Q&A with Top Doctors

Can breast cancer be cured?

The cure rate of breast cancer is closely related to the stage of the disease. The cure rate for early-stage breast cancer is relatively high; however, if the disease progresses to intermediate or advanced stages, the cure rate decreases, although standardized treatment can still prolong survival. A detailed analysis is as follows:

In early-stage breast cancer, the tumor is small and there is no lymph node or distant metastasis. Effective removal of cancer cells can be achieved through surgical resection combined with adjuvant chemotherapy or radiotherapy, resulting in a low risk of recurrence. In intermediate and advanced stages, the cancer may have invaded surrounding tissues or metastasized, requiring combined treatments including surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and endocrine therapy. However, the difficulty of curing increases, and long-term follow-up is necessary.

For early-stage breast cancer, breast-conserving surgery or mastectomy is prioritized, while for intermediate and advanced stages, neoadjuvant chemotherapy may be required to shrink the tumor before surgery. Treatment options including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy, or endocrine therapy should be selected based on pathological type.

During the first five years after surgery, follow-up examinations should be conducted every 3-6 months, including breast ultrasound, mammography, tumor markers, etc., to detect recurrence or metastasis promptly. During treatment, it is recommended to maintain a healthy diet, engage in moderate exercise, avoid staying up late, and reduce psychological stress, all of which help enhance immunity.

Early-stage breast cancer has a high cure rate, but strict adherence to medical advice is essential. If symptoms such as breast lumps, nipple discharge, or skin changes resembling an orange peel occur, prompt medical attention is advised.

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Dr. Lv Dapeng
May 24, 2025
How long after a natural miscarriage will menstruation resume?

After a natural miscarriage, the time for menstrual recovery varies from person to person, generally around one to one and a half months.

Following a natural miscarriage, hormone levels in a woman's body undergo significant fluctuations. The previously regular endocrine system needs time to adjust and recover. The endometrium also requires time to repair itself, gradually regenerating and returning to a thickness suitable for the next menstrual period. If the miscarriage process was smooth and the woman is in good physical condition, with relatively quick recovery of the endocrine system and endometrium, menstruation may resume around one month post-miscarriage. However, if complications such as infection, severe endometrial damage, or poor endocrine function occur after the miscarriage, the recovery period may be prolonged, with menstruation possibly returning after more than two months.

After a natural miscarriage, women should focus on rest, ensure adequate sleep, and avoid excessive fatigue and emotional stress. Nutritionally, it is important to consume a balanced diet rich in protein and vitamins, such as lean meats, eggs, and fresh vegetables and fruits, to support physical recovery.

If vaginal bleeding lasts longer than 10 days after the miscarriage, involves heavy bleeding, or is accompanied by abdominal pain or fever, prompt medical attention is advised to rule out complications such as retained intrauterine tissue or infection.

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Dr. Zhang Lu
May 24, 2025
How often should couples have intercourse during the preconception period?

The frequency of sexual intercourse during the preconception period should be determined by considering multiple factors. Outside the ovulation period, intercourse every 2-3 days is recommended; as ovulation approaches, intercourse can occur every 1-2 days. The reasoning is as follows:

From the female perspective, women with regular menstrual cycles usually ovulate around 14 days before the next menstrual period. The probability of conception is higher a few days before and after ovulation. Sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for 2-3 days, while an egg typically survives about 1-2 days after being released. If intercourse occurs too frequently, the male testes may not have enough time to produce sufficient quantities of high-quality sperm, and newly formed sperm may be ejaculated before fully maturing, leading to reduced sperm density and diminished motility in the semen. Conversely, if the interval between intercourse sessions is too long, sperm may remain in the reproductive tract for excessive durations, causing some sperm to age and die, which is also detrimental to conception.

For most couples attempting conception, having intercourse every 2-3 days outside the ovulation period can help maintain sperm quality while preserving intimacy between partners. As ovulation approaches, the frequency can be increased appropriately to every 1-2 days to better cover the ovulation window and enhance the chances of conception. Methods such as basal body temperature tracking, ovulation test strips, or ultrasound follicle monitoring can also be used to more accurately determine the ovulation period.

During the preconception period, both partners should maintain healthy lifestyle habits, avoid staying up late, quit smoking and alcohol consumption, engage in moderate exercise, and maintain a relaxed and positive mindset, all of which contribute to improving the chances of successful conception.

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Dr. Zhang Lu
May 24, 2025
How soon after intercourse can pregnancy be detected?

If a urine test using a pregnancy test strip or test paper is chosen, pregnancy can be detected 14 days after sexual intercourse; if a blood HCG test is selected, pregnancy may be detectable around 10 days post-intercourse. Detailed analysis is as follows:

Generally after sexual intercourse, the sperm combines with the egg to form a fertilized egg, which travels through the fallopian tube and implants into the uterine lining. This process usually takes approximately 6-10 days. After implantation, trophoblast cells begin secreting HCG. As time progresses, HCG levels in both the blood and urine gradually rise. In early pregnancy, when HCG secretion is low, the timing for detecting pregnancy may vary depending on the testing method used. Urine tests have relatively lower sensitivity, whereas blood tests can detect HCG earlier and more accurately.

