Ovarian Cyst Versus Kidney Stone: How to Tell the Difference

Pain in the abdominal region can be concerning, especially when its source is unclear. Among women, two common culprits of abdominal or pelvic pain are ovarian cysts and kidney stones. While both can cause significant discomfort, it’s essential to differentiate between them to ensure proper treatment. This blog from North Pointe OB/GYN in Cumming aims to shed light on the key differences between ovarian cyst pain and kidney stone pain.

What are Ovarian Cysts?

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop in or on a woman’s ovary. Most of the time, these cysts are harmless and may not even produce any symptoms. However, if a cyst becomes large or ruptures, it can cause pain and other complications.

What are Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys. When these stones move into the ureter (the tube connecting the kidney and bladder), they can cause severe pain and other symptoms.

Distinguishing Between Ovarian Cyst Pain and Kidney Stone Pain

Here are some factors to consider when trying to diagnose the source of your discomfort:

  1. Location of Pain:
    • Ovarian Cyst: The pain is usually felt on one side of the lower abdomen, depending on which ovary has the cyst. It can be sharp or dull and may come and go.
    • Kidney Stone: The pain typically starts in the back and side below the ribs, eventually radiating to the lower abdomen and groin.
  1. Nature of Pain:
    • Ovarian Cyst: The pain can be constant or intermittent, potentially becoming severe if the cyst ruptures.
    • Kidney Stone: Kidney stone pain is often sharp and sudden, increasing in intensity as the stone moves through the ureter.
  1. Other Symptoms:
    • Ovarian Cyst: Symptoms may include bloating, menstrual irregularities, pelvic fullness, or pain during intercourse.
    • Kidney Stone: Common symptoms include hematuria (blood in urine), frequent urination, nausea, vomiting, and fever if an infection is present.
  1. Duration:
    • Ovarian Cyst: Pain can last anywhere from a few hours to a few days. Persistent pain should prompt a visit to the doctor.
    • Kidney Stone: Pain can last until the stone is passed, which can be hours to weeks. Severe pain or pain accompanied by fever or nausea may require urgent care.

Diagnosis and Treatment

If you’re experiencing abdominal or pelvic pain, it’s essential to see a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis. They may use various diagnostic tools:

  • For ovarian cysts, ultrasounds, CT scans, or MRIs can help visualize the cyst’s size and location.
  • For kidney stones, ultrasounds, CT scans, and urine tests can detect the stone’s presence and its size.

Treatment varies based on the diagnosis:

  • Ovarian Cysts: Often, they may resolve on their own. In some cases, birth control pills or surgery might be recommended.
  • Kidney Stones: Treatment can include pain relievers, medical therapy to help pass the stone, or surgical procedures for larger stones.

Call Our Cumming Women’s Health Experts for Help

While both ovarian cyst and kidney stone pain can be uncomfortable, understanding their differences is vital for proper care. Always consult a healthcare professional if you experience persistent or severe abdominal or pelvic pain. At North Pointe OB/GYN in Cumming, we’re committed to providing expert guidance and care for all your gynecological concerns.

Why You Should See a Gynecologist About a UTI

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are a common condition that many women experience at least once in their lifetime. While it might be tempting to self-diagnose or rely on over-the-counter remedies, it’s crucial to understand the importance of seeking professional medical advice for UTIs. At North Pointe OB/GYN in Cumming, we emphasize the importance of consulting with a gynecologist when you suspect a UTI. Here’s why:

1. Accurate Diagnosis Ensures Right Treatment

While the symptoms of a UTI—such as burning during urination, frequent urges to urinate, and lower abdominal pain—are quite characteristic, they can sometimes be confused with other conditions like yeast infections, interstitial cystitis, or sexually transmitted infections. A gynecologist can conduct proper tests to ensure you get an accurate diagnosis.

2. Avoid Complications

If left untreated or not treated correctly, a UTI can spread to the kidneys, leading to more severe complications. Seeking a timely consultation with a gynecologist ensures that the infection is addressed before it progresses.

3. Personalized Treatment Options

Each woman’s body is unique, and so is her medical history. A gynecologist can provide tailored treatment recommendations based on your specific condition, medical history, and any allergies or past reactions to medications.

