Diane, Author at Cherokee Women's Health

While losing weight can be a challenging feat for both sexes, women have a few additional physiological hurdles from the start that men simply don’t. For women, it may take more of an initial lifestyle change to accomplish weight loss than it would for men. Don’t worry though. All hope is not lost. Staying focused on hitting your first health related goals can be empowering and keep you on the right track to shedding unwanted pounds down the line. You may not come out of the gate dropping pounds left and right like your male counterparts, but in most cases weight loss will even out over time. Physiological Reasons Initial Weight Loss is Harder for Women Initially, it can be discouraging for women who decide to lose weight with male friends, family, or partners. It may seem as if you’re male weight loss partner is losing weight with little or no effort while you’re struggling to drop that first couple pounds. Well, it turns out there’s a reason. Let’s take a look at some of the biological reasons women have a tougher time getting rid of excess weight and looking slimmer at first. Men have a height and weight advantage over women. Performing even simple tasks requires the body to burn more energy the larger the person is. Men typically have a faster metabolism than women due to testosterone levels. Lean muscle tissue can burn more calories than fat even when resting. Women’s fat stores are often spread throughout the body. It’s more difficult to lose weight when fat stores are spread over the entire body rather than held in one place such as the belly like it often is in men. Women have larger fat stores to help during pregnancy. A perfectly fit woman will hold and extra 6-11% more body fat than a perfectly fit man simply due to biology. Post-workout cravings. After a workout women’s ghrelin levels (the hormone that tells us we’re hungry) increase. Meanwhile, our leptin (the hormone that tells us we’re full) drop significantly. This hormonal fluctuation isn’t as prominent in men after exercise. Pushing Through Physiological Obstacles Whether you want to commit to dropping a significant amount of weight, restore your optimal body weight after a pregnancy, or just live a healthier lifestyle overall, there are several things you can do to expedite the process. Incorporate strength training exercises into your workout and benefit from more muscle mass too. Focus on healthier post-workout snacks to tame cravings. Banish negative thoughts and focus on the positive to nix emotional eating. Have a balanced workout that includes plenty of cardio (at least 20 minutes a day). Getting your mind in the right place can be helpful during your weight loss journey as well. One thing you can do immediately is to stop thinking of it as a competition. Celebrate and encourage both parties weight loss achievements equally. Final Thoughts Don’t be discouraged if you don’t lose weight as quickly as the men around you. Remember, weight loss isn’t a race. It’s a slow and steady process to regaining your optimal well-being and taking control of your life.

Painful Sex

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Dr. Michael Litrel of Cherokee Women’s Health explains the most common causes of painful sex and offers possible solutions.

