Diane, Author at Cherokee Women's Health

For Renay, stress urinary incontinence meant she was missing out on life. She would often ‘stay behind’ while her family and friends went hiking, played volleyball or participated in fun activities. And going to the gym? That was out of the question. “Pads could only do so much,” Renay said. “The bouncing, running and jumping would make matters worse so I either ‘stayed behind’ or became the photographer.” – Renay reflects on life before surgery Renay was also restricted by where she could go, regardless of the activity. If there wasn’t a bathroom within a safe distance, she would again ‘stay behind’. Renay’s story is not uncommon. She had given birth to five children and it was after her fourth baby that she started experiencing incontinence. She was tired of living a limited life so she decided to do something about it. Renay talks about her decision to get surgery for her stress urinary incontinence and how her life changed after treatment. Getting Help for Stress Urinary Incontinence Renay finally made the decision to get surgery for her incontinence and she’s so glad she did. The only regret she has is that she didn’t do it sooner. She explains that she had a bit of discomfort right after the surgery but felt fine the very next day. She was most surprised to learn that the effects really were immediate. “The effects were immediate. I wish I had done it 5 years earlier.” – Renay on difference surgery made. Today, Renay no longer sits on the sidelines or ‘stays behind’. Worries about jumping and running are a thing of the past. She participates in activities with family and friends and is even hitting the gym.

Urinary Incontinence Education, Urogynecology Videos

Sling Procedure for Stress Urinary Incontinence

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This video explains the sling procedure for stress urinary incontinence, which is just one treatment option for incontinence.

Cancer Screening, Well Woman Patient Stories

Diagnosed with Stage IV Breast Cancer in my 30s

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Mandy was healthy and young, just in her mid-thirties the day she found the lump. While she didn’t even think about the possibility of breast cancer, she decided to go ahead and schedule an appointment with her doctor anyway. And then, just before she made the appointment, she found another lump. She immediately went in for scans and a biopsy. Diagnosed with Stage IV Breast Cancer Mandy was even more terrified when her doctor suspected she had stage IV cancer, however, he wouldn’t know for sure until after surgery. This meant Mandy had some serious decisions to make, and quickly. “I thought it was a death sentence. I remember thinking, ‘I have to get my affairs in order’.” – Mandy’s upon learning she had stage IV metastatic breast cancer With the possibility of having stage IV cancer, Mandy decided the best option for her was to have a double mastectomy. She’s certainly glad she did because after surgery, her doctor told her that she did indeed have stage IV metastatic breast cancer. The Importance of Self Screening and Mammograms This is just another woman’s example of the importance of self screening and making an appointment with your doctor as soon as you find a lump or suspect something is not right. Today, Mandy reports that she is feeling great and is healthy. She attributes that to her decisions to take action and receive care as quickly as possible.

Anterior and Posterior Repair Education, Pelvic Reconstruction Education, Perineoplasty Education, Vaginal Rejuvenation Education, Vaginal Rejuvenation Patient Stories

Vaginal Reconstruction Changed My Life

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When I decided to get vaginal reconstruction, I wasn’t sure what type of doctor I needed. After a lot of research, I learned that a urogynecologist would be my best bet. And even better than just a urogynecologist would be a physician who was also an obstetrician. It’s this type of doctor that has a complete understanding of a woman’s body, especially for a woman who has given birth vaginally since so much damage can happen as a result. Meeting Dr. Haley I came across Dr. James Haley, who is located in the Atlanta area. He looked like the perfect doctor for my issues, plus he has excellent patient reviews, so I made an appointment with him. I immediately felt comfortable with Dr. Haley and also came to learn that he’s not quick to recommend surgery, unless it’s absolutely necessary. In my case, I suffered from a severe rectocele and cystocele. So much so that I almost had no perineum. I also chose Dr. Haley for my vaginal reconstruction because he’s one of the very few OB/GYNs that is also trained and certified as an urogynecologist. And he’s not just board-certified, he’s a double board-certified urogynecologist. This was huge to me because I don’t trust my lady parts to just anyone! My experience with Cherokee Women’s and Dr. Haley was wonderful from beginning to end. He answered all of my questions, as well as my husband’s questions. Not once did he appear irritated or impatient. Surgery went well although I did have difficulty finding a pain medication that worked for me. I was so grateful when Dr. Haley gave me direct contact information so I was able to text him to figure out a better pain solution. “Dr. Haley earned his money just by answering all of my text messages. LOL! My husband was so impressed with him!” – Dr. Haley’s patient and her husband I Highly Recommend Cherokee Women’s Health for Vaginal Reconstruction “I would not hesitate for a moment to recommend Dr. Haley to anyone. And I wouldn’t send my family to anyone else! Thank you, Dr. Haley and staff, for being so wonderful during this difficult time.”

