Author name: Diane

Vaginismus is a sensitive topic that affects many women around the world. This condition involves involuntary muscle contractions around the vaginal opening, making penetration uncomfortable or even painful. It can have a profound impact on physical intimacy, relationships, and overall well-being. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at vaginismus, its causes, symptoms, and most importantly, the effective treatment methods that can bring relief and restore confidence. What Is Vaginismus? Vaginismus is a condition where the muscles around the vaginal entrance contract involuntarily, causing discomfort or pain during attempted penetration. This can include sexual intercourse, using tampons, or even undergoing medical examinations. The severity of vaginismus varies, with some experiencing mild discomfort and others facing more intense pain. The Impact of Vaginismus Living with vaginismus can take a toll on both physical and emotional well-being. The frustration and anxiety it brings can strain relationships, reduce self-esteem, and create an overall negative perception of one’s body. It’s important to acknowledge that this condition is not uncommon and that there are effective ways to manage it. Understanding the Causes Vaginismus can have various underlying causes: Symptoms to Watch For Signs of vaginismus can vary, but common symptoms include: Treatment Methods for Vaginismus Thankfully, there are several effective treatment methods available: FAQs About Vaginismus Q: Can vaginismus be cured completely? A: While complete cure may not be guaranteed, effective management and significant improvement are achievable through various treatments. Q: How long does treatment usually take? A: Treatment duration varies depending on the individual, their underlying causes, and the chosen treatment methods. It can take weeks to months. Q: Is vaginismus a mental disorder? A: No, vaginismus is not classified as a mental disorder. However, psychological factors can contribute to its development. Q: Can I engage in sexual activities while undergoing treatment? A: It’s recommended to communicate openly with your healthcare provider. Some activities may be possible, but it’s important to prioritize your comfort and well-being. Q: Are there support groups for individuals with vaginismus? A: Yes, many online and in-person support groups provide a safe space to share experiences, seek advice, and find comfort in knowing you’re not alone. Q: When should I seek professional help? A: If you’re experiencing discomfort, pain, or difficulty with penetration that affects your quality of life, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional. Contact Our Sexual Health Experts Vaginismus is a challenge, but it’s important to remember that effective treatments exist to improve your quality of life and intimate relationships. With three double board-certified urogynecologists on staff, know that help is available. If you’re experiencing painful sex, call us today at 770.720.7733 to schedule an appointment or simply schedule an appointment online at either our Woodstock or Canton location.

Barb, a 50-year-old woman, often wondered if the type of pain she experienced during sex was normal. In a world where personal struggles are often hidden behind a façade of normalcy, Barb bravely stepped forward to share her story. For years, she battled in silence against a condition that deeply impacted her intimate life: an anatomical anomaly that caused excruciating pain during sex. Barb’s journey is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, the power of seeking support, and the importance of open conversations about sexual health. The Hidden Struggle As a successful professional and a loving wife and mother, Barb’s life appeared enviable from the outside. Yet, a secret burden weighed heavily on her heart—the pain she endured during intimacy. She found herself grappling with emotions of shame, guilt, and inadequacy. Unsure of where to turn, she navigated her pain in silence, convinced that her struggle was hers alone. The Revelation and Path Forward A chance conversation with a close friend led Barb to realize that she wasn’t alone in her experience. Her friend confided in her about a similar issue, sparking a glimmer of hope. Emboldened by this connection, Barb began researching her symptoms, eventually discovering that she suffered from a condition called vaginismus. This condition causes involuntary muscle contractions around the vaginal opening, making penetration extremely painful or even impossible. Seeking Professional Help With her newfound knowledge, Barb decided to take charge of her health and seek professional help. She scheduled an appointment with Dr. James Haley, a compassionate OB/GYN and urogynecologist with Cherokee Women’s Health. Dr. Haley’s warm demeanor and willingness to listen made Barb feel validated and understood—a stark contrast to the isolation she had felt for years. Understanding and Treatment Dr. Haley performed a thorough examination and diagnosed Barb with vaginismus. He explained that the condition could be caused by various factors, including psychological stress, trauma, or even underlying medical conditions. Together, they formulated a personalized treatment plan that encompassed both physical and emotional aspects. The Healing Journey Barb’s treatment journey was multifaceted. It involved a combination of physical therapy to relax and strengthen her pelvic floor muscles, counseling to address the emotional scars left by years of pain, and open communication with her partner. Through this process, Barb learned that sexual health is not just about physicality but is deeply intertwined with emotional well-being. Breaking the Silence As Barb began to see improvements in her condition, she realized the importance of breaking the silence surrounding sexual health issues. She joined support groups and online forums dedicated to sexual health discussions, where she found an incredible community of individuals sharing similar experiences. Together, they shattered the stigma and shame associated with conditions like vaginismus. A New Chapter As Barb continued to work on her healing journey, she found that her relationship with her partner also underwent a positive transformation. Open conversations about their feelings and needs brought them closer than ever before. Intimacy was no longer clouded by fear and pain but was instead a beautiful and fulfilling aspect of their connection. Help is Available for Painful Sex As Barb as shown, there should be absolutely no shame or embarrassment surrounding one’s sexual health. If you experience painful sex, call us today at 770.720.7733 or schedule an appointment online at either our Woodstock or Canton location.

