Diane, Author at Cherokee Women's Health

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Yes! Many STIs don’t cause any symptoms, so the only way to know for sure if you have an STI is to get tested. Who Should Get Tested for STIs? The short answer is anyone who is sexually active. But you should also get tested if: What STIs Should You Test For? There are so many different STIs, it is hard to know what you may have been exposed to. Discuss it with your OB/GYN and they will encourage you to be tested for some or all of the following STIs: Talk to Your OB/GYN When you visit your OB/GYN for your annual exam, don’t assume they automatically test for STIs. Be open and honest with your OB/GYN and let them know if you have been sexually active or may have been exposed to an STI. Let them know if you have had multiple partners or anal sex since both put you at higher risk for STIs. Take charge of your own health and have confidence to request STI testing. OB/GYN offices test for STIs all day long – it is very routine and a completely normal request. It is also important to get tested for STIs if you are pregnant to protect your baby. Your OB/GYN should test for STIs at your first OB visit, and again near the end of pregnancy. It is very important to get tested if you have been a victim of sexual violence or assault. If you are a survivor of sexual violence, seek the help of a counselor and see an OB/GYN for an exam and STI testing. 24/7 Support Hotline If you have experienced sexual assault, there are organizations that offer support such as the National Sexual Assault Hotline with a 24/7 support hotline: 1-800-656-4673. They will also help you find local support if needed. Several STIs are “notifiable” diseases. This means that healthcare providers are legally required to report the positive results to government officials at the Public Health Department. Public Health officials keep track of STI/STD statistics, so they are aware of the number of cases and to determine if the public is at risk. Because they have been tracking these statistics, we are aware of the current sharp rise in STDs in the country, and especially in Georgia. The notifiable STDs that get reported to the health department are chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV, syphilis, hepatitis and chancroid. STIs are tested with blood and urine tests. It may also take a month or longer after being exposed to certain STIs for blood tests to be reliable. For example, if someone gets HIV, it may not be detected by tests for weeks or months. Other Means of Testing Besides blood and urine tests, your doctor may also perform the following: They can also take samples from any questionable areas to send off for testing. When to See an OB/GYN It’s important to see an OB/GYN and discuss any noticeable changes with your doctor. Let them know if you’ve noticed any changes on or around your genitals, anus or rectum. Although some STIs may not have symptoms, it’s still important to watch for any signs of infection, even if they are very mild. See an OB/GYN immediately if you notice any of these symptoms: Can I Get a Home STI Test? Online tests are also available for some STIs, but they aren’t always reliable. Your safest bet is to see a doctor for testing and if you are positive, you can get treatment. What to Do If You Test Positive for an STI If you get a positive STI/STD test result, follow up with your OB/GYN for treatment. Make sure you let any recent sex partners know of your diagnosis since they will most likely need treatment also. Discuss with your OB/GYN any concerns and they will answer your questions. You will need to be aware of any future problems to watch for, such as pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, or future outbreaks. You will need to learn of all the risk factors and potential problems. Also, depending on the STI, you will need to inform every future partner that you had a sexually transmitted disease so that they will know if they are also at risk. The Importance of STI Testing Remember, getting tested is not taboo. It’s an important part of not just taking care of your vaginal health, but your overall health too. Testing and subsequent treatment can help prevent spreading the infection and the more serious issues that could develop. Issues like infertility, endangering your unborn child, long term health problems or even death.

