How to Track Your Period and Why It’s Important

We know your menstrual cycle can be both a blessing and a curse — sometimes literally. Pliny the Elder once said, for example, that the living things that come in contact with periods are poisoned! You may find yourself feeling the same, as your menstrual cycle can affect mood, food cravings, skin health, and even weight.

You may be a part of the 90% who experience multiple symptoms when their period comes or even the 32 to 40% of those who say their cramping becomes so severe that they have to skip work or school. This is why befriending your period and learning its cycles will help. 

Why Should You Track Your Period? 

If you have regular periods, tracking them can help you and your doctor understand the standard patterns of your body. Irregular periods may be a sign of other underlying health issues, such as  PCOS, thyroid disorders, or endometriosis, so tracking can help your doctor find the root cause of any abnormalities. 

Tracking your period can also show you when to expect cramps, why you may be craving a certain food, and help you understand mood fluctuations. It can also help you determine when you are ovulating. The average length of a period cycle is 28 days, but can range between 21 and 40 days. Ovulation usually occurs 14 days after the last day of your period. So if you’re trying to conceive, paying close attention to your period cycle can inform when you’re most likely to get pregnant. But it can also help if you want to avoid having a baby. 

Ways to Track Your Period 

Pen and Paper 

The old-fashioned way, with a pen and paper, can work just fine. Grab a notebook and pen, or even a calendar, and record some key points of your period, including: 

  • When your period starts 
  • How heavy/light your flow is 
  • Pain from cramps 
  • The emotions you’re feeling
  • Other noticeable symptoms including skin health and bloating 

Stress, weight changes, and birth control can affect the regularity of your cycle, so note these things as well. Tracking your basal body temperature (which lowers right before your ovary releases an egg), can help you determine when you’re ovulating — and therefore most likely to conceive. 

As you get used to tracking your cycles, you can add things like what you ate, how you slept, your social life, etc. to see if you find any more patterns! Then use your “handy dandy” notebook to discuss matters with your doctor. 

Tracking Apps 

There are many apps that automate the process of tracking your period. These allow you to enter when you get your period, when it ends, and in some cases keep notes about the different aspects of your daily life. 

These apps can also calculate ovulation days, and provide a countdown for when you should expect your next period. Whichever app you choose can take the place of your notebook when you talk to your doctor. 

What to Look Out For 

There are a few things you can pay attention to that will help determine when to see a doctor.

  • Your period lasts for more than 7 days 
  • Your period stops for two months 
  • Your period is less than 21 days apart 
  • Your period is more than 40 days apart
  • Your regular period suddenly becomes irregular 

Avant Gynecology’s mission is to make every patient feel valued and appreciated through all cycles. If you would like to learn more about reproductive health, visit our website. If you notice anything abnormal while tracking your period, contact our team of specialists by calling (404) 352-2850 or schedule an appointment online. 

The Importance of Getting a Mammogram

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which means you’re probably already seeing pink ribbons everywhere — reminding us how important it is to get regular mammograms for breast cancer screening. 

Most medical professionals advise that women over 40 partake in annual mammograms to screen for breast cancer. While the risk of breast cancer is relatively low for someone in their early 40s (without prior family history), it’s still a good time to start discussing the procedure with your doctor so you know what to expect ahead of time and can schedule a regular screening cadence. If you have dense breast tissue, mammograms can be particularly helpful in detecting any abnormalities early on. 

“Breast cancer that’s found early, when it’s small and has not spread, is easier to treat successfully,” the American Cancer Society assures. And experts at the CDC agree: “Mammography is the most effective method of detecting breast cancer in its earliest and most treatable stage.” Diagnosing (and therefore treating) breast cancer early also improves survival rates, according to a January 2021 study reviewed by Cancer Research UK. 

Women and transgender men over 50 should continue to receive mammograms at least once every two years. Ultimately until the age of 75, the more regularly you’re keeping up with these screenings, the better. 

How to Prepare for a Mammogram

The process of getting a mammogram typically takes less than thirty minutes and requires little preparation. Here are a few tips on how you can get ready for your screening:

  • Schedule the appointment during a time when your breasts will be the least tender (typically the week following your period).
  • Don’t wear deodorant or antiperspirant, as many contain aluminum, which can interfere with imaging. 
  • If you’re concerned about pain, prep with Tylenol or ibuprofen ahead of your appointment to ease potential discomfort. 

