Causes of Yeast Infections

Itching, burning, and painful discomfort — yeast infections are one of the most frustrating health problems a woman can face. While the occasional yeast infection is something easily treated, if you have more than four yeast infections per year, you may have a more difficult situation to contend with. In order to manage and prevent yeast infections, you should educate yourself a bit about the issue and the causes.

WHAT CAUSES A YEAST INFECTION?

The vaginal area is naturally home to yeast that is present in the body. When the body’s pH balance gets disrupted, the yeast will multiply and accumulate to higher numbers, which causes the uncomfortable symptoms of a yeast infection. However, some women have recurring yeast infections because of a variant form of yeast that is more resilient to common treatment methods.

The delicate pH balance of the female body can be disrupted by a multitude of different things. Therefore, the root cause of a yeast infection can be a lot of everyday things, such as:

  • certain forms of birth control
  • using douches, scented soaps, or scented lotions in the vaginal area
  • excessive sweating
  • poor hygiene
  • a high-sugar or high-carb diet

Additionally, some medical conditions can make you more prone to yeast infections. For example, if you are diabetic or if you are pregnant, you may be more prone to yeast infections.

If you have frequent yeast infections, with or without the aforementioned causes, this is a condition you should speak to your gynecologist about. There are prescription medications that are better built to treat stubborn yeast infections than over-the-counter remedies. To learn more, contact Avant Gynecology to schedule an appointment today.

Avant Gynecology serves patients at two locations: Piedmont Hospital in Buckhead and Northside Hospital. Our mission at Avant Gynecology is to provide exceptional, compassionate care to women at every stage of their lives. Our providers strive to be at the forefront of knowledge and skill in the fields of women’s health and gynecologic surgery, so our patients can get the best care possible. Avant provides state-of-the-art surgery services and comprehensive gynecologic care, such as annual exams, diagnostic and screening tests; a full range of contraceptive options; specialized services such as bio-identical hormone therapy, hormone pellets, ThermiVa vaginal rejuvenation, and more.

Menopause 101: Facts Every Woman Should Know

In technical terms, menopause is the stage in life when a woman will stop menstruating, which sounds simple enough. However, simply waking up one day and no longer having your monthly period is not how menopause works. Your body goes through a process because of the changes in your hormone levels, which means you can experience a full list of symptoms along with changes in your menstrual cycle.

Who Does Menopause Affect?

As a woman grows older, the reproductive hormones that cause menstruation and ovulation naturally decline. Therefore, menopause basically marks the end of the reproductive period in a woman’s life. This tends to occur for most women in their 40s or 50s, but early menopause for some women can begin before the age of 40 and some women may not even reach menopause until they are in their mid to late 50s.

Does Menopause Affect All Women the Same?

All women can have unique experiences with menopause because every woman’s body is unique. The age of the onset of menopause can be different, as well as the type of symptoms and the severity symptoms are experienced. For example, some women may have issues with things like vaginal dryness and hot flashes, while others will not experience these symptoms but will feel moody and emotional.

How Should Women Approach Dealing with Menopause?

Every woman’s first line of defense in combating the symptoms of menopause is to maintain an open line of communication with their gynecologist. Your gynecologist can help you understand what your body is going through and treat deficits in vital hormones to help alleviate your symptoms. Reach out to Avant Gynecology for an appointment if you believe you are experiencing menopausal symptoms.

Avant Gynecology serves patients at two locations: Piedmont Hospital in Buckhead and Northside Hospital. Our mission at Avant Gynecology is to provide exceptional, compassionate care to women at every stage of their lives. Our providers strive to be at the forefront of knowledge and skill in the fields of women’s health and gynecologic surgery, so our patients can get the best care possible. Avant provides state-of-the-art surgery services and comprehensive gynecologic care, such as annual exams, diagnostic and screening tests; a full range of contraceptive options; specialized services such as bio-identical hormone therapy, hormone pellets, ThermiVa vaginal rejuvenation, and more.

