Author name: Diane

Emma, a 26-year-old woman, began having severely heavy periods. Emma had always been a healthy young woman, balancing a full-time job in graphic design with an active social life. Her periods, while never light, had become significantly heavier over the last year. Initially, she assumed it was just a natural change, but as her symptoms grew worse, Emma began to feel more alarmed. Her cycles lasted over a week, with days of intense bleeding that left her feeling exhausted and often unable to leave the house. She started canceling plans with friends, missing days at work, and even experiencing bouts of dizziness from the blood loss. She felt isolated and discouraged, fearing that she was somehow to blame for her body’s sudden change. One day, after nearly fainting in her office bathroom, Emma decided it was time to get help for her severe bleeding. She reached out to Dr. James Haley at Cherokee Women’s Health, a specialist known for his expertise in treating complex gynecological issues. Emma felt immediately reassured during her initial consultation with Dr. Haley. He was warm, understanding, and took the time to listen as she described her symptoms. He didn’t dismiss her concerns, as she feared he might, but instead showed empathy, validating the difficult experience she had been enduring. Identifying the Cause Dr. Haley began by explaining that heavy menstrual bleeding, known medically as menorrhagia, is actually a common problem that affects many women. He reassured her that it was not something she had done to cause it, and that with the right treatment, she could regain control of her life. Emma felt relief at this acknowledgment. Dr. Haley conducted a thorough review of her medical history, including her cycle patterns, diet, lifestyle, and overall health. He also ordered a series of tests, including bloodwork to check for anemia, hormone levels, and an ultrasound to assess any structural issues within her uterus. The results came back indicating that Emma was indeed anemic, which explained her frequent fatigue and dizziness. The ultrasound revealed that Emma had multiple fibroids—non-cancerous growths in the uterus that can cause heavier periods. Dr. Haley explained that these fibroids were likely contributing to her severe bleeding and discussed treatment options with her, aiming to address both her symptoms and their root cause. Exploring Treatment Options Dr. Haley emphasized a multifaceted approach to treating Emma’s heavy bleeding. He presented her with several options, each tailored to her unique needs, and encouraged her to ask questions and weigh the pros and cons. Emma appreciated his patience and thoroughness, as she’d always felt overwhelmed by medical jargon in the past. He explained the following options in detail: Medication Management: To address the anemia and mitigate the immediate impact of heavy bleeding, Dr. Haley recommended iron supplements to help rebuild Emma’s iron levels. Additionally, he prescribed a hormone-regulating birth control pill. By controlling hormone levels, this treatment aimed to reduce both the volume and duration of her periods. Though it wouldn’t remove the fibroids, it could alleviate some symptoms and allow her body a chance to regain strength. Emma agreed to try this option as a temporary measure to build up her iron levels and improve her energy. Within the first month, she noticed a slight decrease in the intensity of her bleeding and felt less fatigued, which gave her a sense of hope. Minimally Invasive Procedures: Dr. Haley explained that while medication could help manage her symptoms, it wouldn’t eliminate the fibroids themselves. He recommended considering a minimally invasive procedure known as uterine fibroid embolization (UFE). This procedure involves blocking the blood flow to the fibroids, causing them to shrink. The benefits included: a relatively quick recovery time, preservation of the uterus, and significant reduction in heavy bleeding. Another option he suggested was a hysteroscopic myomectomy, a minimally invasive procedure to surgically remove fibroids within the uterine cavity. With this approach, Emma could keep her uterus intact, and the recovery time would be shorter than more invasive surgeries. The potential risks and benefits of each option were carefully discussed, ensuring Emma understood each procedure’s impact on her future fertility. Lifestyle Adjustments: Alongside these medical treatments, Dr. Haley emphasized the importance of lifestyle changes that could help support Emma’s overall health. He recommended incorporating iron-rich foods into her diet, such as lean meats, leafy greens, and fortified cereals, to naturally boost her iron levels. He also encouraged regular light exercise, like walking or yoga, which could help with both stress and energy levels. Emma felt reassured to have concrete steps she could take outside the clinic, giving her a sense of control over her health. Endometrial Ablation: Endometrial ablation was another option. This procedure involves removing the lining of the uterus to reduce or stop menstrual bleeding. While ablation could alleviate heavy bleeding, Dr. Haley was careful to mention that it’s typically recommended for women who don’t plan on having children in the future. Since Emma was still undecided about her future family plans, she decided to keep this as a possible last-resort option. Making a Decision After reviewing her options, Emma felt she was better equipped to make a decision. After discussing it with her family and doing some additional research, Emma decided on the uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) procedure. She felt it offered the best chance of reducing her bleeding without compromising her future fertility options. Severe Bleeding Procedure and Recovery Emma scheduled the UFE procedure for the following month. On the day of the procedure, she felt both nervous and optimistic, grateful for the support and expertise of Dr. Haley and the Cherokee Women’s Health staff. The procedure went smoothly, and after a short recovery period, Emma was able to go home to complete her recovery. The first few days post-procedure were challenging, with cramping and mild discomfort, which she had been prepared for. However, as the weeks passed, Emma began to feel stronger. By the time her next cycle arrived, she was thrilled to notice a significant difference. Her bleeding was

