Though a stroll through the feminine product aisle at your favorite drugstore (or a quick internet search of “feminine hygiene”) will bombard you with flowery products claiming to be just the thing to keep your delicate areas clean, are they really necessary?

Our short answer is no, but there are several reasons why. The biggest one is that in most cases, a wide range of vaginal scents are normal and healthy. The vagina and the area around it (groin skin, vulva, etc.) contain important bacteria that are a part of our healthy microbiome, as well as special sweat glands. These all produce a natural odor that may become stronger at times, such as during heavy exercise, during your menstrual period, pregnancy, or after sex.

But if you rely on heavily scented feminine washes to freshen up, those chemicals and perfumes can make you prone to problems like urinary and yeast infections, or may otherwise exacerbate the problem you’re trying to solve.

Though you do want to keep your nether regions clean, there are great ways to do so without harmfully disrupting the ongoing cleansing process your vagina does marvelously all by itself.

Let It Breathe

Air flow and avoiding dampness are two ways to keep your vagina fresh without touching a bar of soap. Contrary to popular style trends, Lycra and spandex undergarments, yoga pants, or even leggings can trap organisms and produce more odor. More breathable cotton undergarments — or nothing at all, particularly at night while sleeping — will give everything down there a breath of fresh air.

Also be sure to remove wet or damp undergarments, workout wear, or a bathing suit as soon as possible. And avoid wearing panty liners or pads unless absolutely necessary, as these trap more moisture next to the skin and can increase odor.

Keep It On the Outside

Cleaning your vagina should be a gentle process for the outer area you can easily reach. Inserting douches, other feminine hygiene products, or even soapy fingers, can cause an overproduction of harmful bacteria which could actually increase strong odor. If you already have an infection, douches can push these germs further up inside to your uterus, ovaries or fallopian tubes. Yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, and pelvic inflammatory disease are all possible results of douching.

Trust that your body is cleaning things exactly as needed all on its own, without the introduction of a foreign fluid.

A Simple Splash May Be Safest

The truth is, in many cases plain old water usually does the best job of keeping your vulva clean. Water is non-acidic, and doesn’t contain ingredients that could disrupt the pH balance inside your body or kill off the good bacteria that maintains vaginal harmony. Though using a gentle soap during your regular bathing is fine, if you’re self-conscious about your smell, try a splash of cool water and then gently dry things off.

When to See a Doctor

“In general, odors that indicate a problem should be easy to identify,” assures Covington Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner, Kerry Dewberry. “They’re the ones that make your face scrunch up or remind you of something dead. And if there’s a serious underlying cause, you’ll often be experiencing other symptoms, as well.”

Irritation, itching, burning, or pain could indicate bacterial vaginitis, a yeast infection, or possibly  trichomoniasis, a common sexually transmitted infection. There’s a small chance that abnormal vaginal order could also indicate vaginal or cervical cancer, but your regular annual OBGYN exams will be one of the ways you’re already monitoring for that.

Whatever the cause, if you’ve got an alarming odor or any other source of concern, don’t hesitate to reach out to us online. We also welcome your direct calls and questions at (770) 385-8954.

Condoms are a great go-to to protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections and guard against pregnancy — if you use them perfectly every single time you have sex. But if starting a family isn’t one of your current goals, there are several different types of birth control that will last longer than a lovemaking session.

Tried and True: The IUD

As the name suggests, the Intrauterine Device (or IUD) is a small device implanted in your uterus. There, the T-shaped piece of plastic alters the way that sperm and eggs move through your body for as long as it remains in place, blocking a pregnancy from happening.

Originally conceived in 1909, the IUD was a controversial development, as birth control was considered a taboo topic. It gained public popularity during the 1960s and 70s, and today over a hundred million women rely on its effectiveness.

Now there are two types of IUDs: hormonal and non-hormonal. Kyleena, Skyla, Mirena, and Liletta are hormonal IUDs, all of which work by releasing the hormone levonorgestrel. Copper — or Paragard — IUDs are wrapped with a copper wire that creates an environment that is toxic to sperm, rendering them ineffective. Though both types work similarly, copper IUDs have a longer lifetime than their hormonal counterparts, lasting 10-12 years rather than three to seven.

The process of getting an IUD — and removing it when the time comes — can be more painful than other options, but is very similar to a Pap smear or cervical biopsy. There are few risks, and side effects after the procedure are usually limited to mild spotting and cramping.

