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Postpartum psychosis wasn’t a term Jessica had ever heard of, much less something she thought she’d experience at just 23 years old. This is her story.

The Arrival of Joy

The moment I laid eyes on my precious baby girl, Sarah, my heart swelled with love and joy. Becoming a mother was everything I had ever dreamed of. With each passing day, I reveled in the joys of motherhood, embracing the sleepless nights and the overwhelming love that consumed me.

The Unseen Storm

But beneath the surface, a storm was brewing. Slowly, my world began to crumble. It started with restless nights, haunting thoughts, and an unshakable feeling of unease. I dismissed it as exhaustion and the natural worries that come with being a new mom. However, the storm within me was far from ordinary. At first, I thought it was postpartum depression, but this seemed far worse.

Descending into Darkness

As the days turned into weeks, I felt myself slipping further into a dark abyss. The thoughts that once whispered became louder and dark, tormenting my every waking moment. The world around me lost its colors, and I became a prisoner of my own mind. The thoughts I was having about the world — and in particular, about my baby — terrified me.

The Mask of Normalcy

Despite what I was feeling, I was desperate to maintain a sense of normalcy, I wore a mask in front of family and friends. I smiled when needed, laughed when expected, but inside, I was drowning. The exhaustion of pretending to be fine took its toll, and I longed for someone to see through the facade and save me from my own torment. It was a very lonely place to be.

Seeking Help

One day, in a moment of clarity, I confided in my husband, Chris. Tears streamed down my face as I bared my soul, sharing the darkness and horrible thoughts that consumed me. With love and concern in his eyes, he held me tightly and assured me that we would face this together. Thank God for him. He was my rock and together, we made the difficult decision to seek professional help.

The Road to Recovery

Under the care of compassionate healthcare professionals, I was diagnosed with postpartum psychosis. The weight of those words was both terrifying and liberating. Finally, there was an explanation for the storm raging within me. Therapy and medication became crucial components of my recovery journey.

Finding Light in the Darkness

It wasn’t an easy road. There were days when the darkness threatened to consume me, but I held on, fueled by the love for my daughter and the unwavering support of my family. Slowly, the storm began to recede, and I glimpsed moments of light breaking through the clouds.

A New Beginning

Today, as I look into Sarah’s eyes, I see hope and love. Postpartum psychosis may have shattered my world, but it also gave me the strength to rebuild it. I am not defined by my illness but by my resilience and the unwavering love I have for my daughter, and the amazing support of my husband.

Jessica’s battle with postpartum psychosis was a harrowing journey that took her to the depths of darkness. Through seeking help, support, and the determination to overcome, she emerged stronger and embraced the joys of motherhood once again. Her story serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope and the possibility of finding light within the shadows.

Seek Help Immediately

If Jessica’s story resonates with you, seek help immediately. There is a light at the end of the tunnel and with professional help, you can live the life you and your baby deserve. Call us at 770.720.7733 or request an appointment online. Our experienced, compassionate OB/GYNs are here for you.

Pregnancy and childbirth bring about a multitude of changes in a woman’s body, and one area that undergoes significant transformations is the breasts. Understanding what happens to your breasts directly after having a baby can help you navigate the postpartum period with confidence and knowledge. In this article, we will explore the common changes women experience in their breasts following childbirth and provide insight to support you through this transformative time.

Engorgement and Milk Production

Directly after giving birth, many women experience engorgement as their breasts prepare for breastfeeding. Engorgement occurs as blood flow to the breasts increases, causing them to become swollen, firm, and sensitive. It is a natural process as your body begins to produce milk to nourish your newborn.

To alleviate discomfort, try breastfeeding or expressing milk frequently to release the built-up milk and relieve engorgement. Applying warm compresses or taking a warm shower before feeding can also aid milk flow. If you have concerns or difficulties with breastfeeding, consult a lactation consultant or reach out to the experts at Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists for guidance and support.

Colostrum, the Early Milk

In the initial days after childbirth, your breasts produce colostrum, a nutrient-rich, yellowish fluid that serves as the first milk for your baby. Colostrum is often referred to as “liquid gold” due to its exceptional nutritional value and essential antibodies that help protect your newborn against infections.

