Issue link: https://fredparent.uberflip.com/i/1527525
16 Fredericksburg Parent and Family • October 2024 It's often said that women suffer in silence. In casual conversations, symptoms that range from the uncom- fortable to the downright painful are often brushed aside as just a normal part of female life. But recent advancements in minimally invasive treatment methods mean women can be treated for conditions such as endometriosis and uterine fibroids without too much disruption to their daily lives. The surgeon team at Mary Washington Primary Care, Obstetrics & Gynecology and at Stafford Hospital's Center of Excellence for Minimally Invasive Gynecology are committed to help- ing more women understand their options for diagnosis and treatment. "I am always shocked over the years at how many patients were told that their condition is either in their head, or it's normal," said Dr. Eric Chang, MD, FACOG, a double board-certified Urogynecologist and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgeon. "A lot of what we are counseling is really demystifying and getting rid of a lot of the myth that's out there." Dr. Chang is part of a team bringing advanced gynecological care options to Stafford County. Dr. Chang sees patients at Mary Washington Primary Care, Obstetrics & Gynecology, located within the new Embrey Mill community health facility. Nearby, at Stafford Hospital's Center of Excellence in Minimally Invasive Gynecology (COEMIG), a team of physicians led by Dr. Kurian Thott, MD, FACOG, works to help women overcome a range of gynecologic conditions that can interfere with everyday quality of life. Since first earning national certification a decade ago, Stafford Hospital's COEMIG program has become a regional destination for women seeking treat- ment for conditions ranging from endometriosis, ovarian cysts and fibroids to pelvic organ prolapse and more. As our October experts, Mary Washington Healthcare gynecological surgeons shed light on the advanced capabilities they provide. WRITTEN BY EMILY FREEHLING Advanced Gynecological Care Available in Stafford Mary Washington Obstetrics & Gynecology Surgeons Dr. Yetunde Adenle, MD, FACOG, Surgeon of Excellence Dr. TreChelle Carson, MD, FACOG, Surgeon of Excellence Dr. Eric Chang, MD, FACOG, double-board certified Urogynecologist and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgeon Dr. Kurian Thott, MD, FACOD, Master Surgeon sponsored material