Blog for North Pointe OB/GYN – Page 5 – Obstetrical and Gynecology Services in Cumming, Georgia

The Link Between Gynecological Health and Mental Health

Posted on July 6, 2023

Women’s health encompasses more than just physical well-being; it also includes mental and emotional aspects. The intricate relationship between gynecological health and mental health is often underestimated but plays a crucial role in overall wellness. In this blog post, we will explore the connection between gynecological health and mental health, and discuss strategies to promote mental well-being among women. At North Pointe OB/GYN, we believe that a holistic approach to women’s health is essential for achieving optimal well-being.

The Gynecological Health-Mental Health Connection

There’s no question that hormones and the associated conditions of women’s health can impact how you feel about yourself and your outlook on life.

Hormonal Influences

Hormonal changes throughout a woman’s life can significantly impact her mental health. Puberty, the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause are all phases accompanied by hormonal shifts that can affect mood, emotions, and overall mental well-being.

Reproductive Challenges

Women facing infertility, pregnancy loss, or difficulties with conception may experience increased stress, anxiety, and depression. These challenges can have a profound impact on mental health, underscoring the importance of emotional support and counseling during these times.

Menopause and Mood Changes

Menopause is a transitional phase accompanied by a decline in reproductive hormones. Fluctuating hormone levels during menopause can contribute to mood swings, irritability, anxiety, and even depression. Recognizing and addressing these symptoms is vital to maintaining mental well-being during this phase of life.

Gynecological Disorders

Certain gynecological conditions, such as endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and chronic pelvic pain, can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life. Chronic pain, discomfort, and the challenges of managing these conditions can contribute to emotional distress and mental health issues.

Strategies for Promoting Mental Health

At North Pointe OB/GYN, we value the following strategies to promote optimal emotional and mental health in our female patients:

Open Communication

Encouraging open and honest communication between patients and healthcare providers fosters a supportive environment. It allows women to express their concerns, fears, and emotions, leading to personalized care that addresses both physical and mental health needs.

Routine Screening

Incorporating mental health screenings as a standard part of gynecological visits can help identify potential mental health issues early on. Regular assessments can prompt timely interventions and referrals to mental health professionals when necessary.

Collaborative Care

Collaborating with mental health specialists, such as therapists, counselors, or psychiatrists, can provide comprehensive care to women with gynecological health concerns. This interdisciplinary approach addresses both the physical and emotional components, ensuring holistic support.

Education and Empowerment

Educating women about the link between gynecological health and mental health empowers them to recognize and address potential mental health challenges. Promoting self-care practices, stress management techniques, and healthy lifestyle habits can enhance overall well-being.

Support Groups and Resources

Offering support groups or connecting patients to relevant community resources can provide a sense of community and validation. Knowing they are not alone in their experiences can alleviate feelings of isolation and improve mental resilience.

See Your Gyno and Protect Your Mental Health

Promoting mental health alongside gynecological care is crucial for women’s overall well-being. Understanding the intricate connection between gynecological health and mental health allows healthcare providers to offer comprehensive support to women at every stage of life.

At North Pointe OB/GYN, we prioritize a holistic approach, recognizing that addressing mental health concerns is an integral part of providing excellent care. By fostering open communication, routine screenings, collaborative care, and empowering education, we strive to support women’s mental well-being as they navigate their unique gynecological health journey.

Understanding Your Gestational Diabetes Diagnosis

Posted on June 28, 2023

If you are pregnant, you likely have a lot on your mind – but diabetes may not be one of them. A diagnosis of gestational diabetes may alarm you, but it is not uncommon. The CDC reports that as much as 6% to 9% of pregnant women develop gestational diabetes. At North Pointe OB/GYN we want expectant mothers to understand this condition and why it’s important to manage it properly. Here’s a closer look at what it means to be diagnosed with gestational diabetes. We will explore the condition, its potential risks, and the steps you can take to ensure a healthy pregnancy and delivery.

What is Gestational Diabetes?

Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy, typically diagnosed around the 24th to 28th week. It is characterized by high blood sugar levels that develop due to hormonal changes and increased insulin resistance. Unlike other forms of diabetes, gestational diabetes usually resolves after childbirth. However, it requires careful management during pregnancy to minimize potential complications for both the mother and baby.

Potential Risks and Complications

When gestational diabetes is not properly managed, it can lead to various risks and complications. These include an increased likelihood of high birth weight, premature birth, preeclampsia (high blood pressure during pregnancy), and the need for a cesarean delivery. Additionally, babies born to mothers with gestational diabetes are at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life. Understanding these risks can empower you to take proactive steps in managing your condition.

Lifestyle Modifications and Monitoring

Upon diagnosis, one of our Cumming physicians at North Point OB/GYN will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan. This typically involves making lifestyle modifications, such as adopting a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and monitoring blood sugar levels. It’s important to follow our recommendations closely to keep your blood sugar levels within a target range and ensure the well-being of both you and your baby.

Blood Sugar Monitoring and Insulin Therapy

Regular blood sugar monitoring is a crucial aspect of managing gestational diabetes. As your trusted obstetrician, we will guide you on how and when to monitor your blood sugar levels using a glucose meter. In some cases, lifestyle modifications alone may not be sufficient to control blood sugar levels, and insulin therapy may be recommended. If insulin therapy is prescribed, we will educate you on its safe and effective use during pregnancy.

Collaborative Care and Support

At North Pointe OB/GYN, we believe in providing comprehensive care and support for expectant mothers with gestational diabetes. Our team of experienced healthcare professionals will closely monitor your progress, offer guidance on managing your condition, and address any concerns you may have throughout your pregnancy journey. We understand the importance of a supportive environment and strive to empower you with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate gestational diabetes successfully.

Being diagnosed with gestational diabetes may initially bring uncertainty, but with the right support and management, you can have a healthy pregnancy and delivery. At North Pointe OB/GYN, we are committed to providing personalized care and support throughout your gestational diabetes journey. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and begin your path to a healthy pregnancy.

Understanding the BRCA Gene and What It Means for Breast Cancer

Posted on June 2, 2023

Breast cancer deserves to be taken seriously, regardless of whether or not you’ve been diagnosed. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide. It is the leading cause of cancer death among women globally, accounting for 6.9% of all cancer deaths. Fortunately, early detection through mammography and other screening methods can significantly increase the chances of successful treatment and survival.

At North Pointe OB/GYN in Cumming, we recognize the importance of breast cancer detection and prevention. In doing so, our physicians also realize the value of identifying a woman’s risk for breast cancer by testing for certain genetic gene mutations.

A family history of breast cancer and certain genetic mutations (such as BRCA1 and BRCA2) can increase a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer. Here is a closer look at the BRCA gene and what it can mean if you test positive.

What are BRCA Gene Variants?

BRCA1 and BRCA2 are genes that produce proteins that help to suppress the growth of tumors. When there are changes or mutations in these genes, they can increase the risk of developing certain cancers, particularly breast and ovarian cancers.

BRCA gene variants are changes or mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes that are associated with an increased risk of breast, ovarian, and other types of cancers. There are many different types of BRCA gene variants, some of which are classified as “pathogenic” or “likely pathogenic,” meaning they are more strongly associated with cancer risk.

Having a BRCA gene variant does not mean that you will definitely develop cancer, but it does increase the risk. Women with BRCA gene variants have a higher lifetime risk of developing breast and ovarian cancers compared to the general population.

At North Pointe OB/GYN, we recommend genetic testing to determine if a patient has a BRCA gene variant. This information can help guide medical management and screening recommendations, as well as inform decisions about risk-reducing surgeries or other preventive measures.

