Diane, Author at Cherokee Women's Health

James Haley, MD, FACOG, FPMRS: Becoming a Doctor is a Challenge and a Calling

Dr. Jim Haley has just finished a morning performing surgeries in the O.R., and is headed into a full afternoon schedule of patients. Chatting as the interview begins, he mentions that when the weekend comes, he’ll be participating in his first Obstacle Race – a run in which he will face mud pits, barb wire, and ice baths. “I guess I’ve always been drawn to action,” Dr. Haley smiles, “life and death drama. From the time I was 13 or 14, it seemed to me I was supposed to be a doctor. I figured maybe surgery or E.R. medicine. But when I got to medical school and delivered my first baby, I knew right then I wanted to be an obstetrician. “I don’t remember this, but after that first delivery, my wife Lisa tells the story of me coming home just laughing off and on all night – because it was SO COOL. I’d never experienced anything like that before! “I’m drawn to challenges. There’s a lot of challenges to being an obstetrician – the training, being on call, the long hours, and dealing with such an important part of peoples’ lives. But it seems like the challenges drive me in life – physical challenges, too. “Over the years I’ve been in 7 marathons, 1 ultra marathon, 15 triathlons, and 1 Iron Man. (An Iron Man is a Triathlon in which the participant swims 2.4 miles, runs 26, and bikes 112.) Recently, Dr. Haley also became one of the select number of Georgia OB/GYN’s to be board-certified in the subspecialty of FPMRS, Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery. He says simply, “I like to go after things that are hard to do.” What experiences have shaped you as a doctor? “One great memory about being an OB was getting to deliver my two children. And it made me laugh, too. I’d delivered lots of babies and watched them being taken to the nursery afterward. But I noticed that this delivery was different: they weren’t taking this one away. They were leaving him in the room. And I had to laugh when I realized that was because he was mine. “But something that had a big impact on me was that Lisa and I had two miscarriages – I think this was God’s way of helping me be empathetic about the pain my patients feel when they lose a baby.” Do you have a philosophy about practicing medicine? Dr. Haley mentions his faith directly and without self-consciousness. “I think of being a doctor as my calling. I love the Lord, I love my family, I love my wife Lisa. As a Christian, we are called to serve and help others – this is the calling God has designated for me, and how I can do that.” Click here to learn more about Dr. Haley, and to watch his interview. FUN FACTS about Dr. Haley Top Doctor Dr. Haley was named “Patient’s Pick Top Doctor” for favorite Gynecologist in Cobb County by Atlanta Magazine in 2012. Iron Man Dr. Haley’s done 7 marathons, 1 ultra marathon, 15 triathlons, and 1 Iron Man. (Swim 2.4 miles, run 26 miles, bike 112 miles.) New Orleans Boy Dr. Haley lived in New Orleans for 22 years before becoming a Georgian, with two brothers still there. During Hurricane Katrina, Dr. Haley’s mother, age 91, came to live in Rome, Georgia – and is still there!