What to Expect During a Mammogram

In general, mammogram appointments are quick and straightforward. The exam itself only takes about ten minutes. But during the process, here’s what you can expect:

  • You will be asked to undress from the waist-up and given a medical gown to wear.
  • During the exam, it will be only you and the technician in the room. They will take X-ray images of your breasts one at a time, placing them between two imaging plates for scanning.
  • The technician will read the results later that day or the next day and will contact you within 48 hours if follow-up testing is needed.

For reassurance, keep in mind it’s not uncommon to get results that need a second look. “Abnormal” results can be caused by dense breast tissue or benign cysts — but your doctor and screening technician will stay in close touch to keep you informed. 

Why You Should Get Your Mammogram

Now that you know how to prepare and what to expect, here are a few final reminders for making your mammogram appointment this year:

  • Abnormalities within the breast cannot always be felt. They are best examined with the X-ray technology used in a mammogram. 
  • Breast cancer is 99% curable when it’s caught early. (By mammograms!) 
  • Breast cancer caught early can save your life — and your boobs. 
  • The process really only takes 30 minutes. 

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Avant Gynecology encourages you to speak with your primary care physician about getting an annual mammogram.

What Are Pessary Fittings and Why You Might Need Them?

You might not have heard of pessaries before, but they’ve been around in one form or another for centuries. These small, removable devices are inserted into the vagina to provide non-surgical relief for pelvic organ prolapse (POP). They are also far more common (and simple to use) than you may expect.

Pessaries and Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP)

The muscles and tissues that support the pelvic organs (including the bladder, uterus, cervix, vagina, and rectum) hang together much like a hammock. “A prolapse happens,” the Office on Women’s Health explains, “when the pelvis muscles and tissues can no longer support these organs because [they] are weak or damaged.” As a result, one or more of these pelvic organs may drop from its standard position, or even press into or out of the vagina.

This type of pelvic floor disorder can involve:

  • Urinary incontinence (leaking of urine)
  • Fecal incontinence (leaking of stool)
  • Weakening of the muscles and tissues supporting the organs in the pelvis
  • Pain during intercourse
  • A feeling of heaviness or pressure in the vagina

According to the National Association for Continence, “In addition to childbirth, risk factors for the development of POP include a family history of POP, obesity, advancing age, prior hysterectomy, and conditions that chronically increase intra-abdominal pressure, such as asthma or constipation.”

Though some women opt for surgical solutions to POP, pessaries are less invasive—providing support for the prolapse, or filling gaps caused by it.

Besides providing symptom relief and improved quality of life, pessaries are also fairly easy to maintain. A study reported in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology Canada concludes that any major complications were the result of cleaning and maintenance neglect, and any “Minor complications such as vaginal discharge, odor, and erosions can usually be successfully treated.”

Pessary History and Composition

POP is described in the Egyptian Kahun Gynaecological Papyrus — the oldest documented medical literature we know of. But it wasn’t until the end of the sixteenth century that pessaries became more widely and safely used. Early versions were composed of wax, wood, glass, metal, leather and even Bakelite.

The main difficulty surrounding the first pessaries was that they were made from materials that could decompose within the body. The first “incorruptible” pessary was developed in 1844, “when Charles Goodyear was granted U.S. patent no. 3,633 for the invention of vulcanized rubber,” as described in a 2012 article published by Hindawi.

Currently, there are three types of pessaries: the doughnut pessary, ring pessary with support, and Gelhorn pessary. Generally, these are made of silicone, and are easy to remove and replace for cleaning.

Which one is best for your body? The Global Library of Women’s Medicines advises that “The choice of pessary depends on a variety of factors including type and degree of prolapse . . . the type of pessary the clinician has available . . .  and whether the patient desires to manage her pessary at home, as some pessaries cannot be self-removed.” But consultation with your gynecologist can help determine the best solution.

If you’re concerned about POP symptoms, curious about a pessary fitting, or would like to discuss other options for POP relief including a routine for pelvic floor exercises, contact our team at (404) 352-2850 or schedule an appointment online for a consultation.

LEEP 101

Short for loop electrosurgical excision procedure, LEEP is a process in which an electrically heated wire loop is used to remove tissue from a woman’s lower genital tract. The thin wire loop acts as a surgical knife, removing a small layer of the tissue with precision. After removing abnormal tissue from the cervix or vagina, practitioners can send the sample to the lab for testing. Here’s a closer look at what the process entails and why it’s performed.