A declining libido affected Meg, a 46-year-old woman, in more ways that she could have imagined. Here’s her story about seeking treatment. In her 40s, Meg found herself navigating a new and unexpected phase of life. She had always been an active, energetic person, juggling her career as a marketing executive with her responsibilities as a mother of two teenagers. For most of her adult life, Meg had enjoyed a fulfilling relationship with her husband. However, over the past year, she noticed a significant decline in her sexual desire. At first, she brushed it off, attributing it to the stress of work and family. But as months went by, her libido continued to plummet, leaving her feeling disconnected from her husband and increasingly frustrated. One evening, while having dinner with her close friend, Meg confided in her about the issue. “I just don’t feel like myself,” Meg admitted. “I love my husband, but I have no interest in being intimate. It’s like my body just doesn’t respond anymore.” Her friend, who had experienced something similar, urged her to see a doctor, explaining that low libido was not uncommon in women entering midlife, and there were ways to address it. Encouraged, Meg scheduled an appointment with her gynecologist, Dr. James Haley, who listened to her concerns carefully. Dr. Haley explained that declining libido in women around Meg’s age can have multiple causes, including hormonal changes, stress, fatigue, or even psychological factors. In Meg’s case, Dr. Haley suspected that perimenopause—a transitional phase leading up to menopause—was playing a significant role. Understanding the Causes of Declining Libido Dr. Haley took the time to explain how fluctuating levels of estrogen and testosterone could affect sexual desire. Estrogen, which begins to decrease as women approach menopause, is crucial for maintaining vaginal health, blood flow, and lubrication—factors that contribute to sexual arousal. Testosterone, although typically associated with men, also plays an essential role in women’s libido. As levels of both hormones dip, it’s common for women to experience a decrease in sexual interest. Additionally, Dr. Haley discussed the impact of other factors, such as stress and sleep deprivation, which can further dampen libido. Meg realized that the pressures of work and parenting had been weighing heavily on her, contributing to her overall sense of fatigue and disinterest in intimacy. Exploring Treatment Options Dr. Haley assured Meg that there were several treatment options available to help manage her symptoms. He suggested a multifaceted approach, which would involve addressing both the physical and emotional components of Meg declining libido. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Since hormonal changes were likely a significant factor, Dr. Haley recommended considering HRT. This therapy involves supplementing estrogen and sometimes testosterone to help restore hormonal balance. While there are potential risks associated with HRT, including a slight increase in the risk of breast cancer and cardiovascular issues, Dr. Haley explained that for many women, the benefits in terms of improved libido, mood, and energy levels outweighed the risks. After reviewing the pros and cons, Meg decided to start with a low-dose estrogen patch, which Dr. Haley would closely monitor. Vaginal Estrogen: In addition to systemic HRT, Dr. Haley prescribed a vaginal estrogen cream to address some of the physical discomfort Meg had been experiencing during intercourse, such as dryness and irritation. This localized treatment would help improve vaginal health and make intimacy more comfortable. Lifestyle Changes: Dr. Haley also emphasized the importance of lifestyle modifications. He encouraged Meg to find ways to reduce stress, such as incorporating mindfulness practices or regular exercise into her routine. Exercise, in particular, has been shown to boost energy levels, improve mood, and increase sexual desire by enhancing blood flow and releasing endorphins. A Gradual Improvement Over the next few months, Meg began to notice a gradual improvement. The hormone replacement therapy helped stabilize her mood and restored some of her lost energy. The vaginal estrogen made intercourse more comfortable, and Meg no longer dreaded the idea of intimacy. By incorporating mindfulness techniques and regular exercise, she found herself feeling more relaxed and in tune with her body. While it wasn’t an overnight transformation, Meg was relieved to see that there were solutions available to help her regain her libido. Through a combination of medical treatment, lifestyle changes, and emotional support, she was able to rediscover a sense of balance in her life and reconnect with her husband. Meg’s journey is a reminder that declining libido is a common experience for women entering midlife, but it doesn’t have to be a permanent one. With the right support and treatment, many women can restore their sexual health and enjoy fulfilling relationships well into their later years.