Overactive bladder syndrome (OAB) began to disrupt Nancy’s daily life at age 50. As a dedicated teacher, a loving mother, and a true adventurer, she didn’t expect that her life would soon be overshadowed by this troublesome medical condition. Unraveling the Mystery of Overactive Bladder Overactive bladder (OAB) is a condition characterized by sudden, involuntary contractions of the bladder muscles. The symptoms include urgent and frequent urges to urinate, often accompanied by unfortunate leaks. This had become Nancy’s new reality. Her usual upbeat attitude was dimmed by the constant worry of unpredictable accidents and the constant and immediate need to find a restroom. These symptoms were disrupting her sense of normalcy.  Seeking Expert Help Determined to regain her control and joy, Nancy embarked on a journey to find out what was wrong and to hopefully find a solution. Nancy wasn’t sure if she needed to see a gynecologist or a urologist. She started doing some research and discovered the specialty known as urogynecology, a specialized field of gynecology and obstetrics that deals with female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery. Her research led her to Dr. Michael Litrel, a double board-certified urogynecologist at Cherokee Women’s Health. Renowned for his expertise in women’s health issues, Nancy finally had hope. She wasted no time making an appointment. Diagnosing Nancy With OAB Dr. Litrel listened as Nancy shared her symptoms and history. He explained that he suspected Nancy had OAB. To pinpoint the specifics of Nancy’s condition, he recommended a series of comprehensive tests, including a bladder diary, physical examination, and urodynamic testing. The tests confirmed that Nancy had OAB, so Dr. Litrel outlined treatment options that aligned with her unique needs and preferences. He discussed lifestyle adjustments, including limiting caffeine, alcohol intake, and practicing pelvic floor exercises. Additionally, medication was suggested to help manage the involuntary muscle contractions responsible for Nancy’s symptoms. Reclaiming Her Life With Dr. Litrel’s guidance, Nancy embraced the recommended lifestyle changes and diligently adhered to the prescribed medication regimen. Gradually, a transformation unfolded. The urges began to relent, and Nancy regained control over her life. Long walks, social gatherings, and even road trips no longer carried the burden of anxiety and urgency. Nancy emerged from her journey with an understanding that advocating for her health and seeking expert care were paramount. She hopes by sharing her story that she can inspire others facing similar challenges. We’re Here For You Nancy’s story is a reminder that challenges can be conquered with the right support and determination. If you or someone you know is struggling with similar symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek the right help. Call us at 770.720.7733 or schedule an appointment online at either our Canton or Woodstock location.