How to Manage Pregnancy Cravings

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All women experience cravings, but with the fluctuating hormones of pregnancy, food cravings reach an all time high. A nutritious diet helps the physical and cognitive development of the baby on board, so it should come as no surprise that eating too much junk food can negatively impact your pregnancy. Learn how to curb pregnancy cravings (and know when it’s okay to indulge). What Women Need to Know about Pregnancy Cravings Eating healthy foods boosts the wellbeing of a mom and her baby during pregnancy. Following a nutritious diet improves the child’s brain development, lowers the risk of pregnancy complications and birth defects, and helps keep both mom and baby at a healthy weight. Does that mean expectant mothers can never indulge? Of course not. Recent medical research suggests that it’s alright to indulge, even in items previously thought off limits, like limited amounts of caffeine. However, the idea that pregnancy cravings tell moms their body needs is unsubstantiated. Pregnancy cravings, though harder to ignore than regular cravings, are often nothing more than a hormone-hijacked thought that, “That sounds delicious right now.” How to Curb Pregnancy Cravings What’s a mom to do when the cravings strike? Before reaching for comfort foods, learn how to deal with pregnancy cravings. Know what your cravings mean. While a craving for chocolate may just be a craving for chocolate, cravings for nonfood items like ice, cornstarch, or charcoal may be a sign of pica. Always notify your doctor if you experience unusual (especially nonfood) cravings. Always resist eating raw seafood, meat, or eggs; unpasteurized milk; unpasteurized juice; and raw vegetable sprouts. Avoid drinking herbal teas or alcohol. Eat a balanced diet recommended by your obstetrician or midwife to reduce pregnancy cravings. Eat every few hours to avoid dips in blood sugar. Keep active as recommended by your doctor. When to Indulge Pregnancy isn’t nine months of self-denial. Try these healthy ways to indulge pregnancy cravings. Find the source of the craving. Are you really craving chips, or are you craving crunch? Choose a healthy snack that satisfies your base need. Eat healthy versions of your favorite snacks (like fresh fruit instead of sweet treats). Indulge in small doses. Instead of eating a king sized candy bar, try the fun-sized version. Don’t ignore the power of dark chocolate! Milk chocolate has few nutritional benefits, but dark chocolate is full of antioxidants. If you can’t curb your chocolate craving, trade that Hershey’s bar for something 60% cocoa or higher. Not sure what to eat during your pregnancy? Ask your obstetrician or midwife to create a nutritional meal plan to fit your needs. For more advice on prenatal health, call us at 770.720.7733.

Vaginal Rejuvenation Surgery: Three Common Questions

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by Dr. Michael Litrel, FACOG, FPMRS Our vaginal rejuvenation patients continue to be extremely happy with their results, whether they’ve received their surgery in the hospital or as an in-office procedure. “Dr. 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! I sit at a desk all day and I’m going to work today. No pain meds for 24 hours. I had contacted another doctor’s office in your area prior to contacting you. I received your email response right away and it just felt right! 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 doctor’s office I’ve ever been to. I was treated with such amazing courtesy and respect. I could not be happier with the care I received.” – Testimonial of patient Juana L. With all the discussions surrounding vaginal rejuvenation, many women considering the procedure may still find themselves with questions about it. This is completely normal, as vaginal rejuvenation is surgery, and should be treated as such. Here’s a look at three of the most common questions patients ask about the vaginal rejuvenation procedure. Am I a Good Candidate? Following vaginal births, women lose the strength and elasticity in the vaginal and perinatal area. These post-delivery complications can include urinary incontinence, pelvic or rectal prolapse, or loosened elasticity of the labia (the inner and outer vaginal lips) that may cause discomfort during physical activities. All of the above complications can benefit from the repairing and tightening of the vaginal tissue. Learn more! Download our FREE Vaginal Rejuvenation eBook. How Should I Prepare? If you’ve made the decision that vaginal rejuvenation surgery is something you want to have done, the most important thing you can do for yourself is to do your research. Find a specialist who is trained in Female Pelvic Reconstructive surgery, not just a plastic surgeon who claims they can perform the procedure to make sex more enjoyable. At your pre-surgery consultation, be ready with questions. Ask your surgeon about how long the surgery will last, what types of incisions will be performed, and if your surgery is considered a medically necessary procedure, find out about what insurance will and won’t cover. What Can I Expect After Surgery? The first 24-48 hours, patients can use ice packs to reduce the swelling. Routine everyday activity is permitted, and wearing loose clothing is highly recommended. You will be able to resume showering after the surgery, but use a soft washcloth and be careful not to scrub the incision areas. You will also need to avoid baths, pools, and hot tubs for four weeks post-surgery. Most patients can return to work after about a week, unless the nature of your work involves strenuous activity. For most women, the $10,000 question after having vaginal rejuvenation surgery is, “When can I have intercourse again?” This, of course, is dependent on the procedure and how well you take care of yourself afterwards. Most patients can resume intercourse within 8 weeks depending upon the complexity of their surgery. Want to Learn More About Vaginal Rejuvenation? To schedule a consultation about vaginal rejuvenation surgery, please call our female representative on her private and confidential line at 770.721.6060.

