Most Common Health Issues Women Face in Their 40s

At Avant Gynecology, we are committed to ensuring you are healthy, no matter your age. That being said, age plays a major role in which health issues you face. That’s why we’ve developed a blog series focusing on the different phases of a woman’s life and the health concerns she might encounter.

We started off discussing the most common health issues women face in their 20s, as well as their 30s. Now, we’re discussing the most common health issues women face in their 40s.

Common Health Problems You Might Face in Your 40s

Now more than ever, scheduling regular appointments with your doctors is vital for remaining as healthy as possible. If you’re in this age group, keep that in mind as you continue to read about these common issues. 

  • Deteriorating Vision: Annual eye exams are often one yearly check up people don’t take as seriously as others. However, when you’re a woman in your 40s, your vision may not be as good as it once was. Many women this age commonly report reaching for reading glasses or experiencing common eye issues, such as dry eye, that never appeared before. So, if it’s been a while since you visited your eye doctor, it’s time to schedule that appointment. 
  • Increased Risk for Cancers and Other Major Health Issues: Unfortunately, as women continue to age, their risk for many serious diseases increases. Examples of this include colon cancer, breast cancer, diabetes, and skin cancer. With all of these issues, prevention and early detection are vital. That’s why it’s important to stay on top of regular screenings and ask your primary care doctor if you should be considering any new health screenings due to your age.
  • Unintended Pregnancy: While the dangers of unprotected sex might be more advertized towards younger generations, having an accidental pregnancy or catching STDs is still very likely to happen to women in their 40s. If you’re not hoping to make any additions to your family, be mindful and intentional about the birth control methods you use. Speak with your primary care doctor or gynecologist about what option might be best for you. 
  • Changes in Bone Density: When you grow older, your body slowly begins to change and deteriorate. This is especially true for your bones during this age. That’s why ensuring you spend time getting plenty of Vitamin D, taking extra supplements to help fill in what has disappeared, and exercising regularly is essential for keeping your bones happy and healthy. Doing so will lead to fewer health issues down the road. 
  • Shifts in Lifestyle Habits: You’re not as young as you once were, and, while that may not be impacting much right now, you may notice subtle shifts in your lifestyle habits. For example, maybe you’re not as sexually active as you once were. Or maybe you don’t workout as much or eat as healthily as you did before. Keeping track of how things are changing for you—and if you enjoy those changes—is extremely important. If you want to have more intimate time with your partner, you might consider going to sexual therapy. Or, if your BMI is going past what you’re comfortable with, it might be time to find a new favorite exercise. Either way, staying vigilant to your habits is key to remaining happy and healthy. 

It’s important to note that this list is just a starting point for ensuring you’re as healthy as possible in this phase of life. Develop a close relationship with your general practitioner and/or gynecologist to ensure you’ve set up a wellness plan that’s right for you.

If you’re in need of guidance on the most common health issues women face in their 40s, reach out to the experts at Avant Gynecology by clicking here or by giving us a call at 404-352-2850.

A Message to Our Patients about COVID-19 (Coronavirus)

The well-being and safety of our patients is our highest priority. Please be assured that we are following all guidelines and precautions suggested by the Center for Disease Control & Prevention, and will continue to monitor new information as it becomes available.

  • If you are experiencing any symptoms of respiratory illness or cold symptoms (fever, cough, sore throat or shortness of breath) on the day of your appointment, or have been feeling ill during the week leading up to your appointment, PLEASE DO NOT COME INTO THE OFFICE!
  • If you have any known exposure or suspected exposure to someone that is infected with COVID-19, PLEASE DO NOT COME INTO THE OFFICE!
  • In these cases, please call the office during normal office hours, and we will happily reschedule you to a more appropriate time. If you feel that the reason for your visit demands urgent attention, please call the office to discuss alternative methods of receiving care.

