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by James Haley, MD, FACOG, FPMRS “Hello, I’m Dr. Jim Haley. If you’re experiencing unexplained weight gain and irregular periods, you may be suffering from an increasingly prevalent condition called polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). It’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms associated with PCOS, as it can significantly impact weight management and fertility. Through this article, I hope to provide valuable insights and emphasize the significance of receiving an accurate diagnosis from a qualified gynecologist. Recognizing Potential Signs and Symptoms When it comes to identifying PCOS, there are several key indicators that deserve attention. One prominent sign is irregular menstrual cycles, particularly when periods are skipped. If you’ve never experienced such irregularities before, PCOS is unlikely to be the cause. Additionally, PCOS often presents with weight issues, such as unexplained weight gain or struggles with weight loss. Excessive hair growth on the face, neck, or chest can also be a noteworthy symptom that suggests the presence of PCOS. Navigating the Diagnostic Process Diagnosing PCOS isn’t a straightforward task. It requires a comprehensive evaluation and careful consideration of the patient’s medical history. As a gynecologist, I frequently encounter cases where PCOS is missed or misdiagnosed, which can lead to frustration and confusion for patients. Therefore, arriving at a definitive diagnosis involves a process of exclusion, ruling out other conditions that may mimic PCOS symptoms. This meticulous approach ensures accurate diagnosis and enables appropriate management of the condition. The Importance of Seeking Professional Evaluation If you find yourself relating to the signs and symptoms mentioned earlier, it is vital to seek professional evaluation from a gynecologist. Booking an appointment will provide an opportunity for a thorough examination and assessment of your symptoms. At my practice, I have come across numerous cases of PCOS, and I understand the unique challenges that women face. Prompt and accurate diagnosis empowers individuals to take control of their health and well-being. Taking the Next Step: Scheduling an Appointment If any of the signs and symptoms I’ve discussed resonate with your experiences, I encourage you to reach out and make an appointment. By doing so, you can embark on a journey towards better understanding your condition. Through a comprehensive evaluation, we can work together to develop an effective management plan tailored to your needs. Remember, early detection and timely intervention are key to addressing PCOS and its associated concerns.” Schedule an Appointment Today By staying informed about PCOS, its signs, symptoms, and diagnostic considerations, you are taking a proactive step towards your well-being. Don’t hesitate to seek professional evaluation and guidance. Together, we can navigate the complexities of PCOS and develop a comprehensive plan to support your health journey. Call us today at 770.720.7733 or simply schedule an appointment online.

Can I Get Pregnant if I Have Endometriosis?

