Cystoscopy: Taking a Look Inside the Bladder
Urogynecologist Dr. Litel demonstrates a cystoscopy procedure and explains how it’s used to diagnose bladder issues. Watch more Urogynecology videos below.
A Mom’s Journey from Grief to Joy
“The darkest time of my life was after I lost my baby at 25 weeks. The grief was unbearable. My hopes and dreams of a perfect pregnancy and a healthy baby daughter were shattered,” explains Brielle. Brielle, a patient at Cherokee Women’s Health, lost her first baby when she was 25 weeks pregnant. She eventually went on to give birth to a healthy baby boy but the journey to get there was an emotional one. Here, she shares her journey. Getting Pregnant Within just a few days of missing her period, Brielle took a home pregnancy test, which tested positive. Excited, she quickly followed up with an appointment with Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists and her doctor confirmed it — she was pregnant. Brielle was ecstatic as she and her husband Mark had been trying to conceive for five months. She had dreamed of becoming a mother and she shouted the good news from the rooftops. Everything seemed completely normal to her, and her doctor confirmed that the baby seemed to be growing as expected. But throughout the first trimester she experienced extreme nausea, loss of appetite, and even vomited multiple times. Then, as the second trimester started, she felt much better and she began to get her appetite back. At her next routine OB visit, her doctor shared that her baby was growing and looked healthy. The ultrasound revealed that she was carrying a baby girl. Brielle and Mark were beyond excited about their baby daughter and couldn’t wait to tell their extended families. They planned a gender reveal party with their family and friends for the next weekend. Brielle’s mom and sister popped the balloons together as the pink confetti exploded, revealing to everyone that a baby girl was on the way. They began the process of decorating the nursery and preparing for what she thought would be the happiest time of her life. Brielle went shopping with her mom and sisters and bought girly outfits, bows and soft blankets in anticipation of her baby girl’s arrival. She even had the names narrowed down to two top choices — Ella and Miranda. She couldn’t quite decide on which one but she knew she had a few months to decide. She kept tossing the names around in her head attempting to pick the perfect name for her daughter. Something’s Wrong And then it happened. Brielle woke up one morning and instantly felt something was wrong. She had been feeling the baby move for a couple of weeks, but that morning was different. She felt no movement at all. Nothing. Her heart sank and she said she felt a wave of panic. Luckily, Mark was still home so he called her doctor’s office. He was able to immediately get the triage nurse at Cherokee Women’s Health on the phone, who told him to bring his wife to the office for an ultrasound. “Julianna was as kind and compassionate as could be, but I could tell that something was not right by her facial expression,” Brielle recalls. Julianna, the ultrasound technician called in the doctor. Brielle was told the most devastating news imaginable — her baby had suddenly died. The Grieving Process Brielle shared that the following days were a blur and the saddest time of her life. She was put in the hospital, induced labor and had to give birth to a baby that had died. She and Mark’s hearts were broken as they held their baby and mourned the loss together. They named her Ella, which was ultimately what they decided was her name when they saw her for the first and last time. Tests were run, and nothing was ever confirmed about Ella’s cause of death. Brielle was told that it wasn’t her fault, and her doctor seemed to think that it was an extremely rare occurrence and she would be able to try to conceive again soon. For several months following, Brielle went through a deep personal struggle. There were many days where she couldn’t get out of bed. She had to seek counseling, and she credits God, her family and her counselor for pulling her out of a depression. Her faith in God was tested, but ultimately she decided she had to go on and trust that He had a plan for her future. Getting Pregnant Again is Emotional Brielle and Mark finally decided that they were emotionally healthy enough to try to get pregnant again. They knew that they would forever mourn their loss of Ella, but both felt a strong need to move forward. Staying in the depression and sadness was not an option, so trying to conceive again was at least a step in the