Tips to Improve Your Bladder Health

Like every part of your body, your bladder experiences natural changes as you age. But intimidating issues like incontinence or infections aren’t inevitable. In many cases, these problems can be reduced or prevented with some simple lifestyle changes.

We always advise making an appointment to investigate persistent bladder issues, but here are some ways you can start prioritizing bladder health now.

Try Pelvic Floor Exercises

Pelvic floor exercises can prevent or control bladder issues like urinary incontinence. The pelvic floor is a muscle group that supports several important organs, including your bladder, uterus, and small intestine. Like other muscle groups, your pelvic floor can be strengthened with regular exercise. Try a combination of Kegels, squats, and bridges for better urinary health now, and to prevent issues like pelvic floor prolapse down the road.

Choose Cotton

Undergarments made of nylon and other synesthetic materials may be more likely to trap moisture, which can invite bacteria. Since UTIs are usually caused by bacteria, breathable fabrics are best. You can’t go wrong with cotton — this soft, absorbent fabric promotes airflow to keep moisture at bay.

Pee After Sex

Even when using protection, sometimes intercourse can introduce bacteria into your urinary system. One simple way to flush it out is to urinate after having sex. While this isn’t a foolproof way to prevent UTIs altogether, many women who practice the habit report that it’s helpful.

Empty Your Bladder Fully

It can be tempting to rush your bathroom break and get back to your day quickly, but doing so can backfire. “Stopping your urine stream too soon allows it to make its way back into the bladder,” explains Dr. Obiamaka Mora, “where it can introduce bacteria.” Even when you think you’re done, give yourself several seconds to make sure your bladder is truly empty.

Watch How You Wipe

Again, it all comes down to bacteria. Wiping from back to front exposes your urethra to bacteria like E. coli, so always wipe from front to back after a bowel movement or urinating.

Stay Active

In addition to pelvic floor exercises, other types of physical activity could help to strengthen your bladder. The American Urological Association recommends low-impact exercises like yoga, bicycling, and swimming, which can tone your core and minimize bladder pressure. Be cautious about the physical activity you focus on to protect your bladder, however, as heavy lifting and high-impact exercises (like jumping), could put excess pressure on the organ, and may also be more likely to cause leakage.

Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated keeps your bladder healthy by diluting urine and clearing out bacteria. Aim for at least 50 ounces of water daily, and feel free to add cranberry juice into your rotation. While it won’t cure an existing UTI, cranberry juice can prevent E. coli bacteria from taking hold and causing an infection in the first place.

Avoid Smoking

You already know that smoking sharply increases your risk of lung cancer, but it’s also linked to an increased risk of bladder cancer. In fact, up to 50% of bladder tumors are attributed to smoking. Nonsmokers should continue to steer clear of it, while current smokers can find quitting resources through the American Lung Association.

Know When to Get Help

If your bladder issues are interfering with your quality of life, it’s time to talk to your gynecologist and health provider. An overactive bladder, for instance, can lead to the accidental release of urine, frequent urination, and a sudden need to urinate that may be difficult to control. Fortunately, there are several effective treatments available for this and other bladder issues.

Our experts are well-versed in diagnosing and treating bladder issues, so don’t hesitate to contact our team with any bathroom troubles. We can help pinpoint the cause(s) of incontinence or other bladder issues and develop a treatment plan to best fit your needs. To schedule an appointment, call 404-352-2850 or arrange one online.

Drs. Lynley S. Durett and Obiamaka Mora share expert insight on women’s health issues on “The Weekly Check-up”

Drs. Lynley S. Durrett and Obiamaka Mora from Avant Gynecology made an appearance on “The Weekly Check-up”, a healthcare talk radio show, aired on September 10 on 95.5 WSB, Atlanta’s News & Talk. Alongside host Ashley Frasca, they delved into crucial topics like annual exams, menopause, abnormal menstrual cycles, hormone therapy options, and more.