The Benefits of BRCA Gene Testing

Genetic testing and counseling for BRCA gene mutations and breast cancer can have many benefits, including:

Early detection: Knowing if you have a BRCA gene mutation can help you and your healthcare provider take steps to detect breast cancer earlier. This can improve your chances of successful treatment and survival.
Prevention: If you are found to have a BRCA gene mutation, you may be able to take steps to reduce your risk of developing breast cancer, such as undergoing risk-reducing surgery or increased surveillance.
Personalized treatment: If you are diagnosed with breast cancer and have a BRCA gene mutation, this information can help guide your treatment plan, as certain treatments may be more effective for BRCA-positive breast cancers.
Family planning: If you have a BRCA gene mutation, your family members may also be at increased risk of developing breast or ovarian cancer. Genetic testing can help them understand their risk and take steps to prevent or detect cancer earlier.
Peace of mind: For some individuals, knowing whether they have a BRCA gene mutation can provide peace of mind and reduce anxiety about their risk of developing breast cancer.

At North Pointe OB/GYN, we can help our patients understand their test results, the potential implications for themselves and their family members, and their options for managing their breast cancer risk.

Schedule Your Breast Cancer Screening

Regardless of whether or not you have the BRCA gene mutation, breast cancer screenings are a critical part of our women’s health care strategy at North Pointe OB/GYN. We conduct breast exams at your annual gynecology visits and recommend mammograms on a routine basis as the best way to detect breast cancer early. To learn more about your breast cancer risk, please call one of our Cumming physicians today.

When UTIs Become Frequent

Posted on May 22, 2023May 22, 2023

It is not hard to find a female patient who has suffered from a urinary tract infection. In fact, UTIs are quite common in women, with around 50-60% of women experiencing at least one UTI in their lifetime. Women are more prone to UTIs than men, in part because of the shorter distance between the urethra and the anus, which makes it easier for bacteria to enter the urinary tract.

While UTIs can be easily resolved with a course of antibiotic treatment, this type of infection can be disruptive and uncomfortable until it resides. If urinary tract infections occur frequently, they can even become a threat to your quality of life and relationships. At North Pointe OB/GYN, we want our patients to tell us about their struggle with urinary tract infections. Although this is a common problem for women, frequent UTIs can be a sign of something more serious, and they certain deserve proper treatment. Here’s a closer look at female urinary tract infections, including its symptoms and why you may be suffering more than other women.

What is a UTI?

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection that affects any part of the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. UTIs are typically caused by bacteria, such as E. coli, which enter the urinary system through the urethra and multiply in the bladder.

UTIs can be uncomfortable and can cause the following symptoms:

strong, persistent urge to urinate
a burning sensation when urinating
cloudy or strong-smelling urine
pelvic pain or pressure

Treating UTIs

UTIs can be treated with antibiotics, which means that you’ll need to let your physician know about your discomfort. At North Pointe OB/GYN, we will take a urine test to properly diagnose the bacteria in the infection so that we can prescribe the most effective antibiotic. It’s important to let us know as soon as possible if you suspect you have a UTI, as untreated infections can lead to more serious complications such as kidney damage.

Why Am I Getting UTIs so Often?

At North Pointe OB/GYN, we make it a priority to help patients determine what is causing their urinary problems and frequent infections, which can often be related to certain lifestyle habits that they can control.

Frequent UTIs can have a variety of causes, some of which may include:

Structural abnormalities: Structural abnormalities in the urinary tract, such as a blockage, can cause urine to back up and increase the risk of infection.

Compromised immune system: Individuals with a compromised immune system, such as those with HIV/AIDS, are more susceptible to UTIs.

Poor hygiene: Poor hygiene habits, such as wiping from back to front after using the toilet, can increase the risk of bacterial infection.

Sexual activity: Sexual activity can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract, increasing the risk of infection. Women who are sexually active are at higher risk for UTIs.

Menopause: Changes in estrogen levels during menopause can lead to changes in the urinary tract, increasing the risk of infection.

Use of certain contraceptives: The use of certain contraceptives, such as spermicides or diaphragms, can increase the risk of UTIs.

Urinary catheterization: People who require urinary catheterization may be at increased risk for UTIs due to the potential for bacteria to enter the urinary tract through the catheter.