OB Patient Stories

Joy Triumphs Over Grief – Shacorra’s OB Story

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Shacorra and her husband, Jerrod, were thrilled when they welcomed their first child — a healthy baby boy named Grayson. When Grayson was breech at 37 weeks and had to be delivered via an emergency C-section, they had no idea that would be just the first of many challenges they would have to endure throughout their parenthood journey. They were not prepared for the loss and grief to come, or for the pure joy they would ultimately experience. Within a year of Grayson’s birth, Shacorra was expecting again, but this time things did not go as well, and she lost the baby due to a miscarriage at seven weeks. While grieving for this child, Jerrod and Shacorra found they were expecting again. While they were excited to be expecting another baby boy, they were naturally very apprehensive that they’d suffer another miscarriage. Shacorra’s pregnancy progressed as planned but devastatingly, their beautiful baby boy, Rhyne, was stillborn at 34 weeks. Grief-stricken, Shacorra wondered why this happened to her. She was angry. She was sad. She even felt guilty, wondering if she had done something wrong. “What got me through was prayer and leaning on my family and friends. I had a great support system. I also feel everything is in God’s timing and that helped me to stay hopeful.” – Shacorra on how she endured the difficult times Pregnant Again With one toddler at home and two babies lost, Shacorra and Jerrod were surprised and thrilled to learn that they were pregnant again, but of course, they were nervous. Shacorra wanted to call the physician for every little ache or pain and felt like she needed her OB appointments closer together. But knowing that anxiety wasn’t good for her or the baby, she eventually learned to relax her mind. While she had a smooth pregnancy, Shacorra was diagnosed with cholestasis, a liver condition that occurs in late pregnancy that triggers intense itching. Thankfully, medicine relieved the symptoms and her pregnancy continued to go well. Shacorra went into labor at 37 weeks. Choosing to deliver via VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean), baby boy Taylen joined the family! Another Pregnancy 6 Months Later! Six months after the birth of baby Taylen, Shacorra and Jerrod learned that they were pregnant again. Now living in Georgia, they were many hours away from their family and friends in North Carolina. Needing a local OB, Shacorra spent lots of time reading reviews in Woodstock and Canton areas of N. Georgia. After much research, she settled on Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists. The many excellent reviews she read led her to feel it was the right choice. Choosing Cherokee Women’s Health Shacorra’s pregnancy was quite typical, at least as typical as it can be during a pandemic. But because of Shacorra’s history, the physicians and certified nurse midwives at Cherokee Women’s watched her very closely. And then, at 39 weeks, Shacorra delivered another healthy baby boy named Kaz, again via a VBAC. “Cherokee Women’s Health delivered baby Kaz and they are the best! I truly trust them and loved having them there to deliver Kaz.” – Shacorra on Cherokee Women’s Health Another Loss, But Then More Joy While Shacorra and Jerrod were incredibly grateful to be parents to three healthy boys, they were devastated when they suffered yet another loss when Shacorra had an early miscarriage a little over six months after baby Kaz was born. Fast forward, and Shacorra and Jerrod learned that they were pregnant again. This time with their first baby girl! They chose Cherokee Women’s Health again to help them through her pregnancy and as before, Shacorra was monitored very closely throughout her pregnancy by the physicians and midwives. Welcome Baby Rhya! Everyone was thrilled when she made it to full term after having a smooth pregnancy. Then, Dr. Lisa McLeod welcomed baby Rhya into the world! “Dr. McLeod was great and helped me to have a calm labor. With all I had been through and being so far away from family and friends, I was so grateful for everyone at Cherokee Women’s Health. They treated me like family. They really showed they cared. They not only helped me with my physical health, but also with my mental and emotional health.” – Shacorra on the care she received from Dr. Lisa McLeod and the staff at Cherokee Women’s Health Shacorra says only God knows for sure what is next for Jerrod and their growing family, but one thing they know for sure is that Baby Rhya will be spoiled by her three big brothers. And she’s the first granddaughter in the family! “It’s still hard sometimes and I will never forget the losses we endured, but I will say that time has helped. Whatever comes our way, we will trust God and lean on our support system. Sometimes we go through situations not just for ourselves, but to be able to share our experiences to help and encourage others. And I as Philippians 4:13 says, ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me’.” – Shacorra’s thoughts on strength Advice for Other Moms Suffering Loss In reflecting on all that has happened, Shacorra shared, “Some of us women are blessed to have every pregnancy a success, and some of us have losses. It’s important to express every emotion. Don’t keep it in. Know you are not alone and know that rainbows only come after storms. Things will get better.”