As board-certified specialists in obstetrics and gynecology, Drs. Durrett and Mora shared insights into the most frequent reasons patients end up in their operating rooms. These typically include issues like abnormal bleeding, fibroids, endometriosis, adenomyosis, polyps, or leakage problems. They stressed the importance of regular consultations with your gynecologist, as these visits can detect cervical changes that may require treatment, potentially avoiding the need for surgery.

Fibroids, in particular, have become increasingly prevalent among women. Dr. Mora highlighted that one in four women are affected by fibroids. These growths originate from a single muscle cell in the uterus that undergoes excessive growth, forming knots. Although fibroids can lead to pain or bleeding, many women experience no symptoms at all.

“A lot of times when Dr. Durrett and I have diagnosed ladies with fibroids; they didn’t necessarily have specific symptoms other than detecting their uterus was enlarged during a pelvic exam,” explained Dr. Mora. “It doesn’t necessarily mean that if you have them something needs to be done. But it’s important to keep track of them.”

Annual check-ups were stressed as essential in avoiding critical health problems. Dr. Mora stated, “We’ve seen cases where women come in with many enlarged fibroids and we start to run out of minimally invasive options that would have been available if they came in sooner.”

A vital component of routine health check-ups is the mammogram, a screening procedure that plays a crucial role in detecting breast cancer at an early stage. Drs. Durrett and Mora highly recommend that women make an appointment for a mammogram at the age of 40. Dr. Mora expanded on this point, highlighting a positive trend in healthcare coverage. She stated, “Most insurance companies are now providing coverage for annual mammograms. Many if not all insurance providers have expanded their coverage to include pap smears as well.”

Incontinence was another common concern discussed during the show. Avant Gynecology offers in-office testing, including a detailed questionnaire and physical examination, to identify the suitable treatments.

“A lot of people are embarrassed to ask about this, so we try to bring it up because we don’t want people to think that leakage is normal. Even when you get older it’s not normal to have leakage issues,” said Dr. Mora.

During the show, the physicians responded to callers’ questions regarding menstrual cycles, the appropriate age to take daughters to the gynecologist, and the necessity of pap smears after a hysterectomy. Dr. Durrett recommended that girls see a gynecologist by age 18 or when they become sexually active. However, if a teenager exhibits irregular menstrual cycle issues, an earlier gynecology visit may be warranted.

“It’s common for the first couple of years of menstruation to have irregular cycles. However, if your daughter’s periods are excessive and causing her to pass out or miss school due to pain, it’s important for them to see a gynecologist,” said Dr. Durrett.

Hormone therapies, especially for managing menopausal symptoms, have gained popularity over the years. Many women find these therapies effective for alleviating hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and mood changes. Dr. Mora explained, “Menopause is almost the same as if you are going through puberty. You are experiencing similar changes. Are they normal? Yes. Is it something that can kill someone? No. But if it’s something that is significantly affecting your life, it is important that it be addressed.”

For women experiencing menopausal symptoms, hormone pellets have become a convenient option. These rice grain-sized pellets provide medication delivery without the need for daily administration. Dr. Durrett noted, “It’s especially beneficial for post-hysterectomy patients. However, it’s crucial to maintain regular follow-ups and lab tests when using hormone pellets.”

Dr. Durrett and Dr. Mora talked about robotic surgeries, mammograms, and reiterated the significance of yearly exams and preventive care. Dr. Durrett concluded, “Establishing a relationship with a regular physician is so important. While many patients come in with their own concerns, your regular doctor may notice changes you haven’t. With a consistent physician-patient relationship, you’re more likely to receive personalized, high-quality care.”

Listen to the show below to learn more about these and other topics. To schedule an appointment with an expert gynecologist at Avant Gynecology, call 404-352-2850.

Rare Gynecological Cancers: Granulosa Cell Tumors and Thecoma

Gynecological cancers are those that affect the female reproductive system. Certain types (such as cervical cancer) are more common than others, so there tends to be greater awareness about them.