Restore Urinary Comfort and Call Our Cumming UTI Doctors

Stop struggling in silence. We understand how painful and disruptive UTIs can be. We want to hear from you promptly at North Pointe OB/GYN if you have symptoms of a urinary tract infection and meet one of the following criteria:

You have had two or more UTIs in the past six months or three or more UTIs in the past year.
You have tried over-the-counter treatments for UTIs, such as cranberry juice or supplements, but the symptoms persist.
You are experiencing UTI symptoms during pregnancy.

Call our Cumming physicians who specialize in women’s health care to schedule your UTI exam and treatment.

Know These Warning Signs During Pregnancy

Posted on May 2, 2023

If you are newly pregnant, you can expect some significant changes in your body over the next nine months. If this is your first pregnancy, it may even be difficult to determine what symptoms are normal and what are not.

At North Pointe OB/GYN, we want our patients to have a smooth and healthy experience as an expectant mother. To this end, we welcome patients to call us at the first sign of concern. While it may be nothing to worry about, it can also be an early indicator of a pregnancy complication that we can treat before it produces irreversible consequences.

Time to Pack Your Bags?

Posted on April 12, 2023April 13, 2023

While you may not be packing for a fun vacation, packing your bag for your hospital delivery is still an exciting task for most pregnant women. It is a sign that you’ll meet your baby very soon. While packing your hospital bags shouldn’t be a major or taxing chore, it shouldn’t be left to the last minute. To keep it stress-free and fun, it is best to have your hospital bag ready to go by 36 weeks of pregnancy – just in case you go into labor early.

What to Plan For

There is nothing in your hospital bag that you absolutely NEED or must have to birth your baby. The doctor only needs you. However, bringing the right items from home can make your labor and delivery and overall hospital stay much more enjoyable. There may be some uncomfortable moments as well as long periods of waiting to plan for.

In general, we recommend that you plan for a hospital day of 2 to 3 days. Bring more than a purse but don’t haul your large suitcase. A simple weekend travel bag is ideal. You are not bringing everything; Instead, choose just the important items that can make you (and your baby’s) stay more pleasant.

A Checklist for Your Hospital Bag

At North Pointe OB/GYN, we want you to feel prepared and ready for labor – one of the most exciting moments of your life. Here are some helpful suggestions for what to pack in your hospital bag:

Personal Toiletries – toothbrush/toothpaste, face wash, body lotion.
Pads –about 5 super-absorbent sanitary pads.
Comfortable Clothing – 2-3 loose-fitting outfits (don’t assume you’ll be in your pre-pregnancy pants yet!)
Maternity/Nursing Bra and Extra Underwear
Nightgown/PJs – front-opening if you plan to breastfeed
Entertainment –books, electronic items, puzzles, magazines
Comfort Items – socks, cozy bathrobe, slippers, your favorite pillow
Snacks –non-perishable food like crackers, dried fruit or granola bars.
Baby Items and Clothes – “going home” outfit for baby and blanket/pacifier
Miscellaneous – spare charger, contact lens/glasses

It’s really never too early to pack your hospital bag. In fact, some women find that it helps them relax during the final weeks of pregnancy to know that things are “ready to go” at a moment’s notice. After all, we typically can’t predict the hour or day that your baby will decide to make its entrance! For more tip on preparing for your labor and delivery, please call our trusted team at North Pointe OB/GYN in Cumming.

Why Breastfeed?

Posted on March 21, 2023

Breastfeeding, also called nursing, is the CDC and pediatricians’ recommendation for how mothers should feed their babies throughout the first year of life. Although it’s the medical preference, it does not mean that breastfeeding is the only way to give your baby the nutrients he or she needs to thrive. Here’s a closer look at why physicians choose breastfeeding over formula feeding when there is a choice.

The Value of Colostrum

Colostrum is the highly-dense and nutrient-rich first-milk that comes from the breast immediately after the baby is born. You may not even realize your baby is getting anything from your breast during this stage, as this is before your full milk supply comes in. With its abundance of antibodies, this precious colostrum can boost your baby’s immune system within the first hour of his or her life!