Menopause and Hormone Therapy

Menopause, Part 2: Hormone Replacement Therapy – 7 FAQs

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by James Haley, MD, FACOG, FPMRS Below are the 7 FAQs about Hormone Replacement Therapy I’ve encountered in twenty five years being an OB-GYN specializing in women’s health. The truth is, the real facts about hormone replacement therapy (HRT) are hard to find. They are submerged in an ocean of misinformation surrounding women’s hormones, available hormone types, and ideas about what is “healthy” and “unhealthy” for women as they experience the sometimes confusing, uncomfortable and even painful symptoms of menopause. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can help. Here’s what you need to know, summed up in 7 FAQs: 7 FAQs About Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) What types of HRT are there? HRT is most often spoken of, and divided into, two categories: Traditional Sometimes referred to as “synthetic,” these FDA approved medications have in the past been the ones most commonly used for hormone replacement. A few of these could be classified as more “natural” rather than synthetic, as discussed below. Names brands can be very expensive, generics can be very inexpensive. Bioidentical (sometimes referred to by people as “natural”) These are compounded at special compounding pharmacies. There are some who claim that, because they are more “natural”, they mimic more of what ovaries produce on their own, and the body responds better, with less potential side effects, then with synthetic HRT. Is that true? See note below. Average cost of bioidentical HRT (BHRT) is approximately $30-$45, although it can cost a whole lot more at certain pharmacies. (Your doctor should help you stay away from those.) BHRT is often cheaper, however, then name brand traditional HRT. Dr. Haley discusses bioidentical hormone replacement therapy Are Bioidentical hormones (BHRT) better? I believe there are enough good studies that have now been done to be able to say, “Yes, it would appear BHRT is probably better than traditional HRT.” This has been hard to prove with absolute certainty, and early on some of those involved with BHRT tried to make these claims without any supporting literature. Now there is much supportive literature out there to suggest it probably is the better way to go for hormone replacement. BHRT definitely allows for the greatest ability to create custom therapy best suited for you as an individual. It is very easy, and obviously better, to be able to add/subtract hormones or tweak doses according to individual needs, rather than having just a few doses of certain hormones to choose from in the traditional hormone route. How do I know what hormones, and in what amounts, are right for me? That is where the expertise of your Gynecologist comes in. Based on age, history, symptoms, whether you’ve had a hysterectomy, and other factors, one or more hormones will be suggested. On occasion, hormone levels (blood levels typically being the most accurate) will need to be checked, especially early on or after dose changes are made, but the MOST important factor is – how do you feel? Patient feedback is often a very reliable indication of how we are doing with the hormones chosen and the amounts of each. If I have the following history, does that mean I can’t take hormone therapy? Family history of Breast Cancer Personal history of fibrocystic changes of the breasts Prior breast cysts drained or benign lump removed Smoker NO, your history does NOT rule out hormone therapy. These are not contraindications. Will hormone therapy help me with any of the above problems or symptoms? HRT can certainly help with any of these, but be aware there are other health factors that can be, and often are, creating problems as well. These include underlying thyroid issues, adrenal gland stress or fatigue, food sensitivity/intolerance, gut immunity or imbalance issues, inflammatory issues, or autoimmune disorders. What is the best way to receive HRT? Usually through the skin (such as a roll-on gel), or else under the skin. For most women, oral hormone therapy tends to get broken down in the stomach so that less hormone absorbed, and in a less predictable amount. (On an individual basis, someone may find the oral route works better for them, and that is fine.) How long should I stay on HRT? Indefinitely! We know menopause starts an accelerated aging process, with all the potential day-to-day problems, as well as long term problems, that were described earlier. Knowing that, would it make sense to use HRT for just a short period of time? No, not at all. All the benefits a woman gets from HRT will be lost over time once she quits. So, when you make the decision to start HRT, make it for life (unless your doctor gives you a specific reason you need to stop). One final note, since a woman’s time in menopause and hormone therapy use are very important matters, it is critical that your gynecologist is current on HRT and it is of interest to them. At Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, all of our physicians are all up-to-date on the most recent information on menopause, as well as all health matters. Your quality of life is critical, and I urge you to take care of yourself to enjoy your menopausal years and make them the best you possibly can. Have you read Part One of this series? Here it is: Menopause Part One: 6 Things Every Woman Should Know

Menopause and Hormone Therapy

Menopause, Part 1: Six Menopause Facts Every Woman Should Know

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by James Haley, MD, FACOG, FPMRS Menopause facts can be hard to come by, considering that a third or more of a woman’s life will be spent in menopause. That is a long time. They say that with age, comes wisdom, so it is my goal to empower you to make wise decisions about the quality of your life during that phase of your life. Hormone therapy is an important option to consider, a therapy that is becoming more critical for women as their average lifespan continues to increase. I have been helping care for menopausal women for more than 25 years. Over this time, I have seen misinformation or even completely wrong information affect women and keep them from achieving optimal health through hormone use. To help make sense of this potentially confusing subject, I’ve compiled a list of 6 key menopause facts every woman should know to help you make the best decision possible for you. What Problems Can Menopausal Women Experience? The problems women experience with menopause can be separated into two basic categories. Know that both types can be helped with HRT (Hormone replacement therapy). Day-to-Day Symptoms That Affect Quality of Life Long Term Health Issues That Can Significantly Impact Lifespan All of these issues can potentially be helped by Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). Learn all about it in Part Two!

