OBGYN | Gynecologist | Chicago | OB GYN Blog

An increasing number of patients are now forgoing hospital visits and opting for in-office surgical procedures in private practices, reducing stress and saving time and money during a recession. Medical technology and anesthesia have advanced so that physicians in private practices can now perform procedures that once required a hospital, outpatient surgical setting - procedures established by the industry as safe, yet have the advantage of retaining a patient’s privacy and allowing them to be in more nurturing, less clinical environments. This trend has drastically increased in recent years, with USA Today reporting in January that visits to free-standing surgical centers have tripled to 15 million surgeries and procedures from 1996 to 2006.

At the Northwestern Specialists for Women, we are doing more and more in-office procedures that used to be performed only in hospitals. We offer a full range of surgical services that allow us to administer the same anesthesia for comprehensive procedures that a woman would typically receive in the hospital. Some of the more common in-office procedures performed at NSW include dilation and curettage, diagnostic hysteroscopy, hysteroscopy with polyp removal, endometrial ablation for abnormal menstrual bleeding, simple perineorrhaphy and more.

Patients recovering in our office receive much more personalized care, report quicker recoveries and also save money. Many patients are also comforted knowing that their spouse, significant other or simply a friend can be with them during their recover time.

More patient benefits from the growing demand for in-office procedures include:
• Comfort – As opposed to lengthy hospital stays, patients recover more comfortably which in turn typically reduces the recovery time.
• Convenient Scheduling – A hospital visit can take several days, whereas an in-office or outpatient procedure can be completed in one day.
• Lower Cost – Medical bills are greatly lessened without a lengthy hospital visit. Patients also don’t need to sacrifice work time or paid time off, which is particularly critical with the current economy.
• Decreased Stress – Patients don’t have to worry about being away from home and their family.
• Pleasant Environment – As opposed to the often sterile hospital environment, more progressive facilities such as NSW provide a calm and soothing environment and relaxing décor to set patients at ease.

At NSW, were are a progressive full service obstetrics and gynecology practice providing superior medical services and cutting-edge procedures for women of all ages. For more information on the array of in-office surgical procedures we offer, feel free to stop in to take a look at our facilities and speak with any of our staff members, or simply call 312.775.1100 for more information.

Stacy Arens brings extensive and global medical expertise to the team at Northwestern Specialists for Women. Before joining NSW, her professional achievements included six years as the Physician assistant and OBGYN Clinical Coordinator at The Core Center, John H. Stroger Hospital of Cook County. In this comprehensive role, she was responsible for the management of patients experiencing complicated obstetrical and gynecological infectious disease and primary care problems.
 
Driven by her commitment to provide unparalleled patient care and to educate all women about health care needs, Stacy traveled to Rwanda, Africa where she provided widespread medical care and services to help underserved patients gain access to HIV medications and treatment.  She also aided in establishing gynecological care for HIV positive women and performed the first pap smears on HIV positive women in Rwanda.
 
Stacy earned a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition from the University of Nebraska-Omaha and received her Physician Assistant graduate degree from the Midwestern University in Downers Grove, Illinois. She is a Board Certified Physician Assistant, enabling her to practice medicine with physician supervision and to provide a broad range of diagnostic and therapeutic services to patients.

With 12 years of experience practicing Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dr. Bonnie E. Wise brings to the team at Northwestern Specialists for Women (NSW) a wealth of expertise diagnosing, treating and educating patients on all facets of women’s health and wellness. With a natural gift of relating to women of all ages, combined with a passion for patient care throughout all stages of a women’s life, Dr. Wise’s  ultimate goal is to help women truly understand their bodies and improve the overall quality of life with exciting and cutting-edge treatment options.  Prior to forming NSW, Dr. Wise was a member of the Obstetrics and Gynecologic Specialists of Northwestern and has served as a Clinical Instructor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Northwestern University’s affiliate medical school, The Feinberg School of Medicine since 1997.
Dr. Wise specializes in both low and high risk pregnancies, which includes women of advanced maternal age, twins and pregnant athletes. She is also recognized for her expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of urinary incontinence, where she offers cutting-edge outpatient procedures for the diagnosis and treatment of stress incontinence.  Other gynecological interests include the treatment of uterine fibroids with minimally invasive surgeries including laparoscopic hysterectomy and hysteroscopic resection of uterine fibroids and polyps, as well as endometrial ablation for heavy vaginal bleeding. Dr. Wise is also committed to promoting preventative healthcare through counseling in the areas of premenstrual syndrome, STD’s, preconception, infertility, menopause and hormonal changes.
Dr. Wise received a B.A from Boston University, attended The Chicago Medical School and completed her residency at the University of Illinois and Michael Reese Hospitals. She is a Fellow of The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The American Medical Association, The Chicago Medical Society, The American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists and was awarded “Top Doctor” in Chicago by her peer group.
In her spare time, Dr. Wise is an avid runner and athlete. Her other sources of inspiration are her husband and her two beautiful children.