Anterior and Posterior Repair Education, GYN Problems Patient Stories, Mommy Rejuvenation Patient Stories, Vaginal Rejuvenation Education, Vaginal Rejuvenation Patient Stories

You Are Never Too Old for Vaginal Rejuvenation

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Cora got vaginal rejuvenation while in her 60s, thirty years after giving birth to her children. Here, she shares in her own words why she decided to get VR and how intimacy with her husband has improved since getting the procedure with Dr. Michael Litrel. Diagnosed with Cystocele and Rectocele “In 2021, I had already been seeing Dr. Litrel for a year as my regular gynecologists. He had been treating me with PRP (O-Shot) for lichen sclerosis. At one of my annual checkups, I mentioned that I was experiencing more urine leakage, particularly during intercourse. I also shared that I was having difficulty evacuating during bowel movements. He listened to my concerns and examination results revealed that I had a significant cystocele and rectocele. Dr. Litrel and I discussed various procedural options, at which point he brought up vaginal tightening. I knew that after having two vaginal births in my late 30s that laxity was not unusual but I had never considered vaginal tightening. And even though I knew I was looser than before having children, my husband never complained. We just learned to accommodate my body’s changes.” “I had no idea how much tightening could benefit me — 30 years after giving birth!” – Cora when introduced to the idea of Vaginal Rejuvenation Surgery is Scheduled “I went ahead and scheduled the three procedures: cystocele (bladder sling), intra-vaginal rectocele repair and vaginal canal tightening. The surgery went quite well and my recovery was great. Dr. Litrel provided excellent follow-up care,” Cora continues. “Six months later I can say that all three procedures were successful. I have no urine leakage during sex, or when I cough, laugh or sneeze. I am able to move my bowels more naturally (with minimal need to provide counter-pressure). My vaginal canal is possibly tighter than it was prior to having children. Sex has never been better!” – Cora thrilled about her results “Where before I couldn’t feel my husband’s penis unless he pushed against the labia or cervix, I can now feel him along the entire vaginal canal. Sensation is so much better than before! And my husband has no complaints either, other than he occasionally ejaculates too quickly due to increased friction.” I Highly Recommend Dr. Litrel “Dr. Litrel made me feel totally comfortable talking about issues other than strictly functional ones (such as urine leakage). We discussed the importance of my pleasure during intimacy and that I was making this decision for the right reasons.” “Dr. Litrel even asked my husband’s girth measurements to make sure I was satisfied with how tight he made the vaginal walls.” – Cora on how Dr. Litrel wanted to ensure the best results “I highly recommend that you make an appointment to discuss your personal needs with him. You deserve to be treated by the best and that’s just what you get with Dr. Litrel!”

Pelvic Reconstruction Education, Urogynecology Patient Stories

No More Drippy, Saggy Parts!