Longer-term side effects from hormonal IUDs can include headaches, nausea, breast tenderness, mood changes, and potential formation of ovarian cysts. Copper IUDs may cause heavier bleeding and cramping pain during your period. However, many patients with IUDs find these symptoms improve over time.

A Modern Advance: Arm Implants

Approved by the FDA in 1990, the progestin implant is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy for three years. A thin plastic rod is inserted into your arm with a needle, and once in place it then steadily releases the hormone progestin into your body. This keeps eggs from leaving your ovaries, and also inhibits sperm from reaching the egg in the first place.

Though many patients are unaware of this method, the progestin implant allows for a good deal of freedom and is highly effective. The few drawbacks to take into account are that the procedure can be more costly, and the implants can increase irregular bleeding.

More Surgical Solutions

If the idea of implanting anything in your body makes you uncomfortable, but you want long-term protection, there are surgical options available. Tubal ligation (“getting your tubes tied”) permanently closes fallopian tubes and prevents eggs from entering the uterus. A vasectomy is the male version: a surgical procedure that incises the small tubes within the scrotum, so that sperm can’t leave the body.

Your choice of birth control can help prevent ovarian cancer later in life!  Tubal ligation can be done by removing the entire tube, and this reduces ovarian cancer later in life for all women including high-risk women who have a family history of ovarian and breast cancers or who have a gene which puts them at risk for these cancers.  For some high-risk women, removal of both the ovaries and tubes is recommended, so it you have a high-risk gene, your care must be individualized.

Before considering surgical options be certain you truly don’t want to become a parent. Reversing either of these procedures is costly and, in many cases, doesn’t actually work.

In addition to the above methods, the birth control pill, patch, and vaginal ring remain alternate options. There are pros and cons for each individual, so talk to a reproductive specialist at Covington Women’s Health Specialists to find the right fit for your lifestyle.

Oral contraceptives reduce the risk ovarian cancer all women including women who have a gene which puts them at risk for these cancers.  The pill can also reduce a woman’s risk of uterine cancer as well as having other non-contraceptive benefits.  If you are considering using oral contraceptives, please have an examination by a physician.  The popularity of on-line birth control availability omits an important step in safeguarding your health.  The providers at Covington Women’s Health Specialists provide comprehensive Gynecologic care and will be able to answer all your questions.

We provide care for each stage of your gynecological health, from puberty to menopause and everything in between. Call for an appointment at (770) 385-8954, or request one online.

The body changes in tremendous ways throughout pregnancy. Some you may already know to expect, such as nausea during the first trimester and stretch marks as your body and skin expand to make room for your growing baby. Several other adjustments may come as a surprise however.

Here are a few developments that are completely normal for expecting mothers.

Bodily Changes to Expect During Pregnancy

Fatigue

Several factors contribute to exhaustion during pregnancy. For starters, you can blame hormone changes, since increased progesterone can cause tiredness. Your body is also busy making more nutrients for your baby, which can make you feel fatigued. Tiredness may taper off during the second trimester, only to return in the third, when many expecting mothers experience sleep challenges caused by discomfort.

Heartburn

Indigestion can develop during pregnancy, both due to hormonal changes and the fact that your baby may start pressing against your stomach. More frequent yet smaller meals can help, as can staying upright during and after eating.

Constipation

Another gastrointestinal (GI) symptom associated with pregnancy is constipation. Digestion slows down during pregnancy, so your body has more time to absorb nutrients, but it can cause uncomfortable symptoms like painful stools and hemorrhoids. Eat a fiber-rich diet, drink plenty of water, and continue to stay active to address this unpleasant issue.

Lightheadedness

A dizzy or lightheaded feeling can occur during pregnancy for several reasons. For one, your blood pressure is lower. For another, the expanding uterus can put more pressure on major veins. Some pregnant women also experience low blood sugar and low iron levels. As your pregnancy progresses, stand up slowly, eat frequent meals, and avoid getting overheated to reduce dizzy spells. If dizziness persists, be sure to contact our office promptly.

Frequent Urination

Increased hormone levels will send you to the restroom more often during pregnancy. Although frustrating, this is a normal symptom. Empty your bladder as needed to prevent complications like urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Varicose Veins

Since the expanding uterus and added weight can put more pressure on your veins, those in your legs, genital area, and rectum may become enlarged. Varicose veins are typically a harmless symptom. But if the vein feels warm to the touch, hard, or painful, seek immediate help, as these signs could indicate a more serious issue.