What to expect on the day of your appointment:

  • Please do not bring family or friends (including children) to your appointment during this time. Of course, exceptions will be made for a family member that is accompanying a patient that is also a minor.
  • All patients will be screened for fever and symptoms of illness upon arrival prior to entering the waiting room and asked to reschedule if an illness is detected.
  • Staff members will be wearing masks, and we encourage all patients to wear masks as well if possible.
  • We ask that you thoroughly wash your hands for 20 seconds both before and after your office visit to help protect both you and our staff members.
  • The staff has been instructed to refrain from close personal greetings such as handshakes and hugs.

Our office practices universal healthcare precautions for the prevention of infection in our treatment rooms and common areas. We will be continually wiping down doorknobs, treatment surfaces and countertops between patients.

We appreciate your trust in allowing us to partner with you in your healthcare and thank you for your assistance in helping us decrease the risk of transmission of the virus. We look forward to seeing you at your next appointment and will be happy to answer any questions during our office hours.

Facts about COVID 19.

How Stressful Times Can Impact Your Pregnancy

We all experience stress during our lives. It could be directly related to your pregnancy, such as general fear of the birthing process, or other life-related issues, like work or relationships. Certainly right now, in the midst of a global health pandemic, many expecting mothers have lots of additional stress piling up.

But how does that impact the nine months of development during pregnancy? The experts at Avant Gynecology are discussing how stressful times can impact your baby or pregnancy.

Stress and Pregnancy: How Stressful Times Can Impact Your Pregnancy

Just like a lot of stress can physically impact us through headaches or issues sleeping, it can also impact your pregnancy. Here are the biggest ways this happens:

  • Unfortunately, a study has proven that women who experience extreme stress, such as through a traumatic event, are more likely to have a miscarriage.
  • In the same vein, preterm birth is more likely for women who experience large amounts of stress during their pregnancy.
  • For women who already have high blood pressure, experiencing large amounts of stress during pregnancy only makes things worse. While stress won’t cause issues like preeclampsia or long-term hypertension, it can cause spikes in those problems.
  • Sometimes, stress can impact your baby later down the road, such as increasing the risk of mental issues like ADHD and even depression.

COVID-19 Specific Impacts

Right now, we’re all going through an extremely stressful time with the coronavirus epidemic. Many people have health-related questions regarding their pregnancy and their newborn baby, and rightfully so. While scientists and the world are still learning about how this virus impacts everyone, here are some things that we know to be true about how the coronavirus affects motherhood:

  • Most pregnant women are more susceptible to diseases, especially respiratory ones. It’s imperative that pregnant women follow strict quarantine requirements.
  • Those who are pregnant should continue to follow hygiene best practices, such as washing your hands and not touching your face. There are no additional necessary steps pregnant women need to take to remain safe at this time.
  • It is unclear if a pregnant woman will pass down COVID-19 to her baby. This is still being studied.
  • Be prepared for possible changes during your birthing experience. Most hospitals are currently overloaded with treating coronavirus patients, and they don’t want to put you or your newborn in the path of the virus. This fact may change which room you’re put in, how the doctors look when assisting you through your birth, or other minor details. Speak with your provider to discuss how things might impact your birth.
  • There is no proof that breast milk carries the virus, so women are allowed to continue to breastfeed their babies.
  • Don’t be afraid to touch your baby during this time! Just plan to wash your hands before and after, which you were probably already doing in the first place.

We Know It’s Scary, Here’s What You Can Do

In addition to following the COVID-19 prevention recommendations above, there are things pregnant women can do to help alleviate stress and its related health effects:

  • Stay in touch with your healthcare team. That may include your OBGYN, general practitioner, and even your psychologist or psychiatry. These experts will be able to make clear the things you can and can’t control during this uncertain time. If you are not currently seeing any mental health professionals but struggling with lots of stress, there are many great telemedicine options available.
  • Talk with your partner or support system. Similarly, it’s important to lean on your partner and friends to get the emotional support team you need and deserve. Don’t be afraid to discuss your worries or fears with them.
  • Find dedicated time each day to participate in stress-relieving activities. These activities can look different for each person. Perhaps you enjoy prenatal yoga and meditation, or maybe watching the latest episode of your favorite TV show does the trick. No matter what you do, be sure to check-in with yourself before, during, and after to see if your activity has given you the relief you need. You can even check your heart rate as a physician indicator of this.