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Women often think it’s normal to experience saggy, drippy parts as they get older. However, Cherokee Women’s Health patient, Janeen, aged 69, didn’t want to live with vaginal looseness and incontinence so she sought help from double board-certified urogynecologist Dr. James Haley. Here, she shares why she decided to do something about it and what she — and her husband — think about her results. “I am so very happy to have had Dr. Haley as my surgeon. I finally decided to have surgery as I was “drippy” at unexpected times. Sex was okay, but not like it was when I was younger, when I told Dr. Haley what penetration felt like for me he explained that he could fix that also! – Janeen on her experience with Dr. Haley “I really wanted to understand exactly what was going to happen physically to my insides and I asked a lot of questions. Dr. Haley took the time to draw me pictures so I could grasp the concept of just how my saggy ligaments would be tightened up. I also had concerns about pain medication as I do not respond well to most common drugs for pain. He worked with me to find something that my body would tolerate. The information from his office was very complete and gave me guidance on what to expect after surgery. My total time at the hospital was half a day from start to finish, if that long. The first three days I had to move slowly as I found it difficult to sit down, but after three days I was completely off of pain meds. Soaking in a bath of Epsom salts helped the healing process. My post-surgery care required no sex for eight weeks. I thought that was too long to wait, but let me tell you that the first time was so tight, that I am glad we waited. Sexual feeling in the vaginal area has changed. I feel more sensation, more length and more satisfaction,” Janeen shares. “My husband said I was tight before and he was happy, but after surgery, holy cow, did he change his mind! He said it is a “hole” new experience.” – My husband’s thoughts on my new surgery I am almost 69 years old and I highly recommend anyone with similar problems to let Dr. Haley fix you up! Insurance covered everything but Medicare does not pay to pull up the pelvic floor and make you tight. I guess the insurance companies think that women over 65 must not have sex anymore so I did have to pay out of pocket for the portion to tighten me up. The cost was so worth it though! You will be happy you took the time to take care of yourself.”

GYN Problems Patient Stories, Mommy Rejuvenation, Perineoplasty Education

Dr. James Haley Repaired My Rectocele

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We recently talked to Abby about her experience with rectocele repair surgery with Dr. James Haley of Cherokee Women’s Health. She opened up to us about her experience and shared what led her to seek treatment and how she’s feeling today, one month after surgery. “I was referred to Dr. Haley after having a procedure done to repair my rectocele by another surgeon. During my initial consultation with Dr. Haley, I explained to him that the previous rectocele procedure failed, and I was miserable. I also told him that I was in severe pain because I suffered from endometriosis,” says Abby. “Dr. Haley was so patient and really listened to my concerns. I instantly loved his caring personality and helpful demeanor. He even made me feel completely comfortable asking questions that can sometimes be a little embarrassing. You know, those undesirable questions lurking in your brain!” – Abby on meeting Dr. Haley After a physical exam and a frank discussion about my issues, Dr. Haley also talked with me about options for a perineal repair (perineoplasty), which could be performed at the same time as the rectocele repair. I completely trusted his expert opinion so it was agreed that both procedures would be performed, and surgery was scheduled. During the procedures, he did a great job of keeping my husband informed. He came to see me after surgery and texted me that night to ask how I was doing and to make sure I was okay. Dr. Haley continued his same exceptional bedside care throughout my recovery. At my first follow-up, Dr. Haley asked about my pain levels, my hormones, and to make sure I was doing well with everything. I could tell that his patients mean a lot to him and that he really cares. I appreciated that so much, especially after my poor experience with my first surgeon. That doctor basically wrote me off when I was in recovery but I’m now five weeks post-op and Dr. Haley still wants to make sure that I am completely healed and free of complications. In fact, he won’t release you until he feels completely confident that all is well.” “On top of the exceptional care I received, I have to say that the surgery itself was nowhere near as painful as the first one I had. Within a couple of weeks, I could sit upright and go to the bathroom normally and without pain. That was a huge relief. The healing looks great and the benefits to the perineal repair are amazing. It is very snug! I am already extremely impressed with the rectocele repair as well. I can’t thank Dr. Haley enough for what he has done for me!” – Abby on recovery and ‘snugness’ If you’re experiencing issues, our double board-certified urogynecologists are here to help. As practicing OB/GYNs and urogynecologists, you can be assured that you will receive the most excellent care available. Call us today at 770.720.7733 to schedule an appointment or schedule an appointment online.

