woodstock ob gyn Archives

Libido, very simply put, is sexual desire or sex drive. Just as there are multiple shades in a color spectrum, levels of libido are unique to each woman, and these levels can rise and fall monthly throughout a woman’s lifetime depending on many biological and psychological factors. What are the Different Levels of Sexual Desire? Intensity can vary. Sexual desire may range from heightened – where a woman may want sex one or more times a day (hypersexuality), to several times a week, once a month, once every few months or year, (hyposexuality) or not at all (asexuality). What is Considered ‘Normal Libido’? There are no standards for ‘normal’ libido, especially if a couple is sexually compatible and comfortable in their mutual need for intimacy. Often, however, this is not the case. Women frequently tend to have a lower libido than men. In fact, it is estimated that 1 in 10 women suffer from low sexual desire in the United States, meaning that 16 million women have what is referred to as hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD). A female’s low libido can have a huge negative impact on a relationship. Once the brilliant shine of newly-found lustful love wears off, couples may find their physical needs are drastically different. The apathy of the less ardent woman may lead to conflict, suspicion, hurt, infidelity and even complete collapse of the relationship. The woman herself may also suffer feelings of inadequacy, self-doubt, and frustration, emotions that might send her into an emotional depression, worsening the situation. Mass media today slants sex to appear as if anything less than constant bedroom activity is abnormal, often convincing a woman with a perfectly healthy sexual appetite that she is some kind of freak if she doesn’t engage in a passionate encounter at every opportunity. For one who suffers from a lower sex drive, the impact may be even more devastating. The inner turmoil of a dwindling self-image and shattered self-esteem can compound the problems already complicated by sexual dysfunction. What are the Causes of Low or Waning Libido? There can be many causes for low sexual desire, and they can be either physical or psychological. Physical reasons for a low libido include: Psychological reasons for a low libido include: Is Help Available? YES!!!! There is no reason to go through life with lowered libido. Women can enjoy a satisfying sex life at any age, and with today’s resources and modern technology, we are usually able to effectively treat the problem. Diagnosis and Treatment In order to pinpoint the root of this dysfunction, frank honest discussion is necessary, as well as a list of any medications you are currently taking. Your doctor will ask pertinent questions to find out whether the problem is physical or emotional. After an examination of the genital area, blood tests may be required to determine hormonal levels. Once a diagnosis is made, your doctor will move forward to correct the problem. It may be as simple as a change or alteration in medication or a new prescription. If surgery is indicated, most physical corrections are minimally invasive, can be done in our clinic, and the recovery time is usually short. If the problem is psychological, our board-certified OB/GYNs can help. Call us today at 770.720.7733 or schedule an appointment online.

What is Pelvic Prolapse?

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Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) refers to the sagging or drooping of any pelvic organs due to damage, trauma, childbirth or injury. The pelvic floor consists of a group of cradle-shaped muscles that hold pelvic organs in place. The pelvic organs include the uterus, bladder, cervix, vagina, rectum and intestines. Like any other part of the body, these muscles, with their surrounding tissues (fascia), can develop problems. If you fill a small plastic bag with grocery items, say for instance, a box of cereal, a few cans of vegetables, some jars and a package of rice —the bag should hold the items with no problem. But if you hang that full bag on a wall hook and leave it suspended, you’ll start to notice the items in it begin to bulge against the membrane of the bag as it takes on the shape of its contents. After a while, depending on how heavy the items are, the corner of the cereal box or rim of a can may start to bulge and even poke through as the bag stretches, weakens and eventually tears from the weight of the items in it. The groceries may even begin to protrude and dangle outside of the bag as the tears get larger. Pelvic prolapse happens much the same way. As the muscles and tissues holding the pelvic organs weaken, degrade or tear, the pelvic organs slip or drop through, sometimes forming a small hanging internal bulge. At other times, depending on the damage, they may actually dangle externally from the vagina or anus, causing problems and inhibiting their function. This is called prolapse. Who is at Risk for Pelvic Organ Prolapse? One in three women suffer from POP. Any activity that puts undue pressure on the abdomen can cause pelvic floor disorders. Typically, labor and childbirth are the leading causes of prolapse, especially when a woman has had several children, a long, difficult labor, or has given birth to a larger child.Pelvic organ prolapse becomes more common with age, usually around menopause when tissues damaged during a woman’s childbearing years begin to lose strength. Other causes are: What are the Symptoms of Pelvic Organ Prolapse? It is entirely possible not to have any symptoms at all. Sometimes pelvic organ prolapse is only discovered during a routine gynecological examination. Minor symptoms are a feeling of annoying pressure of the uterus or other pelvic organs against the vaginal wall, minimal malfunction of those organs, and mild discomfort. Other symptoms are: Symptoms may be aggravated by jumping, lifting or standing. Relief is usually found after lying down for a while. When Should You See Your Doctor? If you have increased sensations of pelvic pressure or pulling which is exacerbated by lifting or straining, but relieved when you lie down. Diagnosis At times, pelvic organ prolapse may be hard to diagnose, especially if a patient does not complain of any symptoms. Patients might be aware there’s a problem but cannot actually pinpoint its location. After asking questions regarding symptoms, medical history, past pregnancies, and other health problems, your doctor will perform a physical examination. Then, if organ prolapse is suspected or discovered, the following additional tests may be ordered: The doctor will then use a classification system to decide the organ prolapse level so he can best decide treatment options. Often, only simple non-invasive treatments and lifestyle changes are recommended for minor prolapse. If surgery is warranted, the following may be suggested: What Can You Do? Pelvic prolapse often sounds worse than it is. For many women, there are hardly any symptoms. For those who do suffer, there is help available, whether it is a simple lifestyle change, surgical repair, cosmetic enhancement or reconstruction. If you have questions about your gynecological health or would like to consult with one of our pelvic reconstructive surgeons, please call 770.720.7733 or schedule an appointment online.