Who might need a LEEP?

According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, LEEP is performed to:

  • Test for cervical or vaginal problems after abnormalities are detected during a pelvic exam or Pap test
  • Remove abnormal precancerous cells from the vagina or cervix to prevent cancer from developing
  • Diagnose or treat polyps, genital warts, or abnormal cells caused by exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES) — a synthetic form of estrogen that was sometimes prescribed between 1940-1971 to pregnant women. (DES exposure is known to increase cancer risk in the daughters of women who used it during their pregnancies.)

How can you prepare for a LEEP?

LEEP generally requires neither prior fasting nor procedural sedation, but you may be advised to avoid tampons, douching, or having sex directly before the procedure. Oftentimes, the procedure is scheduled for a time when you won’t be on your period, as this allows for a better view of the cervix. You may be encouraged to take an over-the-counter pain reliever a half hour before the procedure.

What does the LEEP entail?

LEEP can be performed right in the doctor’s office in most cases. It should take no longer than a few minutes. You’ll be asked to place your legs in stirrups, and the doctor will insert a speculum (the same tool used during routine pelvic exams) into your vagina.

A local anesthetic will be administered to prevent any pain. While this may produce a slight, initial sting, any discomfort should be minimal thereafter.

The doctor will then insert the loop, remove the tissue, and apply a paste or use electrocautery to stop the bleeding. You may also be asked to sit and rest for 10 to 15 minutes after the procedure.

What is recovery like?

According to the experts at Memorial Sloan Kettering, it’s normal to experience brown discharge for one to two days following LEEP. You may have vaginal bleeding several days later, but use pads instead of tampons for absorption, as nothing should be inserted into the vagina for at least two weeks.

Be sure to call your doctor if you experience heavy vaginal bleeding or if you’re passing clots. While you can shower as usual, avoid baths unless your doctor directs you otherwise.

Physical activity such as aerobic exercise should be avoided for two weeks. You may also notice that your first period after the procedure is heavier or later than normal.

What are the next steps?

LEEP is effective in removing all abnormal cells most of the time. You’ll have follow-up visits with your doctor to be sure all targeted cells have been removed and that they have not returned. If all cells haven’t been removed, a subsequent LEEP or different treatments may be required.

Routine pap tests screen for abnormal cells and are important aspects of preventive women’s care. If you’re due for your annual exam, contact our team at (404) 352-2850 or schedule an appointment online. Our team also offers LEEP as an in-office procedure, as a quick and efficient way to remove abnormal cervical cells. Find out more about all of our office procedures.

How Does a Colposcopy Work?

Sure, it’s a complicated word to spell and pronounce. But a colposcopy is also a beneficial test your healthcare provider may employ to view your cervix—the opening to your uterus—and vagina more closely than is possible during a typical physical exam.

Why might you need this procedure? If problems or abnormal cells are found during a pelvic exam or Pap test, a colposcopy may help your doctor better assess what’s behind any abnormal blood vessels, tissue structure, color, and patterns.

According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, a colposcopy can assist in the treatment of:

  • Bleeding
  • Polyps (noncancerous growths)
  • Genital warts (which could suggest infection with human papillomavirus (HPV), a risk factor for developing cervical cancer)
  • Diethylstilbestrol (DES) exposure, which possibly raises the risk for cancer of the reproductive system in women whose mothers took DES during pregnancy

Your healthcare provider may also have other reasons to recommend this procedure, which you can and should discuss with them.

So, What Should You Expect?

A colposcopy is often carried out in a hospital clinic, but it can also be done in the office of your gynecologist or primary care doctor. It takes around 15 to 20 minutes, and there is no extra anticipated time for recovery.

Your healthcare provider may suggest you avoid vaginal sex, using tampons or other products that go into the vagina itself for 24 – 48 hours before the procedure.

