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Infertility

Infertility Infertility Infertility is defined as not being able to get pregnant despite having sexual intercourse without the use of birth control for over one year. The inability to become pregnant can cause extreme emotional pain for many women hoping to conceive. Between ten and fifteen percent of couples in the United States have struggled with infertility, so you are not suffering alone. Infertility can be caused by a number of factors, and both men and women can contribute to infertility. As a woman ages, particularly after the age of 35, her chances of pregnancy go down. If you are over the age of 35, your doctor may recommend bypassing some of the steps younger couples take to increase your chances of becoming pregnant. Read Infertility Articles https://youtu.be/xZMYtH-VryE?list=TLGGxf27-YwHzQAxMzAzMjAyNA Dr. Michael Litrel discusses causes and treatment options for infertility. Treatment Options for Infertility There are many safe and effective treatment options available for infertility, depending on the severity of the issue. These include: Lifestyle changes Medication Intrauterine Insemination Surgery Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Lifestyle Changes If lifestyle changes are identified to help with infertility, sometimes small changes like making healthy eating choices, an increase in exercise, quitting smoking and lowing or removing the use of alcohol can help boost fertility for both men and women. Medication If you have irregular cycles or do not ovulate at all, your OB/GYN may recommend medication to stimulate ovulation and increase your chances of getting pregnant. Your doctor may use the hormone progesterone to treat some ovulation problems, including Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, as well as bleeding irregularities. Another option is ovulation induction, which induces a woman’s ovaries to release an egg. The drug most commonly used for this procedure is clomiphene citrate (commonly referred to as Clomid). Approximately 40% of women are able to conceive with the use of clomiphene citrate within six menstrual cycles. Side effects are mild, and include hot flashes, breast tenderness, nausea and mood swings. Additionally, the possibility of twins increases to 10% in women who use clomiphene citrate. Another medication used for increasing ovulation is called gonadotrophins. Gonadotrophins are prescribed if your body doesn’t produce enough FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) and LH (luteinizing hormone)– the hormones needed for ovulation. This medication is given in a series of injections early in a woman’s menstrual cycle, using blood tests and an ultrasound are used to track the follicles. Once the follicles reach a certain size, an additional medication called HCG may be given to increase ovulation. Surgery For some women, an issue with fertility can be treated with surgery, which can increase the chances of conceiving naturally. Procedures that can assist with natural conception include fallopian tube procedures such as sterilization reversal, laparoscopic surgery for endometriosis, or myomectomy for uterine fibroids. For men, varicocele repair, a procedure to bypass an enlarged vein in the scrotum, and vasectomy reversal are also options for surgical treatment. Intrauterine Insemination Intrauterine insemination occurs when a large amount of healthy sperm are inserted in the uterus at the time of ovulation. It is often used in conjunction with ovulation induction. IUI is commonly used for unexplained infertility. It is also used for couples affected by mild endometriosis, problems with ovulation, mild male factor infertility and infertility related to cervical factors. Assisted Reproductive Surgery Assisted reproductive surgery includes all fertility treatments in which both eggs and sperm are handled. In certain cases, In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) will be used if a woman has any of the following: Damaged or blocked fallopian tubes that are unable to be fixed with surgery Male infertility factors Severe endometriosis Premature ovarian failure Unexplained infertility In Vitro Fertilization occurs when the sperm and egg are combined in a lab, then the embryo is transferred into the uterus. The process is performed in cycles, and it can take more than one cycle to succeed. Schedule a Fertility Treatment Consultation The ability to bear children is a significant experience for many women and coping with infertility can be extremely difficult. If you are concerned about your inability to become pregnant, we invite you to call us at 770.720.7733 to schedule an appointment for a fertility treatment consultation with one of our board-certified OB/GYNs. Or, simply schedule an appointment online. Infertility Education Articles