Well Woman

First Gynecology Appointment

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At Cherokee Women’s Health, we understand the nerves a woman may experience when making a gynecology appointment, even for a routine annual examination. Our goal is to make patients feel as comfortable and assured as we can, beginning with their first appointment. To help prepare for an appointment, here are some expectations and answers to commonly asked questions about our practice and a routine gynecology examination. Health History Honesty is important when disclosing one’s health history. Doctors need to be aware of the past, so they can accurately care for a patient. Usual topics covered in a health history will include any medications currently being taken; sexual history; past pregnancies, surgeries, or treatments; and a familial history of cancer and other diseases. Come with Questions Don’t hesitate to bring up any concerns, no matter how trivial they may seem. It is best to be straightforward about symptoms, in the event that additional procedures need to be scheduled. Don’t leave our office with any questions unanswered! There is no need to be self-conscious about asking questions or discussing symptoms because our doctors have years of experience in their field. They discuss these topics daily with their patients. What to Expect A routine appointment lasts about an hour. Several exams take place during the appointment including a pelvic exam and a breast exam. Patients should also be prepared to provide a urine sample to test for pregnancy, and to catch any abnormalities in the sample that may indicate disorders or infections. A pelvic examination is performed to ensure that both external and internal areas of the vagina are normal, including a pap smear which is used to test for cervical cancer. At a patient’s request, a culture can be ordered to screen for any sexually transmitted diseases. The pelvic exam can make patients uncomfortable, but it is important to relax during the process. Reproductive health is important! A breast exam is completed to check for any lumps or irregularities in breast tissue. Based on family history of breast cancer, and your age, you may be referred for a mammogram which will screen for breast cancer. An opportunity to ask questions is part of the appointment. Be proactive and mention anything that is concerning. Honesty is essential to providing the best personalized care to our patients.

Anterior and Posterior Repair Education, Mesh Education, Pelvic Organ Prolapse Education, Urogynecology

What is Prolapsed Bladder?

