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<h2>The 6 Myths in Women's Health That Will Make You Take Your Health More Seriously</h2>With a focus on maternity, infant care, and sexual wellness, Dr. Manyonga's innovative approach ensures tailored support for every patient. He is an Obstetrician and Gynaecologist.<h3>Empowering Women Through Knowledge</h3>These myths showcase why seeking accurate information about women's health is crucial. Dispelling these myths are important for you. Don't hesitate to consult healthcare professionals – they're your partners in navigating women's health and debunking myths.&nbsp;Myth #1: Douching Stops Pregnancy (Busted!) Douching is a vaginal washing practice that doesn't reach sperm. Sperm travel quickly towards the cervix after ejaculation, and by the time you douche, they're likely already out of reach. In fact, douching can actually disrupt your vaginal microbiome, increasing the risk of bacterial vaginosis and other infections.<figure id="figure-j39wqherbltt72bhv"><img id="j39wqherbltt72bhv" src="https://cdn.durable.co/shutterstock/2dENogtRTM21d3bAf6KpWi5Sgtyv06LZtjgl63DiNywevhdGClOk3bOimQcNxVds.jpeg" alt="Blue medical pear for douching, cleansing and lavage of the stomach on white isolated background" title="Blue medical pear for douching, cleansing and lavage of the stomach on white isolated background" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/shutterstock/2dENogtRTM21d3bAf6KpWi5Sgtyv06LZtjgl63DiNywevhdGClOk3bOimQcNxVds.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Myth #2: The "Safe Period" Myth (Not So Safe!)Sperm can live inside a woman's body for several days (up to 5 in some cases). This means even if you have sex outside your ovulation window, sperm could still be waiting to meet an egg. Women's cycles can be irregular, making it difficult to pinpoint ovulation with certainty. Stress, illness, and other factors can all throw off your cycle. Remember: There is no truly "safe" time for sex if you're not trying to get pregnant.<figure id="figure-kdjjunicyjltt6u231"><img id="kdjjunicyjltt6u231" src="https://cdn.durable.co/shutterstock/eXQoQSuYhCYlxBNTtJmiIzOSNoK2pY0FrEWyrTsgKTxBqoqQZrKes9z4aE5Cqjyq.jpeg" alt="Handmade Polymer Clay Figure of Human Sperm Impregnate a Fertile Human Egg" title="Handmade Polymer Clay Figure of Human Sperm Impregnate a Fertile Human Egg" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/shutterstock/eXQoQSuYhCYlxBNTtJmiIzOSNoK2pY0FrEWyrTsgKTxBqoqQZrKes9z4aE5Cqjyq.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Myth #3: Bras = Breast Cancer (Spoiler Alert: Not True!)Some worried that tight bras restrict lymph flow, but there's no evidence to support this. Focus on what truly impacts breast cancer risk: Maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol, and having regular screenings are more important for prevention.<figure id="figure-zwrzkgydwcltt6wziw"><img id="zwrzkgydwcltt6wziw" src="https://cdn.durable.co/shutterstock/2d08Jnp0TJ14MVTL70PtJMvUOXibJtjNKVnLBUZxTWfE3kx8kJtRRDj3qbFgYju1.jpeg" alt="beautiful sexy bras on a wooden background" title="beautiful sexy bras on a wooden background" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/shutterstock/2d08Jnp0TJ14MVTL70PtJMvUOXibJtjNKVnLBUZxTWfE3kx8kJtRRDj3qbFgYju1.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Myth #4: Heart Disease is a Man's Issue (Think Again!)Fact: Heart disease is a leading cause of death for women in South Africa, even more so than breast cancer. Younger Women at Risk: Don't be fooled! While it's more common in older adults, heart disease can strike women at any age, especially those with risk factors.<figure id="figure-zrdh96xuldltt6zml2"><img id="zrdh96xuldltt6zml2" src="https://cdn.durable.co/shutterstock/36NB4R7zF7PSXtH19Xyzel22MyPeAdzTmAXJhDXFw8Qi2qHurubSP0404JPKuYD0.jpeg" alt="Beautiful female with heart attack or broken heart standing over gray background. Black and white with red accent. Pain concept close-up" title="Beautiful female with heart attack or broken heart standing over gray background. Black and white with red accent. Pain concept close-up" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/shutterstock/36NB4R7zF7PSXtH19Xyzel22MyPeAdzTmAXJhDXFw8Qi2qHurubSP0404JPKuYD0.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Myth #5: Cranberry Juice: UTI Cure-All (Not Quite!)Cranberry and Prevention: Studies suggest cranberry juice or supplements might help prevent UTIs, particularly for those prone to them. Not a Cure: However, cranberry juice alone won't treat an existing UTI. For that, you'll need antibiotics prescribed by a doctor. See a Doctor: If you experience UTI symptoms (burning, urgency, pain), consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.<figure id="figure-8nuh09skd8ltt77h2d"><img id="8nuh09skd8ltt77h2d" src="https://cdn.durable.co/shutterstock/2fbORn3faQ3p2cnungALcAoTmfs0TlnJwkChBqPDx8hxaggPXsfYxO7EQIRfWk59.jpeg" alt="Woman sitting in the restroom" title="Woman sitting in the restroom" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/shutterstock/2fbORn3faQ3p2cnungALcAoTmfs0TlnJwkChBqPDx8hxaggPXsfYxO7EQIRfWk59.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Conclusion: Empowering Women's Health Through TruthThe prevalence of myths in women's health highlights the need for proactive action. Don't wait to be misinformed – empower yourself! Most importantly, the truth is significant for women's health in this day and age as strides are being taken to ensure women stay healthy for the longest time possible. Schedule a checkup with a healthcare professional to discuss any concerns and get personalized guidance. Together, let's shatter these myths by seeking accurate information and advocating for better healthcare. By taking charge, women can make informed choices and build a future of well-being for themselves and others.