If a urine test using a pregnancy test strip or test paper is chosen, it is recommended to perform the test about 14 days after sexual intercourse, as the HCG concentration in urine will be relatively higher at this time, resulting in more accurate test results. Testing too early may lead to false-negative results due to low HCG levels.

Blood HCG testing is more sensitive than urine testing and can typically be performed around 10 days after sexual intercourse, enabling earlier detection of pregnancy.

Regardless of the testing method used, if the test result is inconclusive or there are any doubts, it is recommended to repeat the test one week later or visit a hospital for further detailed examinations, such as ultrasound, to confirm pregnancy and determine whether it is an intrauterine pregnancy.

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Dr. Zhang Lu
May 24, 2025
How to Lose Belly Fat

To reduce belly fat, it is important to consider exercise, diet, and lifestyle habits comprehensively. The main methods include dietary control, aerobic exercise, strength training, lifestyle modifications, and physical therapies. A detailed explanation is as follows:

1. Dietary Control

Reduce the intake of high-calorie and high-fat foods. Eat more vegetables, fruits, and fiber-rich foods such as whole grains, which can help control weight and reduce abdominal fat.

2. Aerobic Exercise

Regular aerobic exercise, such as brisk walking, running, or swimming, can effectively burn body fat, especially abdominal fat.

3. Strength Training

In addition, performing strength-training exercises targeting the abdominal muscles, such as sit-ups and planks, can help tone the abdominal muscles and make the stomach appear flatter.

4. Lifestyle Modifications

Minimize prolonged sitting and get up to move around more frequently to prevent abdominal fat accumulation. Maintain good sleep habits, avoid staying up late, and wake up early, which helps regulate hormone secretion and reduce the risk of obesity.

5. Physical Therapies

Under a doctor's guidance, acupuncture, massage, or other physical therapies may be considered as adjunctive methods to assist in reducing belly fat.

Reducing belly fat requires long-term commitment and a combination of balanced nutrition and appropriate exercise to achieve optimal results.

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Dr. Yang Ziqi
May 24, 2025
Side Effects of Oral Contraceptives

Oral contraceptives mainly contain estrogen and progestin, achieving contraceptive effects by inhibiting ovulation and altering the uterine environment. Common side effects include gastrointestinal discomfort, changes in the menstrual cycle, weight gain, skin changes, and cardiovascular risks.

1. Gastrointestinal discomfort

Nausea, vomiting, and dizziness may occur at the beginning of medication use, due to drug irritation of the gastrointestinal tract and its impact on hormone levels in the body.

2. Changes in the menstrual cycle

Menstrual flow may decrease, menstruation may be delayed or occur earlier than usual, and amenorrhea (absence of menstruation) can also occur, as the medication interferes with normal endocrine regulation.

3. Weight gain

Estrogen in oral contraceptives may cause fluid and sodium retention, while progestin affects fat metabolism.

4. Skin changes

Oral contraceptives may also cause facial pigmentation or melasma, as estrogen stimulates increased activity of melanocytes.

5. Cardiovascular risks

Long-term and excessive use may increase the risk of venous thrombosis, as estrogen affects the synthesis of coagulation factors.

If choosing oral contraceptives, it is recommended to undergo a comprehensive physical examination first, including liver and kidney function, blood pressure, and lipid levels, to rule out any conditions that make contraceptive use unsuitable. If concerned about side effects, you can also discuss with your partner and choose alternative contraceptive methods such as condoms or intrauterine devices (IUDs).

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Dr. Zhang Lu
May 24, 2025
What does it feel like when the amniotic fluid breaks?

Amniotic fluid is an important substance that protects the fetus. When the fetal membranes surrounding the amniotic fluid rupture and the fluid leaks out, this is referred to as membrane rupture or "water breaking." The sensation of water breaking varies among individuals but mainly presents as a sudden gush of fluid from the vagina, similar to the feeling of urinary incontinence. However, unlike urine, amniotic fluid is clear and transparent and may have a slight fishy odor.

When the discharge is heavy, it may feel like uncontrollable urination, with fluid running down the legs. When the discharge is lighter, it may simply feel like sudden wetness in the underwear, with a continuous or intermittent moist sensation. This kind of fluid leakage cannot be controlled by holding in urine, and differs from normal vaginal discharge or urine.

The causes of water breaking are complex. Common causes include genital tract infections, as inflammation can compromise the integrity of the fetal membranes; multiple pregnancies or polyhydramnios (excessive amniotic fluid) can lead to high intrauterine pressure, which can also easily cause membrane rupture. Additionally, external forces such as abdominal trauma or impact on the pregnant woman's abdomen can also lead to rupture of the fetal membranes.

