affecting women worldwide. Often called a “silent disease,” it can develop with subtle or vague symptoms, making early detection challenging. However, increased awareness, regular checkups, and understanding the warning signs can significantly improve outcomes. This article explains what ovarian cancer is, its symptoms, risk factors,…
Cervical insufficiency, sometimes called an incompetent cervix, is a condition in which the cervix shortens, softens, or opens too early during pregnancy – often without pain or contractions. This can lead to pregnancy loss or preterm birth, usually in the second trimester. While the diagnosis can feel overwhelming, early detection and proper care can significantly…