Vaginal Rejuvenation, Vaginal Rejuvenation Education

How VR Helps Women Reclaim Sexual Confidence

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Increased sexual pleasure is one major reason women choose vaginal rejuvenation surgery. After childbirth takes its toll, bedroom activities often become less pleasurable for couples. Vaginal rejuvenation tightens lax vaginal muscles and smooths excess outer skin, giving women and their partners increased friction during intercourse. But the benefits of rejuvenative surgery go beyond merely the physical. Couples report that VR surgery improves the way they relate to each other during intimacy. Improving Confidence for Women after Childbirth During pregnancy and childbirth, a woman’s body goes through countless changes. New moms don’t simply face physical changes after childbirth, they experience emotional ones as well. Nothing can tarnish the amazing experience of motherhood, but in the months postpartum, it’s easy feel more like a mom than a person. Emotional exhaustion, combined with often unexpected changes to the look and feel of their most intimate places, makes many mothers lose sexual confidence. Intimacy becomes a chore instead of an emotional and physical connection with someone they love. Vaginal rejuvenation changes all that. It doesn’t simply improve the physical sensations of intercourse, but also boosts patients’ confidence by visibly smoothing and reshaping the vagina. This renewed self-confidence drives women to be more vocal about their sexual needs, more motivated to fulfill their partner’s desires, and more able to fully enjoy the improved sensations that result from vaginal rejuvenation. Our Vaginal Rejuvenation Experts Can Help Don’t let a dip in confidence derail your sex life. Learn how vaginal rejuvenation can improve physical sensations and emotional self-confidence in the bedroom. Schedule a consultation with one of Cherokee Women’s Health’s experienced, board-certified surgeons, or call us today at 770.720.7733.

Vaginal Rejuvenation, Vaginal Rejuvenation Education

The Transformative Power of Vaginal Rejuvenation

Diane /

Our culture doesn’t encourage women to speak frankly about changes in the most sensitive area of their bodies. Many women feel embarrassment or shame when speaking about the natural changes in the vagina caused by age and childbirth. But vaginal rejuvenation is far from a vanity procedure. It’s a real solution that can alleviate pain, renew pleasure, and boost confidence for women across Atlanta. 3 Reasons to Choose Vaginal Rejuvenation Each woman has her own motives for choosing any cosmetic or reconstructive procedure. When it comes to vaginal rejuvenation, however, many women have similar reasons for choosing surgery. Our Vaginal Rejuvenation Surgeons Can Help To learn more about how vaginal rejuvenation can benefit you or to make an appointment with one of our double board-certified surgeons, call us at 770.720.7733 or schedule an appointment online.

ThermiVa Education, Vaginal Rejuvenation, Vaginal Rejuvenation Education

Missionary Impossible: Where’s the Sensation?