In honor of Gynecological Cancer Awareness Month this September, we’re spreading the word about two lesser-known gynecological cancers: granulosa cell tumors and thecoma.

What Are Granulosa Cell Tumors?

A granulosa cell tumor (GCT) is a type of mass that develops in your ovary. These tumors tend to be slow-growing and can develop at any age, including during childhood, but the average age for diagnosis is 50. GCTs are uncommon, accounting for just 5% of all ovarian tumors.

While GCTs are typically cancerous, they’re often detected early, when treatment outcomes are favorable. Symptoms of GCTs can include abnormal menstrual cycles, including triggering early puberty in young girls or bleeding after menopause. Breast soreness and abdominal swelling may also occur.

Because GCTs develop in your ovaries — the organs responsible for producing estrogen — they often lead to abnormally high estrogen levels. As with many types of cancer, the root cause of GCTs is still largely unknown. Oftentimes, people who develop this cancer have a mutation in a specific gene, FOXL2, which may allow the tumors to develop.

The majority of GCTs are caught and diagnosed when the cancer is contained only in the ovaries (Stage 1). “Typically, treatment involves the removal of the tumor while attempting to keep remaining healthy tissue intact,” says Dr. Lynley Durrett. “Though complete removal of your ovaries may be recommended if you aren’t planning to have children in the future.” For GCTs that have spread beyond the ovaries, further treatment may be recommended, such as radiation, hormone therapy, or chemotherapy.

What Is Thecoma?

Ovarian thecomas are similar to GCTs in that they share several symptoms, and are also considered rare. Representing just .05 to 1% of ovarian tumors, thecomas are masses that develop in your ovaries. Like GCTs, they can cause an increase in estrogen and may lead to abnormal bleeding. The majority of these tumors are diagnosed in postmenopausal women.

While many thecomas are benign (noncancerous), cancerous thecomas can occasionally occur. A fifth of patients diagnosed with a thecoma may also develop endometrial carcinoma, a common form of uterine cancer. For this reason, and to address the uncomfortable symptoms they can produce, thecomas are typically removed using the same approach as GCTs. If you are past childbearing years or don’t wish to become pregnant, your gynecologist may recommend removing your ovaries entirely. If you’re diagnosed with a thecoma and wish to preserve your fertility, removal of the tumor alone may be possible.]

While both of these gynecological cancers are rare, others are less so. Any time you experience unfamiliar symptoms that could indicate a reproductive health issue, such as persistent or uncommon pelvic pain, or abnormal bleeding, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with one of our providers beyond your regularly scheduled Pap smear. There are many possible causes of these symptoms, and our team can get to the bottom of them through diagnostic measures like blood panels and imaging tests.

Whether you’re due for your annual exam or you have something you’d like to discuss with our team, schedule an appointment online or by calling (404) 352-2850.

Hormonal Health in Women: Balancing Hormones and Navigating Changes

From puberty through menopause, it can feel as if your hormones are always fluctuating. And in truth, thanks to factors like sleep, digestion, and stress, they are indeed surging and dropping every day.

But in addition to these normal fluctuations, changes like pregnancy and aging can also alter hormone levels significantly, leading to noticeable (and often frustrating) symptoms. In honor of National Women’s Day on August 9th, here’s what you should know about how hormonal changes can affect you.

Hormones in Your Body

Hormones are the chemicals in your body produced by glands in your endocrine system. Once they’re released into your bloodstream, they act as messengers to regulate functions throughout your body, eliciting specific reactions to maintain your health. The endocrine system produces at least 50 known hormones, but estrogen and progesterone are two specific to women that change significantly throughout your lifespan and lead to the most noteworthy symptoms.

How Hormones Change with Age

Many phases of a woman’s life are defined by hormone levels. For example, hormones are responsible for regulating your menstrual cycle, starting during puberty and ending once you go through menopause.