Vaginal Changes

Many women experience different vaginal symptoms throughout pregnancy, including increased discharge and changes in sensitivity. Spotting can also occur. If you’re concerned about any of these sometimes-surprising changes, don’t hesitate to call us.

Breast Changes

As the body prepares to produce milk, breasts may feel tender and swollen. Small bumps can also form around your nipples, and you may begin to leak colostrum — a yellowish, nutrient-dense, early form of breast milk — as you approach delivery.

If you’re uncertain about any pregnancy symptom you’re experiencing, we want to hear from you. Our caring providers are here to support you through every step of your pregnancy journey, from your very first visit to postpartum care. Find out more about our comprehensive maternity care online or schedule an appointment by calling 770-385-8954.

Season’s Greetings!

We will be closed on the following dates to celebrate the holidays:

• Friday, December 23rd

• Monday, December 26th

• Tuesday, December 27th

• Friday, December 30th

• Monday, January 2nd

We will be open on Wednesday, December 28th, and Thursday, December 29th.

Appointments for the rest of the year will be determined by the level of urgency. For any non-emergencies, appointments can wait until after the holidays.

If you feel the need to speak to a nurse, please call our office phone number during business hours.

An on-call provider is available when our offices are closed through our answering service if you have a concern that is not life-threatening.

If you have a medical emergency, please call 911.

Striking a balance between managing our responsibilities and practicing self-care can seem like an impossible feat. If you feel like simply tending to your work and family life is overwhelming in itself, you’re not alone. While traditional gender roles are fading, women are tasked with most of the childcare and household chores.  Living with COVID-19 has been identified as a setback to household chore sharing!  Women feel more stressed out than men.

Prioritizing mental and physical wellness might seem like adding more items to an ever-growing to-do list. But striking a balance in which you meet your basic physical and mental needs could actually help everything else fall into place more easily. Here’s what you should know about caring for yourself with a busy schedule.

Stress Factors for Women

Women and men have many of the same stressors. There are family roles to play, personal and professional roles to fulfill, financial responsibilities and social demands to keep up with. But there are some specific stressors which apply specifically to women. For example, women tend to be primary caregivers not only for children but also aging parents. And menstrual cycles or menopause symptoms may also add discomfort that compounds stress.

In the midst of all these factors, mental and physical wellness often take a backseat. And the issue tends to be worse for mothers: a 2019 study showed that 66% of women with children feel overwhelmed, compared to 53% of fathers. Yet, men are more likely to make time for self-care activities.

Regardless of whether or not you have children (or plan to), your mental and physical needs matter. Engaging in basic self-care also helps control stress, improve energy, and keep you healthy overall. Fortunately, you don’t need to overhaul your routine to incorporate mental and physical wellness into your day-to-day life.

Realistic Ways to Balance Your Mental & Physical Needs

Get Creative with Exercise

The current Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services call for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week for adults. That sounds like a lot, but amounts to roughly 20 minutes a day for seven days, or 30 minutes a day for five.

When your schedule is packed and you’re already running on empty, setting the alarm earlier to hit the gym may not be realistic, but there are still simple ways to squeeze in physical activity. If you can’t get time away from your children, try activities with them like tag, dancing in your living room, stroller walks, or family bike rides to get your blood flowing. If you’re always at your desk, consider an under-desk pedal exerciser or treadmill desk. These devices vary in price, but your health is an investment worth making.

Prioritize Your Mental Health

There are many ways in which mental and physical wellness are linked, and both need to be tended to in a balanced way. But incorporating mental health habits can be challenging, because efforts are often less tangible than those associated with physical health.

So, what fills your cup? For some women, it may be reading a book. For others, it could be listening to a podcast and drawing a bath. Others may enjoy talking to a friend or doing something creative. If you’re not sure what helps you feel mentally rejuvenated, it’s probably because you haven’t had enough time to explore the possibilities lately.

Your mental health care plan doesn’t have to be complicated. Exercising mental self-care can begin in small ways, including just taking a few minutes each day to pause and reflect. Try to spend 10 to 15 minutes doing simple stretches, sitting outside without your phone, or doing a guided meditation. Eventually, you’ll identify and find time for more involved self-care activities. For now, these grounding exercises may be enough to deliver health-boosting benefits like reducing cortisol and lowering blood pressure.

Preventive women’s wellness is another important element of your overall physical and mental health — and a time when you can prioritize both. If you’re due for an exam, make an appointment with one of our caring providers by calling (770) 385-8954 or schedule your visit online.