right direction. After 4 months of trying, Brielle finally had a positive pregnancy test. She was relieved, scared, and was hesitant to share the news this time. After her 12-week visit with her doctor and an ultrasound, she finally told her family that she was pregnant. “During the pregnancy, we were put on a strict schedule of doctor visits, and at 24 weeks, we started going to the doctor every week. I was also given a Doppler so I could hear the baby’s heartbeat at home. I used that thing all day long!” Brielle shared that her entire pregnancy the second time around was stressful. She said she wanted to feel the baby moving all the time, and when she didn’t feel movement, she felt that familiar wave of panic and fear. She was nervous until the day she gave birth. A Healthy Birth and Newborn Son At 39 weeks, her doctor delivered Brielle’s healthy 7 lb. son, Jacob, via scheduled C-section. Brielle and Mark say they are grateful for their son, who is now 6 months old and is healthy and thriving. “My doctor told me I had a ‘Rainbow Baby’, which is a baby after a miscarriage or stillborn birth. I honestly had never heard that term before, but I loved it since it refers to the
No More Painful Periods
Life would literally stop for Jessica. Every month when she’d get her period, she says her life would change for 5-7 days until it was over. The heavy bleeding was to the point that she would soil her clothes, her bed and even sometimes her furniture. The pain was awful and often unbearable. She began seeing an OB/GYN at the age of 15 to search for relief and answers. Through the years, Jessica visited multiple doctors searching for a solution. Little testing was done, and she most often was just given a prescription for birth control and told to take ibuprofen. Still no relief, still no diagnosis. The Suffering Continues In 2017, at 36 years old, Jessica was married and had two young children. Her periods were still just as life-altering, and they sometimes even caused problems in her marriage. Her husband Jeff was not as sympathetic as she would like, and their sex life was basically nonexistent. Sex had become painful, and she began avoiding it at all costs. Jessica was becoming more and more depressed over her situation. Sometimes she felt as though no one understood or cared. She began to lose hope. Jessica knew she needed a new doctor, someone she could trust. She began her research. After reading and hearing multiple outstanding reviews, she chose Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists in Canton, GA. She says, “I went to my first visit and I immediately knew I was in good hands.” At Last: A Diagnosis of Endometriosis After a long discussion with her new physician, Dr. James Haley, he suspected she had endometriosis. She said he seemed genuinely concerned and suggested a minor office procedure, called a laparoscopy, to take a look and see what was going on. A week later, Jessica finally got answers when Dr. Haley confirmed that she had endometriosis, a condition that occurs when the endometrium tissue that lines the uterus starts to grow outside of the uterus. Not only was he able to give her a diagnosis, he was able to remove the endometrial tissue during the procedure. Jessica’s periods were noticeably improved, but after about six months, they started to worsen again. She would bleed for a few days, then stop, then start again for a few more days. The pain wasn’t as intense as before, but the bleeding was annoying. She returned to Dr. Haley, and he sat down with her and offered a few more options. One option was to insert an IUD to help lessen her bleeding. While this option may work for many women, it did not work for her. “Dr. Haley is my hero! He changed my life and I am forever grateful!” – Jessica An Endometrial Ablation Offers Relief The next option was for Dr. Haley to perform an endometrial ablation. This in-office procedure destroys the endometrium to reduce or even eliminate menstrual flow. Since she knew she was done having children, this was the best option for her. She scheduled it for the following week in the Cherokee Women’s office. Not only did Jessica state that the procedure was easy and painless, it was a success! About a year later and Jessica has had no pain or bleeding, apart from occasional spotting. She is so happy that she chose Dr. Haley. She shares, “Dr. Haley is my hero! He changed my life and I am forever grateful!” Cherokee Women’s Health Can Help If you can relate to Jessica’s story and are experiencing symptoms of your own, please call us at 770.720.7733 or schedule an appointment to meet with one of our physicians.