Diane /

Many women express concerns about changes in their bodies, often asking, “Things feel different down there. Could this be why sex doesn’t feel the same?” It’s important to address the full range of women’s health issues, including concerns related to sexual function. Open conversations about intimate topics can be challenging, but addressing them is crucial for overall well-being. Vaginal Laxity Syndrome (VLS) According to an abstract published by the International Continence Society, nearly 48% of women report concerns about vaginal looseness. This condition, medically known as Vaginal Laxity Syndrome (VLS), is common and can significantly impact quality of life. Causes and Symptoms of Vaginal Laxity Syndrome VLS is often the result of childbirth, particularly vaginal births, but it can also occur as women age due to a natural decrease in collagen. Additionally, about 50 to 75% of women experience significant vaginal laxity after menopause as estrogen levels drop, leading to a loss of muscle tone in the vaginal area. Symptoms of VLS may include: Decreased sensation during intercourse Difficulty holding urine Decreased firmness of the vaginal walls (a self-assessment can be done by seeing if you can insert three or more fingers into your vagina without significant resistance). These symptoms can also lead to difficulty achieving orgasm and reduced sexual satisfaction. Many women feel embarrassed or uncomfortable discussing these issues with their partners, but it is important to seek help and understand the available solutions. Treatment Options for Vaginal Laxity Syndrome There are both non-surgical and surgical options for treating VLS. A healthy lifestyle, including maintaining a healthy weight and performing pelvic floor exercises like Kegels, can help improve symptoms. Treating vaginal dryness, especially in postmenopausal women, is another crucial step. For those seeking more advanced treatments, surgical procedures are available to restore the strength and elasticity of the vaginal tissues. Procedures like vaginoplasty, perineoplasty, and labiaplasty can help address VLS and are best performed by specialists with expertise in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery (FPMRS). Research, such as a 2010 study published in The Journal of Sexual Medicine, has shown that combining multiple genital cosmetic surgeries can improve the success rate of treatment. ThermiVa: A Non-Surgical Alternative For women looking for a less invasive option, ThermiVa is an effective treatment for VLS. This procedure uses radiofrequency thermal energy to promote collagen remodeling, which strengthens the vaginal tissues and improves sensitivity. ThermiVa can also help with vaginal dryness and urinary incontinence. The procedure is painless, takes about 20 minutes, and produces immediate results. Knowing that there are multiple treatment options empowers women to make informed decisions about their health. Consulting with a healthcare provider can help tailor the best treatment plan to meet individual needs while minimizing potential side effects or long-term complications. If you’re interested in learning more about VLS treatments or exploring the ThermiVa procedure, reach out to a healthcare provider for guidance and support.

GYN Problems Videos, Infertility Education, OB Videos

Infertility Causes and Treatment

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Dr. Litrel discusses some of the causes of infertility, and how the physicians at Cherokee Women’s Health help treat women longing to conceive. Watch more OB videos below.

Anterior and Posterior Repair Education, Labiaplasty Education, Perineoplasty Education, Urinary Incontinence Treatments Education, Vaginal Rejuvenation, Vaginal Rejuvenation Education

Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery

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Our Approach to Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery (FPMRS) is 3-Fold: 1) Restore Function2) Enhance Appearance3) Protect Anatomy This is the treatment approach which guides our clinical procedural offerings. Gynecologists are experts in vulvovaginal surgery and CWHS is at the forefront of the latest techniques used to help patients achieve their pelvic health goals. Thus, the procedures address these three facets: 1) We Restore Function Function is restored by addressing anterior and posterior compartment defects, like cystoceles and rectoceles, by offering anterior and posterior colporrhaphy, as well as full-length vaginoplasty, allowing improved sexual function as well. See if Vaginoplasty is right for you. Sign up for a FREE consultation. In addition, many patients have had severe obstettic lacerations, like third or fourth degree tears, and we perform revisions of proctoepisiotomies. Stress urinary incontinence is treated using a single-incision sling procedure. 2) We Enhance Appearance Appearance is enhanced by removing excess skin of the labia minora and labia majora through labiaplasty procedures, including a number of different techniques, so that we can achieve each patient’s individual cosmetic goals. In addition, we are experts at perineoplasty also called, perineorrhaphy, which aims to make the perineum appear normal by excising excess skin, loose skin tags, and suturing the underlying muscles of the perineal body closer, to give a more snug feeling in the introitus or vaginal opening. Some women are interested in fully restoring pre-coital appearance and we achieve this with an additional procedure called a hymenoplasty. 3) We Protect Anatomy We protect the anatomy by offering our patients individualized non-surgical treatments like incision-less office based procedures for vaginal laxity and bioidentical hormone replacement therapy via vaginal and transdermal routes. Following surgery, patients are given nutritional support services through micronutrient testing (Spectrocell) and undergo pelvic physical therapy via our women’s allied health professionals. Learn more about pelvic health. Download our FREE Vaginal Rejuvenation eBook. We perform the following list of procedures: *Full-length Vaginoplasty to provide a higher level of tightening*Incision-less office treatment for improving vaginal tone and lubrication*Labiaplasty*Labia Majora reduction*Perineoplasty*Hymenoplasty*Proctoepisiotomy revisions*Anterior and posterior colporrhaphy to treat cystocele and rectoceles (site-specific and augmented repair techniques)*Single-incision midurethral slings*Bioidentical hormone replacement/nutritional support/pelvic physical therapy. Request more information now! NOTE: Double board-certified Dr. Michael Litrel and Dr. James Haley are sub specialty board-certified in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery (FPMRS).