Diane /

Can I get pregnant if I have endometriosis? Many women diagnosed with endometriosis wonder about their chances of getting pregnant. Endometriosis is a condition that affects millions of women worldwide. It occurs when the tissue lining the uterus, known as the endometrium, grows outside of the uterus, typically in the pelvic area. This condition can cause various symptoms, including pelvic pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, and infertility. If you have been diagnosed with endometriosis, you may wonder about your chances of getting pregnant. The impact of endometriosis on fertility can vary from woman to woman. While the condition does make it more challenging to conceive, it does not necessarily mean that pregnancy is impossible. Understanding the relationship between endometriosis and fertility can help you make informed decisions about your reproductive health. How Endometriosis Can Affect Fertility Endometriosis can affect fertility in several ways, including: Distorted pelvic anatomy – The growth of endometrial tissue outside of the uterus can cause adhesions, scar tissue, and structural abnormalities in the pelvic region. These changes may interfere with the normal functioning of the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus, making it difficult for the sperm to reach the egg or for the fertilized egg to implant properly. Hormonal imbalances – Endometriosis is associated with hormonal imbalances, particularly elevated levels of estrogen. Hormones play a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle and preparing the body for pregnancy. Imbalances in hormonal levels can disrupt ovulation and affect the quality of the eggs, making conception more challenging. Inflammation – Endometriosis is characterized by chronic inflammation in the pelvic area. Inflammation can affect the overall health of the reproductive organs and impair fertility. Ovarian reserve – Women with endometriosis may have a reduced ovarian reserve, which refers to the number and quality of eggs remaining in the ovaries. A diminished ovarian reserve can impact the chances of successful fertilization and pregnancy. Fertility Treatment Options If you have endometriosis and are trying to conceive, there are various treatment options available to improve your chances of getting pregnant. Medications – Your doctor may prescribe hormonal medications such as oral contraceptives, gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists, or aromatase inhibitors to manage the symptoms of endometriosis and potentially improve fertility. Surgery – In cases where endometriosis is severe or causing significant pain, surgery may be recommended. Surgical procedures, such as laparoscopy or laparotomy, aim to remove endometrial implants, scar tissue, and adhesions, thereby improving fertility. Assisted reproductive technologies (ART) – If other treatments are not successful, or if there are additional factors affecting fertility, you may consider ART options like in vitro fertilization (IVF). IVF involves stimulating the ovaries to produce multiple eggs, retrieving the eggs, fertilizing them with sperm in a laboratory, and transferring the resulting embryos into the uterus. Seeking Professional Advice If you have endometriosis and are planning to conceive, it is crucial to consult with your OB/GYN. He or she can provide personalized guidance based on the severity of your condition, your age, and other factors that may affect fertility. It is important to remember that every woman’s experience with endometriosis and fertility is unique. While endometriosis can make it more challenging to conceive, many women with this condition do go on to have successful pregnancies. Staying informed, seeking appropriate medical care, and exploring available treatment options can help increase the chances of achieving pregnancy. While endometriosis may pose challenges to fertility, it does not necessarily mean that pregnancy is impossible. With the right medical guidance, treatment options, and support, many women with endometriosis can fulfill their dreams of becoming mothers. It’s essential to stay proactive, advocate for your reproductive health, and work closely with your physician to explore the best possible solutions for your individual circumstances. Remember, each person’s journey is unique, and fertility outcomes can vary. Stay positive, take care of yourself both physically and emotionally, and never hesitate to reach out for support from loved ones or professional counseling if needed. While the path may have its challenges, with determination and the right resources, it is indeed possible to achieve a healthy and successful pregnancy even with endometriosis. Cherokee Women’s Health Can Help If you have, or think you may have endometriosis, our OB/GYNs can help. Schedule an appointment today at 770.720.7733 to meet with one of our experts at either our Canton or Woodstock location. Or, simply schedule an appointment online.

Bleeding Education, GYN Problems

My Periods Were a Nightmare

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“My periods were a nightmare.” That’s a quote from Mia, a 24-year-old woman who faced the challenges of heavy menstrual bleeding. Heavy menstrual bleeding, also known as menorrhagia, can significantly impact a woman’s physical and emotional well-being. Here we will read about the experiences of Mia and explore potential causes and treatment options for this condition. By sharing Mia’s journey, we aim to raise awareness and provide support to those facing similar struggles. Mia’s Heavy Bleeding Story Mia had always been an active and vibrant young woman, but her monthly periods turned into a nightmare when she reached adolescence. Every month, she endured excruciating pain, heavy bleeding, and overwhelming fatigue. Her social life, work, and overall quality of life were greatly affected, which led her to seek medical assistance. Meeting Dr. Lisa McLeod Mia met with Dr. Lisa McLeod of Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists. Dr. McLeod discovered that she had uterine fibroids, which were the underlying cause of her heavy menstrual bleeding. Empowered with this knowledge, Mia discussed the various treatment options with Dr. McLeod. She opted for uterine artery embolization (UAE), a procedure that successfully reduced her bleeding, alleviated her symptoms, and allowed her to reclaim control over her life. Common Causes of Heavy Bleeding Hormonal Imbalance: Fluctuations in hormonal levels, particularly estrogen and progesterone, can disrupt the normal menstrual cycle and lead to heavy bleeding. Uterine Fibroids: These non-cancerous growths in the uterus can cause excessive bleeding during menstruation. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): PCOS, a hormonal disorder, can disrupt ovulation and lead to heavy and irregular periods. Adenomyosis: In this condition, the lining of the uterus grows into the muscular wall, resulting in heavy and painful periods. Endometrial Polyps: Small, benign growths in the lining of the uterus can cause heavy menstrual bleeding. Treatment Options As there are many causes, there are also various treatment options available: Hormonal Birth Control: Oral contraceptive pills, hormonal patches, or intrauterine devices (IUDs) can help regulate hormonal imbalances and reduce heavy bleeding. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, can alleviate menstrual cramps and reduce bleeding. Tranexamic Acid: This medication helps reduce blood loss by promoting blood clotting and is often prescribed to manage heavy menstrual bleeding. Endometrial Ablation: A procedure that removes the lining of the uterus, reducing or eliminating heavy bleeding. It is typically considered for women who no longer wish to have children. Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE): In this minimally invasive procedure, small particles are injected into the arteries supplying the uterus, cutting off blood flow to the fibroids and reducing bleeding. Hysterectomy: A surgical procedure that involves the removal of the uterus, typically considered a last resort when other treatments fail to provide relief. Getting Support Throughout her journey, Mia found solace in support groups, both online and in-person, where she connected with other women facing similar challenges. Sharing experiences, tips, and emotional support played a pivotal role in her healing process. Contact Us Today Do you need help with heavy bleeding and cramping? Our expert OB/GYNs can help. Call us at 770.720.7733 or schedule an appointment online.