Each cycle, your hormones can trigger a host of uncomfortable symptoms that fall under the umbrella term premenstrual syndrome (PMS), including anxiety, bloating, constipation, headaches, mood changes, and cramping. Hormone levels also manifest in pronounced changes during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and menopause.

Hormone Imbalances Signs & Causes

“With so many hormones in your body and so many important jobs for them to do, it’s possible that something can go awry with these generally friendly chemical messengers,” says Dr. Obiamaka Mora. The potential causes for these changes span far and wide, from autoimmune conditions to stress and certain medications.

A hormonal imbalance is diagnosed when there’s too little or too much of a specific hormone present. Even a minor variation in levels can produce symptoms. For example, you could have a hormone imbalance if you have:

  • Irregular periods
  • Brain fog
  • Gastrointestinal distress
  • Mood changes
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Changes in libido
  • Infertility
  • Weight fluctuations

There are many other possible symptoms that may indicate a hormonal imbalance, however. Some of these are temporary — such as those experienced during pregnancy and menopause —  while others are chronic. The good news is that no matter the root cause, there are ways to control the effects of hormone changes, and your gynecologist can aid you in getting to the bottom of the issue.

Navigating Hormonal Changes

Identifying the best way to address the symptoms of your hormonal changes will depend on several factors, including their root cause and severity. For example, when it comes to treating PMS, lifestyle changes like stress management and taking supplemental vitamins could be enough to manage your hormone fluctuations effectively. For more severe symptoms, prescription medications like hormonal birth control or antidepressants may be in order.

During Pregnancy

In all of these cases, collaborating with your gynecologist can help find solutions. But addressing hormone changes during pregnancy especially calls for direct involvement with your obstetrician, as it’s important to make sure any treatments you pursue are safe for you and your growing baby. Eating well, getting regular exercise and ample sleep, plus stress reducing measures like massage and yoga can help manage both the physical and emotional toll of hormone changes during pregnancy.

During Menopause

Menopause can trigger an especially difficult range of symptoms. During this natural stage of life, your ovaries stop producing most of their estrogen, which not only ceases your menstrual cycle but can lead to issues like vaginal dryness, breast tenderness, night sweats, sleep challenges, and hot flashes, to name a few.

Sometimes, treating symptoms individually can be effective. Using a lubricant can prevent uncomfortable sex, for instance, while therapy and other stress relieving tactics can help with mood changes. But if menopause begins to negatively impact your overall quality of life, there’s no need to suffer through. Your gynecologist can discuss treatment to control your symptoms and deliver relief.

If you’re concerned about a possible hormone imbalance, allow our compassionate team to help. Our providers can discuss symptoms and individualized approaches to help you feel your best, so schedule an appointment online or call us directly at 404-352-2850.

Two physicians from Avant Gynecology receive Top Doctors honors in Atlanta magazine

Drs. Lynley S. Durrett and Obiamaka Mora appear in Atlanta magazine’s July issue

Two physicians from Avant Gynecology rank among metro Atlanta’s Top Doctors in Atlanta magazine’s July issue. Avant Gynecology physicians consistently appear on the list, which annually honors notable physicians among the area’s healthcare landscape. This year’s list features Drs. Lynley S. Durrett and Obiamaka Mora.

Atlanta magazine creates its list from a roster of doctors selected by Professional Research Service (PRS). More than 1,000 physicians appear on the publication’s 2023 list. These doctors represent the following counties in Georgia: Carroll, Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, Coweta, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Hall, Henry, and Rockdale. PRS creates its list by conducting an online peer-review survey of physicians in the metro Atlanta area. Physicians are asked to nominate fellow physicians they deem the best in their field of practice. Many votes were cast honoring excellence in all fields of medicine. The featured doctors were screened and selected through the verification of licensing and review of any infractions through applicable boards, agencies, and rating services.

“We have an unwavering dedication to our patients, providing the best possible women’s health services we can,” says Dr. Lynley Durrett. “We believe this recognition is a testament to that, and it inspires us to continue to take our commitment to the next level.”

