Health Gardeners

Many women delay their first Pap smear because they’re unsure what to expect — especially if they’ve never been sexually active. As a nurse practitioner, I’ve had countless patients in…

Many patients ask me during checkups, “Will a Pap smear test for STDs?” It’s a common question — and an important one. The short answer is no, a Pap smear…

Removing an intrauterine device (IUD) might sound intimidating, but with the right care and technique, it’s a simple and quick process. Whether your IUD is due for removal or you’re…

As a family nurse practitioner in Hartford, I often hear this question: “How long after getting my Mirena IUD can I use tampons again?” It’s a smart question—and one that…

For Hartford women choosing an IUD (intrauterine device), one of the first questions after the procedure is: “Can I swim after IUD insertion?” Whether you swim laps at Cornerstone Aquatics…

Getting an IUD (intrauterine device) is one of the most effective ways for Hartford women to manage birth control long term. But many patients ask an important practical question: “Can…

For many women in Hartford, choosing an IUD (intrauterine device) is a reliable, long-term birth control option. But one of the most common concerns after insertion is bleeding. Some women…

Living with a chronic condition like diabetes, hypertension, asthma, or heart disease can feel overwhelming. But with the right support, patients don’t have to manage it alone. That’s where chronic…

Chronic illnesses such as diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, or multiple sclerosis can change how a person lives and works. For many Hartford patients, the question arises: “Is a chronic illness…

For many women in Hartford, choosing an intrauterine device (IUD) means having long-term, highly effective birth control with little daily effort. But after insertion, it’s normal to wonder about activity…