A Look at the Benefits of Robotic Surgery

Learning that you have to have surgery can be scary, but surgical technology has evolved so much in the last several decades that procedures that were once scary don’t have to be anymore. Robotic surgery gives surgeons the ability to operate through minimally invasive procedures that require smaller incisions and often involve shorter healing times for patients. The da Vinci method of surgery, which is the name given to robotic surgery, has become one of the most common routes of surgery used today, and it is for good reason.

What Exactly is da Vinci Surgery?

According to the da Vinci Surgery website:

With the da Vinci Surgical System, surgeons operate through just a few small incisions. The da Vinci System features a magnified 3D high-definition vision system and tiny wristed instruments that bend and rotate far greater than the human hand.

What are the Advantages of da Vinci Surgeries?

Da Vinci surgeries come with a wealth of advantages. As previously mentioned, incisions with this form of surgery can be smaller because the surgeon’s hands don’t actually have to go inside of the body to do the work. Therefore, healing time can be reduced. Other advantages include:

  • Less scarring and less scar tissue development during the healing
  • Enhanced control over movements and cuts
  • Greater visual insight during the procedure to avoid wrong moves

How Does the da Vinci Surgery Benefit Women?

The primary benefit for women with the da Vinci surgery is common female procedures are no longer as worrisome. For example, a hysterectomy, which is a surgery done to remove the reproductive parts of a woman, can be done with robotic tools. Instead of a large incision, only small incisions are made in the abdomen and the robotic tools are used to carefully and gently make the necessary reductions.

If you would like to know more about the da Vinci surgery, reach out to Avant Gynecology for an appointment or give the office a call at 404-352-2850.

Avant Gynecology serves patients at two locations: Piedmont Hospital in Buckhead and Northside Hospital. Our mission at Avant Gynecology is to provide exceptional, compassionate care to women at every stage of their lives. Our providers strive to be at the forefront of knowledge and skill in the fields of women’s health and gynecologic surgery, so our patients can get the best care possible. Avant provides state-of-the-art surgery services and comprehensive gynecologic care, such as annual exams, diagnostic and screening tests; a full range of contraceptive options; specialized services such as bio-identical hormone therapy, hormone pellets, ThermiVa vaginal rejuvenation, and more.

Causes and Treatment Options for Urinary Incontinence

You sneeze, cough, laugh, or move and you are left running to the bathroom because you’ve leaked a little urine, or you feel a sudden urge to urinate. This may occur so often that it interferes with your daily routine, making it difficult to lead an active life. Unfortunately, urinary incontinence is one of the most common issues for women with one in four women who experience episodes of leaking urine.

Symptoms of Urinary Incontinence

There are two different types of incontinence: stress incontinence and urge incontinence. The main symptom of stress incontinence is leaking urine when small amounts of pressure are put on the bladder, like when you cough or laugh. Urge incontinence is more characterized by an uncontrollable urge to urinate at just about all times.

Treatments for Urinary Incontinence

The treatment your gynecologist will recommend for urinary incontinence will depend on the root cause of the problem. Some of the most common causes of both types of incontinence include:

  • Weak pelvic floor muscles due to childbirth
  • Weight gain or obesity
  • Stress
  • Parkinson’s disease
  • A chronic cough
  • Bladder irritation or infection

In some cases, the incontinence can be treated by addressing the underlying problem. For example, if you have gained weight and suffer from incontinence, your doctor may help you follow a better diet. However, there are also medicinal treatments, such as prescriptions that assist in alleviating the urge to urinate, which is especially good for people with an urge incontinence. Plus, there are surgeries that can help with incontinence in extreme situations, such as implanting a bladder sling to support the bladder if your pelvic floor muscles are too weak.

Dealing with urinary incontinence can interrupt everything about how you live your life and can be an embarrassing issue. If you have problems with urinary incontinence, reach out to us at Avant Gynecology for an appointment.