While colostrum production is a vital part of breastfeeding, it is normal for some women to have concerns about the quantity produced. Rest assured that your body is producing the perfect amount for your baby’s needs during these early days. As your milk supply transitions to mature milk, typically within a few days after birth, your breasts may feel fuller and heavier.

Changes in Breast Size and Appearance

Throughout pregnancy and after childbirth, your breasts go through significant changes in size and appearance. During pregnancy, increased blood flow and hormonal changes cause the breasts to enlarge and become tender. After giving birth, you may notice that your breasts continue to remain larger and fuller than before pregnancy.

As your milk supply regulates and your baby establishes a feeding routine, your breast size may fluctuate. It’s important to remember that breast size and appearance can vary widely among individuals, and there is no “normal” or ideal size. Embrace the changes your body has undergone and focus on the remarkable role your breasts play in nurturing your child.

We’re Here For You

As you embark on the journey of motherhood, it’s essential to understand the changes your breasts undergo directly after having a baby. Embracing these changes and seeking support from professionals can help you navigate breastfeeding challenges and ensure a positive breastfeeding experience for you and your baby. Remember, your breasts are uniquely designed to provide nourishment and comfort to your newborn, and their changes are a testament to the incredible journey of motherhood.

At Cherokee Women’s Health, our OB/GYNs dedicate themselves to providing optimal care to moms and their babies. Call 770.720.7733 to schedule an appointment with one of our exceptional board-certified obstetricians or midwives or simply request an appointment online.

Part 3 of a video series as patient Queen talks about her journey to become a mother.

Brooke’s journey to motherhood seemed to happen quickly — from having baby fever to rushing to the hospital to giving birth! As a first-time mom, Brooke wasn’t exactly sure what to expect when she and her husband began trying to have a baby. Figuring it would take some time and special planning to get pregnant, she downloaded an app on her phone to track her cycle and bought a pack of pregnancy tests. However, very shortly after, her baby fever turned into a reality!

One day, Brooke’s cycle tracking app notified her that it might be time to take a pregnancy test. She took the test and to her surprise, two pink lines appeared!

“I took the first one and thought, ‘this can’t be right!’, so naturally I took two more. Sure enough, she was pregnant! I went from feeling really excited to really overwhelmed within the span of a few seconds. It was good excitement, I just needed my husband’s reassurance.”

– Brooke recalling the moment of surprise

Brooke felt great at the beginning of her pregnancy, with her only early symptom being morning nausea, which was relieved by over-the-counter remedies recommended by the physicians of Cherokee Women’s Health.

Her pregnancy was relatively uncomplicated until halfway through her second trimester, when her lower legs and feet started to swell.

“The swelling never went away. I’d wear compression socks all day long, every day, and I still swelled. It wasn’t a medical concern, just very uncomfortable! The care I received from everyone at Cherokee Women’s Health was great, especially the sonographer, Rachel. Every ultrasound was so fun and exciting with her.”

Braxton Hicks or the Real Thing?

As a nurse at Northside Hospital Cherokee, Brooke was still active and walking a lot before she went into labor. She felt cramps the day before delivery, but they weren’t consistent and were at least ten minutes apart. She figured they were Braxton Hicks contractions.

“I wasn’t even willing to call them contractions because they weren’t nearly as bad as I’d expected. I even met my husband at Olive Garden for dinner that night!”

– Brooke recalls of her contractions

That same night, at 38 weeks pregnant, Brooke was up every other hour with slight pains. Since she had been experiencing similar feelings the prior two weeks, she wasn’t alarmed. “I wasn’t waking up and thinking, ‘Oh, I’m having contractions’, I was just waking up and thinking, ‘I must have to pee because I’m nine months pregnant,’” Brooke said.

It was around 5 a.m. when the pains became stronger and closer together, although they were still 10 minutes apart. She still wasn’t too concerned and knew she didn’t want to go to the hospital until she absolutely needed to. Then suddenly, her pain started to feel like contractions and went from 10 minutes apart to four minutes apart in the span of an hour.

“It was around 7:30 a.m. when I woke my husband up. To this day, he still laughs when he recalls that I had no urgency in my voice. He told me I just woke him up and said, ‘Hey, you might want to throw some stuff in the bag for the hospital,’ giving him the impression we’d have the baby in the next 24 hours.”

