Women's Surgery Center

Achieve Your Summer Body Goals

Thu, 12 May 2022 05:22:19 GMT

Achieve Your Summer Body Goals

September 20th, 2021

What is Emsculpt NEO?

Bathing suit season is here, ladies. With temperatures climbing by the day, you may find yourself lounging by the pool or sitting oceanside with an ice-cold glass of lemonade very soon. Some of you may even be doing that right now. Summer is calling, and this isn’t a call you can send to voicemail because you aren’t ready. However, we can help you get ready for the hottest season of the year at our Aesthetics Center! Whether you want to achieve that gorgeous sun-kissed glow or are looking to burn fat and build muscle to rock your favorite bathing suit, we can help you meet your goals.

Say Hello To Your Summer Glow

There is a right way and a wrong way to get that much-desired summer tan. From tanning beds to self-tanner to spray tans, there are a number of tanning options available. Not all of them are safe, though. May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month. Although treating skin cancer is not our area of expertise, we are joining the fight to raise awareness about the dangers of using tanning beds. One use of a tanning bed can skyrocket your chances of developing skin cancer due to the ultraviolet rays your skin is exposed to. For reference, your risk of developing the most serious form of skin cancer, Melanoma, increases by an alarming 20% after just one use according to the Skin Cancer Foundation . That percentage is even higher for people under 35. When it comes to skin cancer diagnoses, studies have found that 97% of women diagnosed with melanoma before they reach 30 all have one thing in common. They’ve all used a tanning bed. These statistics are startling, and what’s even more upsetting is that skin cancer is not the only risk that comes along with tanning bed use. Some women even end up in the ER with skin burns, loss of consciousness, and eye injuries. Please, at all costs, avoid using tanning beds.

Sunless tanning, like spray tanning, is a great alternative to tanning beds. The main ingredient in spray tanning is dihydroxyacetone or DHA. Sourced from plants, DHA is FDA approved for skin tanning. At our office, we offer professional Norvell Spray Tanning. When you come for an appointment, you can trust that our team will take extra care to ensure that your spray tanning experience is customized to you and your specific needs. The spray tanning process takes around 15 minutes. You can learn more and find pricing information by clicking here .

You CAN Achieve Your Body Goals

Ladies, your body is beautiful the way it is. However, if you are looking to wave goodbye to unwanted fat, Emsculpt Neo is here for you. This powerful body-sculpting technology is a 2-in-1 procedure. In the time it would take you to watch an episode of your favorite 30-minute sitcom, you can eliminate fat and build muscle. If this sounds too good to be true, it’s actually not. Studies have found that Emsculpt Neo is effective. Results from several of those studies showed that on average participants had 30% less fat and 25% more muscle

Emsculpt Neo works by burning fat using radiofrequency (RF) and building muscle with the high-intensity electromagnetic field (HIFEM+) Within four minutes of the start of your procedure, the temperature in fat will reach levels that cause permanent damage. Your muscles will then warm up and begin contracting at much higher intensities than those achieved during an average workout. Once the procedure is over, fat cells will slowly be removed and strained muscle fibers will kickstart muscle growth.

Emsculpt Neo is used to target areas including the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, calves, and arms. Patients with a body mass index up to 35 are eligible to use this technology. No downtime is required, so you can get back to your busy schedule right after your appointment.

Final Thoughts

You CAN achieve the summer body of your dreams. We are accepting appointments for both our spray tanning services and Emsculpt Neo procedures. Currently, we are running a promotion on Emscult Neo when you book multiple sessions. Please call us at 423-899-6511 to schedule today.

Menopause 101: Finding Relief from Hot Flashes

Wed, 20 Apr 2022 17:42:27 GMT

Menopause 101: Finding Relief from Hot Flashes

September 20th, 2021

Have you walked outside lately? If so, you probably noticed that the temperature is beginning to heat up. Ladies, spring is in full swing and summer is on the horizon. This means those temperatures will just keep getting hotter and hotter. For women currently experiencing any of the three stages of menopause, this is probably not something you want to think about. We get it. Hot flashes are not fun during any time of year but especially during the hotter months. However, our team at Women’s Surgery & Aesthetics Center is here to provide you with tips to find relief from those pesky hot flashes so that you can enjoy the days and weeks ahead.

What are Hot Flashes?

Let’s start with the basics. A hot flash is defined by the Mayo Clinic as a “sudden feeling of warmth in the upper body, which is usually most intense over the face, neck and chest.” Hot flashes range in length and intensity for every woman. For example, you may experience quick 30-second flashes while your best friend may have ones that last for close to 10 minutes. As a hot flash subsides, you may begin to feel cold and start shivering. Think of it like a day living in the south. One minute it’s 80 degrees outside and sunny, and the next it’s 30 degrees and snowing. While we all wish hot flashes only occurred during the daytime, that is simply not the case. Night sweats, which are hot flashes you experience at night, can make getting a good night’s sleep difficult.