Pelvic Pain

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Pelvic Pain Pelvic Pain Pain in your pelvis is considered chronic (long-lasting) if you have been suffering from it for at least six months. The type of pain can vary from woman to woman, varying from a mild ache to an intense, steady pain that makes everyday activities and enjoying life difficult. Causes of Chronic Pelvic Pain Chronic pelvic pain can be caused by a variety of conditions. Some of these conditions may not be related to the reproductive organs but to the urinary tract or bowel. Some women have more than one condition that might be the cause of their pain. Conditions that cause chronic pelvic pain include: Endometriosis Adenomyosis Interstitial cystitis Urinary tract infection Pelvic inflammatory disease Pelvic congestion syndrome Irritable bowel syndrome Uterine fibroids Levator syndrome Pelvic support problems Vulvodynia Symptoms Symptoms of pelvic pain also vary from woman to woman. The following symptoms have been noted when addressing pelvic pain concerns: Pain that ranges from mild to severe Pain that ranges from dull to sharp Severe cramping during periods Heavy or irregular vaginal bleeding Pain during sex Pain when you urinate or have a bowel movement Endometriosis is the Most Common Cause of Pelvic Pain The most common cause of pelvic pain is endometriosis. If you found you are experiencing the above symptoms or have similar symptoms, it is a common misconception that all women experience these issues. Pelvic pain can be diagnosed and treated with the help of a highly trained doctor such as board-certified OB/GYN. During Your Appointment Before your appointment, try to be as prepared as possible and gather all medical records to bring with you. During the appointment, your doctor will complete a full pelvic exam. He or she will also ask a series of questions to better understand what symptoms you are experiencing. He or she will ask about menstrual cycle history, including number of days, length of cycle and the regularity of your cycle. Here are some other questions to consider before your appointment: How long have you had pelvic pain? Where exactly is the pain? Can you identify a specific area? What is the nature of the pain? Is it slow and steady or does it come on sharp? How severe is the pain? What makes the pain worse? What makes it improve? Have you had this type of pelvic pain in the past? Treatment Options for Pelvic Pain Once the cause of your pelvic pain is diagnosed, our experts can decide if your particular problem may require medication, lifestyle changes, physical therapy or surgery to correct the problem. Common treatment options include: Exercise Lifestyle modifications Hormone treatment In-office treatments Minimally-invasive surgery Make an Appointment Today If any of the symptoms listed above have you concerned, we invite you to contact our office to make an appointment with one of our board-certified OB/GYNs. Our practice has three board-certified specialists in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery (FPMRS) who are able to provide our patients with an exceptional level of expertise beyond regular OB/GYN care. Call us at 770.720.7733 or Schedule an appointment online today at either our Canton or Woodstock locations.

GYN Problems

Heavy Bleeding in Your 40s: Is It Perimenopause?

Diane /

Is heavy bleeding simply a sign of perimenopause, or could it point to something else? At Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, we’re here to help you sort through the confusion and get answers you can trust. Your 40s can feel like a decade of change. Careers, families, and personal goals often keep women busier than ever, but it’s also a time when your body might start sending new signals, especially from your reproductive system. One of the most common and frustrating symptoms women report in their 40s is heavy menstrual bleeding. What is Perimenopause? Perimenopause is the transitional phase leading up to menopause, when your ovaries gradually produce less estrogen and progesterone. This transition can begin as early as your late 30s, but for many women, symptoms become more noticeable in their 40s. During perimenopause, hormones can fluctuate wildly from month to month, leading to: Irregular periods Skipped cycles Longer or shorter cycles Heavier or lighter flow New or worsening PMS symptoms So yes, heavy bleeding can absolutely be part of perimenopause. But it’s not the only possible cause. When Heavy Bleeding Might Mean Something Else Not all heavy bleeding in your 40s is just hormones. Sometimes, it can signal an underlying condition that needs treatment. Here are other possible causes: Uterine Fibroids: Fibroids are non-cancerous growths in the muscle of the uterus. They’re very common in women in their 40s and can cause: Heavy or prolonged bleeding Pelvic pressure or fullness Frequent urination Pain during sex Polyps: Polyps are small, benign growths on the lining of the uterus or cervix. They may cause: Heavy periods Spotting between periods Bleeding after sex Endometrial Hyperplasia: This is an overgrowth of the uterine lining, sometimes due to excess estrogen without enough progesterone to balance it. It can cause: Heavy or prolonged periods Irregular bleeding Important: In some cases, endometrial hyperplasia can become precancerous and should be evaluated. Bleeding Disorders: Though less common, some women may have an underlying bleeding disorder that wasn’t diagnosed earlier in life, causing heavy periods to worsen with age. Endometrial or Cervical Cancer: Most heavy bleeding has benign causes, but cancer must be ruled out, especially if bleeding: Occurs between periods Happens after sex Occurs after menopause Early detection is key, so don’t ignore unusual bleeding patterns. How Heavy is “Heavy”? It can be hard to know what qualifies as “heavy bleeding.” Signs that your period might be abnormally heavy include: Soaking through a pad or tampon every hour for several hours Needing double protection (pad + tampon) Passing large clots (bigger than a quarter) Bleeding lasting longer than 7 days Fatigue or symptoms of anemia (like weakness, shortness of breath, or dizziness) Tests to Find the Cause If you’re experiencing heavy bleeding, your doctor may recommend: Pelvic exam Ultrasound Blood tests to check hormone levels or anemia Endometrial biopsy (sampling the uterine lining) Hysteroscopy (a small camera inside the uterus) These tests help determine if your heavy bleeding is hormonal or due to another cause needing treatment. Treatment Options for Heavy Bleeding Treatment depends on the cause. Possible options include: Hormonal therapies – Birth control pills, hormonal IUDs, or other medications to regulate bleeding Minimally invasive procedures – Removing fibroids or polyps, or performing endometrial ablation to reduce bleeding Iron supplements – If anemia has developed Surgery – In severe cases, a hysterectomy may be considered When to Give us a Call See your doctor if: You’re soaking pads/tampons hourly You’re passing large clots Periods are lasting longer than 7 days You feel weak, dizzy, or short of breath You have bleeding between periods or after sex Heavy bleeding may be a normal part of perimenopause, but it should never be ignored. Heavy bleeding in your 40s can disrupt your life, but you don’t have to wait it out. At Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, we’re committed to helping women feel their best through every stage of life. If heavy periods are affecting your daily routine, we’re here to find answers and relief. Call us today at 770.720.7733 or simply schedule an appointment online.