It Took a GYN to Finally Give Me Relief – A Woman Experiences Years of Suffering
Marisol suffered for years. Her primary care doctor didn’t provide answers. Finally, she got relief with the GYNs at Cherokee Women’s Health. Finding a caring doctor who actually listens is difficult. It’s even more difficult to find one that specializes in female health issues. Marisol had suffered for many years with a multitude of problems: painful sex, pelvic pain, heavy clotting during her periods, and constant exhaustion. Her demanding job required her to move frequently and living in nine different states over 15 years made it even more challenging to find a good doctor who would listen and take her problems seriously. Test After Test Revealed No Issues Marisol had had ultrasounds to look for cysts or fibroid tumors over the years but nothing had ever been found. She continued to suffer with exhaustion due to the heavy periods and pelvic pain for several more years. After moving to Georgia, her pelvic pain was so severe she ended up in the emergency room at Northside Cherokee Hospital in Canton. The ER doctor gave her pain relief and recommended she see a specialist as soon as possible. Marisol knew she wanted a doctor who cared deeply for their patients and who also had the experience needed to help with her situation. She did her research and discovered the board-certified GYNs at Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists. The GYNs at Cherokee Women’s Health Believed Her Marisol immediately felt comfortable and at ease with her doctor and knew she was with an expert. She listened as all of the possibilities were discussed with her and solutions were offered. She finally felt heard. The first and simplest option her doctor suggested was an endometrial ablation, an in-office procedure to destroy the lining of the uterus. Unfortunately, the ablation did not work for her. At that point, a hysterectomy was discussed as an option and Marisol knew that was the best and final solution if she wanted a normal and pain-free life. Finally, Marisol Got Relief With a Hysterectomy A vaginal hysterectomy was performed on Marisol and the surgery was a success. Marisol only spent one day in the hospital and went home with minimal pain. It’s been over six months since her surgery and she is feeling great. After her hysterectomy, she is living a life free of the horrible pain that she suffered from for so many years. She is beyond thrilled that she chose Cherokee Women’s Health. “My doctor was phenomenal. I definitely this practice to everyone.” Cherokee Women’s Health – The Hysterectomy Experts A hysterectomy can be an emotional decision for many women, but the benefits often outweigh the downsides. Finding the right doctor who is an expert in such surgeries is key to a successful outcome. The physicians at Cherokee Women’s Health are board-certified OB/GYNs and have the unique skills to address complex female issues. You don’t need to suffer with pain any longer. Call today for an appointment at 770.720.7733.
Premature Twins – A Mother’s Perspective
Jourdan talks about her journey to give birth two premature twins. Read about Jourdan emotional journey as well as Dr. Gandhi’s unique perspective in caring for Jourdan throughout her pregnancy in this informative article. Watch more OB videos below.
Premature Twins: A Mother’s Emotional Journey and Her Doctor’s Unique Perspective
We sat down to interview Jourdan Adams to get her perspective on having a high-risk pregnancy with twins, and ultimately delivering her tiny twin boys as ‘preemies’. We also discuss the long weeks her babies had to stay in the Northside Hospital Cherokee NICU (Neo-Intensive Care Unit), and the ups and downs that she and her husband experienced as they went through the roller coaster of emotions during this difficult journey. We also sat down with her OB/GYN Dr. Gandhi (scroll down for that interview) to get her unique perspective as she cared for Jourdan throughout her pregnancy. Dr. Gandhi shares a unique perspective because Jourdan has not only worked as Dr. Gandhi’s medical assistant for years, they have also developed a very special bond. A Mother’s Perspective Jourdan recalls, “The pregnancy was good – up until about 22 weeks. That was the first time I had to go to the hospital.” Jourdan and her husband Tyler had been trying to get pregnant for a couple years, so when Jourdan’s home pregnancy test read positive, she went to the OB right away. Jourdan’s choice of a doctor was simpler than it is for many women. As a medical assistant for an OB/GYN practice, Jourdan made an appointment with Dr. Peahen Gandhi, the physician with whom she had worked so closely over the past few years. “We came in super early – and then again at 5 weeks, when we saw 2 sacs! And that was how we found out we had twins.” She admits the twin pregnancy came as a shock. “I just remember looking at my husband and saying, ‘Oh my gosh – what are we going to DO?!’ And my husband was so good, he just said to me, ‘Babe, we’ve got this.’ “But I was thinking, ‘No, you DON’T!!! You have no CLUE what we’re in for!” Pregnancy of Hospital Trips and Bedrest Jourdan relates that early on in the pregnancy she had a small bleed, which – she quickly adds – is “not unusual. ” But at 22 weeks the real trouble started. “I was feeling kind of weird at the office one day. My doctor gave me an ultrasound and put me on the monitor – and they realized I was having contractions. She sent me to the hospital.” At Northside Cherokee, Jourdan saw her high-risk specialist, who put her on fluids and sent her home, anticipating that the contractions would settle down once she was off her feet. “But the next day I was still having contractions, regular – every 10 minutes. I went back to the hospital, and got three injections of terbutaline.” Jourdan confesses, “Well, it was so early, I just wasn’t worried. I was thinking, ‘They’ll fix it… this is just normal, right?’ I never really felt super fearful they were coming. “Then I was put on bedrest until 24 weeks – because that is viability. At that point I was allowed to work for three days.” But at Jourdan’s next check-up, an ultrasound by Dr. Gandhi revealed a troubling development. “We realized my cervix was shrinking. After that, I was on bedrest for the rest of my pregnancy.” Jourdan Shares Her Perspective in this Video An Emergency Ambulance Ride to Atlanta At Jourdan’s 27 week appointment, there was more trouble. “I was dilated, my cervix was shrinking further. They sent me to Northside Hospital Cherokee. The monitors showed I was having regular contractions – that I wasn’t feeling. They gave me more terbutaline – and then magnesium, which made me feel really sick. It was horrible. “Dr. Gandhi came to check on me when got out of surgery. She took a look, and then she sent me straight to Atlanta [Northside Hospital Atlanta] – because she was afraid the boys were coming.” Jourdan admits this time she was scared. “Dr. Gandhi said she was transferring me and I didn’t know she meant I needed to go by ambulance. It was terrifying. I was hooked up to all these machines – IV, catheter…We got there and I filled out all the paperwork. There I was, a at 27 weeks, looking at birthing my twins. “But after a few hours at the hospital, I got settled and the contractions stopped. They let me go home again. And after that I was on bedrest until 31 weeks. Waiting Alone, the Dog By Her Side Jourdan describes the final weeks of bedrest as lonely. “I was sitting by myself all day. I came down from my bed every morning. Tyler had to work of course – he was saving up his sick days for when we had the babies. He would help me downstairs, make my breakfast, and then he was gone the rest of the day. At lunch, my mom, or his mom, would come over to make me lunch and sit with me a while. “I sat and I felt very hopeless. Dr. Gandhi called me every day to make sure I wasn’t going crazy. My husband was very supportive. But I felt so hopeless. I couldn’t do anything.” Jourdan smiles when she mentions her dog. “We have a bulldog. And he sat with me every day. I made sure to put his bed right beside me, so I had him with me. He really did help me. “My brother offered to get him and take care of him so I wouldn’t have anything to worry about – and I said ‘No – You can’t! He’s the only company I have all day long!’” Jourdan made it to 33 weeks. And that’s when her boys decided to come. Early Labor – A Rush To C-Section Jourdan recalls the morning of the day the twins were born. “I told my dad, ‘I feel weird, I just feel off.’ “I went to the High Risk Specialist, and I was feeling my contractions in the waiting room. That was the first time I’d ever felt them. Then Dr. Gandhi came in to evaluate me
Yeast Infections – What You Need to Know
A vaginal yeast infection is a fungal infection of the vagina and tissues of the vulva. It can occur when the normal healthy balance of bacteria and yeast in the vagina get out of balance. The hormone estrogen helps bacteria called lactobacilli to grow. These bacteria kill harmful organisms in the vagina and keep you healthy. However when something happens to tip that balance, a fungus called candida can grow out of control and cause a yeast infection. Yeast infections can be itchy and uncomfortable, and no one really likes to talk about them, but these infections are very common in women. It’s estimated that 75% of women will have at least one yeast infection in her lifetime. What Causes a Yeast Infection? There are many factors that could cause a yeast infection, including: What Are the Symptoms? Itchiness and discomfort are the most common symptoms of a yeast infection. Other symptoms can include: These symptoms can be similar to symptoms of something more serious, so it’s important to see you doctor and get the proper diagnosis and treatment. Available Treatments A yeast infection may be diagnosed by taking a sample of the discharge to be examined under a microscope. Once diagnosed, the most common way your doctor will treat a yeast infection is by prescribing an antifungal medicine, or by recommending an over-the-counter antifungal cream, ointment, or suppository. Depending on the severity of the infection, it can take anywhere from a few days to 1-2 weeks to clear up, and sometimes there can be some resistance to certain medications used. It’s important for you to know that some yeast infection medications weaken condoms or diaphragms. That makes it easier for you to get pregnant or contract a sexually transmitted disease. Be sure to read instructions and warnings before using. Can Yeast Infections be Prevented? It may not be possible for all women to prevent yeast infections, but here’s what you can do to lower your odds. Probiotic-rich foods have been shown to promote a good pH balance within the vagina. The good bacteria lactobacillus improves overall vaginal health and can help prevent yeast infections. The best probiotic-rich foods to try for the prevention of a yeast infection are: We Can Help While you have probably heard about the benefits of cranberry juice in the treatment of yeast infections, it’s also packed with unhealthy amounts of sugar. As with any issues you may be experiencing, it’s important to see an OB/GYN for the right diagnosis and treatment. Our doctors are here to help. Call us at 770-720-7733 or schedule an appointment online.