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Prolapsed bladder, also known as fallen bladder or cystocele, is a condition where the bladder drops down from lack of support. A concave dome-shaped group of pelvic floor muscles and tissues hold the bladder and other organs in place. Due to a variety of reasons, these muscles and tissues can weaken over time. This causes the bladder to descend from its fixed position and slip downwards into the vagina, much like a big toe begins to rub, then protrude through an old, worn sock. In more severe cases, the bladder may dangle completely outside of the vagina. What Causes Prolapsed Bladder? What are the Symptoms? In cases where the bladder prolapse is mild, women may not experience any symptoms at all, and the condition may only be discovered during a routine examination. When Should You See Your Doctor? If you notice that you may have any of these symptoms and suspect a prolapsed bladder, you should see your doctor immediately. This condition often means that other pelvic organs may also be prolapsed, as the same muscles and tissues hold the uterus, cervix, vagina, rectum, and intestines in place as well. This is not a condition that repairs itself. It usually worsens over time, but it can be fixed thanks to many modern methods available today. Diagnosis and Tests In obvious cases, an examination of the pelvis and genitalia can visually confirm prolapsed bladder. If less evident, the doctor may use something called a Voiding Cystourethrogram to confirm diagnosis. This is a sequence of x-rays taken while the patient is urinating so that the physician can see the bladder shape and what may be causing flow problems. He may also request additional x-rays of different abdominal sections to eliminate other theories, after which he may test muscles, nerves and the force of the urine stream to conclude his diagnosis and recommend treatment. Additional tests, if necessary are: Treatment If tests confirm prolapsed bladder, your doctor will categorize its degree as mild, moderate, severe or complete. If it is mild, it usually requires no immediate treatment other than to refrain from heavy lifting or exertion.For more serious cases, depending on health, age and other factors, some non-surgical treatments include: Surgery Should you need surgery, one of the following may be recommended: Types of Reconstructive Surgery What Can You Do? Make an Appointment Today Prolapsed bladder and its effects can be uncomfortable, restrictive and inhibit a normal lifestyle. Our board-certified OB/GYNs can address these issues so you can get back to living the life you deserve. Call and make an appointment today at 770.720.7733 or schedule an appointment online.

Well Woman

Vaginal Discharge – Should You Be Worried?

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What is Vaginal Discharge and What Causes It? The vagina is similar to a corridor that leads from outside of woman’s body to her inner reproductive organs. The vagina and cervix contain tiny internal glands that create and secrete fluids. The purpose of these fluids is to wash away bacteria and dead cells. This natural cleansing process protects the vagina, and prevents infection, much the same way a kitchen sieve holds strawberries while a good rinsing flushes away harmful dirt, grit and anything else those berries might have been lying in as they grew. While vaginal discharge can be annoying, often staining and occasionally ruining those favorite, overpriced panties, it is a perfectly natural bodily function and should not be tampered with unless problems arise. If something interferes with the delicate balance of vaginal secretions, uncomfortable, painful and even serious infection may occur. What is Normal, Healthy Vaginal Discharge? Color: The color of healthy vaginal discharge can range from clear to milky white, the latter usually occurring during ovulation. It may also be clear with white stringy flecks. When dry, white discharge may turn yellow on underclothing.A bloody discharge is also perfectly normal during a woman’s period and is no cause for alarm. At times, droplets of blood can be mingled in with discharge between menstrual periods and this is known as spotting. Unless excessive, or accompanied by discomfort, this is also normal. Amount: The amount can vary anywhere from 20 mg to 60mg a day (yes, it feels like much more!) This can increase to about 600mg during ovulation. Increase in discharge can also occur during exercise, breastfeeding, contraceptive use, sexual arousal and even emotional stress. Vaginal discharge decreases at menopause due to lower estrogen levels. Consistency: The texture of normal discharge also fluctuates. During ovulation, it can be thin and watery. This texture is Nature’s way of enabling sperm to pass into the uterus allowing a better chance of fertilization. At other times, it is thicker, more acidic, and less hospitable towards sperm. This is temporary, just like a mild marital spat. Discharge texture varies depending on the body’s levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone, both found in birth control pills. This is why women who take oral contraceptives produce thicker discharge, thus preventing unwanted pregnancy. During pregnancy, a thick mucus plug (operculum) forms inside the cervical canal. Containing antibacterial properties, its function is similar to that of a cork or safety seal for the uterus, protecting it from uterine fluid leakage or pathogen invasion. When dilation begins to occur before childbirth, the plug loosens and drops out, resembling discharge tinged with blood. Odor: Discharge odor can vary depending on medication, menstrual cycle, diet, activity, personal hygiene, pregnancy, lubricants, and hygienic cleansing products, but usually a slight musky, though not unpleasant odor is normal. Receiving oral sex can sometimes produce a different odor. When Should You See Your Doctor? Although vaginal discharge is vital in maintaining optimal health of the reproductive organs, the delicate Ph balance can sometimes be compromised leading to infection. Infections may occur at any time, but are more likely to happen when the Ph balance is less acidic, right before or during menstruation. If you experience any of the following symptoms, see your doctor. These can possibly be indications of infections or sexually transmitted diseases such as Bacterial Vaginosis, Yeast Infection(Candida), Pelvic Inflammatory Disease, Human Papillomavirus, Trichomoniasis, Gonorrhea, or Chlamydia –to name a few: • Pain or inflammation accompanying discharge• Redness in vulvar or vaginal areas• Strong unpleasant smelling discharge immediately after intercourse• Burning or itching• Rash• Burning while urinating• A cottage cheese like texture.• Thick, lumpy, or pasty discharge• Foul smelling green, yellow, grey, or cloudy discharge• Excessive or recurring brown or bloody discharge, especially when not on your menstrual cycle• Strong, foul, fishy odor• Watery discharge• Any unusual discharge accompanied by abdominal pain, uncommon fatigue, fever, sudden weight loss, and increased urination.• Blisters or sores in the vaginal or vulvar area.• Painful intercourse Treatment After a brief medical examination which is usually enough to identify the problem, your doctor may request additional tests to analyze skin, cervical or discharge samples.When the problem is identified, most vaginal discharge abnormalities can be treated with prescription medications such as antibiotics, creams, antifungals, or suppositories. These should always be taken for the full amount of time prescribed by your doctor, no matter how much better you feel.In some cases, it may be necessary to treat both the patient and her sexual partner, and both may be asked to refrain from sexual intercourse until treatment is successfully completed.If symptoms persist after medication is completed, a follow up visit may be necessary.Over the counter medications are available for common yeast infections, but should be avoided if pregnant unless approved by a physician.Abnormal discharge may be indicative of some cancers, but this is rare. How You Can Help Prevent Problems • Use condoms, especially with new sexual partners.• Have an annual pap smear to screen for possible cancer. It’s only uncomfortable for a minute• Keep the genital area dry and clean with regular bathing, showering and gentle wiping from front to back after urination or defecation.• Avoid harsh soaps, feminine sprays, powders, chemicals or douches around the vaginal area. They can may upset the Ph balance and kill important bacteria. Being field flower fresh can sometimes do more harm than good• Avoid deodorized pads and tampons, especially those discount store brands that can be smelled before you enter a room.• Wear absorbent cotton underwear, and save the sexy, synthetic ones for special occasions unless they have a cotton crotch piece.• Be vigilant when you wear tampons. Anyone can forget, especially near the end of a period when there is little or no blood. It happens more often that women think.• Use products designed specifically for vaginal lubrication. Avoid petroleum jelly or other household lubricants your grandmother suggested.• Eat a healthy, well balanced diet and drink plenty of fluids. Yogurt containing live cultures helps to prevent yeast infections.•

