Author name: Diane

Vaginismus is a sensitive topic that affects many women around the world. This condition involves involuntary muscle contractions around the vaginal opening, making penetration uncomfortable or even painful. It can have a profound impact on physical intimacy, relationships, and overall well-being. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at vaginismus, its causes, symptoms, and most importantly, the effective treatment methods that can bring relief and restore confidence. What Is Vaginismus? Vaginismus is a condition where the muscles around the vaginal entrance contract involuntarily, causing discomfort or pain during attempted penetration. This can include sexual intercourse, using tampons, or even undergoing medical examinations. The severity of vaginismus varies, with some experiencing mild discomfort and others facing more intense pain. The Impact of Vaginismus Living with vaginismus can take a toll on both physical and emotional well-being. The frustration and anxiety it brings can strain relationships, reduce self-esteem, and create an overall negative perception of one’s body. It’s important to acknowledge that this condition is not uncommon and that there are effective ways to manage it. Understanding the Causes Vaginismus can have various underlying causes: Symptoms to Watch For Signs of vaginismus can vary, but common symptoms include: Treatment Methods for Vaginismus Thankfully, there are several effective treatment methods available: FAQs About Vaginismus Q: Can vaginismus be cured completely? A: While complete cure may not be guaranteed, effective management and significant improvement are achievable through various treatments. Q: How long does treatment usually take? A: Treatment duration varies depending on the individual, their underlying causes, and the chosen treatment methods. It can take weeks to months. Q: Is vaginismus a mental disorder? A: No, vaginismus is not classified as a mental disorder. However, psychological factors can contribute to its development. Q: Can I engage in sexual activities while undergoing treatment? A: It’s recommended to communicate openly with your healthcare provider. Some activities may be possible, but it’s important to prioritize your comfort and well-being. Q: Are there support groups for individuals with vaginismus? A: Yes, many online and in-person support groups provide a safe space to share experiences, seek advice, and find comfort in knowing you’re not alone. Q: When should I seek professional help? A: If you’re experiencing discomfort, pain, or difficulty with penetration that affects your quality of life, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional. Contact Our Sexual Health Experts Vaginismus is a challenge, but it’s important to remember that effective treatments exist to improve your quality of life and intimate relationships. With three double board-certified urogynecologists on staff, know that help is available. If you’re experiencing painful sex, call us today at 770.720.7733 to schedule an appointment or simply schedule an appointment online at either our Woodstock or Canton location.

Barb, a 50-year-old woman, often wondered if the type of pain she experienced during sex was normal. In a world where personal struggles are often hidden behind a façade of normalcy, Barb bravely stepped forward to share her story. For years, she battled in silence against a condition that deeply impacted her intimate life: an anatomical anomaly that caused excruciating pain during sex. Barb’s journey is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, the power of seeking support, and the importance of open conversations about sexual health. The Hidden Struggle As a successful professional and a loving wife and mother, Barb’s life appeared enviable from the outside. Yet, a secret burden weighed heavily on her heart—the pain she endured during intimacy. She found herself grappling with emotions of shame, guilt, and inadequacy. Unsure of where to turn, she navigated her pain in silence, convinced that her struggle was hers alone. The Revelation and Path Forward A chance conversation with a close friend led Barb to realize that she wasn’t alone in her experience. Her friend confided in her about a similar issue, sparking a glimmer of hope. Emboldened by this connection, Barb began researching her symptoms, eventually discovering that she suffered from a condition called vaginismus. This condition causes involuntary muscle contractions around the vaginal opening, making penetration extremely painful or even impossible. Seeking Professional Help With her newfound knowledge, Barb decided to take charge of her health and seek professional help. She scheduled an appointment with Dr. Peahen Gandhi, a compassionate OB/GYN and urogynecologist with Cherokee Women’s Health. Dr. Gandhi’s warm demeanor and willingness to listen made Barb feel validated and understood—a stark contrast to the isolation she had felt for years. Understanding and Treatment Dr. Gandhi performed a thorough examination and diagnosed Barb with vaginismus. She explained that the condition could be caused by various factors, including psychological stress, trauma, or even underlying medical conditions. Together, they formulated a personalized treatment plan that encompassed both physical and emotional aspects. The Healing Journey Barb’s treatment journey was multifaceted. It involved a combination of physical therapy to relax and strengthen her pelvic floor muscles, counseling to address the emotional scars left by years of pain, and open communication with her partner. Through this process, Barb learned that sexual health is not just about physicality but is deeply intertwined with emotional well-being. Breaking the Silence As Barb began to see improvements in her condition, she realized the importance of breaking the silence surrounding sexual health issues. She joined support groups and online forums dedicated to sexual health discussions, where she found an incredible community of individuals sharing similar experiences. Together, they shattered the stigma and shame associated with conditions like vaginismus. A New Chapter As Barb continued to work on her healing journey, she found that her relationship with her partner also underwent a positive transformation. Open conversations about their feelings and needs brought them closer than ever before. Intimacy was no longer clouded by fear and pain but was instead a beautiful and fulfilling aspect of their connection. Help is Available for Painful Sex As Barb as shown, there should be absolutely no shame or embarrassment surrounding one’s sexual health. If you experience painful sex, call us today at 770.720.7733 or schedule an appointment online at either our Woodstock or Canton location.