Dispelling Myths in Women's Health

<h2>What is Value Based Maternity?</h2><h3>A Journey to Maternity Value-Based Care</h3>The last quarter of the year, with its expected seasonal drop in clinical activity offers an opportune moment for reflection and planning for the coming year. Judging from the spike in unsolicited interest in our work at Network One Health in the past 2 weeks, it seems we are not the only ones reflecting and planning. That we are getting all this attention has reaffirmed our belief that we are on the right path, even as our progress has been slower and less predictable that desired. Our journey did not start two weeks ago. It began back in 2016, with a vision of reshaping maternity care through Value-Based Care. The Birth of an Idea In 2016, my former colleagues and I at PPO Serve where I was an executive then, embarked on a mission to transform maternity care. Our vision was clear: to pioneer a model of care that places the patient at the center, prioritizing their well-being and experience above all else. This was our introduction to the concept of Value-Based Care (VBC). In those early days, the idea of VBC in maternity care in the local market was met with skepticism. The traditional fee-for-service model was and is still deeply entrenched, and convincing stakeholders of the merits of change is no small feat. But we persist, convinced that this is a better way to deliver care.<figure id="figure-oqlvrco5rqlp52c8ls"><img id="oqlvrco5rqlp52c8ls" src="https://cdn.durable.co/shutterstock/2aR4wVGsXYhH4ybGATDUy73unGeUCn7VN5ozZ439kEklUKJGPDC9RN2RrBpLguYQ.jpeg" alt="Female black doctor show OK or approval sign with thumb up portrait. High level service, best treatment 911 healthy lifestyle satisfied patient therapeutist consultation physical concept" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/shutterstock/2aR4wVGsXYhH4ybGATDUy73unGeUCn7VN5ozZ439kEklUKJGPDC9RN2RrBpLguYQ.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure> The Surging Interest: Fast forward to the present, and we find ourselves in a different landscape. Over the past two weeks, we've experienced a surge of interest from various third parties. These unsolicited proposals and inquiries have been a testament to the transformative potential of our work. What's intriguing is that this surge of interest is not limited to our organization alone. We've observed a broader movement within healthcare innovation. Our peers in Population Medicine, Hospital-at-Home programs, and Palliative Care are making significant strides. It's as though the gears of progress have shifted into high gear, and the industry is taking notice. A Journey of Collaboration: Our journey has never been solitary. Collaboration has been a cornerstone of our approach. We've partnered with healthcare providers, hospitals, and patients to refine and validate our model. Now we wait the medical aids to finally come to the party and rightfully play their part. The recent surge in interest has expanded our network further. We're now in conversations with entities that previously seemed distant from our mission. This newfound openness to collaboration is promising, as it suggests a growing appetite for transformative change in healthcare. The Evolution of Healthcare: The fee-for-service model, while still prevalent, is no longer the sole paradigm. Value-Based Care has gained traction, challenging the status quo and placing a renewed emphasis on outcomes, patient experience, and cost-effectiveness. As we reflect on this evolution, we can't help but be heartened. The industry is inching closer to embracing Value-Based Care as a standard practice. In maternity care, where our journey began, we see the potential for a paradigm shift in 2024. The Promise: Imagine a maternity care system where outcomes are measured not just by the number of procedures performed, but by the well-being of both mother and child. Picture a world where the women's experience is paramount, where care is coordinated seamlessly, and where cost-efficiency is not an afterthought but a foundational principle. This vision is not far-fetched. The journey to Value-Based Maternity Care is already underway. Innovators, healthcare providers, insurers, and patients are collectively pushing the boundaries of what's possible. For more information about Network One Health and our innovative healthcare solutions, please contact: - Website For Maternity: <a class="anchor-url" href="https://www.networkonehealth.co.za/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-mce-href="https://www.networkonehealth.co.za/" style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: inherit;" data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">www.networkonehealth.co.za</a> Email: <a href="mailto:info@networkonehealth.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-mce-href="mailto:info@networkonehealth.com" style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: inherit;" data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">info@networkonehealth.com</a>