To schedule an appointment call 404-352-2850 or visit AvantGynecology.com.

Dr. Lynley S. Durrett is board certified in obstetrics and gynecology and is a fellow of the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (FACOG). Durrett’s professional expertise includes minimally invasive and robotic surgery techniques with interests in vaginal prolapse treatment, pelvic reconstructive surgery, symptomatic fibroid management, endometriosis management, managing urologic conditions, and bio-identical hormone replacement therapy. Dr. Durrett has been selected by her peers every year as one of Atlanta magazine’s Top Doctors since 2010.

Dr. Obiamaka Mora is board certified in the practice of obstetrics and gynecology and a fellow of the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (FACOG). Her professional expertise includes minimally invasive and robotic surgery techniques with interests in pelvic reconstructive surgery, symptomatic fibroid management, endometriosis management, and bio-identical hormone replacement therapy. Dr. Mora is a member of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the American Medical Association (AMA), the American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists (AAGL), and the Georgia OB/GYN Society.

Avant Gynecology provides exceptional, compassionate care to women at every stage of their lives while staying at the forefront of knowledge and skill in the fields of women’s health and gynecologic surgery. The practice’s physicians offer a full range of contraceptive options; specialized services such as bio-identical hormone therapy, hormone pellets, and ThermiVa vaginal rejuvenation; as well as minimally invasive and robot-assisted surgical procedures. Serving generations of women for more than 40 years, Avant Gynecology serves patients at Piedmont Hospital in Buckhead. Go to AvantGynecology.com for daily updates.

Interviews are available upon request.

Two physicians from Avant Gynecology recognized as Atlanta’s Top Doctors in Modern Luxury Medicine + Doctors and The Atlantan magazines

Drs. Lynley S. Durrett and Obiamaka Mora receive this peer-driven honor

Two physicians from Avant Gynecology appear on the Atlanta’s Top Doctors list in the January issue of Modern Luxury Medicine + Doctors magazine and in the April issue of The Atlantan magazine. Drs. Lynley S. Durrett and Obiamaka Mora receive the honor, which annually recognizes notable physicians among the area’s healthcare landscape.

“Our compassion for our patients and our desire to offer exceptional care remain at the forefront of our mission,” says Dr. Lynley Durrett. “Receiving recognitions such as this one is a sign we’re meeting our goals and inspires us to go even further.”

Modern Luxury Medicine + Doctors and The Atlantan magazines use a database of top doctors compiled by Castle Connolly Medical Ltd., an established healthcare research company based in New York. Each physician included is chosen through peer nomination, research, and a stringent vetting process. The publications feature 1,371 Top Doctors and 44 Rising Stars representing the following counties: Bartow, Bibb, Cherokee, Clarke, Clayton, Cobb, Coweta, Dawson, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Floyd, Forsyth, Fulton, Greene, Gwinnett, Hall, Henry, Newton, Oconee, Paulding, Pickens, Rockdale, and Spalding.

To schedule an appointment call 404-352-2850 or visit AvantGynecology.com

Dr. Lynley S. Durrett is board certified in obstetrics and gynecology and is a fellow of the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (FACOG). Durrett’s professional expertise includes minimally invasive and robotic surgery techniques with interests in vaginal prolapse treatment, pelvic reconstructive surgery, symptomatic fibroid management, endometriosis management, managing urologic conditions, and bio-identical hormone replacement therapy. Dr. Durrett has been selected by her peers every year as one of Atlanta magazine’s “Top Docs” since 2010.

Dr. Obiamaka Mora is board certified in the practice of Obstetrics and Gynecology and a fellow of the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (FACOG). Her professional expertise includes minimally invasive and robotic surgery techniques with interests in pelvic reconstructive surgery, symptomatic fibroid management, endometriosis management, and bio-identical hormone replacement therapy. Dr. Mora is a member of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the American Medical Association (AMA), the American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists (AAGL), and the Georgia OB/GYN Society.