General, STD/STI Screening

Alarming Rise of STDs in Georgia

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STDs are on the rise in the U.S. at an alarming rate, particularly among women aged 15-24. According to the most recent data from the CDC, not only has the infection rate of STDs in the U.S. increased, but the state of Georgia has climbed to #3 in the country. STDs are being spread among younger people ages 15-24 at a faster rate than any other age group. Not only is the age group increasing at a faster rate, but the CDC reports that in Georgia, adolescents account for 58% of all STDs. Women Aged 15-24 Most Affected Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows the worst STD infection rates are Mississippi, Louisiana and Georgia. The South makes up most of the highest rates of sexually transmitted diseases of all the states. Seven of the top ten states with the highest STD rates are in the south. The CDC says that testing for STDs is one of the most important things you can do to protect your health. In the data collected by the CDC, the sexually transmitted diseases that were tracked were chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis and HIV. Georgia’s rates for these four STDs are 1,535 per 100,000. Of particular concern in Georgia was the increase in gonorrhea and syphilis, both of which can be dangerous if left untreated. Most cases of syphilis and gonorrhea are found when a patient undergoes routine testing and has no symptoms at all. This is concerning and could be the reason behind the surge of these types of STDs. They are being spread because people are unaware that they have these STDs and are having unprotected sex. Other STDs on the rise are HPV (human papillomavirus), herpes, genital warts, trichomoniasis and hepatitis A, B and C. Why the Sudden Increase of STDs in Georgia? The cases of STDs in Georgia seem to be climbing at a faster pace than other states. Georgia public officials and those in the healthcare field are fully aware of this crisis and are looking into the potential causes and how to improve the STD infection rate. In an article published in January 2023 by the Innerbody, the largest medical online testing company, the CDC data was analyzed to try to find the key trends and reasons behind the findings. One theory for the reason why the southern states, including Georgia, are highest in STDs is that many lack affordable healthcare. Healthcare is expensive for many, especially without insurance, so testing and treatment is out of reach for some as many rural areas do not have clinics where testing is available. Alexander Millman, the Georgia Department of Public Health medical director shares, “Folks who are disproportionately affected generally tend to be patients who have limited access to healthcare.” Officials and healthcare workers in Georgia say that another reason for the surge is that condoms are not being used as often during sex. “Other factors for the rise are less frequent testing and the stigmas involved with testing and treatment.” – Alexander Millman of the Georgia State Department of Health What is Causing the Increase of STDs Among Adolescents? Dr. Mike Litrel, an OB/GYN at Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists in Woodstock, GA, has been treating women with GYN problems for 30 years. When asked his opinion on the rise of STDs among women ages 15-24 in Georgia, he says, “Younger women are often embarrassed to talk about sex. Sometimes they may feel pressured to have sex before they are mature enough to be ready for it. Sometimes they just want to do it and don’t want to deal with the consequences. When signs of an infection begin, they may feel too embarrassed to seek treatment. In many STDs, symptoms don’t occur for a long period of time so if she is sexually active, it could have spread to multiple partners.” “This stigma needs to stop. Women of all ages need to be empowered to take control of their own health.” – Dr. Mike Litrel of Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists Protect Your Health, Get Tested Call us today at 770.720.7733 for an appointment, or simply request a confidential appointment online. We’re here to help you!

General

Ask the Midwife Videos

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Midwife Education

Should You Use a Midwife?

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Cherokee Women’s Health offers our patients the choice of working with a certified nurse midwife or an obstetrician. It’s a personal choice that should not be taken lightly, nor should you feel any pressure to choose one over the other. When considering your choices, keep in mind your expectations, personal beliefs and healthcare needs. Nurse Midwifery Training Nurse midwifery is commonly practiced across the United States. CNMs are registered nurses; many complete a Master’s degree in Midwifery which includes clinical training. In order to become licensed by the American College of Midwife Nurses, practitioners must first pass the American Midwifery Certification Exam. If you choose to work with a CNM, you can be confident that he or she has been trained to identify conditions that require the attention of an OB. Your Relationship with Your Midwife Your CNM will work with a physician throughout your pregnancy. In addition to being present at the delivery of your baby, CNMs can provide annual gynecological exams, prenatal and postpartum care. They advise on screenings, diagnostic testing, vaccines and order blood work. Midwifery as a practice places a great deal of emphasis of your psychological well-being, education and guidance throughout the entire duration of your pregnancy. Many women who chose to work with a CNM do so because they would like to experience a natural birth. Your CNM will train and guide you throughout your pregnancy so you can go into delivery feeling empowered and prepared. Midwifery as a practice endorses natural methods of coping with the pain associated with childbirth. This includes breathing techniques, visualization, relaxation techniques and various body movements and positions. Pain Control Not every CNM is against the use of pain medication. It is best to discuss your preferences when you have your first preconception appointment to ensure that you and your CNM agree on your preferred pain management methods. If you are delivering your baby in a hospital, OB-GYNs and CNMs can administer pharmaceuticals as well as order an epidural for a patient; however, an epidural must be administered by an obstetric anesthesiologist. We’re Here to Support You As a mom-to-be, it’s important that your beliefs and preferences are addressed so that you feel comfortable and confident throughout your pregnancy. At Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, our entire team is here to support you through pregnancy, and beyond. For more information about choosing a certified nurse midwife, please call us today at 770.720.7733 or schedule an appointment online.