4. Address Recurrent UTIs

For some women, UTIs can be a recurring issue. If you experience multiple UTIs within a year, it’s essential to consult a gynecologist who can offer insights into possible underlying causes and recommend preventive strategies.

5. Discuss Prevention Strategies

Apart from treating the current infection, a gynecologist can provide guidance on how to prevent future UTIs. This might include advice on hygiene, dietary changes, or potential lifestyle modifications.

6. Ensure Comprehensive Women’s Health

Often, a UTI can be a doorway to discuss other aspects of women’s health. When you visit a gynecologist at North Pointe OB/GYN, you can also address other concerns or undergo routine screenings to ensure holistic health.

7. Get Peace of Mind

Lastly, and importantly, consulting a professional about health concerns offers peace of mind. Knowing that you’re receiving care from specialists in women’s health ensures that you’re in safe and capable hands.

Reach Out to Us for Expert Women’s Care in Cumming

While UTIs are common, they shouldn’t be taken lightly. Ensuring timely and expert care can prevent complications, provide relief, and ensure your overall well-being. At North Pointe OB/GYN in Cumming, we’re committed to offering the best in women’s healthcare, ensuring that you feel understood, cared for, and empowered in your health decisions.

Menopause Management: Why a Personalized Approach Matters

For countless women, menopause represents a significant milestone—a transition that marks the end of the reproductive years. While it’s a natural phase of every woman’s life, menopause is often accompanied by a myriad of symptoms that can range from mildly inconvenient to significantly disruptive.

At North Pointe OB/GYN in Cumming, we firmly believe that menopause management is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor. Just as every woman is unique, so is her experience of menopause. Here’s why we advocate for individualized menopause management.

Varied Symptoms and Severity

Not all women experience menopause in the same way. Some may have a smooth transition with minimal symptoms, while others might face severe hot flashes, mood swings, or insomnia. Furthermore, the onset of these symptoms can vary greatly from one person to another. What might be a significant concern for one woman might be completely absent in another. A personalized approach allows for treatment that directly addresses each woman’s specific set of symptoms and their intensity.

Underlying Health Conditions

A woman’s overall health, including any pre-existing conditions, plays a critical role in determining how she experiences menopause. For instance, a woman with a history of migraines might experience an increase in frequency during menopause. Similarly, those with pre-existing mental health conditions, like depression or anxiety, might see a fluctuation in their symptoms. Customized menopause management considers these factors, ensuring that the chosen treatments don’t exacerbate any existing conditions.

Personal Preferences and Concerns

Every woman has her comfort level when it comes to treatment. Some might prefer hormone replacement therapy, while others might be looking for alternative treatments due to personal preferences or potential side effects. Tailored menopause management respects these preferences and offers solutions in line with each patient’s comfort and wishes.

Long-term Health Goals

The post-menopausal years can be vibrant and active. For this reason, menopause management must take into account a woman’s long-term health goals. Whether it’s maintaining bone health, ensuring cardiovascular wellness, or addressing weight management, a tailored approach will align treatment with these objectives.

Emotional and Psychological Well-being

Menopause doesn’t just have physical implications; it can deeply impact emotional and psychological well-being. Feelings of sadness, anxiety, or mood swings can be prevalent. By adopting an individualized approach, we ensure that the emotional and psychological facets of menopause are addressed alongside the physical symptoms.

Let Us Help You Manage Your Menopause in Cumming

Menopause, while a universal experience, is deeply personal in its manifestation. At North Pointe OB/GYN, we recognize the importance of understanding each woman’s unique journey through this life stage. Our commitment is to ensure that every patient receives care that’s tailored to her needs, ensuring a smoother, more comfortable transition through menopause and beyond.

Uterine Fibroids: Understanding the Why and When to Be Concerned

At North Pointe OB/GYN in Cumming, we are committed to providing comprehensive women’s health care. An important part of our services involves educating our patients about various conditions they might encounter during their reproductive years. One such condition that affects many women is uterine fibroids. Here, we delve into understanding why uterine fibroids develop and when to be concerned about them.