As Brooke’s contractions intensified, she leaned against the bathroom countertops for support. The day before, she explained the 4-1-1 rule to her husband Brice, which is that you should go to the hospital when contractions are regularly coming four minutes apart, each one lasts at least one minute, and they have been following this pattern for at least one hour. With this in mind, Brooke’s husband looked at the app she was using to time the contractions and noticed they were much closer together and lasting longer than she thought. It was time to go to the hospital!

Time to go to the Hospital

Around 8:30 a.m., Brooke and Brice threw everything they needed into the car and headed to Northside Hospital Cherokee. They arrived 15 minutes later and Brooke was already in so much pain, she was unable to walk so her husband brought her a wheelchair, and they rushed into registration. Brooke’s contractions were two to four minutes apart at that point.

“I was gripping the arm of the wheelchair at registration and told her my contractions might actually be closer than two to four minutes. Then I told her I thought my water had just broken. She said since it was my first baby, my water most likely didn’t break yet and then asked me to stand up on the scale to check my weight. After I stood on the scale, I saw a puddle of water in the wheelchair and on the scale. They quickly moved me to a delivery room.”

– Mom-to-be Brooke, moments before giving birth

On the way to delivery, Brooke was asked if she wanted an epidural. She answered that she wasn’t sure just yet. When they arrived in the room, the option for an epidural was taken off the table because Brooke was already nine and a half centimeters dilated!

Midwife Susan Fischels Delivers Baby Carolyn

Certified Nurse Midwife, Susan Fischels of Cherokee Women’s, was there to deliver Brooke’s precious baby girl. Brooke felt like her body kept wanting to go her left side, which she didn’t anticipate. Susan assured Brooke that moving positions was okay and to do what her body felt like it needed to do.

With no pain medication and with Susan’s support, Brooke welcomed her baby girl, Carolyn, into the world at 9:52 a.m., exactly 55 minutes after arriving at the hospital. Carolyn weighed 6 lbs. 6 oz., which was ironically Brooke’s birth weight as well.

“Susan was so fantastic. Her voice just cut through the chaos in the room. When she gave me directions, I locked in on them and followed her direction. As a first-time mom so far into labor and not having anything for pain, I was so pleased with my labor experience.”

– Brooke shares about her labor experience with midwife Susan Fischels

Brooke’s Advice for Other Moms

“My advice to other soon-be-moms would be to have a Plan A but understand that there’s an entire alphabet that follows. One of my labor and delivery nurse friends told me, ‘It is totally okay, and it is great to have an idea of what you want your labor and delivery to be like, but it’s also important to go into that day with a mindset of, whatever is best for me and baby, whatever needs to happen, that’s what I want to happen.'”

Brooke adds, “Luckily, Carolyn was born head first, but if she had been flipped to a breech position, I absolutely would have taken the expert’s advice on how to proceed, because they know best.”

Pregnancy is a miraculous journey marked by numerous physical changes, and cramping is one of the sensations many expectant mothers experience. While cramping can be entirely normal and even expected during pregnancy, understanding the nuances is essential for peace of mind and maternal well-being.

Normal Cramping During Pregnancy

In the early stages of pregnancy, cramping is a common occurrence as the uterus undergoes significant changes to accommodate the growing fetus. This type of cramping is often mild and feels similar to menstrual cramps. It is typically accompanied by other signs of early pregnancy, such as breast tenderness, fatigue, and mood swings.

Cramping during the first trimester is usually associated with the implantation process, where the fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. As the pregnancy progresses, cramping may also be linked to the stretching of ligaments and muscles in the abdominal area as the uterus expands to make room for the developing baby.

When Cramping Raises Concerns

While some cramping is entirely normal, there are instances when it may signal an issue that requires attention. Severe or persistent cramping, especially when accompanied by other worrisome symptoms such as heavy bleeding, fever, or sharp pain, should be promptly addressed with a healthcare professional.

Cramping that occurs in the later stages of pregnancy, particularly in the second or third trimester, may indicate preterm labor or other complications. It’s crucial to differentiate between normal discomfort and potential signs of a more serious problem, seeking medical advice when in doubt.