Midwife Education, OB

What is the Difference Between an OB/GYN and a Midwife?

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Many women who are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant wonder if they should see an OB/GYN, a midwife, or both. To make the decision that is right for you, it’s important to know the difference. What Type of Education Does a Midwife and OB/GYN Have? Both OB/GYNs and certified nurse midwives have extensive training to support you throughout your birthing experience. No matter which option you choose, you’ll be in good hands. OB/GYN – An OB/GYN is a doctor who has studied 4 years of medical school, plus 4 years of residency and 3 more years of specialization. Certified Nurse Midwife – A certified nurse midwife is a Registered nurse with an advanced Master’s degree in nursing and a certification by the American Midwifery Certification Board. Typically they study for 2-4 years (Bachelor’s degree), plus another 2 years (Master’s degree). Types of Care in the Hospital OB/GYNs and midwives are separate but complementary professions. Both focus on quality prenatal and postpartum care. OB/GYN Usually assists with births within the hospital setting Trained to handle high-risk pregnancies and can perform surgeries like cesarean sections Trained in forceps or vacuum delivery to facilitate more difficult deliveries Can offer external cephalic versions to help turn babies that are breech Certified Nurse Midwife Usually attend births in hospital settings but can assist in birthing centers or home births Relies heavily on clinical experience to provide expert care in normal pregnancies Typically can spend more time with patient during labor More amenable to using natural approaches such as shower, massage, breathing techniques, acupressure, alternative delivery positions to assist with your labor experience Things to Consider Before Choosing an OB/GYN or Midwife Is vaginal birth your priority? Have you been told you have a high-risk pregnancy? How do you plan to manage your pain? Would you like an epidural or would you prefer managing your pain using natural techniques? Do you want your caregiver with you throughout your labor? Are you a new parent and need more educational support and advice about nutrition, breast-feeding, and exercise during pregnancy and after delivery? We’re Here For You By knowing what you want and understanding all your options, you can make the decision that is right for you and your pregnancy. The most important thing you can do is to clearly communicate your expectations, goals, needs, and desires with your provider. By choosing a practice that has both OB/GYNs and midwives, you can be assured that you have the best of both worlds to keep you and your baby safe and healthy. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us or schedule an appointment online or call us at 770.720.7733.

Midwife Education

Expert, Natural Birthing

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The certified nurse midwives at Cherokee Women’s Health specialize in natural birthing methods. They are trained to recognize abnormal pregnancy symptoms and potential complications. By partnering with board certified obstetricians, they provide both mother and child with the best possible care, even in the event of pregnancy and labor complications. Top 4 Benefits of Choosing a Midwife 1. Certification in Nursing and Midwifery Midwives at Cherokee Women’s Health are certified in both nursing and midwifery, giving women a safe, natural birthing experience. 2. A Personal Connection Midwives place special emphasis on the relationship between an expecting mother and her women’s healthcare provider. During a pregnancy, a midwife monitors the physical, emotional, and interpersonal well being of the mother. Many women feel a personal connection to their midwives, who try to remain accessible to their patients whenever they’re needed. This interpersonal connection can decrease stress levels during pregnancy. 3. Highly Individualized Care Midwives offer highly individualized pre- and postpartum care. This includes individual education for expectant mothers, counseling during pregnancy, expert prenatal care, continuous assistance during labor and delivery, and postpartum support for new mothers. 4. Natural Birthing Options Because midwives strive for a natural birthing experience, they limit technological interventions. Women who choose midwives as their primary birthing specialists receive fewer epidurals, episiotomies, and assistance from birthing instruments like vacuums or forceps. Our Midwives are Here for You Call us today at 770.720.7733 to schedule an appointment, schedule an appointment online or learn more about our midwife services.

OB, STD/STI Screening

Can I Give Syphilis to My Unborn Baby?