If you have further questions about how stressful times can impact your baby or pregnancy, reach out to the experts at Avant Gynecology by clicking here or by giving us a call at 404-352-2850.

Most Common Health Issues Women Face in their 30s

At Avant Gynecology, we are committed to ensuring you are healthy, no matter your age. That being said, age plays a major role in which health issues you face. That’s why we’ve developed a blog series focusing on the different phases of a woman’s life and the health concerns they might encounter.

We started off discussing the most common health issues women face in their 20s. Now, we’re discussing the most common health issues women face in their 30s.

Common Health Problems You Might Face in Your 30s

 

The theme of being a woman in your 30s is starting healthy habits. Whether that’s by initiating a relationship with your gynecologist or by taking a critical look at your diet, spend this decade setting yourself up for success later down the road.

  • Pregnancy and Infertility: For a majority of women, your 30s is a fantastic time to grow your family. However, if this doesn’t pertain to you, we understand! Not everyone wants to have babies, and all family planning decisions are valid. However, if you do have plans to get pregnant, it’s a fantastic idea to develop a strong relationship with your OBGYN. This way, you can work with a medical professional to discover your risks and concerns when it comes to childbearing. Infertility and miscarriages are extremely common, with about 12 to 13 women out of every 100 couples struggling to get pregnant. Know that you may end up facing these issues, but, if you do, you’re not alone.
    • Also, understand that those who are pregnant have to deal with a large list of medical issues, such as:
      • Depression, both during and after being pregnant
      • Anxiety
      • High blood pressure
      • Iron deficiency
      • Diabetes
    • That’s why it’s great to have a trusted OBGYN on your side as you start your journey to becoming parents. They will assist you in navigating through any of the above health issues.
  • Weight Gain: At this phase of life, it’s very common to experience weight gain. This can be attributed to a wide variety of things, including a slow down in metabolism or a shift in your lifestyle. First off, know that weight gain is not inherently a bad thing! The most important thing is to keep an eye on other health indicators and have open conversations with your physician team. Overall, just like in your 20s, it’s great to maintain some level of physical activity each week (a combination of cardio and strength training is ideal) to ensure you keep your body operating as efficiently as possible. Similarly, continue to keep an eye on what you’re eating to ensure you’re getting enough healthy fruits, veggies, whole grains, and proteins.
  • Increased Risk for Cancers and Major Medical Issues: Just as it was important to set up regular testing for things like STDs and skin cancer in your 20s, it’s just as vital to keep up those healthy habits during your 30s. As you continue to age, the risk you have for major types of cancers and medical issues only continues to grow. So, keep a vigilant eye to live the longest and healthiest life possible. This is especially true for your breasts and any lumps that might appear.

It’s important to note that this list is just a starting point for ensuring you’re as healthy as possible in this phase of life. Develop a close relationship with your general practitioner and/or gynecologist to ensure you’ve set up a wellness plan that’s right for you.

If you’re in need of guidance on the most common health issues women face in their 30s, reach out to the experts at Avant Gynecology by clicking here or by giving us a call at 404-352-2850.

Common Health Issues Women Face in their 20s

At Avant Gynecology, we are committed to ensuring you are healthy, no matter your age. That being said, age plays a major role in which health issues you face. That’s why we’ve developed a blog series focusing on the different phases of a woman’s life and the health concerns they might encounter.

To start, we’re diving into the most common health issues women face in their 20s. If you are currently of that age or know someone who is, keep reading below.

Common Health Problems You Might Face in Your 20’s

The key to being a healthy 20-something? Be proactive about your health! This is the best time in your life to be prepared and to set yourself up for success in the future by making wise decisions today.