Women's Health: Value Based Maternity

<h2>Your Gynaecologist can easily tell what you're going throug, right? </h2><h2>WRONG! Why talking openly with your gynae makes sure you get the best service for your health</h2>Visiting a gynecologist can be an intimidating experience for many women. It's completely understandable to feel nervous or uncomfortable when discussing sensitive topics related to your reproductive health. However, open and honest communication with your gynecologist is essential for receiving the best care possible. In this blog post, we will discuss some tips on how to talk openly with your gynecologist.&nbsp;<h3>Choose the right gynecologist</h3>One of the first steps in addressing sensitive topics with your gynecologist is finding a healthcare provider you feel comfortable with. Take the time to research and choose a gynecologist who is known for being compassionate, understanding, and respectful. It is important that there are no insurmountable linguistic or cultural barriers to the free flow of medical information, including vouluntary sharing of very personal, very sensitive information. Remember, all your conversations are legally protectied and the doctor is legally, professionally and ethically bound to noot divulge to any other party your information without your express consent.&nbsp;<h3>Prepare ahead of time</h3>Before your appointment, take some time to think about the topics or concerns you want to discuss with your gynecologist. Jot them down on a piece of paper or in your phone so that you don't forget anything during your visit. If you have previously seen annother provider, please ask for a summary of yoour medical records and test results; this will save you time and money.&nbsp;<h3>Start the conversation, be honest and specific</h3>When you're in the examination room, it's important to initiate the conversation about sensitive topics. Don't wait for your gynecologist to bring it up. Take a deep breath and express your concerns or ask any questions you may have. Be as cconcise as you can and avoid using terms that may have multiple meanings, particularly if yoou annd your provider do not speak the same hoome language. Ask for an translator upfront if there is a major problem with language, or ask some one proficiennt in the language of the provider to accopmany you; it mmust be someone you cann trust and you are comfortable them knowinng sennsitive informmation about yoour health.&nbsp;During your discussion, it's crucial to be honest and specific about your symptoms or concerns. Your gynecologist needs accurate information to provide an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Don't be embarrassed to share the details, as they are essential for your healthcare provider to understand your situation fully.<h3>Ask for clarification</h3>If your gynecologist uses medical jargon or terms that you don't understand, don't hesitate to ask for clarification. It's essential to have a clear understanding of your condition and any recommended treatments or procedures.&nbsp;<h3>Express your emotions</h3>Addressing sensitive topics can bring up a range of emotions, and it's okay to express them to your gynecologist. Whether you're feeling scared, anxious, or embarrassed, let your healthcare provider know how you're feeling. They are there to support you and provide reassurance.<h3>Take a support person with you</h3>If you feel more comfortable having someone by your side during your appointment, consider bringing a trusted friend or family member. Having a support person can provide emotional support and help you remember any important information discussed during the visit.<h3>Follow-up if necessary</h3>If you have additional questions or concerns after your appointment, don't hesitate to reach out to your gynecologist. They are there to help you, and it's important to address any lingering doubts or uncertainties.<h3>Conclusion</h3>Openly discussing sensitive topics with your gynecologist is crucial for your overall reproductive health. By choosing the right gynecologist, preparing ahead of time, initiating the conversation, being honest and specific, asking for clarification, expressing your emotions, taking a support person with you, and following up when necessary, you can ensure that you receive the best care possible. Remember, your gynecologist is there to support you and provide the necessary guidance for your well-being.

How to talk openly with your gynecologist

Dr H P Manyonga 

We provide team-based maternity and women’s health services led by Dr H P Manyonga, MBChB (UZ), MRCOG (UK), MBA (UCT). Care is in Woodmead and Pretoria, combining medical, midwifery, and mental-wellness support. Registered with the HPCSA and SASOG, and partnered with Discovery Health under the maternity global-fee program.


Dr H P Manyonga | Obstetrician and Gynecologist

Blog and News

Dispelling Myths in Women's Health

Women's Health: Value Based Maternity

How to talk openly with your gynecologist