Vaginal Rejuvenation, Vaginal Rejuvenation Education

Eliminate Misconceptions about Vaginal Rejuvenation

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There are many myths surrounding vaginoplasties and labiaplasties. Here, we debunk those myths and give you factual information so you can make the right decision for your body. Common Misconceptions about Vaginal Rejuvenation Women It’s rooted in vanity. Women choose vaginal rejuvenation for a number of reasons, ranging from vaginal functionality to self-esteem. Regardless of each patient’s motives, vaginal rejuvenation is an opportunity for her to revitalize her sex life, eliminate daily discomfort, and boost her confidence. Vanity plays no part. Insurance. Most women pay for vaginal rejuvenation out of pocket, but unique cases may be covered by insurance. If you’re experiencing pain or incontinence, especially after childbirth, contact your insurance provider to determine whether the procedure will be classified as reconstructive. Everyone will have the same experience. Talking to friends who have had vaginal rejuvenation gives patients a good understanding of the procedure and healing process, but vaginal surgery is a highly individualized procedure. Our board-certified physicians tailor each surgery to the specific needs of the patient. As a result, each woman has her own experience. Results remain indefinitely. While it’s true that vaginal rejuvenation is designed to restore the shape and tightness of the vagina long term, some factors may change the shape of the vagina. The most common include childbirth and substantial weight gain. See if Vaginal Rejuvenation is Right for You If you’re interested in vaginal rejuvenation, please call us at 770.721.6060 to schedule a consultation with one of our expert surgeons.

Teen Mom Shares Her Story

Diane /

Hannah with her sons and Aunt Cindy Hannah is a young mother we’re spotlighting this month to help educate teens about the challenges of teen pregnancy. We had a little Q&A session with Hannah in which she shared her experiences as a teen mom. Can you tell us what it was like becoming pregnant as a teen? I was in high school when I became pregnant so that in itself was difficult. I basically skipped my childhood so that was hard, especially when my friends were enjoying a regular teenage life. But everything had changed and nothing was more important than my baby so I knew I had to take it seriously and behave responsibly. How did you handle school? I stayed in school for the first four months of my pregnancy. After that, I took online classes. When I returned to high school about a year later, I was dual enrolled and took classes at Gainesville State as well, where I graduated with honors. From there, I went to college at North Georgia and then transferred to Brenau University, where I entered their nursing program. I also graduated with honors from there and now have my bachelor’s degree in nursing. What motivated you? My son was my biggest motivation. I wanted to give him a better life. I also wanted to prove to myself that I wasn’t going to be a statistic. Getting pregnant in high school meant facing a lot of judgment and criticism. I was told I wouldn’t amount to anything and that I wouldn’t even graduate high school. For me, regardless of my circumstances, my dreams were more important and I didn’t want to give up on them. How did you handle child care? I had an excellent support system. My parents were especially wonderful. They helped watch my son while I was in school or had to study. Without them, I don’t know where I would be. My grandparents and family friends also helped care for my son. Having a strong support system definitely played a huge role in my success. How has your life changed since then? There have been so many changes. I got married last May and gave birth to my second child in March of this year. In regards to my career, I’ll be working as a nurse at the Ronnie Green Heart Center of Northeast Georgia. I worked there as a nurse extern in the cardiac Intensive Care Unit during my last year in college and upon completion, they offered me a position. What would you like pregnant teens to know? I want them to know that their life is not over. That there’s still hope for a bright future. And even though they’ll probably be told they can’t make it, it’s simply not true. Even when the judgment seems unbearable at times, they just have to push through. It’s not easy but they can do it. After all, if I can become a success story, anyone can.