Avant Gynecology provides exceptional, compassionate care to women at every stage of their lives while staying at the forefront of knowledge and skill in the fields of women’s health and gynecologic surgery. The practice’s physicians offer a full range of contraceptive options; specialized services such as bio-identical hormone therapy, hormone pellets, and ThermiVa vaginal rejuvenation; as well as minimally invasive and robot-assisted surgical procedures. Serving generations of women for more than 40 years, Avant Gynecology serves patients at Piedmont Hospital in Buckhead. Go to AvantGynecology.com for daily updates.

Interviews are available upon request.

The Acessa Procedure: A Minimally Invasive Approach to Treating Fibroids

Fibroids are noncancerous growths made from muscle cells and connective tissues that develop in your uterus. Many women have them without developing any symptoms. Sometimes, though, the location or size of fibroids can lead to issues like heavy periods, pelvic pressure, bladder changes, and constipation. It’s also possible for fibroids to interfere with your ability to become pregnant. In any of these cases, it may make sense to have them removed.

If you’re experiencing fibroids that are interfering with your life, you could be a candidate for the Acessa procedure. Here’s a further look into this minimally invasive surgery offered by our providers here at Avant Gynecology.

What Is Acessa for Fibroid Removal?

Acessa is a procedure that uses Laparoscopic Radiofrequency Ablation (Lap-RFA) to remove fibroids. In this surgery, the doctor delivers heat directly into the fibroid via radiofrequency to destroy the tissue’s proteins. Doing this changes the consistency of the tissue from tough and hard to pliable, which greatly improves your negative symptoms. In some cases, this softer tissue may even be re-absorbed into your body. By treating the fibroid directly in this way, doctors are also able to prevent damage to surrounding tissue in your uterus or elsewhere.

Like many laparoscopic surgeries, the procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you won’t need to stay in the hospital overnight to recover. During Acessa, two incisions are created: one near your navel and another near your pubic area. Your doctor then inserts an ultrasound transducer through one incision to produce clear, quality images directly from the surface of your uterus. This allows them to pinpoint the treatment area with unique precision. Using this ultrasound guidance, they then insert a hand-held surgical tool through your second incision into the fibroid. This tool deploys an electrode array programmed to a target temperature that achieves the desired ablation to treat the fibroid.

What Are the Benefits of Acessa?

Recovery for the Acessa procedure is quick, and most patients experience minimal discomfort that can be alleviated with over-the-counter pain medications alone. Patients can also return to work and resume their normal activities within four to five days.

Though undergoing Acessa isn’t itself time-consuming, it may take some time to feel its full effects. On average, fibroids targeted by radiofrequency ablation shrink by 40% within three months, though it can take up to 12 months for some patients.

Acessa is different from other types of fibroid treatment in that the fibroids are targeted and shrunk without actually being removed. Traditionally, fibroids are removed from the uterus using myomectomy, a procedure that can be done laparoscopically, through your vagina (hysteroscopic myomectomy), or via traditional surgery through an incision made in your abdomen.

The size and location of your fibroids, as well as preexisting health factors, may determine your candidacy for Acessa or any other removal procedures. Our doctors can discuss options with you in detail and answer any questions you may have so you can make an informed decision.

Whether you have troublesome fibroids or there’s another aspect of women’s wellness you’d like to discuss, turn to our caring providers. From surgical care to routine exams and screenings, our compassionate team is dedicated to providing individualized care for all of our patients. Schedule an appointment by calling 404-352-2850 or schedule an appointment with us online.

The Basics of Ovarian Cysts

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form on your ovaries. Most types are harmless and go away on their own. Others are rare and may require treatment. Here’s a closer look into the different types of ovarian cysts, their causes, and treatment options.

