Dr. Roy D. Ayalon., MD is a board-certified Obstetrician and Gynecologist in Tarzana, and is a member of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, as well as the International Organization for Women and Development.
Dr. Ayalon provides consistent, superior care in a calm and relaxing environment. From fibroids tumors treatment to pelvic exams to prenatal care and delivery, Dr. Ayalon is an expert in both obstetrics and gynecology services, and will make sure you are comfortable every step of the way.
We proudly provide quality Obstetrics & Gynecology (OBGYN) care to the communities of Tarzana, Encino, Woodland Hills, Reseda, Sherman Oaks and surrounding areas of San Fernando Valley. We strive to make our practice personal, friendly and comfortable from the moment you step into our office, as women’s health is our priority.
Call and schedule an appointment with a gynecologist near you at (818) 654-9312
Fibroids are common growths in the uterus that are usually benign. They can vary greatly in size, from pea-sized to five or six pounds. They are most often found in women between the ages of 30 and 40 but can develop in women of all ages. It is uncertain what causes fibroids, but they can usually be influenced by estrogen and progesterone. Because of this, fibroids come and go with the changing levels of hormones throughout a woman’s life.
Changes in menstrual patterns, intense cramps, constipation, and trouble urinating are all possible symptoms of fibroids. Not all fibroids cause these symptoms and those that do not should be left alone and will eventually go away.
Dr. Ayalon is an expert in identifying and treating fibroids through pelvic exams, ultrasounds, and other gynecologic tests. If you think you have fibroids or you experience any of the symptoms associated with uterine fibroids, make an appointment to see Dr. Ayalon as soon as possible.
The cause of endometriosis is believed to be retrograde menstruation. In some cases, menstrual blood carrying endometrial cells will flow back into the pelvis and fallopian tubes instead of leaving the body.
Diagnosis for endometriosis can be tricky, as the level of pain experienced during menstruation is not a reliable indicator of the disorder. Some women with endometriosis will feel extreme pain while others experience little to none. Endometriosis is often confused with pelvic inflammatory disease or irritable bowel syndrome.
Dr. Ayalon can determine if you have endometriosis through a pelvic exam, an ultrasound, or laparoscopy. During the pelvic exam Dr. Ayalon will manually check for cysts on the pelvic walls that form as a result of endometriosis. If an ultrasound is needed, the scanner will be inserted into the vagina, emitting sound waves to produce images of the pelvic walls. The most accurate test for endometriosis involves a laparoscopy. A laparoscopy is a minor surgical procedure where an incision is made into the abdomen and a small instrument is inserted to find visual evidence of endometrial tissue in the pelvis but outside of the uterus.
Read more about the symptoms, diagnosis, & treatment of endometriosis.
Aside from avoidable risk factors, there are some genetic factors that can increase your risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer. The gene mutations BRCA1, BRCA2 have been identified as related factors in cancer development.
Individuals with these gene mutations sometimes develop breast cancer before age 50, have a family history of breast and/or ovarian cancer, and have an increased incidence of tumors in other organs.
These mutations are especially relevant to Ashkenazi Jews, and screening is strongly suggested for those who have a high chance of Hereditary Breast Ovarian Cancer Syndrome (HBOC). As many as one in forty Ashkenazi Jews has one of these mutations, so if you are of Ashkenazi Jewish descent, it is especially important to conduct the monthly self exam, and other tests if your family has had a history with cancer.
Now you know one more risk factor of breast cancer.
Dr. Ayalon can help you with regular checkups, diagnosis and even creating a treatment plan that is most appropriate for your specific case. If you have questions please contact Dr. Ayalon at (818) 654-9312.
An ovarian mass means that one or both of the ovaries have been enlarged by a solid tumor, fluid-filled cyst, or some combination of the two. Ovarian masses form when the normal process of cell growth and division goes wrong. Sometimes new cells form without the body needing them, and sometimes old cells don’t die when they should. When cysts or tumors form, they should be checked by Dr. Ayalon to be identified as cancerous or not.
It’s important to understand that not all ovarian masses are cancerous.
Dr. Ayalon is located in Tarzana, CA. To get in touch with him, simply call this number 818.654.9312.