Identify Hot Flash Triggers

The great news is that there are things you can do to help deal with hot flashes. Identifying what is triggering a hot flash is the first step. Common triggers include:

Hot and spicy foods
Caffeine
Alcohol
Smoking
Hot weather
Tight clothing
Stress
Heat

We suggest keeping a journal of your hot flashes to help you identify the culprit. Make sure to write down what you ate or did prior to the hot flash. From there, you can begin to make lifestyle changes by eliminating triggers.

Hot Flash Relief

Ladies, there are a number of things you can do to find relief from hot flashes. Of course, as we mentioned above, identifying and removing hot flash triggers is a great place to start. However, removing triggers like hot weather and heat is easier said than done. You could move to a place where it is always cold like Antarctica, but even then, you could still have hot flashes. Instead of going through all of that trouble, here are some tips to help you deal with hot flashes:

Air conditioning is your friend. Set your thermostat to a cool temperature. At night, keep it at 65 degrees or cooler.
Wear layers. Layers are great because they provide you with the ability to add or remove as you need. Also, avoid tight-fitted clothing.
Keep a cooler full of cold beverages nearby if you will be spending time outside.
Purchase a cooling neck towel that you can use when outside this summer. You can also keep a washcloth in your freezer that you can grab anytime you need it.
Invest in a cold pillow or keep frozen veggies under your pillow at night to help you stay cool.
Keep a hand-held fan or misting fan with you.
Let your hair air-dry when possible so that you can avoid using a hairdryer.
Opt for clothes made with cotton over ones made with hot materials like flannel.
Install ceiling fans in your home to help you stay cool, especially at night.
Breathe! Stress can make hot flashes worse. If you are feeling stressed, participate in activities like working on a puzzle, coloring, walking, etc., that will help you relax.

Other Options & How We Can Help

In some cases, it may be necessary to take additional steps to help you find relief. One option we offer at Women’s Surgery & Aesthetics Center is Hormone Replacement Therapy. This therapy replaces hormone deficiencies like estrogen and progesterone, which you experience during menopause, and activates symptom relief. Hormone Replacement Therapy is not for everyone, though. Women who have experienced breast or ovarian cancers or have clotting disorders are not candidates for this treatment. There are non-hormonal medications available that can help these women find relief. Learn more about these options by visiting our website .

Our blog has mainly focused on hot flashes since they tend to be the most talked about symptom of menopause. However, for the close to 50% of women who experience other less talked about symptoms like vaginal dryness or itchiness, pain during intercourse, and burning sensations or irritation, we are here for you too. These symptoms describe vaginal atrophy, otherwise known as vaginal aging, which typically occurs 3-4 years after a woman has gone through menopause. This condition can greatly impact a woman’s quality of life, and that’s why our office is thrilled to be able to offer these women relief with MonaLisa Touch. This fast, simple, and safe treatment is the most effective non-surgical and non-pharmacological solution for preventing and treating vaginal atrophy. You can learn more about the MonaLisa Touch by clicking here .

One Final Word

Ladies, menopause is just part of being a woman, but the hot flashes and other symptoms that come along with it do not have to control your quality of life. Give us a call at 423-899-6511 to schedule an appointment and find the relief you've been searching for.

Endometriosis 101: An In-Depth Look At Treatment Options

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 16:44:32 GMT

Endometriosis 101: An In-Depth Look At Treatment Options

September 20th, 2021

Pain. It's a part of life all of us experience. However, just like life, pain isn’t fair. We don’t all live with the same amount. Just ask any of the over 6.5 million women living with endometriosis. At Women’s Surgery & Aesthetic Center, we are committed to helping these extraordinary women living with endo find relief, and we believe it is our responsibility to provide useful information to women not only in our community but around the world with useful information about treatment options.

You may remember that last year we started a blog series called “Endometriosis 101.” Our first blog in the series focused on the basics of endo, while our second covered pain management tips. In honor of March being Endometriosis Awareness Month, we are picking this series back up for a special third installment featuring answers to some of the questions you may have about the treatment options we offer.

Q: What are some of the treatment options available for women with endometriosis?

A: Once endometriosis has been diagnosed, medications are the first-line treatment. Several medications (used alone or in combination) have been shown to help alleviate the symptoms of endometriosis. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen can help with cramping and inflammation associated with endometriosis. Hormonal contraceptives (birth control pills, Depo Povera shot) or the progesterone-releasing IUD are commonly prescribed to put the endometriosis in a “resting phase” so that the symptoms are less severe. If birth control pills do not work, stronger hormonal therapy is also available but has more bothersome side effects than birth control pills. Non-traditional therapies have been shown to have minimal benefit. These would include acupuncture, massage, special diets, and physical therapy.

Q: How do you determine the best treatment option for the patient? Does a person’s age or symptoms play a role in that decision?

A: Many factors go into decision-making for determining the most appropriate treatment option for a woman with endometriosis. The severity of symptoms is probably the most important factor. If symptoms are mild, then you might start with more conservative measures. If symptoms are more severe or fertility has become an issue, then more conservative treatment methods are probably a waste of time and money. Treatment decisions should be individualized and made by the patient with the informed assistance of an expert provider.

When is surgery appropriate for an endo patient?

A: When conservative treatments have been tried and do not help (or stop helping) to prevent the symptoms of endometriosis, surgery is necessary.