ABC Online
Healthy Tips for Women
Tues, January 13, 2009 | 12:10 PM

While hopes for successful New Year’s resolutions always run high, it is unlikely that you’ll lose pounds in 2 months, quit smoking, give up sweets forever, get to the gym 7 days a week, and never drink a glass of wine again. Unrealistic resolutions are commonplace, with statistics showing that 90% of Americans make annual resolutions and 30% are broken within one month.

To combat stress and have better women’s health in a shaky economic environment and take steps towards being healthy and happy in 2009, gynecologist Dr. Seema Venkatachalam of Northwestern Specialists for Women offers 10 realistic and everyday resolutions for women to consider for better women’s health in Chicago.

1. Build Strong Bones
Osteoporosis is a health threat for 44 million Americans, but with vitamins and diet you can build strong healthy bones, increase calcium in your diet with three servings of dairy a day, such as skim milk, low-fat cheeses and yogurt. Nondairy options include canned salmon with bones, dark green vegetables, dried beans and calcium-fortified juices and cereals for better women’s health in Chicago.

Recommended Calcium Amounts:

From age 11 to 24, between 1,200 and 1,500 milligrams daily
From age 25 to 50, 1,000 milligrams daily
For postmenopausal women 1500 milligrams daily, 1200 mg if on menopausal hormone therapy
For pregnant and breastfeeding women, 1,200-1,500 milligrams daily

2. Dose Up on D
Without the proper amount of Vitamin D. calcium absorption is reduced. Vitamin D is found in fatty fish, fish liver oil and dairy products fortified with vitamin D. The recommended amount for adults is 200-600 international units a day. Vitamin D is also great for combating symptoms of winter depression during the long and dreary Chicago winters.
3. Get Checked Out

Take a trip to the doctor and do the recommended tests to solidify a clean bill of health.

Osteoporosis – screenings recommended for women 65+
Annual Mammograms – should being at 40
Annual Pap Smears – should begin at 21
Colorectal Cancer – start screening at 50
Skin Cancer – screenings should begin at 50
Blood and cholesterol tests – should be taken every 5 years, starting at 20

*begin testing earlier if you are predisposed or have a family history with a health risk and visit a gynecologist or ob gyn on a regular basis.

4. Get Active & Make Fitness Fun

For better women’s health in Chicago get your body moving and your heart rate up for at least 30 minutes a day. 3-5 times per week. Not only does regular exercise reduce stress, your energy and metabolism levels will increase. So, take the stairs and explore different sports to see what you enjoy most. If fitness isn’t your favorite activity, consider something different like belly dancing classes, yoga, pilates, pole dancing, aerobics, self defense and more. A tip for the early birds: working out in the morning is best because it keeps your metabolism high all day!

5. Drop Sizes Safely

Weight loss goals are safest for the body when achieved slowly over time. Losing 1-2 lbs. per week is a healthy, realistic goal. Of course, you may lose weight and stay the same on the scale – keep in mind that muscle weighs three times as much as fat!

6. Portion Control

Denying yourself every food you crave will simply make you desire more. Instead, allow yourself to eat meals and snacks in moderation and appropriate size portions while avoiding seconds. For example, one serving of meat (3 oz.) should be about the size of a deck of cards, while one serving of pasta (1/2 cup) is the size of a tennis ball.

7. Make Sense of Nutrition

It is hard to change your body without understanding what you should be putting in it. Start reading the labels of your products and research the recommended amounts of each food group. Over time, things will start to make sense. For those looking to learn quickly, consult a nutritionist or research online.

8. Curb Caffeine and Hydrate

Over 50% of Americans above the age of 18 drink 3.1 cups of coffee per day, while soda consumption is now reported to be growing even more rapidly. Not only do these beverages add chemicals to the body, they also dehydrate.  Cut down on caffeine and increase your water consumption. Easy tip: before every cup of coffee or soda, drink a glass of water first.

9. Cut Back on Alcohol and Cigarettes

Quitting smoking isn’t easy, but if you adopt a healthier lifestyle you will find your cravings will lessen. With strength and will power, they can go away for good. All changes are gradual, so if you slowly decrease your intake of both, you will find that you don’t need them like you thought you did. To achieve optimal health or if you are trying to conceive, you should not smoke at all and limit alcohol intake to the equivalent of one unit per day.