Overactive bladder syndrome (OAB) began to disrupt Nancy’s daily life at age 50. As a dedicated teacher, a loving mother, and a true adventurer, she didn’t expect that her life would soon be overshadowed by this troublesome medical condition. Unraveling the Mystery of Overactive Bladder Overactive bladder (OAB) is a condition characterized by sudden, involuntary contractions of the bladder muscles. The symptoms include urgent and frequent urges to urinate, often accompanied by unfortunate leaks. This had become Nancy’s new reality. Her usual upbeat attitude was dimmed by the constant worry of unpredictable accidents and the constant and immediate need to find a restroom. These symptoms were disrupting her sense of normalcy.  Seeking Expert Help Determined to regain her control and joy, Nancy embarked on a journey to find out what was wrong and to hopefully find a solution. Nancy wasn’t sure if she needed to see a gynecologist or a urologist. She started doing some research and discovered the specialty known as urogynecology, a specialized field of gynecology and obstetrics that deals with female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery. Her research led her to Dr. Michael Litrel, a double board-certified urogynecologist at Cherokee Women’s Health. Renowned for his expertise in women’s health issues, Nancy finally had hope. She wasted no time making an appointment. Diagnosing Nancy With OAB Dr. Litrel listened as Nancy shared her symptoms and history. He explained that he suspected Nancy had OAB. To pinpoint the specifics of Nancy’s condition, he recommended a series of comprehensive tests, including a bladder diary, physical examination, and urodynamic testing. The tests confirmed that Nancy had OAB, so Dr. Litrel outlined treatment options that aligned with her unique needs and preferences. He discussed lifestyle adjustments, including limiting caffeine, alcohol intake, and practicing pelvic floor exercises. Additionally, medication was suggested to help manage the involuntary muscle contractions responsible for Nancy’s symptoms. Reclaiming Her Life With Dr. Litrel’s guidance, Nancy embraced the recommended lifestyle changes and diligently adhered to the prescribed medication regimen. Gradually, a transformation unfolded. The urges began to relent, and Nancy regained control over her life. Long walks, social gatherings, and even road trips no longer carried the burden of anxiety and urgency. Nancy emerged from her journey with an understanding that advocating for her health and seeking expert care were paramount. She hopes by sharing her story that she can inspire others facing similar challenges. We’re Here For You Nancy’s story is a reminder that challenges can be conquered with the right support and determination. If you or someone you know is struggling with similar symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek the right help. Call us at 770.720.7733 or schedule an appointment online at either our Canton or Woodstock location.

Hi, I’m Dr. Gandhi or Cherokee Women’s Health. I believe many women feel ashamed to talk about painful intercourse but I want you to feel comfortable discussing it with your doctor. Watch Dr. Gandhi’s accompanying video. When women come in and describe pain during intercourse, they may not be sure if it’s related to their external genitalia or internal organs. They just know that it hurts, it’s uncomfortable, and it affects their pleasure during intercourse. Is Your Anatomy Causing Painful Intercourse? We see women who experience this pain for various reasons, such as trying to conceive, going through menopause, or after giving birth. It’s essential to understand the anatomy and identify the origin of the pain to determine the appropriate treatment plan. The external genitalia includes the mons pubis, labia majora, labia minora, urethra (opening into the bladder), vagina, and rectum. During a gynecologic exam, I examine these external parts for symmetry, lesions, or trauma. Pain in these areas can result from nerve issues, and thorough examination helps in diagnosis. Conditions That May Play a Role Moving on to the internal organs, it’s not just about the ovaries and uterus. The cervix, fallopian tubes, and other pelvic organs can also be affected by conditions like fibroids, polyps, infections, or endometriosis. We also consider the bladder and bowel as they can be related to pain during intercourse or fertility issues. When you come in for evaluation, we not only look for the location of the pain but also its characteristics, such as sharp, gnawing, or deep pain. After identifying potential causes through physical exams and ultrasounds, we create a personalized treatment plan to address the pain and prevent it from recurring. I Want You to Feel Comfortable Discussing Painful Intercourse Please remember, sexual health is an important aspect of gynecology, and discussing these concerns with your doctor is nothing to be ashamed of. We are here to help and listen to your concerns, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need assistance in achieving optimal health and a healthy intimate life with your partner. Make an Appointment Today Call us today at 770.720.7733 or simply schedule an appointment online at either our Canton or Woodstock location.

Hello, this is Dr. Gandhi with Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, and I would like to discuss polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) with you today. PCOS is a hormonal imbalance characterized by an increase or excess of androgens, particularly male testosterone. Watch Dr. Gandhi’s accompanying video. Symptoms of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Patients with PCOS often experience symptoms such as irregular periods, sometimes with intervals of three or four months without a period, increased facial hair growth, weight gain, pelvic pain, and ovarian cysts detected through ultrasound. Diagnosing PCOS To diagnose PCOS, we conduct a physical exam, discuss the patient’s symptoms, and perform laboratory testing and ultrasound imaging. Treatment options for PCOS include lifestyle changes, such as following a low glycemic diet and engaging in regular exercise to manage insulin levels. Hormonal birth control and anti-androgen medications are also utilized. For some patients with PCOS and infertility, a combination of medical and potentially surgical interventions may be recommended. Help is Available It’s crucial to understand that PCOS is more common than one might think, affecting about one in ten women. Often, adolescents with irregular periods are put on birth control pills without addressing the underlying condition. Therefore, it’s essential to seek evaluation and treatment if experiencing PCOS symptoms. We, as healthcare providers, are here to support you through this condition. Please don’t hesitate to reach out for evaluation and management. We are well-versed in treating patients with PCOS and are dedicated to your well-being. Call us today at 770.720.7733 or simply schedule an appointment online at either our Woodstock or Canton location.