Avant Gynecology serves patients at two locations: Piedmont Hospital in Buckhead and Northside Hospital. Our mission at Avant Gynecology is to provide exceptional, compassionate care to women at every stage of their lives. Our providers strive to be at the forefront of knowledge and skill in the fields of women’s health and gynecologic surgery, so our patients can get the best care possible. Avant provides state-of-the-art surgery services and comprehensive gynecologic care, such as annual exams, diagnostic and screening tests; a full range of contraceptive options; specialized services such as bio-identical hormone therapy, hormone pellets, ThermiVa vaginal rejuvenation, and more.

Avant Gynecology’s Dr. Lynley Durrett featured on “The Weekly Check-Up”

On Sunday, March 25, Dr. Lynley Durrett of Avant Gynecology was a guest on “The Weekly Check-Up with Dr. Bruce Feinberg”, a healthcare-focused radio show airing every Sunday on AM 750 and NOW 95.5 FM News/Talk WSB.

On the show, Dr. Durrett discussed issues related to women’s health, such as menopause, hormone replacement therapy, pelvic prolapse, urinary incontinence, uterine fibroids, and much more.

You can listen to the full show on “The Weekly Check-Up Atlanta”s website.

Have any questions on any of the topics and treatment options discussed in the show? Contact Avant Gynecology here or give us a call at 404-352-2850.

Avant Gynecology serves patients at two locations: Piedmont Hospital in Buckhead and Northside Hospital. Our mission at Avant Gynecology is to provide exceptional, compassionate care to women at every stage of their lives. Our providers strive to be at the forefront of knowledge and skill in the fields of women’s health and gynecologic surgery, so our patients can get the best care possible. Avant provides state-of-the-art surgery services and comprehensive gynecologic care, such as annual exams, diagnostic and screening tests; a full range of contraceptive options; specialized services such as bio-identical hormone therapy, hormone pellets, ThermiVa vaginal rejuvenation, and more.

Hysterectomy 101: Understanding Why You May Need One and How the Surgery Can Benefit You

According to the National Women’s Health Network, about 600,000 hysterectomies are performed annually, making it the second most frequently performed surgical procedure for women in the U.S.

What Is a Hysterectomy?

A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of some or all of a woman’s uterus, including the fallopian tubes, cervix, and ovaries. A hysterectomy can be partial or total, depending on the reason for the hysterectomy. Therefore, in some cases, the ovaries, or even one ovary, may be left behind, and so can the lower part of the uterus.

Who Needs a Hysterectomy?

A hysterectomy is most often performed due to specific conditions that affect the reproductive system of a woman. Here are some of the gynecological conditions that may result in the need for a hysterectomy:

  • Cancers of the uterus, cervix, ovaries, or fallopian tubes
  • Rupturing of the uterus
  • Widespread infection
  • Severe endometriosis

A hysterectomy may also be performed if a female has severe menstrual-related problems, such as unmanageable bleeding or extreme pain during cycles.

What Are the Benefits?

In some situations, the hysterectomy can be life-saving, especially if you suffer from a chronic condition that could affect the rest of your body, like some form of cancer. The surgery can also prevent pelvic organ prolapse if you are at risk, provide relief from extreme menstrual issues, and prevent problems if you are at risk of uterine cancer. Furthermore, if you have problems with irregular uterine bleeding, a hysterectomy will eliminate the problem.

While hysterectomies are common, they are also a serious surgical procedure and should be carefully discussed with your gynecologist. To learn more about what a hysterectomy is and to discuss if you should consider getting one, contact Avant Gynecology today.

Avant Gynecology serves patients at two locations: Piedmont Hospital in Buckhead and Northside Hospital. Our mission at Avant Gynecology is to provide exceptional, compassionate care to women at every stage of their lives. Our providers strive to be at the forefront of knowledge and skill in the fields of women’s health and gynecologic surgery, so our patients can get the best care possible. Avant provides state-of-the-art surgery services and comprehensive gynecologic care, such as annual exams, diagnostic and screening tests; a full range of contraceptive options; specialized services such as bio-identical hormone therapy, hormone pellets, ThermiVa vaginal rejuvenation, and more.