  • Melanoma and Skin Cancer: Especially if you spent your childhood running around outside and soaking up the sun, melanoma is a huge risk you need to watch out for in your 20s. Start setting up yearly skin checks with your dermatologist to keep an eye on spots that could be melanoma. Additionally, do monthly checks on your own. Look for changing moles or weird spots on your skin. Plus, protect yourself now by applying sunscreen every day.
  • Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Statistics show that those in their 20’s are most at risk of getting STIs. In fact, one in two sexually active people will catch one before they’re 25. If you are sexually active, you need to plan for regular visits to your gynecologist to test for STIs, including having a pap smear. In addition, practice safe sex by using condoms if you are unsure if your partner has been tested themselves.
  • Diabetes: If you spend your 20’s not eating healthy and not exercising, then you are putting yourself at major risk for developing diabetes. This chronic disease would absolutely change your life, so do your best to set up healthy habits now. Eat more lean protein, fruits and veggies, and whole grains versus processed food or red meat. Exercise regularly. If you’re just starting out, find a sport or activity that you enjoy that keeps you active. That could be dancing, hiking, swimming, or more. Whatever you do, make sure it gets you up on your feet and moving.
  • Mental Health Issues: While many people think being in your 20’s is one of the best times of your life, it can also be one of the most stressful and mentally challenging. Because of this, anxiety and depression are an extremely common illness many people in their 20s face. If you are already experiencing mental health issues, know you’re not alone and there are ways to help. Talk with your general practitioner about what you’re feeling to see if a referral to a psychologist or psychiatrist is right for you.

It’s important to note that this list is just a starting point for ensuring you’re as healthy as possible in this phase of life. Develop a close relationship with your general practitioner and/or gynecologist to ensure you’ve set up a wellness plan that’s right for you. If you’re in need of guidance on common health issues women face in their 20s, reach out to the experts at Avant Gynecology by clicking here or by giving us a call at 404-352-2850.

Best Vitamins for Women

Whether you’re watching yet another TV ad about vitamins or walking down the pharmacy aisle at the grocery store, the vitamin options these days seem countless and never-ending. With such an excess of options, it can be difficult to decipher if vitamins are actually beneficial, and, if so, which ones are best for you?

We’re here to cut through the noise! Read below to hear from the experts at Avant Gynecology on this important topic.

Want to Take Vitamins? Here are the Best Options

While it’s recommended to try your best to get all of the needed nutrients from your diet, it can sometimes be impossible to do so while balancing work, family, social life, hobbies, and healthy living. Fill your plate with fresh fruits and veggies, proteins, and grains and you won’t have a need for vitamins. But if you know that just doesn’t happen as much as you’d like, here are some of the best vitamins to reach for.

  • NatureMade Multi For Her: If you know you’re struggling to get in your needed iron and calcium, this is a fantastic option to help.
  • Alive! Women’s Gummy Vitamins: Be careful when choosing gummy vitamins. Many have unnecessary sugar and food coloring added. This option, however, does not have those additives, and also has a boost of many necessary nutrients.
  • One a Day Women’s Formula: A simple and easy way to get all of those nutrients you may be missing out on.
  • Core Daily-1 Multivitamins for Women 50+: If you’re looking for vitamins and you’re further along in age, this is a fantastic way to get what you may be missing in your diet. This brand focuses on jamming their tablets with the necessary items that can boost an elderly person’s body and their digestive tract, such as calcium and vitamin B12.
  • mykind Organics Vitamins: Hoping to find a totally organic option? This brand is perfect for you! They offer generic once-daily options as well as prenatal-specific vitamins as well.

What You Should Get From Your Vitamins

Still not sure what you need to focus on when it comes to vitamins? Here’s an easy guide of the nutrients most people do not get enough of in their daily diet.

  • Calcium
  • Vitamin D
  • Iron
  • Folate
  • Magnesium
  • Omega-3 fatty acids often found in fish oil
  • Vitamin B12

Have any more questions about the best vitamins for women? Often the most beneficial first step you can take is going over your diet and lifestyle with your physician, who can then recommend the most useful vitamin options for you. Reach out to the experts at Avant Gynecology by clicking here or by giving us a call at 404-352-2850.