Advantages of Breastfeeding for You and Your Baby

There are many reasons why physicians elect breastfeeding as the most preferred feeding choice for growing babies:

The nutrients in breastmilk are natural and bioavailable
It provides a tight-knit bonding experience for mother and baby
Breastmilk contains everything a baby needs for the first six months of life
Breastmilk changes composition as the baby grows to provide key nutrients each stage of development
It provides a convenient way to feed your baby anywhere and anytime
It can help the uterus to return to its pre-pregnancy size
It helps women lose their pregnancy weight

Don’t Be Hard on Yourself

It is common for breastfeeding to feel new, difficult and even slightly uncomfortably at the start. Not only will you learn your most comfortable and effective position for milk supply but your baby will also learn to latch better. Be patient – newborns can sense your stress!

If nursing your baby is a struggle or not an option at all, don’t be hard on yourself. Breastfeeding is not everyone. In fact, it is not always physically feasible to breastfeed. This can be due to your baby’s latch or sucking reflex, or the anatomy of your nipples. For some moms, it is necessary that other caregivers are available to feed the baby, which can make bottles and formula more convenient. In general, if breastfeeding is adding stress instead of taking it away for you and your baby, it may not be the right option.

We Are Here to Help

At North Point OB/GYN, we encourage new moms to try breastfeeding simply for the remarkable benefits it can give you and your new baby. We can even help you connect with a lactation consultant if you are having trouble in the beginning. However, it is not the only way to provide strong nutrients to your baby, and breastfeeding should never be done out of guilt or shame. If you have questions, concerns, or want help breastfeeding, contact our Cumming practice to learn more. We don’t stop caring for you once your baby is born.

No More Kids Doesn’t Mean No More Gynecologist

Posted on March 3, 2023

While you likely established a close relationship with your OB/GYN during your pregnancy and childbearing stage of life, you may be tempted to abandon this physician when you are done having kids. This is an unfortunate mistake. Your gynecologist can do far more for you than care for you during pregnancy and childbirth. While it doesn’t have to be every month, there is significant value in maintaining routine visits with your OB/GYN after your childbearing years.

Here are some top reasons why it is still important to see your OB/GYN when you are no longer trying to get pregnant:

Your annual gynecologic exam matters to your overall health and wellness.

Your body doesn’t stop changing, even after having kids. An annual wellness visit with your gynecologist include specific evaluations that pertain to a woman’s health, such as pelvic exams, breast cancer screenings, PAP smears and much more. These appointments help you address small issues before they become major problems.

You can address concerns and issues about your sexual health.

Many women silently suffer from discomfort or dysfunction during sex. Your gynecologist, however, is the perfect one to discuss these concerns with. A gynecologist can not only help, but they understand that female sexuality can be influenced by physical, psychological, and social factors.

Your menstrual cycle continues.

There are typically many years between having kids and menopause, which means you’ll still be managing your menstrual cycle. This can become tricky in your late 30’s and 40’s as perimenopause symptoms develop. Your gyno can address issues like heavy flow, disruptive cramping and other period symptoms.

Birth control may be needed.

Just because your mind is made up to stop having kids, doesn’t mean your body is on board. If you are still physically able to get pregnant and sexually active, you’ll need to consider a birth control method. For women who are past childbearing, this can be a more long-term birth control solution. A gynecologist can present you with the pros and cons of each option.

Menopause management

Many women find that they need their gynecologist more than ever once they hit menopause, as this can be a turbulent phase of life with mood swings, hot flashes, low libido, weight gain. A gynecologist is specifically trained to help you navigate and lessen these menopause symptoms.

Just because you’ve sold your maternity clothes, doesn’t mean that you should forget your OB/GYN. At North Pointe OB/GYN, we have plenty to offer in terms of your health, well-being and quality of life as a woman before, during and after childbearing years.

What About Perimenopause?

Posted on February 24, 2023February 24, 2023

We all know menopause as that dreaded stage of life when wacky hormones bring hot flashes, mood swings and weight gain as our menstrual period comes to an end. But what about the time period leading up to menopause? Perimenopause may be less talked about, but it is a stage of life that can be equally frustrating and disrupted by hormone fluctuations.