Foods to Avoid During Pregnancy
Dr. Haley explains why some food should be avoided while pregnant. Watch more OB videos below.
Vaginal Changes After Childbirth
Vaginal changes after childbirth can cause a number of challenges for new moms. After all, giving birth basically means pushing a head the size of a cabbage through a tiny pinhole. There are a lot of vaginal changes after childbirth, so we’re answering the questions we’re most frequently asked by our patients. We hope they give you a better understanding of what you can expect after having a baby. My Vagina’s So Dry Now Higher estrogen levels help keep your vagina moist, but after you give birth those level drop, which can lead to dryness. Lack of estrogen can also cause vaginal tissue to become thinner and to shrink, which can also result in dryness. Another reason for a dry vagina is breastfeeding, which helps keep your estrogen levels low, so you may continue experiencing dryness throughout nursing. For those who don’t breastfeed, your levels may return closer to normal within a few weeks of giving birth, which can bring the natural moisture back. If the dryness is intense and uncomfortable, or is causing problems like pain during sex, talk to your doctor. He or she may recommend an over the counter lubricant, or may even prescribe estrogen to help alleviate the problem. Should My Vagina Feel This Sore After Having a Baby? It is completely normal for your vagina, and possibly your perineum (the area between your vagina and anus), to feel very sore after delivery, as you may have experienced tearing. In fact, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, over 50% of women experience tearing of the perineum. 4 Degrees of Vaginal Tears and Their Healing Times Sometimes if the baby is large, or gets stuck during the delivery, your doctor may perform a procedure called an episiotomy, which is an incision to the area to widen the opening and prevent a potential tear. Why Does it Hurt When I Have Sex Now? Pain during sex after childbirth could be a result of scar tissue in your vagina or perineum. This can happen if you experienced a tear or had an episiotomy. “The amount of damage incurred during delivery will determine how much you may feel the scarring during sex. Over time, the scar tissue will eventually heal.” – Dr. James Haley Dr. Haley recommends using lubricants during the healing process, which should make having sex more comfortable. If you feel the pain is not getting any better, be sure to discuss it with your doctor. My Discharge is Different. Why? After giving birth, you will typically have a discharge, known as lochia, for four to six weeks, with the first ten days or so being the heaviest. Lochia is the combination of residual mucus, blood and uterine tissue. It usually comes in stages, starting off heavier and a deep, red color for a few days. As it starts to decrease, the color will change to a pink or brown, and then to a yellowish color. Wearing thick pads and postpartum underwear are necessary during this time, and don’t be surprised if you experience an odor as well. However, if you discover any clots larger than a small lime, you should contact your doctor. Will My Period Ever Be Normal Again? Pregnancy does a number on your hormones, and they need time to get back to pre-pregnancy state. Your period may be heavier or lighter for a while. If you are breastfeeding, your estrogen levels will be lower as well, which interferes with menstruation. Don’t worry though, your body should readjust and your periods should return closer to normal in time. My Vagina Seems Looser Than Before. Is This Normal? Yes, having a looser vagina is one of the vaginal changes after childbirth that you may experience, and it’s completely normal. Your vagina and vaginal opening stretches during a vaginal delivery but typically does return to pre-pregnancy size. However, for some women, especially if you have had a large baby or several vaginal deliveries, it may not go back to 100%. Weaker vaginal muscles after childbirth is sometimes mistaken for a looser vagina. If the muscles are weak, doing Kegel exercises may help. Kegels are done by squeezing and holding your pelvic floor muscles (the muscles used when you stop your urine flow). They’re easy and can be done anywhere. Just squeeze, hold and release. Sometimes when the muscles are too weak for Kegels to help, a pelvic floor physical therapist may be able to help. Learn more. Download your FREE Vaginal Rejuvenation eBook. Vaginal Changes After Childbirth Also Include Incontinence? Seriously? A woman’s pelvic floor consists of muscles and other tissues that keep organs in the right place, but these organs may become damaged during childbirth. As a result, you may find yourself peeing a little when you do basic activities like sneezing, laughing, jumping, etc. But this is not uncommon. In fact, 25-45 percent of women experience incontinence, whether a result of childbirth or not. Treatment options are available though, so if you notice changes after giving birth, talk to your doctor. My Orgasms Are Less Intense Contractions of the muscles of the vagina are powerful during orgasm. They release muscle tension that was building prior to the orgasm. These contractions provide a source of pleasure. This can change after childbirth. “After childbirth, if your pelvic floor has weakened, you may find that your orgasms aren’t as intense as before. This is because the muscle contractions aren’t as forceful.” – Dr. Michael Litrel While this is true, there is no reason to think you can’t have that feeling again. Like some of the other issues we have discussed, there are treatments available to help, so be sure to talk to your doctor. Our OB/GYN Experts Are Here to Help Vaginal changes after childbirth are completely normal. Some of these changes may be temporary, and some may not be. Either way, our OB/GYNs are women’s health experts who can help you navigate these many changes and provide the solutions you may be seeking.