GYN Problems Patient Stories

Young Woman With Severe Bleeding: Causes and Care

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

Infertility, OB, Teen GYN Education

The Link Between Eating Disorders and Infertility

Diane /

Eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia can result in several health issues, including the inability to get pregnant. This is true whether you are in the midst of the disorder, or have been in remission for years. In fact, women with a history of anorexia nervosa or bulimia were almost twice as likely to have sought out a doctor to discuss infertility concerns, compared to the general population. Eating disorders can cause poor nutrition, unhealthy weight, and very low levels of body fat. This can disrupt ovulation, reduce the quality of eggs, or even lead to ovarian failure, which is a condition that mimics menopause in women under 40. All these factors can decrease your chances of becoming pregnant, and if you do become pregnant, it can increase the risk of miscarriage or other complications. Types of Eating Disorders Common eating disorders include: Anorexia – A disease where a person severely restricts calories in order to lose weight or maintain abnormally low body weight. Bulimia – A disorder that involves self-induced vomiting to rid their bodies of calories – or the feeling of fullness – often due to eating excessive amounts of food, otherwise known as binge eating. Bulimia can also include use of enemas, laxatives, excessive exercise, or periods of restricted dieting or fasting. Binge Eating – An eating disorder that can lead to obesity and decreased fertility. Overeating and binge eating without attempting to purge afterward can also cause difficulty getting pregnant. What Affects Fertility? Lack of Nutrition – Basic nutritional needs are often not met when a woman has an eating disorder. By forcing themselves to throw up or using laxatives or enemas to empty their bowels quickly, their bodies won’t have the time required to absorb the nutrients from the food they eat. The same is true if a woman is severely restricting food intake. If your body doesn’t get essential nutrients, then egg cells may be of poorer quality. Your body may also have more difficulty synthesizing essential hormones for reproduction. This can lead to decreased fertility. Abnormal Menstruating – If you’re not menstruating normally, this usually means you’re also not ovulating normally. If you’re not ovulating normally, it will be difficult to get pregnant. According to some studies, between 66 and 84 percent of women with anorexia nervosa don’t get their periods, and between 6 and 11 percent have irregular cycles. For women with bulimia nervosa, anywhere between 7 and 40 percent experience amenorrhea and between 36 and 64 percent have irregular periods. Women who had low BMI, low-calorie intake, and engaged in excessive exercise were more likely to have menstrual irregularities. How Eating Disorders Affect Fertility Long-Term Some studies show that about one out of five women who seek treatment for infertility have suffered from an eating disorder. Those who have a history of eating disorders are more likely to have difficulty conceiving, and/or may take a little longer to get pregnant. But the good news is that if you can conquer your eating disorder and put it behind you, you’ll be one step closer to being able to get pregnant and have a healthy pregnancy. You can increase your chances of conceiving and having a healthy pregnancy by eating a nutritious, well-balanced pregnancy diet, taking your prenatal vitamins, and by drinking plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. Our OB/GYNs Can Help It’s important to first schedule an appointment with an OB/GYN to discuss your history with eating disorders, or if you are still suffering from eating issues. He or she can do basic fertility testing and get a baseline on whether things look good, or if there may be potential problems. If there are potential problems, they can provide fertility treatments and procedures to help you conceive and have a healthy pregnancy. Call us today at 770.720.7733 to schedule an appointment at either our Canton or Woodstock location or simply schedule an appointment online. We’re here to help you! Teen GYN Articles