Why Is Breastfeeding So Hard?

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Breastfeeding is probably the first most intimate bond a mother will ever create with her child, but sometimes it can take a little while to get it right—both for mother and baby. Much like picking up rice with chopsticks for the very first time, breastfeeding requires patience, practice, time and effort. Although babies are born with a natural instinct to suckle, and mothers usually produce the colostrum and milk they need immediately, sometimes getting the two natural occurrences to cooperate with each other can be difficult. Apart from the time and discomfort needed to recover from childbirth, baby’s constant demands for food, cuddling, changing– not to mention possible colic- the first few days can be overwhelming on a new parent. Lack of sleep can also cause impatience, which in turn is something a baby can easily sense. No matter how many decibels you attempt to lower your voice after drowsily walking into walls during that three o’clock feeding, your baby will still pick up on your irritability and react accordingly with fussing, flailing or crying. Compounding all this with a difficulty to breastfeed could easily leave the mother experiencing feelings of failure, shame and anxiety. Rapid hormonal changes on her part add to the melting pot of emotional stew. Latching Problems Breastfeeding can be a painful, uncomfortable experience during the first few postpartum weeks. Although hungry newborns may not have teeth, their gums can certainly clamp on well enough to make a new mother wince, even yelp at times. Until tender, engorged nipples become accustomed to the sensation, it can be highly unpleasant for the first little while. If pain persists after this adjustment period, however, it may possibly be caused by a bad latch. A bad latch may occur for a number of reasons, such as cradling the baby’s head at an improper angle, positioning your breast incorrectly, flat or inverted nipples, or an infant who hasn’t quite yet grasped the intricacies of sucking and getting tasty results. Learning to latch may take time. If you look down and see that your areole or nipple are visible, your baby may not be latching correctly. Both serve a purpose similar to a bull’s eye on a target. Baby needs to zone in and clamp on the center to achieve proper suction. The sensation of the nipple, and in some cases the tiny bumps surrounding it on the areole serve as a type of braille to baby’s sensitive mouth. Nursing pillows may facilitate finding the correct angle, thus gently coaxing your child to a better position. If you can’t resolve the latching problems on your own, there is no need to get frustrated or to feel badly about it. At your next appointment, ask your obstetrician or certified nurse-midwife for information on overcoming breastfeeding problems. They are familiar with the problem and will gladly help to make breastfeeding a more enjoyable nurturing time for you and your infant. Inverted or Flat Nipples 1 to 3% of all women have flat or inverted nipples which can create a challenge when breastfeeding. Speak to your obstetrician about breastfeeding with inverted nipples. Some methods he or she may recommend would be to pump before breastfeeding to stimulate milk flow, or using a silicone shield to help your baby latch. Some women with flat or inverted nipples may require the help of their spouses to get a good latch going. In a way, this can also be a pleasant bonding time for their partners. Breast milk provides babies with vital nutrients to help them grow and develop into healthy, strong little people. It is recommended that mothers try as much as possible to introduce their infants to not only this beneficial form of nourishment, but the resulting closeness and warmth both mother and baby can derive from it. For more information on lactation, Northside Hospital-Cherokee has a center dedicated to lactation and their website offers lots of great tips.