The Importance of Vaginal Health
The importance of vaginal health should not be taken lightly. It’s not just about sex. It means being aware of the signs of an unhealthy vagina and knowing when to see a specialist. Vaginal problems can affect your sexual desire, fertility, and ability to reach orgasm. Recurring vaginal issues can also cause low self-esteem or relationship problems. Every woman should be aware of the signs and symptoms of vaginal problems and what should be done to protect the health of their vagina. What Exactly is a Vagina? The vagina is an elastic, muscular canal that connects the uterus to the outside of the body. It has a soft, flexible lining that provides sensation and lubrication. The vulva and labia form the entrance, and the cervix of the uterus protrudes into the vagina, forming the anterior end. What Affects Vaginal Health? Several factors can affect the health of your vagina, including: Pregnancy and childbirth. During pregnancy, menstruating stops and vaginal discharge increases. Vaginal tears are common during childbirth. Sometimes an episiotomy is done during childbirth, which is an incision made in the tissue of the vaginal opening. Vaginal laxity can also occur after having a baby as a result of the pelvic floor muscles around the vagina getting stretched out. Hormone levels. Changes in your hormone levels can affect your vaginal health. For example, estrogen production declines during breastfeeding and after menopause. Loss of estrogen can cause the vaginal lining to thin (atrophy), which not only creates laxity, but can be painful. Birth control and feminine-hygiene products. Vaginal irritation can be caused from using barrier contraceptives, such as condoms, diaphragms and spermicides. Using douches or sprays may cause irritation or make existing irritation worse. Sex. Sexually transmitted infections can result from unprotected sex. An injury to the pelvic region or forceful sex can result in vaginal trauma. Psychological issues. Depression and anxiety can reduce sex drive which can cause pain or discomfort during sex. Trauma, especially past sexual abuse, can also lead to painful sex. Certain health conditions or treatments: Conditions such as endometriosis and pelvic inflammatory disease might cause painful sex. Pelvic surgery scarring and certain cancer treatments also can cause pain during sex. Vaginal yeast infections can result from taking antibiotics. Dr. Litrel talks about changes to your vagina after giving birth. What are the Most Common Vaginal Problems? Conditions that might affect your vaginal health include: Laxity. A vaginal delivery can cause laxity, or looseness of the vagina. This is a regular occurrence after delivering a baby. At least one-third of all women with vaginal laxity feel less vaginal sensation with intercourse. Also, as women age, they often notice more looseness in the vagina since all muscles of the body become more relaxed in general. Dropping estrogen levels in menopause can cause significant vaginal laxity as well. Sexual problems. Pain just before, during or after sex is called dyspareunia. Pain during penetration might be caused by involuntary spasms of the muscles of the vaginal wall (vaginismus). The muscles in the pelvic floor can become tense, causing chronic pain and pain during intercourse. Often vaginal dryness occurs after menopause, which can also cause pain during intercourse. Sexually transmitted infections. Various sexually transmitted infections can affect the vagina, including genital herpes, chlamydia, gonorrhea, genital warts, syphilis and more. Signs might include pain, abnormal vaginal discharge or genital sores. Vaginitis. A change in the normal balance of vaginal yeast and bacteria can cause vaginitis, inflammation of the vagina. Another cause could be an infection or reduced estrogen levels after menopause. Symptoms include vaginal discharge, odor, itching and pain. Common types of vaginitis include bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections and trichomoniasis. Pelvic floor relaxation and prolapse. If the supporting connective tissues that hold the uterus and the vaginal walls in place become weak, the vaginal walls, uterus, bladder, or rectum can prolapse, or fall. This can cause urine leakage, loss of urine control or a bulge in the vagina. Complete pelvic organ prolapse often feels like something is falling out of the vagina. Other conditions. Vaginal cysts can make it difficult to insert a tampon or cause painful sex. Vaginal cancer is a rare possibility, which might first appear as vaginal bleeding after sex or menopause. Other female reproductive cancers that can cause similar symptoms are: cervical, ovarian, endometrial, vulvar, and even more rare, fallopian tube cancer. What are Signs and Symptoms of Vaginal Problems? Consult your physician if you notice: A change in the color, odor or amount of