Healthy pregnancies begin even before you even plan to become pregnant. There are several healthy habits that can help your body prepare for pregnancy and every woman should be aware of them whether or not they plan to become pregnant in the future. Half of all pregnancies are unplanned, so it is important to keep yourself healthy even if you do not expect pregnancy. One in eight babies is born preterm, and obstetricians agree that this can be prevented with better preconception health. If you are planning on becoming pregnant this year, living a healthy lifestyle will help care for your baby during pregnancy as well as help ensure that they are born without complications. Here are some tips for preparing your body for pregnancy.
Take Folic Acid:
Folic acid is a B vitamin needed to generate new cells. To prevent any birth defects in your baby, especially to the brain and spine, it is important to have high levels of folic acid in your system to help new cell generation. Brain and spine development occur very early in pregnancy, within the first 28 days, so maintaining the appropriate levels of folic acid in your system can prevent birth defects even before you are aware of your pregnancy. Women who are able to bear children should take 400-800 micrograms of folic acid each day whether they plan to become pregnant or not. Try to take a multivitamin supplement that includes this daily dose of folic acid as well as calcium, iron, Vitamin B12, and Vitamin D.
Keep Vaccines Up-to-Date and Have Regular Health Screenings:
Every woman should have regular screenings, have regular pap smears, and keep their vaccinations up-to-date, and in pregnancy this is especially important, as your health will affect your baby’s health. Some diseases, including STD’s, can be transmitted to the baby during delivery, so screening for them once you find out you are pregnant can help determine whether a cesarean section may be a better delivery option to prevent transmission of any diseases. This may also determine whether your baby should be immunized at birth.
If you are not immune to rubella and chickenpox, which can cause complications during pregnancy, you should be immunized immediately and not attempt to become pregnant until a month after immunization. Make sure you get the flu shot before pregnancy along with vaccinations for Hepatitis B if you haven’t already.
Manage Health Concerns:
Before pregnancy, it is important to manage health problems like epilepsy, diabetes, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, obesity, depression, eating disorders, and asthma. You should always be finding ways to achieve better health like staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, and making smarter food choices. If there are any specific pregnancy risks that run in your family, please discuss them with Dr. Ayalon. It is important that you can openly communicate with your doctor about any other health concerns you may have.
Avoid Toxins:
Steer clear of coming in contact with any chemicals or substances that could cause infection. Stay away from harmful chemicals like those in cleaning agents, fertilizer, and pesticides, as well as feces from pets or rodents. If you plan on becoming pregnant it is important for your baby’s health that you stop any smoking and alcohol consumption. If your partner or family members smoke you should ask that they refrain from smoking around you. Certain medications can affect your pregnancy, so if you are planning on becoming pregnant, be sure to consult your general physician about the medications you are taking and make sure to mention them to Dr. Ayalon.
Call Dr. Ayalon at (818) 654-9312 for more advice on pre-conception health.
Pre-eclampsia affects only roughly 5-8% of all pregnancies, and while most cases are harmless, it is important to monitor mothers to be, checking for the condition, in case serious complications arise. There is no definite cause of pre-eclampsia, and there is no cure for the condition. The best way to be prepared in case you experience pre-eclampsia is to see Dr. Ayalon regularly for regular prenatal care.
If you are diagnosed with pre-eclampsia and suddenly experience swelling in unusual areas like the face, hands, and eyes; find your blood pressure to exceed 140/90; gain weight over one or two days; have blurry vision, flashing lights, or see floaters, contact Dr. Ayalon immediately for medical care.
Dangers of Pre-Eclampsia
Pre-Eclampsia is one of the leading causes of premature births. It can prevent your baby from receiving enough blood, causing it to be born very small. Complications that may result include learning disabilities, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, vision, and hearing problems. In rare cases, pre-eclampsia can lead to placental abruption, or the separation of the placenta from the uterus. This results in a stillbirth.
With careful monitoring and early detection, pre-eclampsia can be managed to help you deliver your baby safely. To be prepared for treatment of pre-eclampsia and have a better chance of a healthy and safe delivery, be sure to visit Dr. Ayalon regularly for prenatal care. If you have a family history with pre-eclampsia, or have the risk factors associated with the condition, let Dr. Ayalon know at your prenatal appointments. If you experience the symptoms of pre-eclampsia, contact Dr. Ayalon immediately. For more information on pre-eclampsia and what you can do to avoid the condition, call (818) 654-9312.
While in most cases vaginal delivery is the most natural and uncomplicated way to deliver a baby, more and more women are opting for Cesarean Sections. Today C-sections make up about 30% of all births. Since every woman can choose how they would like their delivery, it is important to understand the risks and advantages of both options.