Common Breastfeeding Problems

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Apart from providing valuable colostrum and vital nutrition for babies, breastfeeding can create an intimate bond between a mother and newborn. Another plus is that breastfeeding requires more calories than pregnancy, Mother Nature’s way of rewarding a new mother by giving her a jump start on the road to ‘baby weight” loss. Breastfeeding Doesn’t Always Happen Naturally At first, however, to the dismay of many new parents, it isn’t always the warm fuzzy experience they imagined it would be. Breastfeeding does not always happen naturally. The milk is in the mother’s breast, and the baby instinctively makes sucking motions looking for food, but the act of successful breastfeeding itself is a skill that requires a little practice on both parts. Motherhood can be challenging and intimidating enough, especially for first time moms who want to do the very best job possible. Even the sweetest, undemanding baby can be intimidating due to lack of experience, let alone a colicky fussy child. Encountering breastfeeding problems can raise stress and anxiety levels at the very best of times, and this frustration may result in abandoning breastfeeding altogether. Most breastfeeding difficulties, however, are easily remedied with minor position adjustments or a few timeless suggestions from your OB-GYN. Solving Common Breastfeeding Problems Low milk production: Many moms underestimate their milk levels, especially when first learning to breastfeed. But a few tricks can increase your supply: ensure your baby latches well and drains both breasts at each feeding, drink plenty of water, use a breast pump between feedings, and nurse at night when milk production hormones surge. You can also ask your doctor to modify your diet to include foods that encourage healthy milk production. Latching pain: Latching pain is expected for new moms, but it shouldn’t last. If latching pain lasts longer than a minute, reposition your baby to an asymmetrical latch, where his mouth covers the nipple and the lower part of the areola. Cracked nipples: A common result of latching problems, improper pumping, or thrush, cracked or bloody nipples can cause serious anxiety in new moms. But a little blood won’t harm the baby, and the solution is simple: lanolin cream. Other remedies include repositioning your baby’s latch, breastfeeding more frequently for shorter intervals, and letting some milk air dry on your nipples. Thrush: A yeast infection that may develop in infants’ mouths, thrush can spread to the breasts, causing itching, soreness, and sometimes a rash. See your doctor, who will provide an antifungal cream to be applied to both your nipple and the baby’s mouth. Every woman faces her own challenges during pregnancy and postpartum. We encourage our patients to take advantage of the rich resources in our health community, including the Lactation Program at Northside Hospital-Cherokee, where we deliver all our moms. If you have concerns about breastfeeding, schedule an appointment with us today.

Healthy Weight Gain During Pregnancy

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Every woman gains weight during pregnancy. For some, this is a positive experience: the healthy glow and rounded figure are a badge of honor, broadcasting her good news to the world. For others, it’s a struggle: dealing with the stress of weight fluctuation on top of the other body changes pregnancy brings. But all moms share the same question: how much pregnancy weight gain is too much? Healthy Weight Gain During Pregnancy The amount of weight gained during pregnancy isn’t an abstract question. It can affect the health of both mother and child during gestation. Gaining too much weight contributes to postpartum weight retention, but gaining too little leads to inadequate birth weight of your infant. If you’re worried about weight gain, discuss it with your obstetrician or CNM. Your physician can give you an individual assessment to make sure you gain a healthy amount of weight during pregnancy. To get you started, here’s a handy chart from the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. For underweight mothers (BMI of 18.5 or less), the recommended gain is 28-40 lb For average weight women (18.5-24.9 BMI), there’s a recommended weight gain of 25-35 lb For overweight (25-29.9 BMI) moms, doctors recommend a 15-25 lb weight gain For obese mothers (30 BMI and higher), the recommended weight gain is 11-20 lb How to Control Weight During Pregnancy If you’re gaining too much or too little weight during pregnancy, ask your obstetrician about a personalized nutrition plan. Not only will a proper diet improve your weight gain, it will also provide necessary nutrients to you and your baby. Moms-to-be can also begin a pregnancy exercise routine to improve health and decrease the discomforts of pregnancy. Some conditions make exercising during pregnancy unsafe, so always speak to your doctor before starting a new fitness regimen. Want to learn more about nutrition, fitness, and healthy weight gain during pregnancy? Visit Northside Hospital-Cherokee or make an appointment with one of our physicians or advanced practice providers today at 770-720-7733.