Both the NHS.UK and Johns Hopkins Medicine help to further break down the colposcopy procedure in these ways:

  • You’ll be asked to undress from the waist down and lie down in a chair with padded supports for your legs
  • Empty your bladder before the procedure
  • A device called a speculum will be inserted into your vagina and gently opened to expose your cervix – similar to having a cervical screening test
  • The colposcope (a microscope with a light on the end) will be positioned to look at your cervix. It does not go into your vagina
  • If necessary, your health care provider may wash your cervix with a vinegar solution to highlight any abnormal areas. A Schiller test (involving an iodine solution) may also be conducted at this time. You may feel a mild tingling or burning sensation when either of these solutions are applied
  • If necessary, a small sample of tissue (a biopsy) may be removed for closer examination in a laboratory. This should not be particularly painful. You may feel a pinch or stinging sensation, which could also cause brief cramping afterward.

Post-Biopsy and Post Procedure

“If a biopsy taken during your colposcopy shows that you have precancerous tissue, the tissue may need to be removed to keep cancer from developing,” explains the experts at Cancer.net. They, like us, encourage open communication with your doctor about alternate tests available for a more specific cancer diagnosis, and, if necessary, the different tissue removal methods that may be right for you.

Aside from these potentially scary and challenging conversations around possible biopsy results, in general, there are no direct side effects from the colposcopy itself. For a day or two afterward, you might experience a dark vaginal discharge if a biopsy proves necessary, but that comes from the solution used to reduce bleeding during the biopsy process.

Other possible mild, post-biopsy symptoms include bleeding, cramping, or soreness. We encourage you to reach out to your doctor right away if these symptoms worsen or don’t go away, and especially if you have extremely heavy bleeding, fever after the examination, or severe pain in your lower abdomen or pelvis.

Event tests that are simple to pronounce can be difficult to discuss, but the experts at Avant Gynecology are here for you. If you have further questions about the colposcopy process (or anything else), reach out to the experts at Avant Gynecology or by giving us a call at (404) 352-2850.

All About Vaginal Hysterectomies

A hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus — one of the most commonly performed surgeries in women. In fact, it’s estimated that one in nine women will undergo this procedure, which is performed to treat conditions such as:

  • Fibroids
  • Endometriosis that isn’t cured my medication or less invasive surgeries
  • Uterine prolapse
  • Persistent vaginal bleeding
  • Chronic pelvic pain
  • Cancer

There are several ways surgeons can perform a hysterectomy, and the type of procedure used will depend on each patient’s specific circumstances. Traditionally, an abdominal hysterectomy has been the most common practice. During this procedure, a large incision is made in the lower abdomen, and the uterus is extracted through it.

With medical advancements, the less invasive vaginal hysterectomy is now widely practiced. The difference in this procedure is that a small incision is made in the vagina instead of the abdomen, and the uterus is removed that way.

Benefits of Vaginal Hysterectomies

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), vaginal hysterectomies are associated with better outcomes compared to other approaches. Because the process is less invasive, vaginal hysterectomies often have a faster surgical time and shorter hospital stays. This could also mean a reduced risk of complications.

The ACOG also notes that the time span for overall healing and recovery from this type of hysterectomy is often shorter, which means a quicker return to normal activity.

Candidates for Vaginal Hysterectomies

While this may sound like an obviously easier procedure, it’s not ideal for everyone.

A vaginal hysterectomy may not be appropriate, for example, if you have an enlarged uterus or scarring from previous surgeries. Those with cancer or suspected cancer in a reproductive organ, or large uterine fibroids, or endometriosis may also be advised to undergo an alternate method.

Vaginal Hysterectomy Recovery

You may experience several changes after a hysterectomy, including loss of periods. But if your ovaries remain intact, you shouldn’t encounter any other related hormonal fluctuations.

In some instances, the ovaries may be removed during a hysterectomy, to reduce the risk of ovarian cancer. If this is so, your body will undergo menopause shortly after the surgery. This may include symptoms such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, mood changes, and changes in the libido. If your symptoms interfere with your daily life, talk to your doctor about options for managing them.

During recovery, give yourself plenty of time to rest so your body can heal. You may experience bloody vaginal discharge for several days or weeks, and your doctor may advise you to use sanitary napkins. You can also discuss pain management options with your health specialist, to reduce any discomfort during the recovery period.

While a little physical activity each day may be beneficial, avoid lifting anything heavier than ten pounds for at least four weeks. Your doctor may have more specific recovery instructions, so be sure to follow them precisely.

If you’re experiencing any of the health issues discusses above and you want to discuss the option of a hysterectomy, schedule an appointment with one of our providers by calling (404) 352-2850. You can also learn more about our surgical services online.