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Congenital syphilis can cause serious damage to your baby and these health problems can occur during pregnancy, birth and even later in life. Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (also called STD). Congenital syphilis happens when a woman passes it on to her baby. It is most often passed to baby during pregnancy, but it can also happen during vaginal birth if the baby comes into contact with a syphilis sore. Your Baby May Have Serious Problems if Syphilis is Left Untreated If a woman’s syphilis is left untreated, it can cause serious health issues for the baby, including death. Reports state that up to 40% (2 in 5 babies) born to women with untreated syphilis die from the infection. Your baby can have serious health complications later in life too, even if he or she seems healthy at birth. The severity of complications depends on how long the woman was infected during pregnancy and if and when she received treatment. Problems for Your Baby During Pregnancy These may include: Problems for Your Baby During Birth These may include: Problems for Your Baby Later in Life Problems for your baby later in life may include: Diagnosing Congenital Syphilis in Your Baby Your baby can be diagnosed with congenital syphilis, or any STDs, during your prenatal care visits. If you had been diagnosed with syphilis prior to becoming pregnant, tell your OB/GYN about any treatment you received. Several tests can be performed to check for congenital syphilis, including: How is Congenital Syphilis Treated? If your baby has congenital syphilis, it’s important that he or she receives treatment right away to help prevent complications. Your baby can be treated with an antibiotic, either as a shot or through an intravenous line (IV). Your provider will determine the amount of treatment your baby gets, which is determined by the infection and condition of your baby. In some cases, congenital syphilis can be completely cured. For others, they may need treatment for health conditions caused by the infection. Can Congenital Syphilis be Prevented? Yes, if You Protect Yourself Congenital syphilis is completely preventable. However, the only way to prevent it is by protecting yourself from getting infected in the first place. Learn more about STDs and how to protect yourself. Schedule a Screening Today Request a confidential appointment online or call us at 770.720.7733 to make an appointment with one of our OB/GYNs to get tested today. Early diagnosis and treatment are the only ways to help protect you and your baby.

Infertility Education, STD/STI Screening

Can Chlamydia Cause Infertility?

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Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted disease that can cause serious health complications if left untreated. Highly transmittable, a chlamydia infection can become quite severe and can even cause infertility in women. Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) and is known as a ‘silent infection’ since the majority of people who contract it have little to no symptoms. It is diagnosed most often in people under the age of 15, but anyone can become infected. Reports vary but some studies report that around 1 in 20 sexually active young women are infected with it. How Serious is Chlamydia? If chlamydia goes untreated, it can result in infertility and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which is a common cause of ectopic pregnancy and chronic pelvic pain. If a woman contracts chlamydia, a build-up of scarring can block the fallopian tube and prevent fertilization. And since there are often no symptoms, it is highly transmittable. Most women are not aware that they have it, so it’s very important to get regularly tested. Symptoms The symptoms associated with chlamydia are usually mild — if there are any symptoms at all — and can be mistaken for other health issues. For women who do experience symptoms, they often include painful sex, vaginal dryness and bleeding between periods. Can Chlamydia Cause Infertility? Yes! Women can become infertile if it is undiagnosed and goes untreated. Many women don’t know they’re infertile until they try to become pregnant. At that point, fertility treatments are often needed for a woman to become pregnant. Infertility is caused by the scarring and inflammation of the reproductive tract. Among women who have chlamydia, 1 in 10 will develop pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which is the leading cause of infertility. While chlamydia alone does not always cause infertility, if can lead to fertility issues if not treated. How Long Does It Take to Become Infertile From a Chlamydia Infection? Every woman is different and it is not known how long the infection must remain in the system to cause infertility. It may take weeks to two years. Can I Reverse Infertility Caused by Chlamydia? Unfortunately, infertility caused by chlamydia is permanent. Get Regular Screenings If you are sexually active, you should get regular testing. This is particularly recommended before trying to start a family. Can it be Cured? Yes, But Only with Early Diagnosis and Treatment The good news is that chlamydia can be cured with early detection. It is easily treated with a short course of antibiotics, but you must be screened regularly. Make an appointment today for a sexual health screening. Call us at 770.720.7733 or schedule a confidential appointment online.