Many women feel uncomfortable discussing painful intercourse, but it’s essential to talk openly with your doctor about this issue. Pain during intercourse, known as dyspareunia, is more common than people may think, and it can have a significant impact on a woman’s physical and emotional well-being. Women may not always know whether the pain originates from external or internal parts of their reproductive system, but they do know that it affects their comfort and pleasure during intimacy. Addressing this issue with a healthcare provider is the first step toward finding relief. Understanding the Anatomy Behind Painful Sex Several factors can contribute to painful intercourse. Women may experience this discomfort during different life stages, such as when trying to conceive, during menopause, or after childbirth. Understanding the anatomy and pinpointing the source of the pain is crucial to determining the right treatment. The external genitalia includes the mons pubis, labia majora, labia minora, urethra, vagina, and rectum. During a gynecological exam, your doctor will examine these areas for symmetry, lesions, or trauma that could be causing the pain. Nerve-related issues in these areas may also be a source of discomfort. A thorough examination of the external genitalia can help identify the cause of the pain and guide the treatment plan. Conditions That May Contribute to Painful Intercourse Painful intercourse isn’t always linked to just the external anatomy. It can also be caused by issues with internal organs, such as the ovaries, uterus, cervix, or fallopian tubes. Conditions like fibroids, polyps, infections, or endometriosis may contribute to discomfort during intercourse. In addition, the bladder and bowel may play a role in the pain, particularly if these organs are involved in conditions like interstitial cystitis or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which can also affect sexual health and fertility. When evaluating pain during intercourse, it’s important to look at both the location and type of pain—whether it is sharp, deep, or gnawing. Physical exams, ultrasound imaging, and sometimes additional tests help identify the underlying causes. Once the cause is determined, a customized treatment plan is developed to alleviate the pain and prevent it from recurring. Open Communication is Key It’s important to recognize that sexual health is a significant part of overall gynecological care. Feeling comfortable discussing painful intercourse with your healthcare provider is crucial, as it’s an issue that can be addressed and treated. Open communication helps doctors identify the cause and create a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs. If you’re experiencing pain during intercourse, don’t hesitate to reach out. It’s important to remember that this is a common issue, and there’s no shame in discussing it with a professional. Your doctor is here to listen and help you regain your comfort and confidence, both in your health and in your intimate relationships. Schedule an Appointment Today If you’re experiencing painful intercourse or have concerns about your sexual health, you can make an appointment with our experienced and compassionate OB/GYNs today. Call 770.720.7733 or schedule online at one of our locations in Canton or Woodstock. We’re here to help you achieve a healthy and fulfilling intimate life.

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition that affects many women. It is primarily characterized by an imbalance in hormone levels, particularly an increase in androgens, such as testosterone. This excess of male hormones can lead to a variety of symptoms and health challenges. Common Symptoms of PCOS Women with PCOS often experience a range of symptoms that can vary in severity. These symptoms may include: Irregular periods: Many women with PCOS have infrequent menstrual cycles, sometimes going months without having a period. Excessive hair growth: Increased facial and body hair, a condition known as hirsutism, is common due to higher levels of androgens. Weight gain: Many women with PCOS struggle with weight gain or difficulty losing weight. Pelvic pain: Some women experience discomfort or pain in the pelvic area. Ovarian cysts: Ultrasound imaging often reveals multiple small cysts on the ovaries, which is a hallmark of the condition. How is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Diagnosed? Diagnosing PCOS involves a thorough process. Doctors typically start with a physical exam and a detailed discussion of the patient’s symptoms. Additional diagnostic tools include: Lab testing: Blood tests are used to check hormone levels and assess for elevated androgens. Ultrasound imaging: This helps detect the presence of ovarian cysts and other related changes in the ovaries. Treatment Options for PCOS The management of polycystic ovarian syndrome often involves a combination of lifestyle changes and medical treatments. Some of the most common approaches include: Lifestyle modifications: A low glycemic diet and regular exercise can help manage insulin levels, which is important for controlling PCOS symptoms. Hormonal birth control: Birth control pills are often prescribed to regulate menstrual cycles and reduce androgen levels. Anti-androgen medications: These can help reduce excessive hair growth and other androgen-related symptoms. Fertility treatments: For women with PCOS struggling with infertility, a combination of medications and, in some cases, surgical interventions may be recommended to improve the chances of conception. Help is Available Polycystic ovarian syndrome is more prevalent than many people realize, affecting approximately one in ten women. Unfortunately, it often goes undiagnosed or improperly managed, particularly in adolescents who may be prescribed birth control without addressing the underlying condition. That’s why it’s important to seek a proper evaluation if you experience symptoms of PCOS. As healthcare providers, we are here to guide you through the diagnosis and treatment of PCOS. We specialize in managing this condition and are dedicated to helping you live a healthy life. If you are concerned about PCOS or are experiencing any of the symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. You can contact us at 770.720.7733 or schedule an appointment online at one of our locations in Woodstock or Canton. We’re here to support you every step of the way.