Menopause and Hormone Therapy, Well Woman

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy for Menopause – The Best Natural Treatment

Diane /

Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is the most natural treatment for menopausal women. Menopause is a natural biological process and part of life that occurs when a woman’s menstrual cycle stops. However, the symptoms of menopause can be uncomfortable and disruptive to daily life. Hot flashes, night sweats, anxiety, mood changes, fatigue, low sex drive and sleep disturbances are just a few of the common symptoms women may experience during this time. For many women, the symptoms can be unbearable, especially when lack of sleep comes into play. In addition to reducing symptoms, hormone therapy provides health benefits to menopausal women. Hormone therapy helps prevent bone loss, therefore reducing the risk of osteoporosis and bone fractures. Hormone therapy also helps protect against cardiovascular disease by improving cholesterol levels, reducing inflammation, and improving blood vessel function. For years, traditional hormone therapy has been the go-to treatment for menopausal symptoms, but recent studies have shown that bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) may be a safer and more natural alternative. BHRT is a type of hormone replacement therapy that uses hormones identical in molecular structure to those naturally produced in a woman’s body. These hormones are derived from plant sources, such as soy or yams, and are customized to each woman’s individual needs. Because they are identical in structure to the hormones produced by the body, BHRT is considered a more natural and safer option than traditional hormone therapy, which uses synthetic hormones. A Patient’s Story About BHRT At age 45, Michelle began experiencing a lack of energy, hot flashes, anxiety, and mood swings for several months. She was also having trouble sleeping at night which made her life miserable as she started getting migraines. She tried several over-the-counter menopausal treatments that online sources had recommended. Nothing worked for her, and she spent hundreds of dollars without any results. She was hesitant to try traditional hormone therapy, but her symptoms were affecting her quality of life. After doing some research, Michelle learned about bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) and decided to find a gynecologist that could help her. She asked a local Facebook group if anyone could suggest a provider that specialized in bioidentical hormone therapy. Finding Dr. James Haley and the Right Menopausal Treatment Several women recommended Dr. James Haley at Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists in Canton and Woodstock, GA and said he was the “go-to doctor” for bioidentical hormone replacement therapy. Michelle made an appointment with Dr. Haley and on her first visit she discussed her symptoms with him and then had her hormone levels tested. Based on her symptoms and results, Dr. Haley prescribed a customized BHRT regimen for her. “This was hands down the best experience ever with a gynecologist I have ever had. Dr. Haley explained my condition, all the viable options, and why bioidenticals were the best choice for me. He alleviated any concern I had about them being a health risk, and even explained in detail their benefits for my long-term health. On the first visit I was given a prescription for bioidentical hormone cream and was told to come back in a month to make sure I was feeling better, and it was the right dosage.” Michelle shares her first visit with Dr. Haley Within a few weeks of starting BHRT, Michelle noticed a significant improvement in her symptoms. She shares that: “It is unbelievable how much better I feel. I have more energy, no night sweats or hot flashes, and I have even lost weight. I was also afraid this type of treatment would be expensive, but I was so wrong. For me, it is less than $40 a month at a local pharmacy. I am on a specific formula that is right for me: a blend of estrogens, progesterone, and testosterone. What a life-changing difference it has made in my life!” Michelle shares how she feels after three months of being on bioidentical hormones BHRT Can Be Customized for Each Woman Michelle’s experience is not unique. Many women have found relief from their menopausal symptoms with BHRT. In addition to being a more natural and safer alternative to traditional hormone therapy, BHRT can be customized to each woman’s individual needs, making it a cost-effective treatment option. BHRT can provide a personalized and affordable approach to treating menopausal symptoms, contrary to what many women may believe. Once you and your doctor find the correct dosage for you, only routine checkups may be necessary, usually every six months to a year. Menopause can be a challenging time for women, but BHRT offers a safe and natural way to manage the symptoms. Michelle’s experience is just one example of how BHRT can improve quality of life for women experiencing menopause. Cherokee Women’s Health Can Help If you are experiencing symptoms of menopause, it may be worth considering BHRT as a treatment option and consulting with a gynecologist who specializes in BHRT to determine if it is right for you. We can answer your questions! Call us today at 770.720.7733 or simply schedule an appointment online at either our Canton or Woodstock location.