Perimenopause refers to the time in which a woman’s body makes its natural transition toward permanent infertility (menopause). Women go through perimenopause at different ages, but the most common time is around the early 40s. The level of estrogen rises and falls unevenly during perimenopause causing the menstrual cycles to lengthen or shorten and to become heavier or lighter. Many women also experience symptoms similar to menopause, such as hot flashes, sleep problems and vaginal dryness. Unfortunately, this phase can last longer than you want it to.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, “the average length of perimenopause is about four years. Some people may only be in this stage for a few months, while others will be in this transition phase for more than four years.” Once it has been more than 12 months since your last monthly period, you can consider yourself out of perimenopause.

You Can Still Get Treatment

Just because you are not in full blown menopause, doesn’t mean you don’t qualify for treatment. As your trusted physicians at North Pointe OB/GYN, we understand the setbacks of menopause as well as the frustrations of perimenopause that lead up to this stage of life. This transition phase can be difficult to manage on your own, especially if you are not expecting it at such an early age. Some women experience the onset of perimenopause in their 30’s!

Women typically notice a change in their menstrual cycles or length of periods when perimenopause begins. The following are considered common warning signs that you may be in the inevitable stage of perimenopause:

Irregular periods
Hot flashes and sleep problems
Mood changes
Vaginal and bladder problems
Decreasing fertility
Changes in sexual function
Loss of bone
Changing cholesterol levels

Depending on your tolerance for hormone replacement, we can recommend conventional menopause therapy as well as holistic therapies such as lifestyle adjustments and supplements to manage your symptoms. Call North Point OB/GYN today to book your consult in Cumming. We believe in a better quality of life – despite your changing hormones.

What Happens to Blood Pressure During Pregnancy

Posted on February 7, 2023

It’s no surprise that pregnancy causes changes throughout the body. While most of these changes are healthy and necessary, there may also be some changes that need attention. It is critical that you attend your regularly scheduled prenatal visits to ensure unhealthy body changes don’t go unnoticed and cause harm to your unborn baby. One of the concerns that your doctor will monitor closely throughout your prenatal care is your blood pressure.

As your heart is working overtime to support the growth of a fetus, it is understandable that your blood pressure may change a bit during pregnancy. During the first two trimesters, it is not uncommon for your blood pressure to drop. This is due to released hormones in early pregnancy that relax blood vessels. Blood pressure can also be lower than normal during these initial weeks due to dehydration, or when an expectant mom has not yet increased her water intake to suitable levels.

By the time the third trimester begins, however, your blood pressure may swing to be higher than normal instead of lower. At this point, your body is producing an extra pint of blood to support the pregnancy so it can naturally increase. Healthy blood pressure is measured at 120/80 mm Hg or below. When it’s elevated beyond these measurements, it is considered hypertension (or high blood pressure). High blood pressure is not ideal for any patient, but especially those that are pregnant.

While not all forms of hypertension during pregnancy are cause for serious concern, it is important to let your OB manage your condition. Gestational hypertension is temporary and may not be noticeable. However, it does put you at risk for preeclampsia, a serious complication of high blood pressure during pregnancy.

Symptoms of Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia typically develops after 20 weeks of pregnancy and is marked by the following symptoms or warning signs:

Headaches
Nausea
Pain in your upper abdomen
Poor liver function
Protein in your urine
Shortness of breath
Sudden weight gain
Swelling in your hands or feet
Vision changes
Vomiting

Why is Preeclampsia Serious?

Preeclampsia can be life-threatening for both mother and baby! This type of high blood pressure can cause damage to the mother’s organs as well as low birth weight, premature birth and a higher risk of infection for the baby.

What is your risk factor for high blood pressure during pregnancy? We can help you at North Pointe OB/GYN. Our Cumming obstetricians can provide complete prenatal care that also includes managing your gestational hypertension or preeclampsia. Our highest priority is keeping mothers and babies safe.