Fetal Kick Count Instructions

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It’s important for expectant mothers to keep track of their baby’s movements. Not only will it give you reassurance that your baby is healthy, but a lack of movement can be the first sign that something is seriously wrong. In fact, monitoring your baby’s fetal kick count has the potential to save your baby’s life. Monitoring High-Risk Pregnancy with Fetal Kick Counts Dr. Litrel discusses high-risk pregnancy and tracking a baby’s health progress with fetal kick counts. When Should You Start Counting Fetal Movements Counting fetal movements is easy to do, and can be a relaxing time spent bonding with your little one. Some women can feel their baby’s first kicks anywhere from 16-25 weeks. However, the average for first-time mothers is between the 20-22 week range. Your doctor will likely suggest beginning to track your baby’s fetal kick counts starting during the third trimester (week 26-27) onward. Monitoring fetal kick counts are especially important for expectant mothers who have health conditions. If you have diabetes or high blood pressure, for example, your doctor will recommend closely keeping track of your baby’s movements. How to Track and Count Fetal Kicks Tracking your baby’s movements is somewhat easy. Following a few simple steps is an easy way to reassure yourself that your baby is okay. Most babies move at least 10 times within any given 1 hour period. When checking your baby’s fetal kick count, you’ll need the following tools: A comfortable place to sit or lay A journal A timing device Start by sitting or laying on your side. Begin your timer and count each movement that your baby makes. These movements could include anything from: Rolls Kicks Jabs Flutters Once you’ve gotten to 5 of these movements, stop counting and record the length of time it took from the first to the last. More Tips Here are a few additional tips you may want to follow to help you when you are tracking the fetal movement of your little one: Try to count movements at the same time every day. Try evening or after dinnertime. Some babies are more likely to be more active during this time. Write down times in a daily journal for easy tracking. Your doctor may request to see your times during checkups as well. If you choose to lie down while counting, try to lay on your left side. Circulation will be better for the baby. Stop timing after 5 moves. When To Call Your Doctor Babies that do not move at least 5 times within thirty minutes should be checked by your doctor. Movement is an important barometer of your baby’s health. Sudden increase or decrease in baby’s fetal kick count in the third trimester should also be reported to your doctor, especially if you have health concerns that put you at a high-risk pregnancy. If your baby doesn’t move within the half hour, don’t panic. Your baby could simply be sleeping. Instead, get up and move around for a few minutes. Grab a bite to eat or drink. After half hour, if your baby still doesn’t seem to be moving, call your doctor immediately. Letting your doctor know that your baby is not moving enough can save their life. Other Indicators That Require a Call to Your Doctor Rupture of membranes (Water breaking) Contractions every 2-5 minutes (more than 5 per hour) Cramps in the lower abdomen with or without diarrhea Temperature over 100 degrees Vaginal spotting or bleeding Final Thoughts on Fetal Kick Counts Monitoring your little one’s fetal kicks can potentially save your baby’s life. If you’ve got questions or concerns regarding your baby’s movements or would like to schedule an appointment to discuss these techniques with your doctor, call us at 770.720.7333. Or, simply schedule an appointment online.