GYN Problems, O-Shot Education, Urinary Incontinence Education, Urinary Incontinence Treatments Education

Leaky Bladder Symptoms and Remedies

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One in five women endures the symptoms of leaky bladder, or urinary incontinence. Yet often, a suffering woman does not acknowledge it as an issue. She may be self-conscious about mentioning the condition to her doctor, or she may assume it’s a normal part of being a woman. Two of the most commonly accepted situations are incontinence after pregnancy and incontinence during exercise. The truth is, although urinary incontinence is common, it is not considered normal. Needing to urinate frequently, as well as urinary urgency, are signs that one may be dealing with a leaky bladder. Fortunately, for a woman experiencing these symptoms, she can find both surgical and non-surgical options in treatment to minimize or even eliminate these symptoms permanently. What is Urinary Incontinence? Weakening of the pelvic floor can affect bladder control and urethra function, causing issues with urination. Women suffering from urinary incontinence find themselves running to the bathroom frequently. Strong urges to use the restroom, even after urinating, is another sign that a woman may be dealing with urinary incontinence. It is important to not brush off the occasional leak experienced while exercising or shifting position, because there are treatments available for women dealing with urinary incontinence. Types of Urinary Incontinence One important step in the diagnosis process is identifying the type of urinary incontinence, in order to find the best treatment option. Stress Incontinence This type of incontinence occurs when urine leaks out of the bladder during certain strenuous activities. Jogging or other exercising can cause urine leakage. Coughing and laughing can also bring on an unexpected leak. More severe symptoms of stress incontinence may include urine leakage during low stress activities such as changing position or walking. Many pregnant women can experience stress incontinence as the growing uterus puts pressure on their relaxed pelvic floor and the organs shift to make room for baby. Sometimes the symptoms are dismissed as an annoying pregnancy symptom, but if they do not subside after delivery, they may need medical assistance to prevent symptoms from worsening. Urge Incontinence Commonly referred to as overactive bladder, or OAB, urge incontinence is a continued sensation of needing to urinate. This sensation is often an overwhelming, powerful urge which sends women dodging for the nearest restroom. Urge incontinence is different from stress incontinence in that it occurs suddenly, without pressure on the bladder from strenuous activity. In addition to strong urges to urinate, women with urge incontinence may find themselves waking up at night to use the restroom, interfering with a full night’s rest. Sometimes, there may be an underlying condition that is causing the undeniable urges to urinate. An honest discussion about symptoms with a doctor can help them determine any underlying conditions so they can better treat you. Preventing Urinary Incontinence Many situations can result in urinary incontinence. There are some factors that do make a woman more prone to the condition, including pregnancy and childbirth. Women who want to lessen the chance of experiencing urinary incontinence can follow the advice below: Leaky Bladder Remedies Don’t be ashamed or embarrassed to mention your symptoms to one of our double board-certified FPMRS specialists. Treatment options will be chosen based on the severity of the symptoms but can include: A nonsurgical, in-office treatment option that can help treat leaky bladder is the O-Shot. Download our free O-Shot eBook to learn more. Don’t accept urinary incontinence as part of your life. Our double board-certified specialists in urogynecology can help. schedule an appointment today at either our Canton or Woodstock location.