Causes and Effects of Pelvic Organ Prolapse

As a woman, the pelvic organs are held in place by the pelvic floor, but sometimes, the pelvic floor becomes so weak that it causes pelvic organ prolapse. It is estimated that about one in three women will have issues with prolapse in their lifetime, which makes this condition one major concern for females.

Causes of Pelvic Organ Prolapse

The pelvic floor is often described as a type of hammock that holds the organs in the pelvic region in place. As you age or after giving birth, the pelvic floor can become weakened, which allows the organs that are normally supported to droop.

A few contributing factors that may make you more at risk for organ prolapse include:

  • Vaginal delivery during childbirth
  • Aging
  • Being overweight
  • A chronic cough
  • Prolonged issues with constipation

There are also factors that are assumed to put women at higher risk, such as repeated heavy lifting, family history of problems with prolapse, hysterectomy, and even longer-than-usual labors during childbirth. If you have any of the known or assumed risk factors, you should be more alert to signs of a prolapse.

Effects of Pelvic Organ Prolapse

If you suspect that you have issues with pelvic organ prolapse, it is important that you talk to your gynecologist. The longer the organs are allowed to droop, the further down they can fall, and the more issues you can have because of the situation. In most cases, symptoms will occur before the organs are visibly prolapsed, which means the organs have visibly extended the rim of the vagina or anus.

Pelvic floor prolapse can disrupt bladder and bowel functions, put you at risks of serious infections, and create all kinds of health problems. For more information about the causes and effects of pelvic organ prolapse, contact Avant Gynecology at 404-352-2850 or schedule an appointment today.

Avant Gynecology serves patients at two locations: Piedmont Hospital in Buckhead and Northside Hospital. Our mission at Avant Gynecology is to provide exceptional, compassionate care to women at every stage of their lives. Our providers strive to be at the forefront of knowledge and skill in the fields of women’s health and gynecologic surgery, so our patients can get the best care possible. Avant provides state-of-the-art surgery services and comprehensive gynecologic care, such as annual exams, diagnostic and screening tests; a full range of contraceptive options; specialized services such as bio-identical hormone therapy, hormone pellets, ThermiVa vaginal rejuvenation, and more.

Avant Gynecology’s Dr. Durrett and Dr. Mora featured on “The Weekly Check-Up”

On Sunday, January 28, Dr. Lynley Durrett and Dr. Obiamaka Mora of Avant Gynecology were guests on “The Weekly Check-Up with Dr. Bruce Feinberg,” a healthcare-focused radio show airing every Sunday on AM 750 and NOW 95.5 FM News/Talk WSB.

On the show, Drs. Durrett and Mora discussed issues related to women’s health, such as hysterectomies, hormone replacement, menopause, and the advancing technologies in the field, among many other topics. Both doctors also discussed Avant Gynecology’s practice history and why it’s focused on gynecology only rather than obstetrics.

You can listen to the full show on “The Weekly Check-Up Atlanta”’s website.

Avant Gynecology serves patients at two locations: Piedmont Hospital in Buckhead and Northside Hospital. Our mission at Avant Gynecology is to provide exceptional, compassionate care to women at every stage of their lives. Our providers strive to be at the forefront of knowledge and skill in the fields of women’s health and gynecologic surgery, so our patients can get the best care possible. Avant provides state-of-the-art surgery services and comprehensive gynecologic care, such as annual exams, diagnostic and screening tests; a full range of contraceptive options; specialized services such as bio-identical hormone therapy, hormone pellets, ThermiVa vaginal rejuvenation, and more.

Hormone Imbalance and You: What You Should Know as a Woman About Symptoms and Treatment

Inside of a woman’s body, there is a delicate balance of hormonal functions taking place every day. When these hormonal cycles are disrupted, it can cause all kinds of problems. It can make you feel really unwell and even change important bodily abilities, like the natural ability to fight cancer and stay well. Here is a look at some of the symptoms of hormonal imbalance and how treatment works.