Well Woman

Safer Must-Have Products for Summer

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Choosing safer sunscreens, bug repellents and hydration products can be a daunting task with aisle after isle of options. Of course, you want your friends and family to enjoy the great outdoors this summer, but worrying about sun exposure, bug bites, and possible mosquito and tick spread diseases can put a damper on the day faster than a black cloud. Many products on the shelves these days are chemical ridden and loaded with synthetic ingredients that can be harmful to your body. Let’s take a look at a few key ingredients to avoid when shopping for summer necessities such as sunscreen, bug repellent, and hydration products. Opt for a few of the safer environmentally-friendly alternatives on our list for a worry-free day of fun in the sun. Sunscreen Sunscreens are designed to protect your family from harmful radiation from the sun’s UV rays. However, not all sunscreens are created equal, so we’ve created this list of what to avoid and what to seek out when keeping your family protected this summer. Ingredients to Avoid in Sunscreen Most sunscreens use the help of synthetic ingredients that are designed to absorb into your skin and block UV rays. However, occasionally these chemicals can lead to adverse reactions ranging from minor skin irritation to tumors. When shopping for sunscreens, try to avoid anything that has the following chemicals. Vitamin A (Retinyl palmitate/ retinol). Vitamin A can be helpful when ingested, however, when applied to the skin, it has been known to produce tumors and lesions sooner than products without. Oxybenzone. You’ll find this ingredient in many sunscreens on the market. This chemical helps other active ingredients penetrate the skin and can disrupt the hormone system. Octinoxate. This chemical can produce free radicals that can damage the skin. Sunscreens with bug repellents should also be avoided. Instead, use separate products and apply bug repellent beforehand. Sprays should be avoided whenever possible. They may seem like a good idea for easy application but they can release harmful-to-breathe chemicals in the air. Family Friendly Ingredients in Sunscreen When sourcing sunscreen for your entire family, there are several things you should take into consideration before you buy. Typically, SPF 15 is recommended for families that plan to spend a good amount of time in the sun. If you or your loved one has especially fair skin, you might want to think about SPF 30 or higher. UVA protection is also important when it comes to sunscreen. Unfortunately, sunscreens don’t label their bottles based on UVA protection. Instead, you’ll have to take a look at the active ingredients list. Look for one or more of the following active ingredients to determine if your sunscreen will give you adequate UVA protection. Zinc oxide 3% Avobenzone Mexoryl SX Ecamsule Keep in mind, choosing the correct sunscreen is only half the battle. Using it correctly is also vital for protecting your skin. Re-apply sunscreen often, especially if you’ve been in the water longer than 20-30 minutes. Bug Repellent Bug repellent has become a summer necessity, especially with all the mosquito and tick diseases floating around. Choosing to protect your family from itchy bug bites may seem like an easy decision, but before you go out and spray down, you should learn about what you’re putting on your skin. Ingredients to Avoid in Bug Repellent Always remember that bug repellents are harmful chemicals and should be used with caution. Spray repellents on clothing rather than directly on the skin when possible. Keep bug sprays and chemicals out of reach of young children. Avoid using outdoor ‘foggers,’ candles, or aerosol sprays that can release chemicals into the air. These chemicals often get the job done, however, they can be harmful to you and your family to breathe in, as well as for the environment. While DEET is an effective bug repellent, anything over 30% is considered excess unless in extreme circumstances. Safe and Effective Ingredients in Bug Repellents Instead of looking for a name brand bug repellent, there are certain active ingredients you should be aware of. Take a look at some of the safe and effective ingredients below and experiment to find your favorite. Picaridin IR3535 DEET (30% or below preferred) Oil of Eucalyptus (Or Synthetic version PMD) Each of the above ingredients has been shown to be effective at keeping bugs at bay while remaining safe for your family. Hydration Products Everyone knows the importance of staying hydrated throughout the hot summer months. Many people don’t realize just how much sun they’re getting or how much water they lose through sweat which can make the risk of dehydration all the more dangerous. However, there are right and wrong ways to beat the heat. Ingredients to Avoid in Hydration Products The first thing many people go to when quenching their thirst on a hot summer day is a sports drink. The common misconception is how healthy sports drinks are. The truth is, they are often loaded with sugars, high fructose corn syrup, and artificial dyes. While electrolytes are great for replenishing water after a long day of sweating and expending energy, the majority of people don’t workout hard enough to need electrolytes replenished. Instead, you wind up consuming an overabundance of sodium. If you’re going to use a sports drink to re-hydrate, be aware of what you and your family are consuming. Read the labels and choose accordingly. Alternatives to Hydration Products The best alternative to sports drinks and sugary sodas is plain water. However, if water doesn’t get you excited, you can supplement yourself in other ways. Fruits and vegetables are an excellent source for hydration for adults and children alike. Try some of the following fruits and veggies that have high water content for a happy, healthy summer. Coconut Water Oranges Mango Celery Cucumber Carrots Final Thoughts Many summer products you’ll find can contain harmful ingredients to either your family or the environment. We hope with the help of this guide you’ll be able to make healthier decisions about