Teen GYN Education

Irregular Periods for Teens

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Irregular periods can be part of the normal changes that can happen as a teen, but what’s considered normal and what’s not normal? A normal menstrual cycle typically occurs about every 25-31 days and lasts about 4-7 days. An irregular cycle can be described as one that occurs outside of this time frame, changes month to month, is much lighter or heavier than normal, or one that skips a few months. However, a young girl’s body may not follow an exact schedule. The average age a girl begins her period is 12 years and 9 months, though some may start as young as 10 or as late as 16. In the first 2 years after a girl starts getting her period, it’s very common to skip periods or to have irregular periods. As a young woman ages though, her cycle will probably settle into a more recognizable pattern. What Causes Irregular Periods? However, there are some conditions they can attribute to an irregular cycle. A few common causes are: How to Know When Your Period is Coming For someone who has an irregular cycle, relying on the calendar is not very helpful. There are often signs your body may give you that your period is coming soon. These may include: How to Prepare for Your Period To alleviate the stress of never really knowing when you can expect your period to start, it’s best to always be prepared. You can do this by making sure you always have pads or tampons available. There is even period underwear available.These garments can be helpful for girls who aren’t sure when their period will start. When to See a Gynecologist There are times when irregular periods can indicate a medical problem. It’s important to see a gynecologist if you experience such symptoms as: The physician may run blood tests to check hormone levels and may also do a pelvic ultrasound to look for any physical problems. There may be other health problems or medicines that can be contributing to the irregular cycles as well. If a condition is discovered the gynecologist will then discuss any necessary action which could include hormone treatment, other medicine or lifestyle changes, among other things. As a young teen or preteen, irregular periods are normal. If a girl is otherwise free of health problems, there’s no cause for concern. Learning to pay attention to your body can help determine if your cycles are normal and when or if medical intervention is needed. Our GYNs are Here For You If you (or your daughter) have any questions or concerns about what’s normal and what’s not, don’t hesitate to see your GYN. Call us today at 770.720.7733 or schedule an appointment online. Teen GYN Articles