What Are Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths of the uterus that often appear during childbearing years. They vary in size, from tiny and undetectable to the human eye, to large masses that can distort the shape and size of the uterus. The good news is that most fibroids do not lead to cancer and, in many cases, they cause no symptoms at all.

Why Do Uterine Fibroids Develop?

While the exact causes of uterine fibroids remain unclear, there are several factors that have been linked to their development:

  • Hormonal Factors: Estrogen and progesterone, the hormones produced by the ovaries, promote the growth of the uterine lining during each menstrual cycle and may also stimulate the growth of fibroids. Fibroids contain more estrogen and progesterone receptors than normal uterine muscle cells do.
  • Genetic Factors: If your mother or sister had fibroids, you’re at an increased risk of developing them as well.
  • Other Growth Factors: Substances that help the body maintain tissues, like insulin-like growth factor, might influence fibroid development.
  • Extracellular Matrix: This is a material that makes cells stick together and might also contribute to fibroid growth.

When to Be Concerned About Uterine Fibroids

For many women, uterine fibroids cause no noticeable symptoms. However, there are signs that may indicate the presence of fibroids, and some of these can be quite concerning:

  • Heavy Menstrual Bleeding: One of the most common signs of fibroids is prolonged menstrual periods or excessive bleeding.
  • Pelvic Pain or Pressure: Larger fibroids can cause a sensation of fullness or pressure in the lower abdomen.
  • Frequent Urination: Due to their location and size, fibroids can press on the bladder causing frequent urination.
  • Complications During Pregnancy: In some cases, fibroids might lead to complications such as fetal growth restriction or preterm delivery.
  • Infertility: In rare cases, fibroids can block the fallopian tubes, making it harder for a fertilized egg to implant in the uterus.

If you experience any of these symptoms, especially if they impact your quality of life, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional. While these symptoms might indicate the presence of fibroids, they can also be signs of other medical issues. A timely diagnosis can lead to effective treatments and relief from discomfort.

Worried About Your Frequent Fibroids? Call North Pointe OB/GYN

Uterine fibroids, while common and often benign, can have a profound impact on a woman’s reproductive health. Understanding why they develop and being alert to the signs that might indicate a concern is crucial. At North Pointe OB/GYN, our team is here to support, advise, and provide the best possible care for all our patients. If you have concerns or questions about uterine fibroids or any other aspect of your reproductive health, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Your health and well-being are our top priority.

Busting Menstruation Myths for Teenage Girls

Navigating the challenges of adolescence is already complex, and when it comes to menstruation, it’s not uncommon for misinformation to add to the confusion. At North Pointe OB/GYN in Cumming, we understand the anxieties and questions teenage girls might have about their period. Today, we’re addressing some of the common myths associated with menstruation and setting the record straight.

Myth 1: Having a period means you’re not a virgin anymore.

Fact: Menstruation and virginity are not connected in any way. Having a period is a natural bodily function that signifies a girl’s body is maturing and can potentially reproduce. It has nothing to do with sexual activity or the state of one’s virginity.

Myth 2: If your cycle doesn’t last exactly 28 days, it’s abnormal.

Fact: While a 28-day cycle is often cited as the average, it’s essential to understand that everyone’s body is different. Many girls and women have cycles that are shorter or longer than 28 days. Cycles can also fluctuate based on factors like stress, physical activity, and weight changes.

Myth 3: You can’t swim or bathe during your period.

Fact: You can absolutely swim or take a bath during your period. Using a tampon or menstrual cup can make swimming more comfortable and prevent menstrual flow from entering the water. Moreover, a warm bath can even help relieve menstrual cramps!

Myth 4: You will lose a lot of blood during your period.

Fact: It might seem like a lot, but most girls and women only lose about 2 to 3 tablespoons of blood during their entire menstrual cycle. The presence of other fluids and tissue can make it appear as though there’s more blood than there actually is.

Myth 5: It’s bad to exercise during your period.

Fact: Exercise can be one of the best things to do during your period. It helps release endorphins, which act as natural painkillers, potentially reducing menstrual cramps. Find an activity you’re comfortable with, whether it’s walking, yoga, or more rigorous exercise.