vaginal discharge Vaginal redness or itching Vaginal bleeding between periods, after sex or after menopause A mass or bulge in your vagina Pain during intercourse. What Can I Do to Maintain a Healthy Vagina? You can take steps to maintain optimal vaginal health. For example: Do Kegel exercises. Kegel exercises can help tone your pelvic floor muscles if you have prolapse, urine leakage, or have weakness of the pelvic floor. Be sexually responsible. Use condoms or maintain a mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who’s free of sexually transmitted infections. If you use sex toys, clean them after every use. Get vaccinated. Vaccinations can protect you from HPV, the virus associated with cervical cancer, as well as hepatitis B, a serious liver infection that can spread through sexual contact. Know your medications and side effects. Discuss medication use and possible vaginal side effects with your doctor. Limit alcohol intake and do not smoke. Alcohol abuse can negatively affect sexual function. Nicotine might inhibit sexual arousal. Substance abuse might also cause poor physical and mental health, which can affect sexual function. Get Regular Checkups Poor vaginal health or medical issues can be prevented, regular checkups can help ensure that problems are diagnosed as soon as possible. Don’t allow embarrassment to prevent you from talking to your doctor about any concerns you might have about your vaginal health. What you may perceive as embarrassing is something that your doctor sees regularly, so never be afraid to speak up. schedule an appointment or call our offices today at 770.720.7733.
Local Doctors, National Reputation
Most metro Atlantans are used to long commutes, but can you imagine traveling across the country for a physician visit? It happens at Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, where patients traveled from 27 states for treatment last year due to a growing national reputation for expertise in pelvic reconstruction, vaginal rejuvenation and urinary incontinence. The practice has three physicians who are double board-certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology, as well as the subspecialty Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery (FPMRS), also known as urogynecology. It’s a draw for patients seeking help for complex issues related to Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery. Patients share high enthusiasm for Cherokee Women’s Health- but their reasons may vary, falling into three very different categories. Why Patients Choose Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists 1. Expertise After the birth of her second child, Janie felt that her entire pelvic area was “wrecked.” She described a sensation of “everything falling down,” and that “nothing felt right anymore.” Janie wanted someone with surgical expertise to help restore her body. Although she lives in Tennessee, she contacted Cherokee Women’s Health. “I’m thrilled I found an expert.” – Julia “Dr. Michael Litrel performed my vaginoplasty and he’s simply amazing! I feel absolutely wonderful and have done nothing but brag about him and his staff. I highly recommend your office. I was expecting more pain and downtime, but I feel great! From the time I first got in contact with your office, things fell into place and went so smoothly. I’ve never experienced this kind of excellent service at any other doctor’s office. I was treated with such amazing courtesy and respect. I could not be happier with the care I received.” Julia, a patient from North Carolina, was suffering from a constant urge to go to the bathroom and, like Janie, said it felt like her insides were falling out. She wanted a doctor that was an expert in female pelvic health, and she found Dr. James Haley. She was diagnosed her with a prolapsed bladder, which required surgery. “I was thrilled to pieces because I knew I had found a doctor with the knowledge and expertise I was looking for. I was also happy with his kind and patient demeanor. I recovered much faster than I thought, and I am so thankful I have my life back. It’s worth traveling the distance when you know you’re in good hands.” 