Symptoms of Hormone Imbalance

Hormone imbalance seems that it should be easy to spot, but the truth is, the problem can show itself in a host of different ways. Therefore, sometimes issues with hormonal imbalance can be diagnosed as something else. A few of the most common symptoms of hormonal imbalance for a woman include:

  • Irregular periods, problems with fertility, and unpredictable monthly cycles
  • Unexplainable weight loss or weight gain
  • Feelings of anxiety, depression, and mood swings
  • Changes in sleep patterns or insomnia, as well as fatigue
  • Thinning hair or abnormal hair loss
  • Low libido or lack of interest in sex

Risks of Hormonal Imbalance

Not only will your hormones being off-kilter cause you to feel pretty bad, your hormones not being as they should can put you at risk of developing certain other medical conditions. For example, hormonal imbalance can cause you to be more at risk for:

  • Diabetes
  • Cancer
  • Heart Disease
  • Obesity

Treatment for Hormonal Imbalance

Thankfully, you do not have to deal with hormonal imbalance and suffer from the symptoms indefinitely. There are all kinds of reasons why your hormones may be fluctuating, depleted, or not present enough in your body. Your doctor may recommend some form of synthetic hormone replacement therapy, but in a lot of cases, there are underlying issues that can be treated to bring your hormones back into balance. Contact us at Avant Gynecology for more information.

Avant Gynecology serves patients at two locations: Piedmont Hospital in Buckhead and Northside Hospital. Our mission at Avant Gynecology is to provide exceptional, compassionate care to women at every stage of their lives. Our providers strive to be at the forefront of knowledge and skill in the fields of women’s health and gynecologic surgery, so our patients can get the best care possible. Avant provides state-of-the-art surgery services and comprehensive gynecologic care, such as annual exams, diagnostic and screening tests; a full range of contraceptive options; specialized services such as bio-identical hormone therapy, hormone pellets, ThermiVa vaginal rejuvenation, and more.

Why Annual Gynecologic Exams Are Necessary

As a woman, there are all kinds of things you should be doing to lay a healthy foundation for your health, and your annual gynecologic exam is definitely one of them. Yet, many women forgo this annual exam with the assumption that it is not as important as other care. Here is a look at why annual gynecologic exams are one of the most important things you can do for your body and your health.

Annual Exams Help Prevent A Missed or A Late Diagnosis

Women face a few health concerns that are specific to their gender, and many of these health concerns are more treatable if they are caught early. For example, when ovarian cancer is caught in its earliest stages, 94 percent of patients diagnosed live well beyond five years after diagnosis because the cancer is not as likely to spread. Having an annual gynecological exam means a condition is less likely to go unnoticed, giving you a better chance at recovery.

Annual Exams Are Beneficial to Your Health

Annual exams with your gynecologist can help ensure you are keeping close tabs on the overall health of your entire body. During your annual exam, a general assessment will be done of many bodily processes, all of which can be indicative of other problems. People who have regular bouts of high blood glucose levels tend to have more issues with things like incontinence or yeast infections, for example. With your annual gynecological exam, you are taking steps to benefit the health of the rest of your body, not just your reproductive system.

In the end, annual gynecological exams are an important part of your healthcare plan as a female. If you would like to schedule an exam, reach out to us at Avant Gynecology for an appointment today.

Avant Gynecology serves patients at two locations: Piedmont Hospital in Buckhead and Northside Hospital. Our mission at Avant Gynecology is to provide exceptional, compassionate care to women at every stage of their lives. Our providers strive to be at the forefront of knowledge and skill in the fields of women’s health and gynecologic surgery, so our patients can get the best care possible. Avant provides state-of-the-art surgery services and comprehensive gynecologic care, such as annual exams, diagnostic and screening tests; a full range of contraceptive options; specialized services such as bio-identical hormone therapy, hormone pellets, ThermiVa vaginal rejuvenation, and more.