Ken V. Holt, D.O. of Aspenglow OB-GYN offers a wide range of general care in both obstetrics as well as gynecology. Additionally, Dr. Holt has special interest experience and expertise in multiple areas within his specialty.
Dr. Holt practiced as a registered pharmacist for 12 years before attending medical school. Upon completion of medical school, he went on to spend a year as a Family Medicine intern before then spending an additional 4 years as a resident in obstetrics and gynecology.
During those 4 years at the University of Kansas Medical Center, he furthered his knowledge in obstetrics as well as infertility, gynecologic oncology, the treatment of gynecological disease with surgical as well as non-surgical methods and received extensive training in both minimally invasive surgery as well as the treatment of urologic disorders in women.
What made you want to become a doctor?
An unquenchable desire to help people in need of medical treatment surpassed my ability as a pharmacist.
What drew you to the field of Obstetrics?
There is nothing quite as special as being part of bringing new life into the world.
What do you love most about practicing medicine?
The challenge of identifying a problem, making the diagnosis, coming up with a mutually agreeable treatment plan, and observing a patient’s condition and overall health improve.
What do you wish you could tell every patient (and they would actually do) and why?
Adopt a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and an appropriate diet to maintain ideal body weight and eliminate stress. This would eliminate many conditions that cause suffering and pain with virtually no cost or need for medicine or surgery.
Fun fact about you!
After completing medical school, I was able to deliver my last child.
What do you enjoy doing when not at work?
Horseback riding in the mountains as well as hunting and fishing and of course spending time with my family at our home in Lander.
What makes you different from other OBGYN’s in Fremont County?
Our clinic is the only single-specialty OBGYN clinic in Fremont County. We only see women, providing care for obstetric and gynecologic issues.
Common questions patients may want to ask, but hate to:
Q: Is it normal to lose urine after having children?
A: While it’s never normal to lose urine (urine incontinence,) it is a common problem. There are multiple types of incontinence caused by multiple different reasons. Treatment is available and may require medication or surgery.
Q: Is there treatment for pain when I have intimate relations with my husband?
A: Pain with intercourse can be caused due to reasons including endometriosis, myofascial pain (pain from muscles that line the pelvis) and others. Finding the right diagnosis is the key to successful treatment. A complete history and physical exam is a very important part of evaluation and treatment.
Q: Is taking prenatal vitamins really important?
A: Research has shown that if every woman who could become pregnant were to take a multivitamin with folic acid the risk of neural tube defects like Spina Bifida (a defect leaving the spinal cord exposed at birth) could be reduced by up to 70%. Perhaps the most important time to take these supplements is for at least 1 month prior to pregnancy and during the first 3 months of the pregnancy.
Q: Is it normal for the vagina to smell?
A: The vagina is home to billions of bacteria and the type of bacteria can change on a regular basis due to multiple factors. Change in odor is normal and may be a result of hormonal changes with your cycle, change in the type of bacteria with your changing age, and multiple other factors. As a rule, douching or using scented products that claim to improve odor is not recommended and can do more harm than good. The presence of a concerning strong odor may represent infection and is a good reason for an appointment.
Q: Should I have genetic testing to see if I am at increased risk for cancer?
A: The decision to have genetic testing is one that should be made between you and your physician based upon your family history. However, there are online internet sites that can help you navigate the process. Knowing your genetic risks can help you and your physician due the right testing make the right decisions to help reduce your risks of developing cancer.
Q: When should I seek help for infertility?
A: Infertility is defined as trying to conceive for 12 months without success. Depending on your age, anytime after approaching 12 months without conception is a reasonable time to seek help. For patients nearing age 35 or older, it is typically recommended to seek treatment after 6 months of trying unsuccessfully.
Q: What is causing me to have hot flashes?
A: While menopause is certainly the most common cause, it’s not the only thing that can cause these troublesome symptoms. The average age of menopause in the United States is 51 years old. Developing menopause, or loss of ovarian function before age 40, is referred to as premature ovarian failure. If hot flashes or night sweats affect your daily activities or nighttime sleep, consider making an appointment to discuss treatment options.
It’s our goal to meet your needs, gain your trust, communicate effectively while providing you medical care second to none.
Call (307)206-1330 and make an appointment with Dr. Holt today.