Vaginal Delivery Vs Cesarean Section In Tarzana, CA
Vaginal Delivery
From a psychological standpoint, women who go through with a vaginal delivery are said to have a more positive birthing experience. Women who go through vaginal delivery sometimes feel it is empowering to know they were actively involved in the process. Mothers who deliver through vaginal birth have a shorter recovery time than those who opt for C-sections. This method of birthing also allows the mother and baby to make skin to skin contact immediately after delivery, speeding up the bonding process.
Vaginal delivery can be stressful as you will not be completely sure how long your delivery will take. Some deliveries are short while others take hours depending on each case. Having a baby delivered the natural way leaves the mother waiting for the big day to come, making the planning process for a baby’s arrival more complicated.
Cesarean Section
Many women opt for Cesarean sections so that they do not need to go through long hours of labor. Planned Cesarean section surgeries allow the expectant mother to plan for the birth, giving more control over when the birth occurs and allowing more predictability. Women who have C-sections do not incur damage to the pelvic floor, which can lead to incontinence over the years.
Since Cesarean Sections are major surgeries, you will have a longer recovery time than that of a vaginal delivery. Like any major surgery, there are risks for infections, but properly caring for your wound will lessen these risks and help ensure a healthy recovery. Having a C-section can delay your ability to breastfeed and you will not be able to have immediate contact with your baby. These can have an effect on the bonding process between you and your child. Also, some mothers who have C-sections will not have the option of vaginal birth in the future.
If you are confused and need advise, talk to Dr. Ayalon for advice at (818) 654-9312.
Women who wish to prevent pregnancy can do so using a variety of family planning choices.
Condoms are perhaps the most common form of birth control. Condoms act as barriers that keep sperm from reaching an egg. Both males and females can wear condoms, but each type is different. Male condoms are worn over the penis before intercourse begins. Female condoms are placed in the vagina with a ring extending outside of the opening. Condoms may also help prevent STDs.
Birth control pills are available through prescription only. These control the hormone levels. Some prevent women from releasing an egg, while others thicken cervical mucus, preventing sperm from reaching an egg. These pills must be taken daily and they do not protect against STDs.
NuvaRing is a product that is inserted in the vagina and kept there for three weeks at a time. It releases artificial estrogen and progesterin, which prevents pregnancy. The “Patch” is also worn for three weeks a month and releases hormones over time. It is placed on the body and left there to prevent pregnancy. Intrauterine devices affect sperm movement and keep them from reaching an egg. These T-shaped plastic devices must be placed and removed by Dr. Ayalon, but are effective for many years.
Permanent procedures can be performed on men and women who have decided to not have a child. Vasectomies are performed on men to prevent sperm from being released in semen, preventing pregnancy. It is a simple and safe surgery that does not lower masculinity, sexual performance, or pleasure.
Tubal ligation is similar to vasectomies, but will prevent eggs from contacting sperm by closing off the fallopian tubes. The surgery will not alter your periods, hormone levels, or sexual response. Essure is another form of permanent sterilization for women. Essure uses small coils that form a barrier in the fallopian tubes that prevents sperm from reaching an egg.
Call Dr. Ayalon at 818.654.9312 to get all your questions answered.
Diabetes is a cause for concern for anyone, but women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, need to be extra careful to avoid high blood sugar. Maintaining healthy blood sugar levels can prevent health issues during pregnancy and even after birth. If you practiced a healthy lifestyle and did not have diabetes before your pregnancy, you probably haven’t thought too much about the possibility of diabetes during pregnancy. Unfortunately, many women develop diabetes during pregnancy as a result of the changes in their bodies’ hormones. In fact, diabetes affects roughly 10-18% of all pregnancies.
Gestational diabetes occurs only during pregnancy, and usually goes away after birth. The exact cause of gestational diabetes is not certain, but it is most likely the effect of hormones produced by the placenta. While the placenta supports your baby as it grows, the hormones produced can sometimes block insulin which is needed to convert glucose into energy. When glucose builds up, hyperglycemia occurs. Women who develop gestational diabetes will not see birth defects in their baby, as gestational diabetes occurs after the baby has fully formed. However, diabetes in pregnancy can still lead to a heavier baby and serious health problems.
Visit Dr. Ayalon today to talk about the effects of diabetes during pregnancy and see what you can do to prepare your body to deliver a healthy baby.