Dr. Durrett and Dr. Mora of Avant Gynecology Return to “The Weekly Check-Up” on WSB Radio

On Sunday, May 23, 2021, Avant Gynecology’s Dr. Lynley Durrett and Dr. Obiamaka Mora were featured guests on The Weekly Check-Up on News/Talk WSB Radio.

During the show, Drs. Durrett and Mora discussed women’s health topics with host Ashley Frasca. Topics included uterine fibroid treatment, hormone replacement therapy, mammography, robotic-assisted surgeries, IUDs, COVID-19 vaccinations, and the importance of annual healthcare visits. They also took several questions from callers.

You can listen to the full show below.

Tune into The Weekly Check-Up every Sunday from 3 to 5 p.m. on AM 750 and NOW 95.5 FM News/Talk WSB, or stream online at WSBRadio.com.

A Deep Dive into Laparoscopic Surgery

Laparoscopic surgery is a procedure that uses a small, lighted camera known as a laparoscope to give surgeons access to the abdominal or pelvic area. The procedure is also known as keyhole surgery, due to the size of the incisions made: typically, these cuts are no more than a half-inch in length. As a form of minimally invasive surgery, this approach has several benefits for patients and can be used for a range of diagnostic applications and treatments.

What Types of Procedures Can Be Done Laparoscopically?

A laparoscopy is an important tool for a variety of specialists, including gynecologists, as it allows doctors to diagnose and treat conditions within your reproductive system.

While blood work and imaging services can reveal many insights into a potential reproductive condition, images retrieved by a laparoscope provide doctors with a much more detailed look into the affected area.

Laparoscopy can also be used to treat specific conditions. Some examples of gynecological laparoscopic surgeries include:

  • Removal of fibroids in or around the uterus, or cysts that may develop on the ovaries
  • Treatment of endometriosis — a condition of abnormal tissue growth outside the uterus
  • Hysterectomy (removal of the uterus, conducted to treat abnormal bleeding, cancer, and other conditions)
  • Tubal ligation to prevent pregnancy
  • Treatment of pelvic prolapse
  • Treatment of incontinence

What Are the Benefits of Laparoscopic Surgery?

Laparoscopic procedures have several benefits over traditional surgeries. In general, patients experience:

  • Smaller external scars and less internal scarring
  • Reduced pain and quicker healing
  • Quicker return to normal activities
  • Shorter hospital stays

What Can You Expect From Laparoscopic Surgery?

Laparoscopic surgeries are typically performed under general anesthesia, in which the patient is unconscious and experiences no pain. The anesthetic medication can either be inhaled through a mask or delivered intravenously.

Once you’re unconscious, the surgeon will make a small incision — usually through the belly button. The laparoscope is then inserted through this space. If any other surgical instruments are required to perform the procedure, these will be inserted through other separate, small incisions also made in the abdomen. (One common example of this is a gas inserted via tube, which provides the surgeon with ample space within which to work and view the area.)

After performing the necessary procedure, any gas used will be released, and the minor incisions will be closed up with Steri-strips to aid with healing. You’ll then be transferred to a recovery area, where you may stay for about an hour, for recuperation and monitoring. Since the anesthesia can cause drowsiness, you should avoid driving for 24 hours following the procedure. Make sure to have a friend or family member to get you home.

While recovery may depend on the exact nature of the procedure, most patients can remove their Steri-strips two to three days after surgery. (Be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions on this.) You’ll likely be able to return to work three days after the procedure.

It’s possible you may experience some discomfort in the neck, chest, and shoulder areas, caused by the gas. Moving around, taking a warm shower, and using a heating pad can help relieve this symptom. If you experience nausea, consider eating something light — such as soup and crackers —in the evening after the procedure.

If you think you might be a good candidate for laparoscopic surgery, or want to discuss the process further, turn to Avant Gynecology. Find out more about our hospital procedures by reaching out to the experts at Avant Gynecology or giving us a call at (404) 352-2850 to schedule an appointment.

My Pap Smear Results Were Abnormal. What’s Next?

It can be a frightening experience hearing your gynecologist say that your Pap smear test results came back abnormal. While it can be tempting to jump to negative conclusions about what your results mean, it’s important to not worry quite yet. Abnormal Pap smears do not always indicate issues as serious as cervical cancer. The experts at Avant Gynecology break down what these results mean.