OB Education

Recognizing Preeclampsia During Pregnancy

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Because preeclampsia only affects women during pregnancy and the postpartum period, many first time mothers are unaware of the effects and symptoms of preeclampsia. Proper prenatal care with an OB/GYN is typically enough to catch the early signs of preeclampsia; however, new mothers should be aware of the symptoms and notify their doctor about any changes in their health. What Is Preeclampsia? Preeclampsia is pregnancy induced hypertension that affects mothers and infants during late pregnancy. Symptoms typically develop after week 20, and can show up as late as 6 weeks postpartum. Researchers have yet to isolate the cause of preeclampsia, but the disorder affects 5-8% of all pregnancies. Preeclampsia is most common in first time mothers. It is one of the leading causes of illness and death in mothers and infants, but identifying the problem in its early stages allows for the best possible outcome. Recognizing the Problem Although some women show few symptoms of pregnancy induced hypertension, preeclampsia is typically characterized by high blood pressure and protein in the urine. Your obstetrician will monitor your pregnancy for signs of preeclampsia, but it’s important to tell your physician if you’re experiencing any symptoms. Symptoms of preeclampsia may include: Preeclampsia develops rapidly, so it’s important to notify your doctor as soon as you experience symptoms. But with early detection and proper care, your physician can provide the best possible outcome for you and your baby. To learn more about preeclampsia or to schedule a prenatal appointment with one of our board-certified OB/GYNs, call us today at 770.720.7733 or schedule an appointment online.

ThermiVa Education, Urinary Incontinence Treatments Education, Vaginal Rejuvenation

ThermiVa and Sexual Health – The Basics

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ThermiVa is a ground-breaking office treatment that helps women address common problems with their sexual health. Symptoms such as incontinence, difficulty or pain with sex, and vaginal dryness interfere with patients’ lives. The natural aging process, childbirth, and menopause affect vaginal function. ThermiVa is a new technology that has become the standard for in-office, non-surgical vaginal rejuvenation that requires no downtime. Harnessing the power of thermal energy, ThermiVa helps to reduce or eliminate a wide range of the unpleasant symptoms of aging. Post-menopausal patients, as well as those who miss their pre-baby body, regain confidence when treated with this innovative system. ThermiVa means you do not have to accept the effects of aging. It helps you reclaim a more youthful vulvovaginal structure — while lessening any unpleasant symptoms you may be experiencing. What is ThermiVa? ThermiVa is a temperature-controlled radio frequency system, designed to tighten the internal and external tissues of the vagina. The procedure, which is non-invasive and non-surgical, uses a slim “S” shaped wand to deliver gentle heat to areas of the vagina. This heat restores and tightens vaginal tissue both internally and externally. A unique feature of the treatment is that you control the level of heat for a comfortable and virtually painless experience. ThermiVa treatments stimulate your own body’s production of collagen, even helping to heal tissue or nerve damage sustained during childbirth. A typical treatment takes place in the office. It requires no anesthesia, so you can go about your day afterward. There is no stinging or burning: the effects of the procedure are mostly painless. A bonus feature is its affordability; it’s suited for many lifestyles. ThermiVa Benefits ThermiVa treats the external and internal tissues of the vagina. The result is tighter, smoother skin and a restoration of the vagina’s functionality. ThermiVa is not just an aesthetic procedure: it combats losses and damage from aging or childbirth. Symptoms ranging from vaginal laxity to stress incontinence to vaginal dryness can be reduced or eliminated with ThermiVa treatments. Vaginal Tightening: Patients suffering from vaginal looseness find that ThermiVa improves vaginal tightness as it shrinks the tissues of the vagina, lending itself to a better sex life. Vaginal Lubrication: Women who have lost interest in sex due to pain and dryness will find that ThermiVa increases their natural lubrication – making daily life and intercourse more comfortable without any added hormone treatments. Urinary Leakage: ThermiVa treatments, coupled with Kegel exercises, can help strengthen the vaginal walls. Tighter vaginal walls can help to stop inconvenient or embarrassing urinary incontinence, along with a reduction in urgency and frequency. Labia Majora Rejuvenation: ThermiVa treatments result in smaller, smoother, less “saggy” skin. Patients often experience more comfort with sex and less embarrassment with their appearance. Make an Appointment Today With ThermiVa, you can reclaim your body and enjoy your life to the fullest. The doctors at Cherokee Women’s Health specialize in delivering ThermiVa to obtain the maximum benefits. Call us at 770.720.7733 or schedule an appointment online to discuss questions and concerns about thermal energy treatments. You can restore your confidence and youth with ThermiVa!