GYN Problems, Teen GYN Education

Ovarian Cysts in Teens

Diane /

Functional ovarian cysts are quite normal and are expected each month in adolescent girls and young women. However, non-functional cysts can also occur. These types of cysts can be malignant and cause serious problems, even in young girls. What is an Ovarian Cyst? An ovarian cyst is a pouch filled with fluid or other tissue that can form on one or both ovaries. They are very common in women during their childbearing years, which means they affect teen girls as well. While an ovarian cyst may sound scary, most are not serious and cause no symptoms. Many cysts will go away on their own. The 2 Types of Ovarian Cysts Functional Ovarian Cysts The most common cysts are called functional cysts. Once a young female begins regular periods, ovarian cysts will occur and are caused by normal body processes. Cysts can develop at different stages of the menstrual cycle in response to changing levels of hormones. A functional cyst formation happens when either the egg is not released or the sac (follicle) in which the egg forms does not dissolve after the egg is released. Risk factors for functional cysts may include: Non-Functional Ovarian Cysts The second type of ovarian cysts are call non-functional cysts. Unlike functional cysts, these are not related to the menstrual cycle. Though most non-functional cysts are benign, on rarer occasions some can become malignant, rupture, twist the ovary, (known as ovarian torsion) or grow large enough to cause symptoms. The exact cause of non-functional cysts are unknown. What are the Symptoms of Ovarian Cysts? Most cysts are small, do not cause symptoms and may disappear on their own within two or three menstrual cycles. Some cysts may cause a dull or sharp ache in the abdomen and pain during certain activities. Larger cysts or more serious cysts may cause symptoms including: If a girl develops ovarian torsion, her symptoms will be much more immediate and severe. She may have severe pelvic pain, nausea and vomiting and may even lose consciousness. How are Ovarian Cysts Diagnosed? Because many ovarian cysts cause little to no symptoms, they are often diagnosed by chance during tests for other conditions. If a young girl does have symptoms of an ovarian cyst, her OB/GYN can use multiple tests to make a diagnosis. These may include a pelvic ultrasound, laparoscopy, or blood tests to check her hormone levels. What Treatments are Available? Treatment for an ovarian cyst depends on the cyst’s size and severity. When the cyst is small and causes few or no symptoms, doctors may just monitor it with follow-up appointments and possible further ultrasounds. No intervention may be needed as the cyst may disappear on its own. In some cases, the doctor may prescribe hormonal medicine like birth control to stop more cysts from forming, though this will not get rid of any existing cysts. Larger or problematic cysts may need to be removed. Often, removal can be done with minimally invasive (laparoscopic) surgery by a gynecologist. The extent and type of surgery that is needed depends on several factors, including the size and type of the cyst, the patient’s age and the symptoms, among others. What Can be Done to Prevent Ovarian Cysts? While there is no way to prevent most ovarian cysts, regular pelvic exams help ensure that changes in the ovaries are diagnosed as early as possible. It’s important to stay alert to changes in your monthly cycle. Make a note of unusual menstrual symptoms, especially ones that go on for more than a few cycles. With menstruation starting at the average age of 12 years, 9 months, girls should have their first GYN visit between the ages of 13 and 15, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Not only can a GYN help put a teen’s mind at ease, he or she can also diagnose issues like ovarian cysts early on, preventing potentially serious issues from developing into something worse. Our OB/GYNs Can Help Our board-certified OB/GYNs specialize in female health care — from the adolescent years through the menopausal stage — so you can be sure women of all ages will receive the best gynecological care possible. Call us today at 770.720.7733 or schedule an appointment online at either our Canton or Woodstock locations. Teen GYN Articles

GYN Problems, Infertility, Teen GYN Education

PCOS After Puberty Can Cause Infertility

Diane /

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common causes of infertility in women and can happen at any age after puberty. It can also cause missed or irregular menstrual periods and lead to the development of cysts in the ovaries. PCOS is an imbalance of reproductive hormones and affects between 5-10% of women aged 15-44, which means it afflicts them during their childbearing years, and just after puberty. If a girl has gone through puberty, she can get PCOS. What Are the Symptoms of PCOS? When a woman has PCOS, her egg may not develop as it should or it may not be released during ovulation as it should be. The most common PCOS symptoms are missed, irregular, infrequent, or prolonged periods. Other symptoms include: How Does PCOS Affect Fertility? Some hormones affect your menstrual cycle and are tied to your ability to have a baby, so when hormones are imbalanced, it can result in infertility. The hormones that play a role in PCOS include: Can I Still Get Pregnant with PCOS? Yes! You can still get pregnant. Thankfully, there are several options available to help your chances of getting pregnant if you have PCOS. These include: Our OB/GYNs Can Help If you think you have PCOS, talk to your OB/GYN before you plan to become pregnant, as they can suggest lifestyle changes and treatment options that may help your ability to conceive in the future. If you’re currently trying to become pregnant, your physician can suggest medicines or other treatment options. Call us today at 770.720.7733 or simply schedule an appointment online at either our Canton or Woodstock location. Teen GYN Articles