Yes, You Can Get An Infection Down There: What to Know About Vaginal Infections

Burning, itching, and discomfort. No one wants to experience those sensations anywhere, let alone in our most sensitive areas. But, for the 200,000 women who have vaginal infections in the United States each year, this is an uncomfortable reality.

Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about vaginal infections, their causes, and how to treat them.

What are Vaginal Infections?

Vaginal infections are defined as the infection or inflammation of the vagina and any of its parts. Some of the most common vaginal infections are yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, STDs such as chlamydia or gonorrhea, and even allergies.

What Causes Vaginal Infections?

The causes can vary dramatically depending on what type of infection you have. However, here are the most common:

  • Sexual intercourse with someone who has an STD.
  • Overgrowth of bacteria or fungi.
  • Reduced level of hormones, leading to vaginal thinness and dryness.
  • Soaps or other beauty products that can irritate the skin in that area.
  • Tight clothing.

What Are the Symptoms?

Much like causes, the symptoms can vary greatly from situation to situation. It can also be tricky to distinguish between normal vaginal characteristics and those that indicate an infection.

For instance, did you know that some discharge from your vagina is totally normal—and is, in fact, the vagina’s way of cleaning itself? That being said, unusual types of vaginal discharge can be a sign something is wrong.

Other signs include:

  • Burning sensation when peeing
  • Discomfort during sex
  • Itching
  • Vaginal discharge that has changed in color, weight, or smell
  • Burning
  • Bleeding
  • Soreness
  • Swelling

How Are Vaginal Infections Treated?

The good news is that there are several different methods for treatment, so suffering does not have to last long. There are a handful of creams, tablets, and gels that a doctor can prescribe to immediately relieve the symptoms described above and begin to treat or manage the infection. The specific type of treatment prescribed will depend on the infection type, patient history, and any pre-existing conditions.

If you have any more questions or would like to discuss treatment options, contact the experts at Avant Gynecology by clicking here or give us a call at 404-352-2850.

Everything You Need to Know About Tubal Ligation, AKA “Getting Your Tubes Tied”

If your family is already complete with how many kids you always envisioned, you may want to make absolutely certain that you won’t be having any more. Birth control methods like the pill or an IUD may not cut it at this stage in your life.

That’s where tubal ligation comes in. Keep reading below to learn more about this procedure from the experts at Avant Gynecology. 

What is Tubal Ligation?

You’ve likely heard the expression, “getting your tubes tied.” That’s in reference to this form of birth control, also called tubal sterilization. It occurs when the fallopian tubes are either blocked, tied, or cut to permanently prevent pregnancy. 

How does this work? Having a tubal ligation or sterilization blocks an egg from traveling to meet the sperm and also prevents the sperm from traveling to meet the egg, which is the process that fertilizes the egg, often resulting in the creation of a fetus. This is done by cutting off their means of transportation: the fallopian tubes. 

In most cases, tubal ligation is not able to be reversed. Sometimes it is possible to try, but that requires major surgery and the outcome is not guaranteed. 

What’s the Procedure Like?

This procedure is performed under general anesthesia, so patients are not awake during any steps of this process. But, for those of you who are curious, here are the steps of tubal ligation:

  • Either a needle is inserted or an incision is made around the belly button. 
  • The abdomen is inflated with gas. 
  • A laparoscope is put into the abdomen. 
  • A second small incision is added so that the doctor can work through the abdominal wall. 
  • The fallopian tubes are sealed. 
  • The patient is allowed to leave the hospital a few hours after the surgery.

However, these steps might look different if you are getting this procedure done right after, or even during, childbirth. 

When should I consider getting Tubal Ligation?

As we mentioned above, tubal ligation is best for those who are very serious about never having children. While some versions of this surgery are less permanent, it’s not as easy to undo their effects as it is to remove an IUD or stop other forms of birth control. 