GYN Problems

How to Treat Cramps

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Women have been debating for centuries on the best ways to treat their period cramps. Fortunately, you no longer have to rely on ‘old-wives-tales’ for dealing with pain associated with cramps. Instead, you can make informed decisions based on medical evidence. While every woman’s body responds differently to each of the methods below, you’re certain to find at least one that works for you. Once you do, stick with it and take control over your life again. Dull throbbing pain, sharp pains that take your breath away or even nausea and radiating lower back pain can be resolved by simple changes to your routine. Lifestyle Changes to Treat Period Cramps Making proper lifestyle changes can help lessen the pain associated with menstrual cramps. Adding diet and exercise to your daily routine is one of the best ways to alleviate pain and stress that comes with your monthly cycle. Let’s take a look at some of the best ways to incorporate lifestyle changes into your routine so that you’ll be able to get through your period with reduced cramping. Food for Cramps Some of the best foods to help treat cramps due to PMS are loaded with healthy fats and lots of water. Before and during your period, your uterus begins to contract and prepare to dispel its lining. During this time you’ll experience cramping but there are certain dietary changes you can determine the level of pain you feel. When shopping for foods that will lessen the severity of your menstrual cramps, try some that contain higher levels of the following: Vitamin E Omega-3 Fatty Acids Vitamin B-1 (thiamine) Vitamin B-6 Magnesium Let’s go over a few specific foods that are ideal for eating during PMS and throughout your menstruation that keeps you feeling as good as possible. Foods that are low-fat and high-fiber are going to be your best bet. Whole grains Lentils and beans Fruits Nuts Dark leafy vegetables And of course, don’t forget to load up on lots of water! Remember, avoiding alcohol and tobacco during your period is another great way to reduce hurting from cramps. Comfort foods that contain high levels of salt or fat can also have adverse effects on cramps. Exercises for Cramps Some studies have shown that physical activity can combat hormone-like substances that can cause cramps. Many exercises can also help alleviate muscle tension and reduce inflammation which can lessen the severity of your period cramps. Any exercises that deal specifically with your ‘core’ are ideal for stretching and relieving painful cramps. For example, there are many yoga poses that don’t have to be strenuous to be effective. Physical activity also releases endorphins that make you feel good overall. So, why not? Take a spin class or walk to work during your period. Other Home Remedies for Menstrual Cramps There are several things you can do at home before seeing a doctor to get your menstrual cramps under control and take your life back. Today we’ll go over a few traditional methods, along with a couple alternative ways to reduce pain associated with cramps. Over the counter medicine. Taking anti-inflammatory pills or medication designed to reduce pain such as Ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin), Aspirin (Tylenol), or Naproxen (Aleve) can combat your PMS symptoms. Apply heat. Heat works in several ways to reduce your pain. It relieves muscle tension and relaxes your entire body. Take a long, hot bath, or apply a heating pad/patch to your lower abdomen for optimal results. Many experts agree that heat may be just as effective for treatment of cramps as over the counter medication. Elevate legs. Lay on your back or side with a pillow supporting and elevating your legs from the knee up. Try pads instead of tampons. During the most painful times of your menstrual period, you may want to consider using a pad as opposed to a tampon to prevent additional pressure. Acupuncture or acupressure. Many women swear by these treatments for their period cramps. Always, consult an expert when attempting alternative treatments for cramps such as these. It’s important to remember, there’s no one way to treat cramps for every woman. Find the treatment that works for you and stick to it! When to See a Doctor for Your Cramps While most women won’t need to see a doctor for their cramps, there are several instances that require attention. For example, if your period cramps are so unbearable that they are affecting your daily life, it may be time to speak with your doctor. Generally, lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise or over the counter medicine provide enough relief that you will never need to see your OB/GYN. However, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible if you’re experiencing any of the following issues. Cramps that last longer than your period. Menstrual cramps that take over your life. Cramps that become progressively worse. Home remedies are having no effect on the severity of cramps. Women over the age of 25 who recently started to have severe cramps due to period. Your doctor may find that the cramps you have are related to an underlying disorder. In most cases, they will offer you a prescription drug for pain, or a hormonal birth control to reduce symptoms. However, for severe problems, surgery may even be required to correct the issue. Final Thoughts Experiencing monthly cramps that take over your life isn’t something that you should have to deal with. Use some of the above home remedies to alleviate stress and pain due to cramps and take back your life. If you’re concerned about the severity of your cramps before or during your period, don’t hesitate to give us a call. Our staff is more than happy to answer any questions you may have and schedule an appointment with your OB-GYN.

Is Sex Safe During Pregnancy?

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It’s completely normal to be worried about protecting the health and safety of your developing baby. Many couples, especially first-time parents, worry about how pursuing intimacy in their relationship will affect the little one growing inside mama. Which brings us to the age-old question. Is sex safe during pregnancy? The simple answer is yes, for normal pregnancies sex while your pregnant is fine. However, there are a few things you should be aware of before jumping into the sack. Change in Your Libido While some women crave sex during pregnancy, it’s the last thing on other women’s minds. Pregnancy can affect your body in ways you’d never expect. So, based on your hormonal functions, you may not be in the mood. Some things that can have an effect on your libido early on during pregnancy include: Later in your pregnancy, things such as weight gain, and back pain can dampen your enthusiasm for sexual intercourse. Keep in mind, your partner can be affected by your pregnancy as well. Their desires may be toned down to fatigue, or simply anxious about hurting the baby during intercourse. When is Sex Safe During Pregnancy? For the most part, sex during pregnancy is completely safe for everyone involved. Your developing baby is protected by both the amniotic fluid in your uterus and the strong muscles of the uterus itself. Sexual activity won’t affect the baby in the least. You may be wondering about alternative forms of sex as well. While some alternative sexual activities are completely safe for both you and baby, others might be more detrimental to your health. If you are pregnant and plan to have sex with someone you are not in a monogamous relationship with, using condoms is recommended to protect against possible transmission of STDs. Any sexual position that you feel comfortable is completely safe. However, towards the second trimester, you’ll likely feel more comfortable in positions that are not directly putting pressure on your back. When is Abstinence Recommended? During your final weeks of pregnancy, your doctor may suggest abstaining from sex. Both female orgasms and semen can stimulate contractions. This is due to the release of a chemical called prostaglandins which is said to trigger contractions when you’re close to your due date late in the third trimester. If you have a history of pre-term labor or have any of the following conditions your doctor will likely recommend practicing abstinence during the remainder of your pregnancy. Sex with a partner that has been diagnosed with an STD or STI should be avoided due to possible risk of your or your baby contracting the STD. At the very least, it’s important to use protection as always when any sexual activity with a person that has been diagnosed with any STD. Final Thoughts While usually, sex is safe during pregnancy. However, there are certain conditions that may require abstinence. Experiment with a mixture of positions throughout your pregnancy that offer the most support and comfort during sexual activities. Don’t hesitate to give us a call to schedule an appointment with your doctor. Our caring staff is always available to answer any questions or concerns via phone regarding sexual intercourse during your pregnancy as well.