Cancer Screening, Well Woman

Cervical Cancer: Planning, Preparation and Prevention

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Cervical cancer is completely different from many other cancers, as it’s preventable. First, the cervix can be seen directly by your OB/GYN or primary care physician without invasive testing by performing a Pap smear. Pap smears are very effective at evaluating abnormal cells that may develop into cancer. This is why it’s so important to schedule a regular exam with your OB/GYN. (Over 60% of patients with cervical cancer have never had a Pap smear.) Known risk factors for cervical cancer include persistent infection by HPV. In fact, HPV is the most common sexually transmitted disease in the United States. Once a diagnosis is made, a medication, lifestyle change, or surgery will usually fix the problem. If the diagnosis is cancer, especially when diagnosed in the later stages, treatment plans are not so simple. There is no quick easy fix, no simple cure, and no easy way out. Some cancers like ovarian cancer are typically diagnosed in the later stages because there are few early symptoms. Treatment with chemotherapy and surgery can prolong life, but rarely result in a complete cure. Breakthroughs in Medicine Provide Prevention for Cervical Cancer In the past several years, a breakthrough in medicine has provided a way to fight back and prevent cervical cancer. High-risk HPV strains including 16 and 18 have been associated with the majority of cervical cancers. Other HPV strains including 6 and 11 are associated with genital warts or growths on the vulva, cervix or penis. The Guardisil vaccine provides patients a way to actively protect themselves from these four strains of viruses. Additionally, the Cervarix vaccine will protect against the two strains that cause cervical cancer. It is recommended for male and female individuals between the ages of 9 and 26. These vaccinations protect young men and women before there are exposed during sexual activity. Most insurance companies, including Medicaid, will pay for the vaccine. If you don’t have medical insurance, there are still ways to pay for the vaccine. Talk to your healthcare provider about your options. Get Help Today The HPV vaccine offers promise and protection from a known direct cause of cervical cancer. With it, we can fight and prevent a cancer that has taken the lives of too many women. Please don’t hesitate to contact your OB/GYN, pediatrician, primary care physician, or local health department with questions or concerns about these vaccines. There are also plenty of online resources available for parents and caregivers. We have included some helpful resources below: National Cervical Cancer CoalitionWorld Health Organization – HPV and Cervical Cancer FactsThe HPV Connection – The Oral Cancer Foundation To schedule an appointment with one of our board-certified OB/GYNs at either our Canton or Woodstock office, call us today at 770.720.7733 or schedule an appointment online.

Dr. Litrel's Blog

Wonderful Testimonial

Diane /

I received this wonderful handwritten card from my patient Steffanie. She also gives thanks to our great staff. It is humbling when our patients take time out of their busy days to let us know that we made a difference.

Author name: Diane

James Haley, MD, FACOG, FPMRS: Becoming a Doctor is a Challenge and a Calling

How to Manage Pregnancy Cravings

Vaginal Rejuvenation Surgery: Three Common Questions

How VR Helps Women Reclaim Sexual Confidence

The Transformative Power of Vaginal Rejuvenation

Missionary Impossible: Where’s the Sensation?

Infertility Causes and Treatment

Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery

Eliminate Misconceptions about Vaginal Rejuvenation

Teen Mom Shares Her Story

Cervical Cancer: Planning, Preparation and Prevention

Wonderful Testimonial

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