Additionally, those who have diabetes, a history of pelvic or abdominal conditions, or obesity should consider other options. Those characteristics lead to a greater risk of complications after the surgery.  

If you have any more questions about tubal ligation or would like to learn more about your options, reach out to the experts at Avant Gynecology by clicking here or by giving us a call at 404-352-2850. 

Can’t Hold It In? What Your Overactive Bladder Could Mean

The sudden need to use the restroom is a common experience among women. This issue, called overactive bladder (OAB), happens to about 17% of women over the age of 18. That’s millions of women feeling like they can’t hold it in, regularly having accidents, or being ruled by proximity to the closest bathroom.

But what exactly is OAB? And how can you manage it? Keep reading to learn all about this type of urinary incontinence that affects so many women.

What Causes Overactive Bladder?

OAB happens when the muscles in the bladder contract without intention, even when the amount of urine in your system is small. There are many things that could lead to this happening. While some examples are more common than others, here is a list of many causes that can lead to overactive bladder:

  • Urinary tract infections
  • Tumors or bladder stones
  • Certain medications
  • Inability to empty the bladder completely
  • Obstructed bladder
  • Inability to walk fully or troubles with using the restroom yourself
  • Large consumption of caffeine and/or alcohol
  • Declining cognitive function
  • Diabetes
  • Neurological disorders

Who Is At Risk for Overactive Bladder?

There are several things that can lead women being at risk for OAB. Those are:

  • Overweight
  • Multiple pregnancies
  • Genetic diseases like diabetes
  • Illnesses such as Alzheimer’s disease
  • Advanced age
  • Bowel control issues

However, just like with many medical diseases, healthy habits can keep OAB at bay. Here are some habits you can pick up today to lower your risk, especially if you have any of the conditions above:

  • Limit caffeine and alcohol
  • No smoking
  • Perform strengthening kegel exercises
  • Manage illnesses that might make OAB more commonplace, such as diabetes
  • Have a healthy weight
  • Eat a nutritious diet
  • Maintain regular exercise

If you have any more questions about overactive bladder, the experts at Avant Gynecology are here to help. Give us a call at 404-352-2850 or click here to schedule an appointment.

Pap Smears: The Best Tool in the Fight Against Cervical Cancer

Every year, it’s estimated that more than 13,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer in the United States. Though that number can be alarming to some, it may be comforting to know that the number of women who die from cervical cancer is declining. Why? Pap smears. This typing of testing allows doctors to detect cervical cancer early, giving women more of a fighting chance to get rid of cancer in their bodies.

But if you’ve never had a pap smear done before, you could be anxious about what the process entails. Keep reading below to learn all about it from our experts.

When Do Women Receive Pap Smears?

It is recommended by medical professionals for women ages 21 to 65 to receive a pap smear every three years. However, there are many risk factors that might require a woman to get testing done more frequently:

  • Weakened immune system.
  • HIV infections.
  • Family history of cervical cancer.
  • Previous positive test results.

What Happens When Receiving a Pap Smear?

Though it only takes a few minutes, many women commonly describe the testing as uncomfortable. Here are the steps that happen when receiving a pap smear:

  • You will undress from the bottom down or be completely undressed.
  • Your doctor will ask you to lay down on your back with your knees bent and feet in the stirrups.
  • An instrument called the speculum will be inserted into your vagina. This is where the discomfort comes from: the pressure that keeps your vaginal walls apart.
  • A sample of your cells will be taken using a small brush and a spatula.
  • The cells will be tested to see if you have normal results or abnormal results, which could be a detection of cervical cancer.

You might experience some light spotting that day after receiving the test. But, other than that, you will be able to go about your day as usual.

Do I Need to Do Anything to Prepare?

Not really, though some doctors do recommend no sexual activity a few days before in case that might skew results. It’s also recommended to try and not schedule a pap smear during your period.

If you have any further questions regarding pap smears or would like to schedule yours, reach out to the expert gynecologists at Avant Gynecology by either clicking here or giving us a call at 404-352-2850.