Teen GYN Education, Well Woman

Why Girls as Young as 13 Should Start Seeing a Gynecologist

Diane /

Several physical and emotional changes happen to a girl during her during her teen years. Not only is her body changing physically, but hormone changes are at work as well. All of these changes can leave her wondering if what’s happening to her is normal. It can be a scary time for young girls so seeing a gynecologist early on is important. And with menstruation starting at the average age of 12 years, 9 months, girls should have their first GYN visit between the ages of 13 and 15, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Not only can a GYN help put a teen’s mind at ease, he or she can also diagnose issues early on, preventing potentially serious issues from developing into something worse. What Happens at a Teen’s First GYN Visit? The first visit will be more of a discussion and letting the teen get comfortable talking with a doctor about issues she may not be used to discussing. It’s important to establish this comfort level as it can set the stage for a lifetime of talking about reproductive and sexual health. There are many topics your gynecologist will want to talk about during the first visit. Topics discussed may include: Pelvic Exams and Pap Smears Are NOT Part of the First VisitGYN visits are often associated with pelvic exams and Pap smears, which can be terrifying for a teen, so it’s important to know that the first visit will not include a pelvic exam unless absolutely necessary — and then, only if a teen consents. And since a Pap smear isn’t recommended for women until age 21, that will not be part of her visit either. Why Seeing a GYN for Even ‘Common’ Symptoms is Important With so many changes happening in a teen’s body, there are numerous gynecological problems she may experience. Some of the issues she has may be seen as common among young women, so they can be easily dismissed, even if they are downright debilitating. Common Issues Include: However, so-called ‘common’ problems can be indicative of something more serious, so these ‘common’ symptoms must be taken seriously, as they can be signs of a much more serious issue. Serious Issues Include: Discussing Her Sexual Activity A teen’s sexual activity will also be discussed during her first GYN visit. While it can be uncomfortable to discuss, this is what GYNs are for and she should not be embarrassed to talk openly and candidly about her experiences and any questions or concerns she may have. Teen pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are very serious problems, so it’s one of the most important topics of a first GYN visit. While the teen pregnancy rate in America has declined in the last few years, it is still one of the highest in the developed world. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are on the rise at an alarming rate. In fact, the highest STI rates in the country are in young people between the ages of 15-24. Many young people aren’t aware that oral sex can result in an STI, and that an STI (or infection) will often progress into an actual disease (STD). So, even if they have not had vaginal sex, they are at a high risk for developing an STI. And since oral sex typically starts at an even earlier age than vaginal sex, it’s important to discuss the ramifications. Many people do not know that infertility or even death can occur as a result of an STD, so it is not to be taken lightly. A gynecologist can discuss the issues and educate a young woman on prevention, which can ultimately affect her entire life. A Gynecologist is a Specialized Doctor for Females A gynecologist is not just a doctor for women’s health, but for female health in general. That’s why it’s important to begin seeing a gynecologist early in life. Annual visits starting in her early teens can not only help put a teen’s mind at ease by getting all her questions answered by a health professional, but she can also be diagnosed early if she does have a serious condition, which may have otherwise been overlooked. As a woman progresses through the different stages of life, her healthcare needs will change, and she will continue to see an OB/GYN throughout her lifetime. By beginning appointments as a teenager, she will not only learn how to maintain her health, but she can begin to build a relationship and get comfortable with an OB/GYN she can trust. Schedule a First GYN Visit Today Our board-certified gynecologists understand the importance of making teens feel at ease during their first visits, so you can be sure your teen will be as comfortable as possible. Schedule an appointment today by calling 770.720.7733 or simply schedule an appointment online. Teen GYN Articles