Myth 6: PMS is just an excuse to be moody.

Fact: Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is real and can involve a wide range of physical and emotional symptoms, including mood swings, fatigue, tender breasts, and food cravings. Everyone’s experience with PMS is unique, but it’s essential to recognize and respect the genuine challenges it can present.

Myth 7: You can’t get pregnant if you have sex during your period.

Fact: Although it’s less common, it is still possible to get pregnant if you have unprotected sex during your period. Sperm can live inside the body for up to five days, and if a girl ovulates shortly after her period, there’s a chance for fertilization.

Get the Truth from a Trusted Gyno in Cumming

In a world full of myths and half-truths, especially surrounding women’s health, it’s essential to be informed and get your facts from reliable sources. At North Pointe OB/GYN, we’re committed to providing accurate information and support to our patients at every stage of their lives. If you’re a teen or the parent of one, never hesitate to ask questions and get the clarity you need about menstruation or any other aspect of reproductive health. Your well-being and peace of mind are our top priorities.

Bad Periods? You are Not Alone

As a woman, experiencing menstrual cycles is a natural and normal part of life. However, many women face challenges during their menstrual periods, such as irregularity, heavy bleeding, or painful cramps. Regardless of your age, bad periods can become a real threat to your quality of life if not addressed. At North Pointe OB/GYN, we can help you understand common menstrual issues, as well as their potential causes and available treatment options.

Irregular Menstrual Cycles

Irregular periods refer to variations in the length of menstrual cycles or inconsistent timing between periods. This can be caused by hormonal imbalances, stress, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, or other underlying medical conditions. Discussing the potential causes and effects of irregular periods can help women identify patterns and seek medical advice for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

Heavy Menstrual Bleeding

Experiencing heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, known as menorrhagia, can be physically and emotionally challenging for women. Common causes include hormonal imbalances, uterine fibroids, polyps, or certain medical conditions. Treatment options, including medication, hormonal therapy, or minimally invasive procedures, can be discussed to provide relief and improve overall well-being.

Painful Menstrual Cramps

Menstrual cramps, medically referred to as dysmenorrhea, can range from mild discomfort to severe pain that interferes with daily activities. These cramps are typically caused by contractions of the uterus during menstruation. However, underlying conditions such as endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease can contribute to more intense pain. Providing information about self-care measures, pain management techniques, and available medical interventions can assist women in finding relief and improving their quality of life.

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

PMS refers to a combination of physical and emotional symptoms that occur in the days leading up to menstruation. Symptoms may include mood swings, bloating, breast tenderness, fatigue, and food cravings. Understanding the factors contributing to PMS, such as hormonal fluctuations and lifestyle choices, can help women manage these symptoms effectively. Discussing self-care strategies, stress reduction techniques, and medical interventions like hormonal therapies or antidepressants can provide valuable guidance for managing PMS.

Seek Help for Your Menstrual Cycle in Cumming

It is important for women to understand when to seek medical advice for their menstrual concerns. At North Pointe OB/GYN, we encourage open communication with our healthcare providers and emphasize the importance of regular check-ups to help identify underlying causes and develop personalized treatment plans. By discussing available treatment options, including lifestyle modifications, over-the-counter remedies, or prescribed medications, women can make informed decisions about managing their menstrual issues. Call North Pointe OB/GYN in Cumming today to schedule your gynecology visit about your bad periods. Remember, you are not alone in facing these challenges, and seeking support from our caring professionals can lead to a more balanced and comfortable menstrual experience.

The Link Between Gynecological Health and Mental Health

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.

When UTIs Become Frequent

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.

No More Kids Doesn’t Mean No More Gynecologist

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?

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.

Call us at 770-886-3555 to request your appointment today!

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Our Cumming Office

The office of North Pointe OB/GYN Associates is located on the Northside Hospital-Forsyth campus, and we perform deliveries at the Women's Center at Northside Hospital-Forsyth.

  • Address

  • 1800 Northside Forsyth Dr.
    Suite 350
    Cumming, GA 30041
  • Office Hours

  • Monday - Thursday: 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
    Friday: 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
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