GYN Problems, STD/STI Screening, Teen GYN Education

The Silent Symptoms of STIs and Their Unknown Risks

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STIs are on the rise among young women so it’s important to make appointments for annual screenings if you are sexually active. With ‘silent’ symptoms, annual testing for sexually transmitted diseases is key. Unless diagnosed through testing, you may not know you have an STD. Who is Most at Risk Women with a new or multiple sexual partners, or a sex partner with a sexually transmitted infection, are more at risk for developing an STD or STI. STIs Have No Symptoms Women diagnosed with chlamydia or other STIs are at higher risk of infertility and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). What’s more is that chlamydia and PID are known as “silent” infections. Many women may not know that a sexually transmitted disease can result in infertility. Chlamydia historically accounts for the largest proportion of reported STIs in the United States. The damage caused by chlamydia can result in infertility. With most women experiencing no symptoms, getting tested is the only way to know for sure if you have an STI. STIs Can Result in Infertility and Infant Death As infections continue to rise, more women will develop PID. Left untreated, about 10-15% of women will develop chlamydia with PID, which can also cause fallopian tube infection. This infection in the upper genital tract may cause permanent damage to the uterus, fallopian tubes and surrounding tissue, which can lead to infertility. STIs don’t just affect women. Congenital syphilis — when an infected mom passes the disease on to their babies — put their babies at risk of death or severe health problems such as deafness or blindness. In fact, annual congenital syphilis have surged, resulting in increased stillbirths and infant deaths. Take Control: Protect Yourself and Your Sexual Partners Following are the best methods to prevent contracting or spreading an STI: Abstaining from Sex – The most reliable way to avoid an STD or STI is to not have sex. This include anal, vaginal or oral sex. Reduce Number of Sex Partners – You can reduce your risk for STIs by reducing your number of sex partners, getting yourself tested, having your partner tested, and sharing the test results with one another. Mutual Monogamy – Being sexually active with just one partner, and one who has agreed to be sexually active with only you can reduce the risk of STDs. Have an open and honest conversation with your partner about to be sure you are not infected with an STD. Use Condoms – Using the right type of condoms correctly and consistently is very effective in reducing the spread of STIs. Use a condom every time you have vaginal, anal or oral sex. Protect Your Vaginal Health – Get Tested It’s important to know your STD status, not just for yourself but for your partner, future sex partners and your baby if you are pregnant or decide to become pregnant. Many STIs can be easily diagnosed and treated. Ask your OB/GYN to test you for STDs. This is the only way to know whether you are receiving the right tests. It’s as simple as having a blood test and pelvic exam. Have Your Partner Get Tested – and Share Your Results Your partner may have an STD and not even know. Asking your partner to be tested – and following up with the necessary steps to prevent further spreading of the STD if they do have an infection – is one of the ways you can help prevent the spread. Share your results with one another and have open and honest conversations to help prevent transmission. If either you or your partner is infected, both of you need to receive treatment at the same time to avoid getting re-infected. Make an Appointment Today Getting tested for STDs and STIs is common and very routine. Our compassionate and understanding OB/GYNs are here to help you. Call us today at 770.720.7733 to make a confidential appointment or simply Schedule an appointment online. STD/STI Education Articles