What Does an Abnormal Pap Smear Result Mean?

An abnormal Pap smear can have several different meanings and causes, but often indicate changes in the cervical cells. Some other causes for an abnormal result are:

  • Inflammation
  • Herpes
  • Trichomaniasis
  • Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
  • Vaginal Infection
  • Cervical Dysplasia (abnormal cells that can be pre-cancerous)

While some of these may bring concern, there are several harmless reasons as to why a Pap smear can come back abnormal such as recent sexual activity, menstruation, using tampons, or taking a bath before your test. Additionally, it’s relatively common for most women to experience an abnormal result at some point in their lifetime.

More Testing to Discover Results

While a Pap smear can indicate when abnormal cells are present, it does not give a full examination of the cervix. Often, more testing is needed. That’s what a colposcopy is for! This minor procedure allows an OB-GYN physician to use a low-powered microscope to study the abnormal areas in the cervix, vagina, and vulva to detect any signs of disease. During this procedure, the following happens:

  • A similar tool as the one used in your Pap smear will be placed into the vagina.
  • Several different solutions will be used to highlight the area.
    • A vinegar solution: This removes the mucus in the area.
    • An iodine solution: This identifies the abnormal areas that appeared in the Pap smear.

Once the colposcopy test results are in, your physician will go over the results with a pathologist. Together, the two will determine the next steps for uncovering the issue and potential treatment plans.

While Pap smears are not always comfortable, they are essential. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that:

  • Women ages 21 to 29 should get a Pap test every three years.
  • Women ages 30 to 65 should have a Pap test combined with an HPV test every five years.
  • Some women with certain conditions may need more frequent testing, including women with a history of cervical cancer, HIV/AIDS, or a weekend immune system.

Be proactive about your health; schedule a Pap smear with your OB-GYN today. If you have any further questions about the next steps after receiving abnormal Pap smear results, reach out to the experts at Avant Gynecology or give us a call at (404) 352-2850.

The Benefits of Pelvic Floor Exercises

The pelvic muscles support the bladder, bowel, and uterus; playing an important role in sexual function and childbirth, according to Healthline.

Pelvic floor exercises are an excellent solution for strengthening these muscles. They can also help improve conditions like urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse.

Want to learn more? The experts at Avant Gynecology explain the benefits of pelvic floor exercises.

The Benefits of Pelvic Floor Exercises

Here are some of the primary benefits of performing pelvic floor exercises:

  • Increases pleasure and reduces pain during sex
  • Makes the child birthing process easier and decreases chances of incontinence after childbirth
  • Makes passing urine and feces through the body easier
  • Prevents pelvic floor prolapse
  • Help treat urinary incontinence
  • Strengthens support for your baby while pregnant

Why Do These Exercises?

For women experiencing urinary incontinence or pain during sex, pelvic floor exercises are often recommended by medical experts to help resolve these issues. Research also suggests that these exercises reduce the frequency and severity of symptoms of pelvic floor prolapse.

Even if you are not experiencing any of the conditions mentioned above, pelvic floor exercises are still beneficial for your overall health and should be an integral part of your daily exercise.

Types of Pelvic Floor Exercises

Below are three of the most common exercises that can help strengthen your pelvic floor muscles:

Kegel: The most popular form of exercise for the pelvic floor muscles are Kegels. To do these, you will need to contract the pelvic floor muscles, hold for five seconds, then release for five seconds. Repeat this exercise at least 3 times a day in sets of 10.

Squats: Besides strengthening your quads and hamstrings, squats also strengthen pelvic floor muscles. To do a squat, stand upright with your feet shoulder-width apart, bend your knees like you’re about to sit down in a chair, and push yourself back up. Repeat this exercise 3 times a day in sets of 10.

Bridge: Bridges are primarily performed to strengthen the buttocks, but can also help the pelvic floor muscles. To do a bridge, lie down on the floor with your knees bent at a 90-degree angle. Push your hips off the ground by squeezing your glutes and your pelvic floor muscles. Hold this for at least three seconds, then slowly release it back to the ground. Repeat this exercise at least 3 times a day in sets of 10.

If you have any questions or want to learn more about pelvic floor exercises, reach out to the experts at Avant Gynecology on our website or by calling us at (404) 352-2850.