Once amniotic fluid leakage is suspected, the pregnant woman should immediately lie flat, elevate her hips to prevent further significant loss of amniotic fluid and to avoid umbilical cord prolapse, and then promptly call 120 or go to the hospital. She should remain lying flat as much as possible during transportation to the hospital.

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Dr. Zhang Lu
May 24, 2025
What are the symptoms of functional dyspepsia?

Functional dyspepsia is a clinical syndrome caused by dysfunction of the stomach and duodenum. Its main symptoms include upper abdominal pain or discomfort, bloating, early satiety, belching, nausea, and others. Upper abdominal pain or discomfort is typically located beneath the breastbone and may manifest as dull, burning, or distending pain. Bloating refers to a sensation of fullness or swelling in the stomach even after consuming small amounts of food. Early satiety describes feeling full after eating only a small amount of food, resulting in the inability to continue eating. Belching refers to the expulsion of gas from the stomach through the esophagus, often accompanied by a sound. Nausea refers to discomfort in the stomach accompanied by an urge to vomit, although vomiting may not necessarily occur.

If the above symptoms occur, it is recommended to maintain regular eating habits, avoid overeating, and consume less oily, spicy, and highly irritating foods. Chew food thoroughly and avoid eating too quickly. Increase intake of fiber-rich foods such as vegetables, fruits, and whole grains to promote gastrointestinal motility. Avoid lying down immediately after meals and maintain an appropriate posture to aid digestion. Maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid excessive fatigue and mental stress. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical attention promptly for treatment.

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Dr. Shen Yonghua
May 23, 2025
Can excessive stomach acid cause gastritis?

In general, excessive gastric acid production may cause gastritis.

Gastric acid is an important substance for food digestion in the stomach; it kills bacteria in food, promotes the initial breakdown of proteins, and activates pepsinogen. When gastric acid secretion is excessive, surpassing the defensive capacity of the gastric mucosa, high-concentration gastric acid continuously irritates and erodes the gastric mucosa, triggering an inflammatory response. Gastric acid has an extremely low pH value; when secreted in excessive amounts, it can break through the mucus-bicarbonate barrier on the surface of the gastric mucosa, directly damaging the mucosal layer, leading to mucosal congestion, edema, erosion, and the development of chemical gastritis.

Excessive gastric acid may alter the gastric internal environment, indirectly promoting the colonization of Helicobacter pylori (Hp). After Hp infection, toxins are released that damage the gastric mucosa, further causing chronic inflammation and resulting in Helicobacter pylori-associated gastritis. If excessive gastric acid is accompanied by abnormal gastric motility, acid may reflux into the esophagus, causing reflux esophagitis. At the same time, due to dysfunction of the pylorus, bile may also flow back into the stomach, causing bile reflux gastritis, further aggravating gastric mucosal injury.

Treating gastritis caused by excessive gastric acid typically includes lifestyle modifications, the use of anti-acid medications to reduce gastric acid secretion, and antibiotic therapy targeted at Helicobacter pylori infection. During treatment, doctors will develop individualized treatment plans based on each patient's specific condition to relieve symptoms and promote the healing of the gastric mucosa.

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Dr. Shen Yonghua
May 23, 2025
Can I drink tofu pudding (douhua) when I have gastroenteritis?

Generally, it is not recommended to consume soybean curd (toufu) during the acute phase of gastroenteritis, although small amounts may be cautiously tried during the recovery phase while closely monitoring for any adverse reactions.

Soybean curd is rich in plant protein. During the acute phase of gastroenteritis, the gastrointestinal mucosa is congested and edematous; protein may stimulate gastric acid secretion, increase the burden on the gastrointestinal tract, and potentially trigger or worsen abdominal pain and nausea. If the soybean curd is too cold, too hot, or contains irritating seasonings such as chili peppers or vinegar, it can directly irritate the sensitive gastrointestinal mucosa, exacerbating diarrhea or discomfort.

When abdominal pain and diarrhea have significantly subsided and stools become pasty or return to normal, diet can be gradually reintroduced. At this stage, gastrointestinal function has not yet fully recovered, so intake should begin with low-fiber, easily digestible foods. Soybean curd may be consumed in moderate amounts. If abdominal distension, pain, or loose stools occur after consumption, intake should be stopped immediately, and the patient should revert to a more bland diet.

During gastroenteritis, gas-producing foods such as milk, soy milk, sweet potatoes, and onions should also be avoided to prevent worsening of bloating. If diarrhea is frequent, attention should be given to fluid and electrolyte replacement to prevent dehydration. If gastroenteritis persists for more than three days without improvement, or if symptoms such as fever, bloody stools, or severe vomiting occur, prompt medical attention should be sought to avoid delaying treatment.

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Dr. Shen Yonghua
May 23, 2025