GYN Problems, Pelvic Pain Education

Sudden Abdominal Pain was Ovarian Torsion

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Lucy was only 17 when she began experiencing pain and tenderness in her abdomen. Her primary doctor chalked it up to PMS. However, her abdominal pain soon became so severe that her mom took her to an OB/GYN for an exam. It was there that Lucy was diagnosed with ovarian torsion. What is Ovarian Torsion? Ovarian torsion is a condition that occurs when an ovary twists around the ligaments that hold it in place. This twisting can cut off blood flow to the ovary and fallopian tube, which can result in severe pain and organ damage. Ovarian torsion is difficult to recognize since the only physical indicators are abdominal pain, cramps and pelvic pain. Because the symptoms closely mimic PMS, you’ll only know that something is wrong by the pain and tenderness in your abdomen. It can be easy to dismiss these symptoms but you should never wait to seek help in cases of severe, sudden pain. Symptoms of Ovarian Torsion The most common symptom of ovarian torsion is sudden abdominal pain. You’ll feel an occasional but sharp pain and you may also feel nauseous. You may even vomit as a result of the pain. Other symptoms include: Cramps may last a few days or even weeks. This occurs when your ovary is twisting and untwisting constantly. Pain may also go into your back or legs. The amount of pain you feel can depend on whether you are perimenopausal or post-menopausal. ‌Severe Ovarian Torsion If you have a fever, your ovary may be necrotic and will need to be removed. This is considered a severe case and you must seek treatment immediately. You may also experience abnormal bleeding from your vagina, as well as discharge. If your abdomen or pelvic area is rigid or in pain when you stop touching your abdomen, you may already have a necrotic ovary. Your doctor may do a pelvic exam to feel for other problems and tenderness. Who is Most Likely to Experience Ovarian Torsion? Ovarian torsion is most likely to happen to women during their reproductive years. However, it can also occur in children and women who are post-menopausal. Pregnancy can also put you at risk. Roughly 20% of ovarian torsion cases occur in pregnant women. Women who are on fertility or hormone treatments can also be at risk since hormonal medication can cause cysts to grow on your ovaries. These cysts and masses can put your ovaries at a higher risk for twisting around themselves. Treating Ovarian Torsion Surgery is the only treatment for ovarian torsion. Your doctor will recommend one of the following two surgeries. Laparoscopic Surgery – Laparoscopic surgery is considered minor. Your doctor will make an incision in your abdomen and insert a thin tube with a camera on the end called a laparoscope. He or she will then untwist the ovary and if necessecary, will untwist your fallopian tube, too. ‌ Laparotomy Surgery – Laparotomy surgery is an open surgery. This type of surgery is more invasive and requires anesthesia and an overnight stay. This surgery is performed by making an incision in your abdomen and assessing your reproductive organs. If possible, any present masses will be untwisted and removed.‌ If you experience severe ovarian torsion, meaning your blood supply was cut off from your fallopian tubes or ovaries, they will most likely need to be removed. ‌Seek Immediate Medical Attention if You Suspect Ovarian Torsion If you experience sudden abdominal or pelvic pain, seek immediate medical attention, as you could be experiencing ovarian torsion. Seeking help immediately will not only help relieve your pain quicker, but it may also keep you from having to get your reproductive organs removed. Ovarian torsion can happen at any age. Thankfully, Lucy received help immediately and was successfully treated. Our board-certified OB/GYNs can help if you suspect any issues. Make an appointment today by calling 770.720.7733 or request an appointment online.

Will I Always Have Pregnancy Stretch Marks?

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If you’ve had a baby, you may be wondering if you will always have pregnancy stretch marks. A whopping 90% of women get stretch marks as a result of pregnancy, so you’re not alone. It’s no wonder this is such a common occurrence. After all, stretch marks occur when your body stretches faster than your skin can keep up, and few things stretch a body more than carrying a baby for nine months. Who is Most Apt to Get Them? Women are more prone to get them if your mother had stretch marks, as genetics plays a role, or if you have a lighter complexion. The average weight gain over a nine-month period is about 30 pounds and the most affected areas are often the breasts and belly. However, they can also appear on the thighs, upper arms and buttocks. Stretch marks often start out purple or reddish and then gradually fade to white or gray after pregnancy. However, all women are different so the amount of stretch marks and the deepness in color one woman experiences may differ greatly to the next woman. Can I Prevent Stretch Marks During Pregnancy? There are a lot of creams and lotions that claim to prevent stretch marks but unfortunately, it’s impossible to prevent them. That said, there are some things you can do to help make your skin feel better or look smoother and less itchy. Will My Stretch Marks Fade? Yes, the good news is that stretch marks will fade over time, and there are some things you can do to help the process. These include: Stretch marks are a normal part of pregnancy, and today, many women are celebrating their bodies, stretch marks and all — and that’s a beautiful thing!