Managing Cramping Discomfort

For mild and normal cramping, there are several strategies that expectant mothers can employ to alleviate discomfort:

1. Rest: Taking breaks and lying down can help ease the strain on the abdominal muscles and provide relief from cramping.
2. Warm Baths: A warm bath can relax muscles and soothe cramps.
3. Hydration: Staying well-hydrated is essential during pregnancy and can help prevent cramping.
4. Gentle Exercise: Engaging in light exercises, such as prenatal yoga or walking, can promote blood circulation and reduce cramping.

Consulting With Your OB/GYN

Open communication with healthcare providers is paramount during pregnancy. Expectant mothers are encouraged to share any concerns or unusual symptoms, including cramping, with their healthcare team. Regular prenatal check-ups offer opportunities to discuss these matters, ensuring that both the mother and the developing baby receive optimal care.

In conclusion, experiencing cramping during pregnancy is a common and often normal aspect of the journey to motherhood. While some discomfort is expected, understanding when cramping might signal a concern is crucial. By staying informed, maintaining open communication with healthcare professionals, and practicing self-care, expectant mothers can navigate the various sensations of pregnancy with confidence and peace of mind.

Your Health is Our Priority

Call us today at 770.720.7733 or simply schedule an appointment online at either our Woodstock or Canton location.

The placenta, a remarkable organ that develops during pregnancy, plays a crucial role in supporting the growth and development of the fetus. In this article, we explore the characteristics, significance, and potential considerations associated with both anterior and posterior placentas.

Anterior Placenta

An anterior placenta refers to the placement of the placenta on the front wall of the uterus, facing the abdominal wall. This positioning is relatively common and occurs when the fertilized egg implants on the front side of the uterine wall.

Characteristics of an Anterior Placenta

1. Location: The anterior placement means that the placenta is situated between the fetus and the abdominal wall. As a result, women with an anterior placenta might feel fetal movements less prominently or later in their pregnancies because the placenta acts as a cushion.
2. Effect on Fetal Movements: The positioning of the placenta in front can often dampen the sensations of fetal movements. Mothers might experience softer or muffled kicks and punches due to the extra layer of tissue between the baby and the abdominal wall.
3. Pregnancy Considerations: While having an anterior placenta is generally considered normal and does not pose a risk to the pregnancy, healthcare providers may take it into account during ultrasound examinations. Imaging might be slightly more challenging, but advancements in technology have mitigated this concern, providing clear views of the fetus and placenta.

Posterior Placenta

A posterior placenta, on the other hand, is located on the back wall of the uterus, opposite the abdominal wall. This placement occurs when the fertilized egg implants on the back side of the uterine wall.

Characteristics of a Posterior Placenta

1. Location: The posterior placenta is situated between the fetus and the mother’s spine, allowing for more direct contact between the baby and the abdominal wall. This often results in a heightened perception of fetal movements.
2. Effect on Fetal Movements: Mothers with a posterior placenta usually experience more pronounced and easily detectable fetal movements. The absence of a placental cushion on the front side of the uterus allows for clearer sensations of kicks, punches, and rolls.
3. Pregnancy Considerations: From a clinical perspective, having a posterior placenta is typically considered normal and does not pose any inherent risks. Ultrasound examinations may offer clearer images due to the absence of interference from the placenta on the front side of the uterus.

Significance in Pregnancy

1. Fetal Monitoring: The location of the placenta, whether anterior or posterior, can impact how mothers perceive and monitor fetal movements. Women with anterior placentas might need to be more attuned to subtler sensations, while those with posterior placentas usually experience more pronounced movements.
2. Impact on Ultrasound Imaging: During routine prenatal care, healthcare providers use ultrasound to monitor fetal development. The position of the placenta can affect the clarity of these images, with anterior placentas sometimes requiring additional effort to obtain optimal views.
3. Labor and Delivery Considerations: The position of the placenta may influence the course of labor. In certain cases, an anterior placenta might be associated with a slightly higher likelihood of the baby being in a posterior position during birth, potentially impacting the labor process.

We’re Here to Help

Understanding the differences between anterior and posterior placentas provides expectant mothers and healthcare providers with valuable insights into the dynamics of pregnancy. While the location of the placenta can influence fetal movements, ultrasound imaging, and aspects of labor, it’s important to note that both anterior and posterior placentas are generally considered normal variations. As medical technology continues to advance, the impact of placental position on pregnancy outcomes can be better understood and managed, ensuring the well-being of both mother and baby throughout the remarkable journey of pregnancy.