Bleeding Education, Well Woman

Is My Period Normal?

Diane /

What is a ‘normal’ period? When it comes to your period, what is standard for one woman may not be for another. Some women have short, light periods and others have longer, heavy periods. However, a normal, healthy period is defined by a few common criteria. Normal bleeding typically occurs about every 25-31 days, lasts 4-5 days, and a woman loses approximately 2-4 tablespoons of menstrual fluid during each period. The fluid lost can be thin or clumpy and varies in color from dark red to brown or pink. Your period may last from 3-8 days. What If My Period Changes? Often when a woman first starts her period it may last only a few days or be very light. Once your body adjusts to your regular cycle, it’s important to track so you will be aware of significant changes. There are apps to make it easy or you can use a good old-fashioned calendar. Changes in your period could be a sign of a problem and may require a visit to your doctor. A few examples of these changes are: Bleeding for longer than you normally do Unusual or greater pain during your period than before Unpredictable timing of periods from month to month Bleeding between periods, particularly if you are not on any birth control Missing a period altogether, and you are not pregnant. You are having much heavier bleeding than normal. Note: Some health conditions or birth control methods may also affect your period. This should also be discussed with your doctor. What is Considered Heavy Bleeding? Heavy menstrual bleeding or HMB, is defined by certain characteristics, such as: Bleeding that soaks through one or more tampons or pads every hour for several hours in a row Needing to wear more than one pad at a time Bleeding that lasts more than 7 days Needing to change pads or tampons during the night Menstrual flow with blood clots that are as big as a quarter or larger. If you feel your periods are irregular, unpredictable or abnormal, it’s time to talk with your doctor. Your menstrual health is an important part of your overall health and our physicians at Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists are here to help make sure all is well. Call us today at 770.720.7733 or schedule an appointment online.

Hymen Repair Education, Vaginal Rejuvenation Education

Reasons Why Women Choose Hymen Repair

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Hymen repair (hymenoplasty) is sought after for many reasons. They range from physical to cultural. Whatever the reasons, it’s a very private matter and always the woman’s decision. Our double board-certified urogynecologists are experts in female pelvic health and are here to help. What is a Hymen? The hymen is a ring-shaped membrane of human tissue that begins to form in females in utero, and partially or completely covers the vaginal opening. In simple terms, hymen repair, or Hymenoplasty, is the cosmetic restoration of the hymen after rupture. What Causes a Ruptured Hymen? The main cause of the rupture of the hymen is sexual intercourse, however there are other everyday activities that may cause the hymen to tear or rupture. These include strenuous athletics, horseback or bicycle riding, internal gynecological exams, or even tampon insertion. And in some instances, a woman may not be born with one. Why Would a Woman Choose to Have her Hymen Repaired? There are numerous reasons a woman may choose to have her hymen repaired. The reasons can be physical, psychological, and/or cultural. Physical Reasons Psychological Reasons Cultural or Religious Reasons It is important to understand that cultures differ, and social norms accepted by one culture or country may not be deemed acceptable to another. Virginity may be a requirement for marriage in some cultures and hymen repair will cause bleeding upon penetration, thus “proving” that the bride is a virgin. Engaging in premarital sex is not only considered dishonoring to the families, but in certain cultures it is even considered a crime and the consequences range from annulment, divorce, or death. Request more information now! Patients Share Their Hymen Repair Results “Due to the religious stigma of having in intact hymen, I had a hymen repair before my recent marriage. The procedure was a success and my marriage events passed off normally.” “The recovery was not bad at all. I felt better the next day and I was walking around with very little pain. No one could even tell I had just had surgery, which allowed me to keep it private. The outcome and the experience were well worth it.” “Because of a separated hymen, I recently had a repair done. I was nervous about having this done but it ended up being the best decision. I feel like I got my life back.” Why Choose Cherokee Women’s Health for Hymen Repair? Our double board-certified surgeons are both urogynecologists and OB/GYNs, and are beyond question the most qualified experts in female vaginal anatomy. Your vaginal surgery results are only as good as your surgeon’s experience and skills. They are also certified in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery (FPMRS), a highly coveted accreditation which requires years of training while meeting strict requirements set forth by the American Board of Medicine (ABMS). Depending on why you might request hymen repair, this may be a delicate subject to discuss. Rest assured that our doctors are familiar with the many reasons patients ask for this procedure, and fully understand the discomfort and shyness regarding this subject. Your surgery is a private matter—it’s your body. We want to help make you as comfortable and confident with it as possible. To learn more about hymen repair or to schedule a consultation with one of our doctors, please call 770.721.6060.