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Endometriosis Education, Pap Smears, PCOS Education, Well Woman

The Importance of Getting Established with an OB/GYN in Your Early 20s

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The best time for a young woman to get established with an OB/GYN is before a health crisis arises, or before you decide to become pregnant. For young women, there are often several changes going on simultaneously that can make that time extra busy or even overwhelming. Life changes, new relationships, college, career choices, etc. make this an exciting and eventful time in a woman’s life. Most women are relatively healthy in their early 20s, and don’t consider the need for an OB/GYN until they desperately need one. Or think they can put it off until later, when they decide to become pregnant. The Importance of Establishing a Relationship With an OB/GYN If a woman can establish that doctor-patient relationship in her 20s with someone she can trust, that physician or medical practice can be a valuable resource to help guide her through all phases of life. “Your early 20s are an important time to establish healthy routines and habits that can last your entire life. Finding an OB/GYN you are comfortable with — and building a relationship where you can talk openly — is so helpful in creating a long-term healthy lifestyle.” Ansley Stone, MD, an OB/GYN at Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists in Woodstock and Canton, GA Why an OB/GYN is the Best Doctor for Women’s Health For many young girls, the transition from pediatrician to primary care physician takes place during their early teens, and often it is the primary care doctor who has initial discussions about hormones or birth control with her. However, during this time, and before she reaches her early 20s, she should see an OB/GYN annually, both to begin developing a relationship and for important gynecological screenings. “In my experience, young women have so many questions about their sexual health, menstrual cycles and hormones, and a trusted OB/GYN can help them understand and take charge of their own bodies. I always invest the time to really listen to my patients and understand their concerns. I want them to feel they can always ask me anything. Nothing is too personal to talk about with me!” Dr. Lisa McLeod, an OB/GYN at Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists OB/GYNs Receive the Most Training for Women’s Healthcare Many people do not realize the extensive training that OB/GYNs undergo for becoming an expert in women’s health, becoming board-certified, and the extra training that is required each year to maintain certification and staying current on the latest women’s health issues. OB/GYNs undergo 4 years of undergraduate school in college for their bachelor’s degree, 4 years of medical school to become a medical doctor, and 4 years of residency in obstetrics and gynecology. Many have further training in a subspecialty or for certification in certain surgical techniques. All physicians undergo comprehensive written and oral testing for board certification, along with standard physician training, and then each year complete additional continuing education hours and testing, which are required to maintain certification. For a woman’s reproductive and hormonal health, the American College of OB/GYN (ACOG) recommends that all women over age 21 see an OB/GYN annually for thorough gynecological management. Pediatricians and general practitioners certainly have their valuable purpose for patients. They are responsible for the general overall health of children, men and women, but are not necessarily specialists in any one area. Why Annual OB/GYN Checkups are Critical for a Woman’s Health Most importantly, an annual visit to the OB/GYN is necessary for critical health screenings. Women in their 20s should have an annual pelvic and breast exam and a Pap smear to check for abnormal cell changes in the cervix. With all types of cancers, the earlier they are detected the better the prognosis. In addition to routine screenings, having open discussions about your general health is vital to uncovering underlying health issues. OB/GYNs often detect other underlying conditions — especially anything hormone related. Following are just a few of the issues managed and treated by OB/GYNs. Common Disorders and Diseases Managed by OB/GYNs: “It’s very easy for young women to overlook breast or cervical cancer and assume it is mostly found in older women. But the truth is that cancer can develop at any age, and early detection is critical. It’s not said to scare anyone – just get regular checkups for your own peace of mind!” – Dr. Lisa McLeod Read About Doctors to Find the Best Fit For You Read the Cherokee Women’s physican profiles to find the best physician for you, see their background information and watch their “Getting to Know You” videos. Schedule an Appointment Today Establishing a relationship with an OB/GYN in your early 20s sets a pattern for overall health for your lifetime. To schedule an appointment and get established with an OB/GYN, call Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists at 770.720.7733 or simply schedule an appointment online.

Author name: Diane

Should I Get Tested for STIs?

Alarming Rise of STDs in Georgia

Ask the Midwife Videos

Should You Use a Midwife?

What is the Difference Between an OB/GYN and a Midwife?

Expert, Natural Birthing

Can I Give Syphilis to My Unborn Baby?

Can Chlamydia Cause Infertility?

The Silent Symptoms of STIs and Their Unknown Risks

Sudden Abdominal Pain was Ovarian Torsion

Will I Always Have Pregnancy Stretch Marks?

The Importance of Getting Established with an OB/GYN in Your Early 20s

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