At 32, Sarah began experiencing UTI-like symptoms. However, she soon discovered that it was a chronic condition called interstitial cystitis. She shares her story of this chronic condition and the treatment plans that finally gave her some relief. Sarah had always considered herself a healthy woman. She led an active lifestyle, balancing her career as a graphic designer with her love for hiking, yoga, and traveling. However, about a year ago, she began experiencing frequent and urgent trips to the bathroom, often accompanied by a burning sensation and lower abdominal pain. At first, she thought it was just a urinary tract infection (UTI), something she had dealt with a few times before. But this time, things were different. After several courses of antibiotics failed to alleviate her symptoms, Sarah started to worry. Chronic Pain and Frequent Bathroom Breaks Sarah’s days began to revolve around bathroom breaks. She found herself constantly scouting out the nearest restroom whenever she went out, fearful that she wouldn’t be able to hold her urine for long. The urgency and frequency of urination were unbearable, sometimes waking her up several times during the night. She felt isolated and embarrassed, unable to enjoy social outings or maintain her previous level of activity. Over time, the persistent discomfort grew into a dull, chronic pain in her pelvic area. After months of uncertainty, Sarah made an appointment with Dr. James Haley of Cherokee Women’s Health. As a double board-certified urogynecologist, he suspected she had interstitial cystitis (IC), a chronic condition characterized by bladder pain and pressure without an apparent infection. Initially, she was relieved to finally have a potential explanation for her symptoms, but that relief quickly faded when she learned there was no cure for IC—only treatments to manage the condition. The Diagnosis and Emotional Impact The diagnosis was a turning point for Sarah. She was both frustrated and anxious about the future. How would she cope with a lifelong condition that had no clear cause or cure? What made it worse was the unpredictability of her symptoms. Some days, Sarah felt relatively normal, while on others, the pain and urgency were so overwhelming that she couldn’t concentrate at work or even leave the house. She had to cancel hiking trips and social gatherings, as she couldn’t predict when her symptoms would flare up. Over time, Sarah began experiencing depression and anxiety. The constant pain, fear of bladder urgency, and lifestyle changes weighed heavily on her mental health. She felt like her body had betrayed her, and that led to feelings of isolation. Friends and family, while supportive, couldn’t fully understand what she was going through. At times, Sarah wondered if her life would ever be the same again. Seeking Treatment Sarah’s treatment journey was one of trial and error. Dr. Haley started her on a regimen that included dietary changes, avoiding common bladder irritants like caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods. Initially, she resisted these changes, not wanting to give up her morning coffee or her favorite meals. But after experiencing multiple painful flare-ups, Sarah reluctantly committed to the IC diet, finding that certain foods indeed triggered her symptoms. She also began taking medications like antihistamines and pain relievers to manage her symptoms, but the results were inconsistent. Bladder instillations, where medications are inserted directly into the bladder, provided some temporary relief, but the invasive nature of the procedure made her uncomfortable. Despite these efforts, Sarah still felt like she wasn’t making the progress she had hoped for. Dr. Haley also referred her to a pelvic floor physical therapist, who taught Sarah exercises to help relax the muscles around her bladder. At first, she was skeptical—how could physical therapy help with her bladder pain? However, over time, she noticed a subtle improvement. The therapy helped reduce some of the pelvic tension that had contributed to her discomfort, though it wasn’t a cure. Learning to Cope After months of exploring different treatments, Sarah realized that managing IC would require a holistic approach. She worked closely with her healthcare team to develop a personalized management plan. Along with medication and therapy, Sarah incorporated stress-relieving practices like mindfulness and meditation into her routine. She found that managing her stress played a significant role in reducing the frequency and intensity of her flare-ups. Though the journey wasn’t easy, Sarah slowly began to reclaim her life. She learned to listen to her body and accept that some days would be better than others. While she wasn’t able to participate in every social event or activity like she once did, she found new ways to stay active, like low-impact yoga and swimming, which were gentler on her bladder. Living with interstitial cystitis is an ongoing challenge for Sarah, but she now approaches it with resilience and patience. She’s found a support group online, where she connects with others who understand what it’s like to live with a chronic, invisible illness. Her journey with IC has taught her to appreciate the small victories and to be kinder to herself, recognizing that managing her health is a marathon, not a sprint. While IC will always be a part of her life, it no longer defines her.