ThermiVa Education, Vaginal Rejuvenation Videos, Well Woman

Dr. Haley Talks Women’s Health

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An Interview with James Haley, MD, FACOG, FPMRS In order to become board-certified, and have that distinction, you have to do a tremendous amount of studying. In a sense, the certification forces you to become an expert. Generally speaking, OB/GYNs are trained in pelvic floor complications, but not nearly to the extent that’s required for FPMRS certification. Going through the sub-specialty training makes you realize what you didn’t know. It really advances not just your knowledge, but also makes you a much better surgeon in regards to your approach and your ability to take care of even the most difficult situations. How has being a FPMRS (Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery) specialist changed how you practice medicine? Having three of us as FPMRS specialists distinguishes us as the go-to for women who need pelvic surgery. When you offer patients pelvic repair procedures such as Vaginal Rejuvenation, how does that compare to ThermiVa, which is a less invasive? ThermiVa is a non-surgical procedure for vaginal tightening, performed in the office. I think of ThermiVa as an option for women that may have issues with vaginal dryness or sexual dysfunction, some leakage, or some loss of support. However, when comparing the ThermiVa procedure to some aspects of vaginal reconstruction, they are not the same. If a patient’s issues aren’t too bad, ThermiVa can be a good option. The worse the problem, however, the more extensive surgical reconstruction the patient may require. Is there a trend in GYN Surgery? Over the next few years, it looks like reconstructive pelvic surgeries will no longer be performed by general OB/GYNs, either because they don’t want to or because they won’t be qualified. Instead, they’ll refer their patients to a specialist who has earned this board distinction. This trend has already happened in a number of fields, with the sub-specialty of FPMRS being one of the most recent ones. Additionally, as the population ages, we’re seeing pelvic floor problems more and more. The number one reason for issues with prolapse is delivering babies vaginally and having them come out through the birth canal. These aren’t necessarily births that have complications, but it’s just fallout from regular deliveries where babies come through and stretch–and often damage–the muscles and tissue. In addition to childbirth, there are other things that contribute to loss of pelvic floor support, including jobs that involve lots of lifting and/or heavy straining. Other people who have experienced the loss of pelvic floor support include long-term smokers, people who are overweight and even athletes who compete extensively in high-performance activities. Recently, you have gotten interested in ALCAT [food sensitivity] testing. What is it, and what drew you to learning more about ALCAT? The ALCAT test (antigen leukocyte antibody test) measures negative reactions to the food we put in our bodies. I got interested because I was seeing patients having health issues, and no amount of regular testing was showing any kind of helpful results. Becoming a subspecialist in Female Pelvic Medicine has factually pushed me to a new level of knowledge for my patients –surgically, and in other areas as well. Is there a correlation between food sensitivity picked up from an ALCAT test and gynecological issues? A lot of “hormonal” issues can actually be related to food sensitivities. I hear patients discuss things like hormone imbalances, weight gain and depression all the time. Sometimes there’s a gynecological cause. But sometimes, there’s an interplay of other things. And what I’ve come to realize is it’s often the combination of underlying issues that’s the source of the problem. As an OB/GYN, I see women every day who tell me the problems they’re experiencing, and yet sometimes there hasn’t been this simple, easy resolution. This is especially the case with patients who use their OB/GYN as their primary care provider and don’t see an additional doctor. A woman will come in for her yearly exam and mention she’s just not able to lose weight, or that nothing she’s tried is working. If we check standard things and find nothing is working, what’s missing? Then I know it’s time to move onto something else. An ALCAT test is the only reliable test that can discover these types of things in the blood. They are used worldwide, and a lot of athletes use ALCAT tests to try to give themselves an edge in performance. What exactly is a food sensitivity? Our bodies react when they come in contact with toxins in our food, such as chemicals, dyes, or pesticides. When you talk about our immune system, there are two parts: one is when our bodies come into contact with a particular food; there can be an immediate allergic reaction that many people are familiar with. (For example, peanuts, shellfish, etc.) But the second part, called the Innate Immune System, is when we come into contact with foods that create a delayed response. This response can occur within a day, several days, or even a week. We don’t realize the connection, and sometimes we don’t even notice. So, if we’re putting things into our body, and the body recognizes it as an “intruder,” our bodies send out an “attack” response to this particular type of food or substance. Food responses are responsible for numerous related health issues. Some of the biggest health issues have been linked to these types of responses, including heart disease, diabetes, complications with weight and obesity, chronic fatigue, bowel issues, depression, ADHD, and it just goes on and on. The commonality behind a lot of those diseases is inflammation. The body mounts an inflammatory response when it comes into contact with something it doesn’t recognize, and over time, that causes issues in the body. Years ago, we thought our bowel was responsible for only 20 percent of the immune function. Now they realize 80 percent of our immune system is related to the bowel. So now, the bowel is the primary immune function. Given that change in percentage, a lot of problems can be

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WARNING: Mature Content