Call us today to make an appointment with one of our OB/GYNs at either our Canton or Woodstock location or schedule an appointment online.

Urinalysis is one of the fundamental diagnostic tools used to diagnose urinary incontinence, a condition that affects millions of women. This non-invasive test provides valuable insights into a patient’s urinary health and aids in understanding the underlying causes of incontinence.

What is Urinalysis?

Urinalysis is a simple yet powerful diagnostic test involving the analysis of a urine sample. The examination includes a series of tests to evaluate various components of urine, such as color, clarity, pH levels, presence of cells, proteins, bacteria, and other substances.

Role in Diagnosing Urinary Incontinence

Urinalysis plays a crucial role in diagnosing urinary incontinence by helping healthcare providers understand potential causes and contributing factors. Some ways urinalysis assists in this diagnostic process include:

1. Identifying Infections: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can often lead to or exacerbate symptoms of urinary incontinence. Urinalysis can detect the presence of bacteria, white blood cells, or nitrites in the urine, indicating the likelihood of an infection.
2. Detecting Abnormalities: The analysis of urine components can reveal abnormalities such as the presence of blood, which may indicate underlying issues like kidney stones, bladder cancer, or other structural abnormalities in the urinary tract.
3. Measuring Urine Concentration: Urinalysis assesses urine concentration and specific gravity, providing insights into the kidneys’ ability to concentrate or dilute urine. Abnormal concentrations can indicate various kidney or metabolic conditions.
4. Evaluating pH Levels and Substances: pH levels and the presence of substances like glucose or proteins can signal conditions such as diabetes or kidney diseases that might contribute to incontinence.

Steps in Urinalysis for Diagnosing Incontinence

When diagnosing urinary incontinence, healthcare providers follow these key steps:

1. Sample Collection: Patients are required to provide a urine sample in a clean container.
2. Physical Examination: Visual inspection of the urine sample for color, cloudiness, or unusual characteristics.
3. Chemical Analysis: This involves using dipsticks to evaluate pH, specific gravity, glucose, proteins, blood, and other substances.
4. Microscopic Examination: A microscope is used to examine the sample for cells, crystals, bacteria, and other particles.

Our OB/GYNs Can Help

Urinalysis serves as a cornerstone in diagnosing urinary incontinence by providing valuable information about a patient’s urinary health. With the insights gained from this non-invasive test, our OB/GYNs can tailor appropriate treatment plans, address underlying conditions, and offer effective strategies to manage and alleviate the symptoms of urinary incontinence.

Call us today at 770.720.7733 or schedule an appointment online at either our Canton or Woodstock location.

In recent years, discussions around women’s health and fertility have gained importance, with an increasing number of women choosing to delay childbearing for various reasons. However, as women approach their mid-30s and beyond, concerns about fertility and the potential challenges that may arise become more prevalent. It’s time to debunk myths, present realities, and provide essential information for women considering pregnancy after the age of 35.

Fertility Myths

Myth 1: Fertility Plummets at 35

One of the most common misconceptions is the idea that fertility suddenly drops off a cliff at the age of 35. While it’s true that fertility does decline with age due to factors like the quality and quantity of eggs, the decline is gradual rather than abrupt. Many women in their late 30s and even early 40s can still conceive naturally. It’s essential to recognize that fertility varies from person to person and is influenced by genetics, overall health, and lifestyle factors.

Myth 2: It’s Impossible to Conceive Naturally After 35

While the likelihood of getting pregnant naturally decreases as women age, it’s far from impossible. Healthy lifestyle choices can play a significant role in enhancing fertility. Maintaining a balanced diet, staying physically active, managing stress, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can positively impact a woman’s reproductive health.

Myth 3: IVF is the Only Option

In-vitro fertilization (IVF) is often seen as the ultimate solution for women over 35 trying to conceive. While IVF can be highly effective and has helped many couples achieve pregnancy, it’s not the only option. Many women in their late 30s and early 40s can still respond well to fertility treatments that stimulate ovulation, increasing their chances of conceiving naturally or with minimal medical assistance.