2. Relationships Hundreds of online reviews testify that the doctor-patient relationship is very important. In fact, patients say their physician at Cherokee Women’s Health is the first health care provider who has ever listened to them. “Dr. Peahen Gandhi is the only OB/GYN that has ever sat down with me prior to exam and really listened to me. No doctor has ever done that before. Usually, they just talk over me. I have never been to a more caring, competent doctor. “Dr. Gandhi is the best doctor I’ve ever had. I will forever refer friends and family to her.” – Karen W. 3. Relief For women who are not pregnant, gynecologic care often means nothing more than a routine annual exam. But when pain or bleeding interferes with their daily lives, women look to their physician for more – they want relief. When Tiffany was in middle school and began to menstruate, life as she knew it changed. That’s because she was one of the 1-in-10 females who suffer from a combination of PCOS and endometriosis, a condition that often goes undiagnosed. Tiffany’s cycle was always irregular, and she began to experience a great deal of pain, sometimes bleeding three weeks out of the month. When Tiffany was 21, the pain and bleeding were so severe that she had to go to the emergency room. An ultrasound showed a tangerine-sized cyst on one of her ovaries. The emergency room doctor recommended that she follow up with a gynecologist. Tiffany made an appointment at Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, where she was diagnosed with PCOS. During a procedure to remove the large cysts, she was also treated for endometriosis by having painful scar tissue removed. “I experienced relief for the first time in years.” – Tiffany Tiffany began to have regular cycles, her pain lessened, and she had energy again. “I experienced relief for the first time in years,” she said. During one of those appointments, she received the welcome news that — against all odds — she was pregnant! She and her husband were ecstatic. “The whole practice is wonderful. Each provider I have seen has treated me well and has shown me they care. I recommend Cherokee Women’s Health to all of my friends.” While the reasons may vary why patients travel to Cherokee Women’s Health from all over, the common denominator is always this: A Happy Patient! Watch Urogynecology videos below.
Ambre’s C-Section – A Positive Story
Ambre wasn’t expecting to have C-sections with her two pregnancies but she knows without a doubt that they were the right decision for her and the birth of her babies. This is her story. When Ambre and her husband moved to Georgia, they didn’t know anyone. When it came time to find an OB/GYN, Ambre had no one to ask for a recommendation. As a medical professional herself, Ambre knew how important it was to find the right physician. She began an internet search, digging deep, looking at reviews on Facebook and Google, and anything else she could find. Ambre liked all she read about Cherokee Women’s Health and made her choice. 1st Pregnancy When Ambre found out she and her husband were expecting their first baby she made an appointment with an OB/GYN at Cherokee Women’s Health. Unfortunately, she was told the devasting news that she was having a miscarriage. “My doctor was so compassionate and caring and explained everything. I loved the way my husband and I were included in all discussions.” – Ambre A Difficult 2nd Pregnancy Ambre’s next pregnancy had many complications. She had very high blood pressure from the beginning and was so swollen she could barely walk. She was eventually placed on bed rest. Because of her high blood pressure, her doctor made the decision to induce labor. After actively pushing for four hours and due to stress on the baby, Ambre had to have a C-section. On top of that, the epidural didn’t work for her and she had to have general anesthesia. It was a very emotional experience. But thankfully, Ambre delivered a healthy baby boy, whom she and her husband named Rhett. An Easy 3rd Pregnancy, But Then… The third pregnancy for Ambre started much better. No high blood pressure and no complications. However, because Ambre was considered an “older mom” by this point, she and her husband opted to have early genetic testing. The test came back with the likelihood that the baby girl they were expecting may have Downs Syndrome. Ambre and her husband were surprised and obviously concerned. Her doctor called Ambre one night, after hours, to address her concerns. Ambre says, “My doctor was wonderful! He went above and beyond to put my mind at ease. He is the best!” In the end, it turned out that the test was a false positive. Another C-Section Two weeks before her due date, Ambre started having contractions and went into early labor. Ambre had seen all of Cherokee Women’s Health’s doctors during her pregnancies, and felt completely comfortable with each of them and knew that they all delivered at Northside Hospital Cherokee. And she believes her doctor made the right call to deliver her early, and via cesarean section again, as the baby’s head was stuck. “It was my doctor’s experience and knowledge that prevented us from going through a dangerous labor again. Baby Claire arrived safe and healthy.” – Ambre on the care she received Ambre is quick to refer Cherokee Women’s Health to everyone. She loves that all the physicians and advanced practice providers she has met at the practice are so caring and compassionate. If you’d like to make an appointment at either our Woodstock and Canton location, please call 770.720.7733 or simply schedule an appointment online.