Vaginal dryness was the furthest thing from Maria’s mind. Yet, as she neared her late 40s, Maria began to encounter an unsettling health issue that gradually eroded her quality of life. The Onset of Symptoms Maria initially dismissed the symptoms of vaginal dryness as a minor irritation. The discomfort started subtly, perhaps triggered by a change in detergent or an unusually stressful period at work. However, the issue quickly intensified. Simple activities such as walking or sitting for long periods became increasingly uncomfortable, and she was experiencing painful sex with her partner. The once joyful moments of intimacy and connection became a source of distress, leading Maria to withdraw from both social and personal activities she once cherished. Seeking Professional Help After months of enduring discomfort and growing anxiety, Maria decided it was time to consult a gynecologist. She was referred to Dr. Lisa McLeod of Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, an OB/GYN known for her compassionate and effective approach to women’s health issues. Maria’s appointment was a blend of relief and trepidation. Discussing such a personal issue was daunting, but Dr. McLeod’s empathetic and reassuring manner quickly eased her concerns. Diagnosis and Understanding Dr. McLeod diagnosed Maria with vaginal atrophy, a common condition associated with menopause characterized by the thinning and dryness of vaginal tissues. She explained that this condition results from decreased estrogen levels, leading to the symptoms Maria was experiencing. Dr. McLeod’s explained that Maria’s condition was both treatable and manageable. Treatment Options: A Path to Relief Dr. McLeod proposed a multifaceted treatment plan to address Maria’s symptoms: Local Estrogen Therapy: Applying directly to the vaginal area, estrogen cream is a localized treatment aimed to restore moisture and elasticity to the vaginal tissues without the systemic effects of oral estrogen. Lubricants: To further alleviate discomfort during intercourse, Dr. McLeod suggested using water-based lubricants. This simple addition could significantly enhance Maria’s comfort. Pelvic Floor Exercises: Kegel exercises were also recommended.  These exercises help strengthen the pelvic muscles, potentially improving muscle tone and reducing discomfort. Maria left her appointment with a renewed sense of hope and a clear treatment plan. She diligently followed the prescribed regimen, applying the estrogen cream as directed, using lubricants during intimacy, and performing pelvic floor exercises regularly. The commitment to her treatment began to yield positive results. Positive Outcomes and Renewed Confidence Over the following weeks, Maria experienced substantial relief from her symptoms, and Maria’s intimate relationship with her partner improved, as the renewed comfort allowed for a deeper connection and intimacy. Maria’s confidence and mood also saw significant improvement. The successful management of her symptoms empowered her, enabling her to reclaim her vitality and actively engage in her social and personal activities once more. Maria continued to attend follow-up appointments with Dr. McLeod, who monitored her progress and made necessary adjustments to her treatment plan. The supportive and collaborative approach between Maria and her OB/GYN played a crucial role in her successful journey to recovery. We Can Help You Through the expertise and compassionate care of her OB/GYN, Maria was able to navigate the challenges of vaginal dryness and emerge with renewed vitality and well-being. Her experience underscores the importance of seeking professional help and embracing a comprehensive treatment approach to overcome health challenges and restore one’s quality of life. If you’re experiencing vaginal dryness, we can help. Call us today at 770.720.7733 or simply schedule an appointment online.