10. Guard Against Stress

With family, the house, friends and an economy in chaos, it is easy for the stress-o-meter to hit the red zone. It is imperative to take steps to de-stress; without doing so your job, relationship, happiness and overall health will suffer. Pamper yourself with a massage, warm bath or a quiet night in at least once a month, if not more.

For more information: visit these websites:
http://www.e-importz.com/Support/specialty_coffee.htm
http://www.cancer.org/docroot/PED/content/PED_3_2x_Portion_Control.asp
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/166413/weight_loss_tips_for_real_people.html?page=3&cat=5
http://www.women.webmd.com/features/health-resolutions-for-women?page=3
http://www.webmd.com/menopause/guide/health-checklist-for-women-over-40
About Dr. Seema Venkatachalam, Physician with Northwestern Specialists for Women

www.nswobgyn.com
Dr. Venkatachalam graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a BA in Biology and French Literature. She received her Masters in Public Health from the George Washington University in Washington D.C., specializing in Epidemiology and Biostatistics. After earning her MD from the University of Tennessee, Memphis, she completed her residency in obstetrics and gynecology at New York University.

Dr. Venkatachalam is a Junior Fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology and a member of the Association of Professors of Obstetrics and Gynecology. She has spent time abroad providing prenatal care in developing countries. She is fluent in Spanish and proficient in French.

Prior to joining Obstetric and Gynecologic Specialists of Northwestern in 2007, she served on faculty at Emory University, acting as a residency coordinator in addition to providing outstanding patient care. She is currently a Clinical Instructor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Northwestern University’s affiliate medical school, The Feinberg School of Medicine.
While interested in all aspects of general obstetrics and gynecology, Dr. Venkatachalam’s particular obstetrical interest is in high risk pregnancies, particularly those complicated by diabetes, hypertensive, cardiac, and hematological disorders, and has presented research at the regional and national levels. She is also adept at minimally invasive surgery, particularly in new modalities to treat abnormal uterine bleeding, fibroids, and providing permanent sterilization.

Articles Brought to you by NSWObgyn Doctors include:

Dr Bonnie Wise
Dr Kimberly (or Kim) McMahon
Dr Dayna Salasche
Dr Seema Venkatachalam
Dr Melissa Dugan

In response to the American Health Association’s February Heart Health Month, the Northwestern Specialists for Women based in Chicago are offering 8 everyday tips to improve heart health and fight America’s number 1 health threat – heart disease.

1. Keep Cholesterol in Check:

There is such a thing as good and bad cholesterol. Good cholesterol - in the form of HDL - helps promote new cells, produce important hormones and insulate nerves. In women however, low levels of HDL are a strong predictor of cardiovascular disease, even more so than having high levels of the bad cholesterol LDL. Every woman over 20 should have fasting cholesterol levels checked every 5 years and carefully monitor intake of high-cholesterol foods such as whole milk, eggs, and red meat. Exercise also helps raise the levels of HDL.

2. Monitor Blood Pressure:

High blood pressure - or hypertension - is another high risk for heart disease. Levels of 120/80 are ideal; anything above puts a woman at higher risk. You can monitor blood pressure by getting tested by a medical professional at least once a year. If levels are high, diet and weight loss are two key factors in reducing blood pressure.

3. Feed Your Heart:

A diet rich in fish, vegetables, fruits, whole grains and legumes is recommended. Control fat intake and limit saturated fats and trans fats found in butter, fried foods, snack foods and desserts. Focus on eating healthy protein-rich foods low in cholesterol, and complex carbohydrates such as whole grain pasta and breads. Also - remember to stay away from salt!

4. Get your BMI in check:

Instead of concentrating on weight - which can be discouraging for many women - it’s more important to focus on BMI, body mass index. BMI indicates how a person’s weight relates to their height and is a much better predictor of cardiovascular risk, particularly in women. A normal BMI should range between 20 and 25; over 30 is considered obese. A woman can successfully lower her BMI by losing one pound a week, through exercise, cutting calories and portion control.

5. Get Active:

Exercise not only aids in weight loss, it keeps the body and heart healthy and strong. Regular, moderate cardiovascular exercise such as walking, jogging, swimming or biking can greatly reduce your risk of developing heart disease - while also increasing your physical strength and overall health. It is ideal to work out for 30-40 minutes three to five times per week. Also, taking a multi-vitamin actually makes the body more efficient during exercise, helping to promote weight loss as well.