young woman getting established with an obgyn_508593047

Endometriosis Education, Pap Smears, PCOS Education, Well Woman

The Importance of Getting Established with an OB/GYN in Your Early 20s

Diane /

The best time for a young woman to get established with an OB/GYN is before a health crisis arises, or before you decide to become pregnant. For young women, there are often several changes going on simultaneously that can make that time extra busy or even overwhelming. Life changes, new relationships, college, career choices, etc. make this an exciting and eventful time in a woman’s life. Most women are relatively healthy in their early 20s, and don’t consider the need for an OB/GYN until they desperately need one. Or think they can put it off until later, when they decide to become pregnant. The Importance of Establishing a Relationship With an OB/GYN If a woman can establish that doctor-patient relationship in her 20s with someone she can trust, that physician or medical practice can be a valuable resource to help guide her through all phases of life. “Your early 20s are an important time to establish healthy routines and habits that can last your entire life. Finding an OB/GYN you are comfortable with — and building a relationship where you can talk openly — is so helpful in creating a long-term healthy lifestyle.” Ansley Stone, MD, an OB/GYN at Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists in Woodstock and Canton, GA Why an OB/GYN is the Best Doctor for Women’s Health For many young girls, the transition from pediatrician to primary care physician takes place during their early teens, and often it is the primary care doctor who has initial discussions about hormones or birth control with her. However, during this time, and before she reaches her early 20s, she should see an OB/GYN annually, both to begin developing a relationship and for important gynecological screenings. “In my experience, young women have so many questions about their sexual health, menstrual cycles and hormones, and a trusted OB/GYN can help them understand and take charge of their own bodies. I always invest the time to really listen to my patients and understand their concerns. I want them to feel they can always ask me anything. Nothing is too personal to talk about with me!” Dr. Lisa McLeod, an OB/GYN at Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists OB/GYNs Receive the Most Training for Women’s Healthcare Many people do not realize the extensive training that OB/GYNs undergo for becoming an expert in women’s health, becoming board-certified, and the extra training that is required each year to maintain certification and staying current on the latest women’s health issues. OB/GYNs undergo 4 years of undergraduate school in college for their bachelor’s degree, 4 years of medical school to become a medical doctor, and 4 years of residency in obstetrics and gynecology. Many have further training in a subspecialty or for certification in certain surgical techniques. All physicians undergo comprehensive written and oral testing for board certification, along with standard physician training, and then each year complete additional continuing education hours and testing, which are required to maintain certification. For a woman’s reproductive and hormonal health, the American College of OB/GYN (ACOG) recommends that all women over age 21 see an OB/GYN annually for thorough gynecological management. Pediatricians and general practitioners certainly have their valuable purpose for patients. They are responsible for the general overall health of children, men and women, but are not necessarily specialists in any one area. Why Annual OB/GYN Checkups are Critical for a Woman’s Health Most importantly, an annual visit to the OB/GYN is necessary for critical health screenings. Women in their 20s should have an annual pelvic and breast exam and a Pap smear to check for abnormal cell changes in the cervix. With all types of cancers, the earlier they are detected the better the prognosis. In addition to routine screenings, having open discussions about your general health is vital to uncovering underlying health issues. OB/GYNs often detect other underlying conditions — especially anything hormone related. Following are just a few of the issues managed and treated by OB/GYNs. Common Disorders and Diseases Managed by OB/GYNs: “It’s very easy for young women to overlook breast or cervical cancer and assume it is mostly found in older women. But the truth is that cancer can develop at any age, and early detection is critical. It’s not said to scare anyone – just get regular checkups for your own peace of mind!” – Dr. Lisa McLeod Read About Doctors to Find the Best Fit For You Read the Cherokee Women’s physican profiles to find the best physician for you, see their background information and watch their “Getting to Know You” videos. Schedule an Appointment Today Establishing a relationship with an OB/GYN in your early 20s sets a pattern for overall health for your lifetime. To schedule an appointment and get established with an OB/GYN, call Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists at 770.720.7733 or simply schedule an appointment online.

Search Results for: menstrual cycle

Unexplained Weight Gain and Irregular Periods? It Could Be PCOS

Can I Get Pregnant if I Have Endometriosis?

My Periods Were a Nightmare

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy for Menopause – The Best Natural Treatment

Irregular Periods for Teens

Ovarian Cysts in Teens

PCOS After Puberty Can Cause Infertility

Why Girls as Young as 13 Should Start Seeing a Gynecologist

The Importance of Getting Established with an OB/GYN in Your Early 20s

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