Types of Ovarian Cysts

The most common types of ovarian cysts are known as functional cysts, which form throughout the menstrual cycle. There are two types of functional cysts: follicle cysts and corpus luteum cysts. Follicle cysts develop when the egg being released from your ovary grows in its surrounding follicle sac, but the follicle then fails to break open naturally to release the egg. In most cases, these cysts produce no symptoms and disappear on their own within three months.

Corpus luteum cysts develop when, after releasing its egg, the empty follicle sac fails to shrink back down to normal size. The sac fills up with fluid — which creates the cyst — but typically this type of cyst dissipates after several weeks.

Other less common but also benign types of ovarian cysts include endometriomas, which are caused by endometriosis, dermoids that develop from cells that are present from birth, or cystadenomas, a rare but potentially large type of cyst. It’s also possible to develop many cysts at once, which is a condition known as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).

Symptoms

Small ovarian cysts may not cause any symptoms. But larger ones can lead to issues like fluctuating pelvic pain, bloating, and pressure or heaviness in your abdominal region. Rarely, cysts can rupture, causing severe pain and pelvic bleeding. Large cysts can also lead to ovarian torsion, in which the ovary moves out of place and leads to painful ligament twisting. Regardless of the cause, should you experience sudden and intense pelvic pain, sometimes accompanied by vomiting or fever, seek immediate medical help.

Causes and Risk Factors

The primary cause of functional cysts is your menstrual cycle, though others can be caused by underlying conditions such as endometriosis or PCOS. There is some data that shows a genetic predisposition for some dermoid cysts, but experts have long wondered if other risk factors also contribute to their development.

While there is currently no evidence to indicate that diet can aid in treating existing cysts, some studies have established a link between dietary patterns and cyst development. Specifically, saturated fat, including that found in cheese and red meat, has been linked to an increase in cyst development, whereas green vegetables have been associated with a decreased risk. The type of cyst you have may help determine whether dietary changes will help or not. Eating small, frequent meals could help control cyst development as a line of defense for PCOS, for example.

Ultimately, the combined team of your family doctor and your gynecologist can make recommendations for diet and other lifestyle changes that may alleviate ovarian cysts.

Treatment

Treatment of an ovarian cyst will depend on its type and size. “Sometimes, watchful waiting is the best option,” says Dr. Lynley Durrett. “In this approach, you’ll receive routine ultrasounds to see if the cyst shrinks or disappears over time.”

Hormonal birth control could also be used to prevent further cysts from forming, though it won’t address a preexisting cyst. Surgical removal such as minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery may be recommended for a cyst that’s actively growing and causing discomfort.

If you suspect that you could have an ovarian cyst, or have other gynecological symptoms you’d like to discuss, schedule a visit with Avant Gynecology. Our compassionate clinicians are easy to reach by requesting an appointment online or calling 404-352-2850.

Modern Luxury Medicine + Doctors magazine recognizes two Avant Gynecology physicians among Castle Conolly’s Exceptional Women in Medicine 2023

Avant Gynecology is proud to announce that two of our physicians appear in the August issue of Modern Luxury Medicine + Doctors magazine among Castle Connolly’s Exceptional Women in Medicine for 2023.

Castle Connolly Top Doctors recognizes Drs. Lynley S. Durrett and Obiamaka Mora of Avant Gynecology for their exceptional leadership and commitment to their field.

The Exceptional Women in Medicine list is compiled through a rigorous selection process that includes peer nominations, extensive research, and evaluation by the Castle Connolly research team. In addition to meeting the criteria to be selected as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor, the 2023 Castle Connolly Exceptional Women in Medicine doctors also have additional qualifications, including contributions to healthcare through volunteer work, awards and honors, training at top institutions, contributions to research and academics, and innovations in their field of specialty.

We would like to honor our physicians who appear among Castle Connolly’s Exceptional Women in Medicine. This recognition is a testament to Avant Gynecology’s commitment to providing cutting-edge gynecological care.