Fertility Facts

Fact 1: Fertility Evaluations are Helpful

If a woman is considering pregnancy after 35, it’s a good idea to consult her OB/GYN for a fertility evaluation. This assessment can help identify any potential obstacles to conception, such as irregular ovulation or underlying health conditions. Early intervention can make a significant difference in the success of fertility treatments.

Fact 2: Egg Freezing Can Provide Options

Advancements in medical technology have made egg freezing a viable option for women who want to preserve their fertility. By freezing eggs while they are still of good quality, women can have more flexibility in family planning and potentially increase their chances of successful pregnancy later in life.

Fact 3: Time is a Factor, but Choices Abound

While it’s true that fertility declines with age, it’s crucial to recognize that every woman’s journey is unique. Some women conceive effortlessly after 35, while others may face challenges. The key is to be well-informed and proactive about reproductive health. If pregnancy is a goal, starting the conversation early with a healthcare provider can lead to better outcomes.

What Every Woman Should Know

Education is Empowerment: Understanding the factors that affect fertility, as well as the options available, empowers women to make informed decisions about their reproductive health.

Lifestyle Matters: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management, can positively influence fertility outcomes.

Consult a Professional: Seeking guidance from your OB/GYN can provide insights into an your reproductive health and offer tailored recommendations.

Age Isn’t Everything: While age is a factor, it’s not the sole determinant of fertility. Many other elements, including overall health and genetics, contribute to a woman’s ability to conceive.

Plan Ahead: If women are considering delaying pregnancy, exploring options like egg freezing earlier can expand future choices.

Our Team of Experts is Here For You

Fertility after the age of 35 is a topic that demands careful consideration, separating myths from realities. Every woman’s fertility journey is unique, and while challenges might arise, there are numerous paths to explore. Armed with accurate information and a proactive approach to health, women can make choices that align with their personal goals and aspirations.

If you are pregnant or planning to be, our team of expert physicians, certified nurse midwives, and physician assistants would love to be a part of your journey. Call us to schedule an appointment 770.720.7733

Hi there! I’m Dr. Michael Litrel, a urogynecologist specializing in surgery and medicine to help women who have experienced childbirth-related damage. One of the most common issues women face after childbirth is urinary incontinence. It’s a condition where a woman involuntarily leaks urine when she coughs, sneezes, or exercises. Today, I want to shed some light on this problem, explain why it occurs, and introduce a simple, effective solution called the suburethral sling procedure.

Prefer to see his video? Watch it here!

Understanding Urinary Incontinence

Before we delve into the solution, let’s understand why urinary incontinence happens. Imagine this cross-section of a woman’s body. The front represents the uterus or womb, and the back is the vagina. During childbirth, a baby’s head can damage the structures that support the vagina, leading to pelvic organ prolapse. This condition causes the urethra, the hole that leads out of the bladder, to drop, resulting in urine leakage when pressure increases in the bladder.

The Suburethral Sling Procedure

The suburethral sling is a remarkable solution to address urinary incontinence. This small, simple device made of polypropylene is placed underneath the bladder to support the urethra. Once in place, it prevents the urethra from coming out when a woman coughs or sneezes, effectively stopping urinary leakage.

The Procedure

The suburethral sling procedure is relatively quick and straightforward. It typically takes around 15 minutes to perform in the operating room, and patients can return home the same day. While there may be some discomfort for a few days, the recovery process is generally smooth. Patients are advised to refrain from sexual activity for about a month to allow proper healing.

Regaining Control and Confidence

Urinary incontinence can significantly disrupt a woman’s life and confidence. Many women suffer in silence, believing it’s a normal part of motherhood. However, there’s no need to endure this condition when a straightforward and highly effective solution is available.

We’re Here to Help

As a double board-certified urogynecologist, I’ve witnessed how urinary incontinence affects women physically and emotionally. However, I’m also confident in the effectiveness of the suburethral sling procedure. It’s a simple, minimally invasive solution that can bring significant relief to women facing this challenge. Remember, seeking help is the first step towards overcoming urinary incontinence and reclaiming your confidence.

Call us today at 770.720.7733 or request an appointment online at either our Canton or Woodstock location.