Mommy Rejuvenation, Vaginal Rejuvenation Education, Vaginal Rejuvenation Patient Stories

3 Reasons Gina Got Vaginal Rejuvenation

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We recently sat down with Gina, a patient of Cherokee Women’s Health, and asked her why she decided to seek vaginal rejuvenation. Unhappy with her appearance and vaginal looseness, she shares the top 3 reasons she chose to have VR surgery with Dr. Michael Litrel, and how she feels now that she’s undergone the procedure. “After having three children, I felt very insecure with my appearance ‘down there’. Childbirth also left me much looser, which resulted in unsatisfactory sex with my partner. Not only was it not very enjoyable, I found myself constantly worrying about what he thought. I knew I wanted to find a solution,” Gina shares. “I’d heard about vaginal rejuvenation and began doing my research. I came across Dr. Michael Litrel near Atlanta and after much debate, I finally booked a consultation. I wasn’t sure what to expect but Dr. Litrel could not have been more reassuring. He made me feel like I wasn’t the only one experiencing these issues and explained that vaginal looseness affects a great deal of women who are older or who have had children. Just this alone made me feel better and validated in my decision to do something about it. I scheduled my surgery and of course I was nervous, but I knew I was in good hands. The procedure went so much better than I expected and before I knew it, I was headed back to the hotel to recover. Surgery was a breeze and I experienced zero complications. Immediately after surgery, Dr. Litrel communicated with my husband to let him know that all went well. He even sent me a text to make sure I was doing okay. Later that night, I did experience some discomfort from the packing and felt sick to my stomach from the medicine, but Dr. Litrel came right over to where my husband and I were staying! He removed the packing and I felt much better. I couldn’t believe how responsive and caring Dr. Litrel was. The service and professionalism I received was way beyond my expectations. “It’s been a few months since surgery, and I am over the top pleased! I’m so happy with the appearance. My vagina is actually beautiful! And I’m incredibly tight. In fact, so much that I struggle to put a tampon in. Another benefit is that it helped with my frequent bathroom breaks. I no longer need them, nor do I have to worry about bladder leakage. Talk about a win-win!” – Gina on her vaginal rejuvenation results To other women who may not be happy with their appearance down south, or aren’t as tight as they’d like to be, I highly recommend they schedule a visit with Dr. Litrel. Vaginal rejuvenation helped with my appearance, tightness, incontinence and self-confidence. So okay, I guess there are FOUR reasons to get vaginal rejuvenation! haha!” If you’re interested in vaginal rejuvenation, vaginoplasty or labiaplasty, our staff of double board-certified urogynecologists will provide you with the best outcome possible. As both OB/GYNs and FPMRS specialists (Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery), our surgeons understand a woman’s body inside and out so you can be assured you’re in the best hands possible.

Sexual Health

Vaginal Atrophy

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Vaginal atrophy is a condition that causes adverse vaginal and urinary symptoms. The first sign is usually a decrease in vaginal lubrication. Due to a lack of estrogen, the lining of the vagina gets drier and thinner, resulting in symptoms including burning, itching, spotting and pain with sex. Urinary symptoms include frequent urination and urinary tract infections. When a woman enters menopause, her ovaries produce fewer hormones and monthly periods cease to exist. This typically happens around age 50. Because vaginal atrophy (also known as atrophic vaginitis) is caused by a decrease in the hormone estrogen, it most often occurs during menopause. However, it can also occur in younger women if their estrogen levels are affected. Vaginal Symptoms of Vaginal Atrophy can Include: Urinary Symptoms can Include: Who is at Risk? Vaginal Atrophy or Yeast Infection? Atrophic vaginitis and yeast infections can have similar symptoms such as vaginal itching, redness, pain and dryness. However, a yeast infection is caused by a fungal infection while vaginal atrophy is caused by a lack of estrogen. If you have these symptoms, consult with your doctor so he or she can provide you with a proper diagnosis. We Can Help If you have concerns about vaginal atrophy, our board-certified OB/GYNs can help. Call us today at 770.720.7733 or schedule an appointment online.