Dr. Lynley S. Durrett is board certified in obstetrics and gynecology and is a fellow of the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (FACOG). Durrett’s professional expertise includes minimally invasive and robotic surgery techniques with interests in vaginal prolapse treatment, pelvic reconstructive surgery, symptomatic fibroid management, endometriosis management, managing urologic conditions, and bio-identical hormone replacement therapy. Dr. Durrett has been selected by her peers every year as one of Atlanta magazine’s Top Doctors since 2010.

Dr. Obiamaka Mora is board certified in the practice of obstetrics and gynecology and a fellow of the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (FACOG). Her professional expertise includes minimally invasive and robotic surgery techniques with interests in pelvic reconstructive surgery, symptomatic fibroid management, endometriosis management, and bio-identical hormone replacement therapy. Dr. Mora is a member of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the American Medical Association (AMA), the American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists (AAGL), and the Georgia OB/GYN Society.

Adenomyosis 101

There are many conditions that can affect the uterus. One lesser-known yet still fairly common disease is adenomyosis. Discover what the condition entails and how it’s treated below.

What Is Adenomyosis?

Adenomyosis occurs when tissue from the uterus lining grows through the uterine wall but still within the uterus itself. This can cause the uterus to become enlarged, sometimes increasing by double or triple its normal size. The new tissue growing into the muscular wall of the organ continues to act as normal uterine tissue, thickening then breaking down and bleeding during each menstrual cycle.

This is similar to what occurs in endometriosis, with the main difference being that in cases of endometriosis, uterine lining tissue grows outside of the uterus, typically around the fallopian tubes, ovaries, and other organs in the pelvis.

What Are the Symptoms?

Up to a third of people with adenomyosis won’t experience symptoms. For those that do, the symptoms can range in severity from mild to intense. If you have adenomyosis, you may experience painful menstrual cramps and heavy bleeding during periods, painful intercourse, pelvic pain, bloating, and abnormal periods.

What Causes Adenomyosis?

Researchers aren’t sure why some people experience adenomyosis and others don’t. Some theories suggest invasive tissue growth could result from operations performed on the uterus, such as C-sections. Others believe the condition may be a congenital anomaly, while another theory posits that exposure to increased estrogen for a long period of time may be the culprit.

Regardless of the possible causes, there are several factors that make you more likely to experience adenomyosis, including:

  • Having endometriosis
  • Having prior uterine surgeries, including fibroid removal or dilation and curettage
  • Having given birth more than once
  • Being between the ages of 40 and 50

How Is It Treated?

Adenomyosis can be diagnosed through physical exams and medical imaging, such as an ultrasound or MRI. Once the condition is confirmed, there are several treatment options our providers can discuss with you.

Hormone treatment

Hormonal birth control such as the pill or hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs) are often the first line of defense against adenomyosis. These medications can often help to control symptoms like heavy bleeding and cramping after several months.

Non-hormonal medication

If you prefer not to take hormonal birth control or need to avoid it for medical reasons, tranexamic acid may be an alternative to consider. This non-hormonal medication helps to control heavy bleeding and is taken only during your period.

Hysterectomy

While medication can help to control the symptoms of adenomyosis, a hysterectomy is the only way to stop the condition entirely. Though some women do experience symptom relief after menopause, when the symptoms begin to affect your quality of life or interfere with your normal activities, this surgical intervention may be worth considering.

In some cases, it may be possible to remove only the uterus, while other cases may call for the removal of both the uterus and cervix. Since this procedure removes the womb, it eliminates the ability to carry children, and should therefore only be considered by people who don’t wish to become pregnant in the future.

Depending on the nature of your condition, you may be able to have a hysterectomy performed laparoscopically, which involves only small incisions and a shorter recovery period.

If you’re experiencing heavy periods or any other women’s health issues, turn to Avant Gynecology for compassionate care. Our team offers a wide range of treatment options, including specialty services such as hormone therapy, surgical care, and office procedures. Request an appointment online or by calling 404-352-2850.