Ablation Education, GYN Problems Patient Stories

Hysterectomy – Talia’s Story

Diane /

Twenty years is a long time to suffer. Talia can attest to that. It all started in her late 20s when she began experiencing very heavy clotting. The clotting continued for a few years, and then the pain started. Talia had never even had cramps with her period before, so this pain was new. Now, each month as her period approached, Talia would begin to suffer with backaches and pain that would travel down her legs. The pain was so uncomfortable that she would have to miss work each month for one to two days. Heavy Bleeding, Pain and Exhaustion Not only was the pain affecting Talia’s quality of life, but the bleeding was so bad it would cause her to soil her clothes, and even her car seat at times. To make matters worse, she was losing so much blood that there were times she would become extremely light headed and feel very tired. This sometimes happened while she was driving, and she would have to pull over for fear of passing out. Talia even had to plan events and vacations around her cycles. Talia had seen a doctor over the years and had several ultrasounds to look for cysts or fibroid tumors. Nothing had ever been found. She continued to suffer through her heavy periods and pain for ten more years, during which the exhaustion and lightheadness continued, due to the loss of blood. Her hemoglobin was so low at one point that Talia had to visit a hematologist to receive iron infusions. She did this once a week for five weeks. The infusions helped her tremendously. She began to think clearer and feel energized. It made a marked difference, but of course, didn’t do anything to improve the blood loss. Finding Solutions With Dr. Haley After seeing many doctors who offered very little help, Talia began to see Dr. Haley of Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists. He discovered that Talia had endometriosis, which led Dr. Haley to perform an endometrial ablation. Talia says, “Dr. Haley was so sweet and kind. He really knew his stuff and I knew I was with an expert.” Ablation is a procedure that destroys the endometrium, or the lining of your uterus, to reduce menstrual flow. While ablation is a great success for many women, for some it doesn’t help, and unfortunately, it didn’t help Talia. At that point, Dr. Haley discussed the possibility of a hysterectomy with Talia. But being in her mid-thirties and with no children, Talia wasn’t ready to lose that option. One and a half years after the first iron infusions, Talia’s hemoglobin was down again, and she went through another round of iron infusions. At this point, now in her mid-forties, Talia knew it was the right time to have the hysterectomy. There was no doubt now and no fear. Talia was ready. Hysterectomy Offers Relief Dr. Haley performed a partial vaginal hysterectomy, removing the uterus in sections, as it was so large. A normal uterus weighs about 50-60 grams, and Talia’s was 384 grams. Dr. Haley also inserted a bladder sling to tack up her bladder to help prevent it from dropping. Talia only spent one day in the hospital and went home with minimal pain. It’s now been a little over two months since the surgery and she is feeling great. After her hysterectomy, Talia shares, “I know longer have to plan events like vacations around my periods and I am finding my new normal. I feel liberated!” Talia is looking forward to living life free of the pain, disruption, and the burden that she experienced for so long. She is more than happy she made the decision to have the hysterectomy when she did. She is especially glad she chose Dr. Haley as her doctor. Hysterectomy Offers Relief A hysterectomy can be an emotional decision for many women, but the benefits often outweigh the downsides. Finding the right doctor who is an expert in such surgeries is key to a successful outcome. Dr. Haley is an FPMRS surgeon and double board-certified in urogynecology, giving him the unique expertise to address complex female issues. You don’t need to suffer with pain any longer. Call us today for an appointment at either our Woodstock or Canton office at 770.720.7733.

GYN Problems

How to Treat Cramps

Diane /

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

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