6. Quit Smoking:

Cigarettes account for 440,000 deaths per year. Health risks posed by smoking include immense - increased blood pressure, increased tendency for blood clots, lowered ability to engage in physical activity and increased risk of recurrent coronary heart disease after bypass surgery. Add years to your life and save money by simply saying no!

7. Alcohol in Moderation:

Studies have shown that one drink per day for women or lighter persons and no more than two drinks for men may actually help your heart rather than hurt it if combined with a proper diet. Be sure to stick within the guidelines of one serving: 12 ounces of beer/wine cooler, 5 ounces of wine or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor.

8. De-Stress:

Stress can also contribute to your overall heart health, so it is important to manage stress levels. Be sure to get 7-8 hours of sleep at night, take time for yourself and follow all of the tips above. A positive mental attitude and healthy body are crucial to fighting heart disease!

Follow these simple, everyday health tips and you’ll be well on your way to attaining perfect heart health and helping fight America’s biggest health threat. If you have any major heart concerns, or simply want to follow up with more questions, feel free to call us on 312.775.1100 and schedule an appointment with one of our physicians. We look forward to helping you take that first step in achieving optimal heart health!

Articles Brought to you by NSWObgyn Doctors include:

Dr Bonnie Wise
Dr Kimberly (or Kim) McMahon
Dr Dayna Salasche
Dr Seema Venkatachalam
Dr Melissa Dugan

Studley Brokers Medical Office Deal

By Jenn Danko
Chicago

The allure of River North’s upscale residential and restaurant development is attracting a new kind of real estate tenant: medical offices.

The Northwestern Specialists for Women is the most recent practice to jump on board, signing a long-term, 15-year lease at 900 North Kingsbury earlier this month. Studley negotiated the 13,755 square foot lease for the medical group, which opted to move into the northern end of the spacious 600 West Chicago complex.

The group of three women doctors will launch their practice in August 2008.

Jonathan Seeley, managing director of Studley and broker of the lease, says the group surveyed more conventional locations in the Streeterville and Michigan Avenue submarkets before deciding on the 900 North Kingsbury location.

“It’s a relatively tight market for Streeterville historically, and it’s tight for doctors looking to build out new (office) space,” Seeley says. The proximity of Northwestern Memorial Hospital has kept medical office tenants vying for space surrounding Streeterville and Michigan Avenue. In the case of Northwestern Specialists for Women, Seeley says the doctors were seeking a space with ample and convenient parking, along with accessibility from major highways. Both would benefit patients, especially those in the late-term of their pregnancies.

“Most of the buildings that we looked at (in Streeterville), didn’t have parking; it was market-rate parking in nearby lots,” Seeley says. At the 900 North Kingsbury address, patients walk about 30 yards from their car to the entrance and pay a reduced parking fee of $6.00 for two hours in the building’s structure. The amenity is a huge benefit for office patients, he adds.

The rapid expansion of Northwestern University, it’s law school and hospital have driven up space demands in the nearby submarkets, Seeley says. “Even though these guys are practicing at Northwestern, they are almost competing against their own hospital for space,” he notes. “The expansion of the schools has kept the market competitive for landlords, but the concession packages weren’t anywhere near where they needed to be.”

In the end, Studley negotiated a “much more favorable” concession package by looking only a half of a mile west of the Streeterville location. He declined to discuss the details of the lease.

The Northwestern Specialists for Women will join the Fertility Clinic of Illinois Chicago in the 600 West Complex, which is located directly below the new offices. Studley also represents the clinic, which is a welcome fit to the building, he says. The two offices will work with one another on a referral basis, sweetening the convenience of the deal.

In addition to serving as the former Montgomery Ward’s warehouse, the 600 West Chicago complex is home to barrage of restaurants, retail, and office spaces housing technology and Internet savvy tenants. More than 3,000 employees work for tenants in the building. The Domain condominium lofts are also part of the 900 North Kingbury address of the building.

Additionally, Japonais restaurant, Motel Bar and a David Barton gym all make home in the mixed-used, historic registered facility.

With such close proximity to the Streeterville medical submarket and the hospital, more Northwestern University affiliated doctors may look to River North in the future, Seeley adds. The 600 West Chicago complex is now nearly 90 percent leased.

Brad Despot, senior vice president of Jones Lang LaSalle, represented the landlord in the lease. “We are excited to have the Northwestern Specialists for Women,” he said in a press release. “They make a great addition to an already robust roster of tenants.”

Articles Brought to you by NSWObgyn Doctors include:

Dr Bonnie Wise
Dr Kimberly (or Kim) McMahon
Dr Dayna Salasche
Dr Seema Venkatachalam
Dr Melissa Dugan