Well Woman

First Gynecology Appointment for Teens

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Visiting the gynecologist is an important part of the aging process for young women. Your doctor will give you vital information on how to stay as healthy as possible as well as giving you an overall checkup. There are three main reasons that parents should take their young girls to a gynecologist. A gynecology appointment can be nerve-racking for young girls who don’t know exactly what to expect. Being nervous is completely normal. However, once your visit is over, you’ll likely be wondering what all the fuss was about. When Should You Schedule Your First Appointment? Typically, a first appointment is recommended by OB/GYNs for girls between the ages of 13 and 15. This gives the doctor plenty of time to answer questions regarding sexual health, menstruation, and other concerns confidentially. What to Expect At the beginning of your first gynecology exam, your doctor will sit down with you and just talk. It’s important to be open and honest when speaking to your gynecologist so that they can give you the best medical care possible. Unless your OB/GYN feels it is vital, a pelvic exam will not be part of your first gynecology exam. Generally, pelvic exams are recommended starting at the age of 21. They will ask you questions regarding your health. Among others, some items you can expect to be brought up include: If you’re concerned about confidentiality, ask your doctor beforehand. In most cases, everything you disclose can be kept between you and your doctor. Remember, if you feel uncomfortable during any portion of your gynecological visit, you can ask for a nurse or family member to be present as well. What to Talk About During Your Appointment Remember that your appointment gives you a safe place to talk about anything and everything regarding both your physical and emotional state. Use this opportunity to speak confidentially to your GYN for accurate answers. Before going to your appointment, think of a list of questions you’d like to ask. Your GYN has heard it all, so if something is concerning you, don’t let your embarrassment or nervousness get in the way of your wellbeing. Book a GYN Appointment Today Parents and young women should go into appointments with as much knowledge as possible. Your first gynecology appointment doesn’t have to be scary if you know what to expect. Call to schedule an appointment with one of our OB/GYNs today by calling 770.720.7733 or simply schedule an appointment online. Feel free to ask any questions regarding your first visitation beforehand so you can be as prepared as possible.

OB, Preconception Counseling Education

What to Do Before Getting Pregnant

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You’re considering getting pregnant! Mentally, you’re beginning to commit to the idea, so one of the first few questions you might ask yourself is, “What can I do before getting pregnant? How can I be sure my baby will be healthy? Is there anything I can do ahead of time to make sure everything goes right?” While the physical part of creating new life is pretty simple to comprehend, but many women don’t actually consider that there are ways to prepare their bodies for reproduction well ahead of time. Even if you’re not ready to conceive right away, there’s lots you can do before getting pregnant, and most of it is pretty basic. When you leased your very first apartment, you wanted everything to be just right. Before you even moved in, you eagerly imagined how you would decorate it. You carefully selected the best furniture and matching accessories you could afford. You thought of where you would put your bed and bought food for the refrigerator and pantry. Everything was positioned just right for the new home you were to live in. When you get pregnant, your body is going to be your baby’s ’apartment’ for approximately the next 280 days. Your womb (uterus) will be its bedroom, the amniotic sac will be its bed and the umbilical cord will be its fridge and pantry. Why not prepare your body to give your child the best possible home until its first ‘lease’ is up? There are steps you can take to make that happen. Long before the actual union of sperm with egg, there are numerous measures you can take to optimally prepare your body. You can make gradual, positive lifestyle changes in the months preceding pregnancy. 6 Things to Prepare Your Body for Pregnancy: At Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, we are committed to giving you the best possible preconception care available to women today in order to ensure the optimum health of both you and the baby you are planning to have. These are only several of the many things you can do before you decide to get pregnant. Our comprehensive staff includes Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgeons (FPMRS), urologists, nutritionists, OB/GYNs, physical therapists and midwives. Their combined decades of experience and expertise can guide you through the preconception process, pinpointing any problems that may inhibit or be detrimental to your pregnancy. Our team of specialists can correct any physical abnormalities that may be hindering the process as well. Your reproductive health and the wellness of your future baby is our primary concern. No question is too trivial or embarrassing and you will be treated with the utmost respect and confidentiality. To book an appointment, please call us at 770.720.7733 or schedule an appointment online.

GYN Problems

What is Genital Herpes?

Diane /

Genital herpes is an STI that can be contracted by any sexually active person. Herpes is very common throughout the United States. In fact, nearly 1 in 6 people ranging in age from 14-49 have genital herpes. It can be passed from one partner to another through oral, vaginal, or anal sex. You, or your partner, may not even be aware that the herpes strain is being transmitted. Although both men and women are at risk for STI, women are at a much higher risk. This is because the virus is more easily sexually transmitted from men to women than women to men. There are two types of herpes; HSV1 (Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1) and HSV2 (Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2). Each spreads through skin to skin contact, however, only HSV1 known to cause cold sores or fever blisters as well. Herpes is highly contagious and can be transferred to one partner from another through the fluids excreted from a blister or sore. Even if you are not showing signs of an outbreak, herpes can still be passed from partner to partner through the skin. Genital Herpes Symptoms Most people don’t know they have genital herpes. Symptoms can be minor or even non-existent if you have herpes. The most commonly known symptoms or genital herpes include painful blisters or sores around the genitals or anus. The can appear as a single sore or be clustered together. Often, genital herpes goes undetected. Many people mistake HSV2 for other minor skin conditions such as a pimple or ingrown hair. While there are not always clear signs that you may have herpes, there are symptoms associated with genital herpes that you should be aware of besides outbreaks. Take a look at some of these lesser-known signs that you could have herpes. If you or your partner have any of the above symptoms, you should consider making an appointment with your healthcare provider. Diagnosing Genital Herpes Often, your doctor will be able to diagnose you just by looking at the affected area. Once you are suspected of having genital herpes, your doctor will take a sample and test fluid from a sore. Blood tests can also be performed to determine if you have genital herpes and are showing no signs. If you suspect you or your partner have contracted the herpes virus, ask your doctor to test you as soon as possible to prevent further spreading. Treatment for Genital Herpes There is no cure for genital herpes. However, there are ways to manage the virus. If you are diagnosed with genital herpes, your doctor may provide you with daily medication. This medication can help prevent and shorten outbreaks. In the early stages of herpes, you may have up to 4 or 5 outbreaks a year. Generally, you’ll experience more outbreaks early on. Even though herpes is something you will need to deal with your whole life, outbreaks should become less often over time. Prevent Getting Genital Herpes While genital herpes does not usually cause serious health problems, it is still important to take proper safety precautions when having oral, vaginal, or anal intercourse. Herpes can be passed from person to person without even knowing it, which is why it’s especially important to take precautions against possible transmission. So, What Can You Do? Prevent Transmitting Genital Herpes If you or your partner have genital herpes, you should talk to your doctor about preventive measures to ensure you do not infect your partner. Because genital herpes is so contagious, you should avoid touching sores or blisters. Otherwise, you may run the risk of infecting other parts of your body. Always, wash hands thoroughly if you come in contact with a sore. For those who have multiple outbreaks a year, your doctor may prescribe a medication called ‘daily suppressive therapy’ which can lower the risk of your partner getting genital herpes. It’s always important to maintain open communication with your sexual partner(s) about any STIs that you may have and agree on options moving forward. Final Thoughts Knowing your body is the first step in preventing or transmitting genital herpes. If you or your partner notice any symptoms such as unusual sores, you should both schedule an appointment with your doctor. Getting tested regularly along with being open and honest with your healthcare provider is essential to maintaining a healthy sexual lifestyle Don’t hesitate to give us a call at 770.720.7733 with any concerns regarding genital herpes or other STIs. Or, you can schedule an appointment online. We’d be happy to confidentially answer any questions you may have or schedule an appointment with your doctor.

Should Parents Consider Cord Blood Banking?

Diane /

Expectant parents can be overwhelmed with everything that goes into preparing for a new child. It’s important to understand your options ahead of time. Donating cord blood can be easily achieved and potentially help others. What is Cord Blood? Cord blood is simply the left inside the umbilical cord and placenta after your baby is born. Cord blood contains hematopoietic stem cells which are important in treating certain diseases. Unlike most other cells in the body, hematopoietic stem cells have the ability to mature into different types of blood cells within the body. Benefits of Blood Cord Banking There are numerous reasons expectant parents may want to choose to collect and store cord blood. Both bone marrow and cord blood have benefits, namely the potential to contain life-saving hematopoietic stem cells. Cord blood transplants have helped over 30,000 people with the correction of inborn errors such as metabolism, hematopoietic malignancies and genetic disorders both in the blood and immune system. Currently, it is also being studied for regenerative medicine and infectious diseases. Today we’ll take a look at a few reasons cord blood is more advantageous than receiving hematopoietic stem cells than from bone marrow. More matches available. Stem cells from cord blood are more versatile and can be given to a wider range of people than those that come from bone marrow. Can be stored. Unlike bone marrow that needs to be used right away, cord blood can be frozen and store for future use. Helps to strengthen the immune system. Cord blood has been shown to strengthen the immune system for patients going through cancer treatment. Bone marrow has not. Less painful for the donor. Donating cord blood is less risky and less painful than donating bone marrow. Less chance of rejection. Bone marrow has a larger chance of being rejected by the recipient than cord blood. What Should You Consider Before Donating? There are two types of facilities that can collect and store umbilical cord blood; public and private. When considering blood cord banking, talk to your OB/GYN or midwife about the differences between the two so you can make an informed decision. Both public and private blood banks are required to follow the same rigorous screenings and infectious disease testing meeting the standards of the U.S. Food and Drug administration. Here are some of the differences between each to give you an idea of what might be right for you. Public Cord Blood Banks The first public cord blood bank was established in 1991, however, now there are now many spread throughout the US that collect and store cord blood free of charge. Many are funded through government grants, public donations, and compensation for cord units used for transplant. Public blood banks primarily store blood for use for anyone; related or not. However, if you have a family member who has a disease that could potentially be treated with a transplant, some public banks will store that blood for free as a directed donation. Because ethnic minorities are not as well represented in cord blood banks, donating to one can increase the chance of all ethnic groups finding a match. Private Cord Blood Banks Private cord blood banks were not established until 2005 and are widely marketed for ‘biological insurance.’ Private or family banks are funded through processing and annual storage fees. Before you go into labor, you’ll be asked to sign a contract for the collection, processing, and storage. If you plan to store your cord blood for your baby later in life or directed donation for a family member or sibling, you may want to think about a private bank. It should be noted, however, that the scientific evidence is lacking when it comes to cord blood helping the same individual. In fact, stored blood cannot be used to treat the same person in many instances because most conditions already exist in his or her own cells which is why biological insurance is often not recommended. How Does Blood Cord Banking Work? Once you’ve chosen whether you’d like to donate to a public or private blood bank, you’ll need to let your doctor know as soon as possible. Collecting cord blood is not routine obstetric care or medically indicated. Many hospitals have collection kits on-hand but on occasion, it can take up to 6 weeks for the hospital to receive one from the bank if an order needs to be placed. Blood can be collected before or after the placenta is removed. The fresher the blood is the better. Cord blood is collected by puncturing the umbilical vein with a needle and gravity fed to a bag. Even with 40mL of blood needed to ensure there are enough blood cells for transplantation, the process generally takes around 10 minutes. After blood is collected it will be ‘typed’ and tracked for quick delivery the moment someone is in need of it. Keep in mind, there are some circumstances during labor or delivery that can prevent the collection of enough cord blood. Your OB/GYN will not compromise the obstetric or neonatal care to obtain cord blood. Nor should the collection of cord blood alter the routine practice or timing of the umbilical cord clamping. Final Thoughts Talk to your doctor to learn more about understanding your options when it comes to donating cord blood. Blood cord banking is not a routine procedure in obstetric or neonatal care, so it’s imperative that you let your OB/GYN know before you go into labor if you decide to donate. Don’t hesitate to call with any further questions you may have or schedule an appointment regarding blood cord banking. Education is key, and our staff is always happy to help provide knowledgeable advice.

Author name: Diane

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