Q: What is excision surgery, and why is it considered the “Gold Standard.”

A: Most providers simply ablate endometriosis lesions with some sort of thermal energy device. This takes care of superficial lesions but does not treat the deeper, more invasive disease that causes scar tissue around nerves and compresses structures in which it is implanted such as ureters and bowels. You also cannot ablate endometriosis lesions that are implanted on sensitive structures such as ureters, bowel, bladder, and blood vessels. The result of this form of incomplete surgical management is that a person may feel no better (or sometimes worse) after ablative treatment, or more commonly, they feel better for 6 months to a year, and then the symptoms return.

Excision surgery for endometriosis takes a completely different approach to the surgical management of endometriosis. Expert excision surgeons, like Dr. Furr, treat endometriosis like cancer. No matter where the endometriosis is, it is removed in its entirety from the structures in which it is implanted (or embedded) with wide margins down to healthy, unaffected tissue. This is the only way to make sure you remove not only the visible lesion but also any microscopic disease around the lesion that you cannot see, as well as the scar tissue affecting the nerves and other structures that may be underneath or around the visible lesion. The result of this more comprehensive management is better long-term outcomes with longer pain-free intervals and far better fertility outcomes.

Q: What is the difference between an excision surgeon and a regular Ob/Gyn?

A: There are only about 75-100 surgeons around the world who are vetted experts in endometriosis excision surgery. This means that they have had extensive training outside of Ob/Gyn residency in the surgical management of endometriosis. Most excision surgeons have completed formal fellowship training programs in laparoscopic management of endometriosis. However, this is not enough. In addition to formal training, most true excision surgeons have many years of experience, including thousands of cases, additional continuing medical/surgical education in endometriosis, and are experts in their field including research, publications, and authorship of textbook chapters. A good excision surgeon should be trained on how to manage the removal of endometriosis from delicate structures such as the diaphragm, the bowels, bladder, blood vessels, and ureters. In addition to removal of the endometriosis from these structures, a good excision surgeon should be qualified to repair the structures from which the endometriosis is removed and not have to rely on other specialists, except in extreme cases, to assist in surgery.

A list of vetted excision surgeons can be found on Nancy’s Nook on Facebook .

Q: How is excision surgery for endometriosis performed?

A: “Minimally invasive” (laparoscopic or robotic) surgery is the “gold standard” for surgical management of endometriosis. The reason for this is that it allows for superior visualization of the abdomen and pelvis through high-resolution, magnified imaging of the structures on which the endometriosis is located. Another major benefit of laparoscopic/robotic surgery is it allows for faster return to normal activities, less blood loss, and less pain than traditional surgery.

At Women’s Surgery Center, Dr. Furr takes this a step further: he performs complicated endometriosis cases through a single 1-inch incision in the belly button. Dr. Furr is a pioneer and national expert in single-site robotic surgery. His experience in single-site surgery puts in him the top 5% of ALL surgical specialties in the United States. The greatest benefit of single-site surgery is a very cosmetic, single incision in the belly button that is essentially invisible after it heals. Traditional laparoscopic and robotic surgery requires up to five incisions on the abdomen.

Q: What is the prognosis with this surgery, and would a person need additional surgeries in the future?

A: Probably the greatest benefit of excision surgery for endometriosis is not only the significant relief of pain and other symptoms but more importantly, the increased length of the pain-free interval. Many women who come to our office have had multiple surgeries (as many as 10-20 surgeries have been reported) oftentimes by the same provider. Dr. Furr has seen 18-year-old women who have had their uterus and ovaries removed, and when they still had symptoms, were told that they were “crazy and there is nothing else that can be done.” Likewise, it is critical for women to understand this disease and know where to look for help. Another very important benefit of excision surgery directly impacts any woman who suffers from infertility. When a woman has unexplained infertility, 40% of the time, she is ultimately diagnosed with endometriosis. It is crucial that these women see an experienced excision surgeon to have the best option to achieve fertility without having to go through in-vitro fertilization. There is no more rewarding outcome than when a couple struggling with infertility has endometriosis surgery and later notifies us that they are pregnant. Finally, excision surgery offers the best prognosis for not needing additional surgeries in the future for this disease. It is very rare that Dr. Furr has to operate more than once on a patient for endometriosis.

Q: How does your office take a team approach to treat women with endometriosis, and what do the individual team members do?

A: The Nurse Practitioners at Women’s Surgery Center have years of experience in the diagnosis and management of endometriosis and associated chronic pelvic pain. They understand and know when and how to implement each phase of care from conservative management to knowing when surgical options are best for a woman suffering from endometriosis. Our providers are also experienced in fertility issues that can be associated with endometriosis. Finally, we also work with expert pelvic floor physical therapists with extensive experience in treating not only pain associated with endometriosis but also other pelvic pain disorders.

Q: What are some of the misconceptions women have about treatments and surgery for endometriosis?

A: The things women have been told about treatment for endometriosis never cease to amaze us. Women who come to our office have reported being told some very bizarre things:

“You have to get pregnant and then have a hysterectomy for your symptoms to go away.”

“There is no way that endometriosis can be causing your painful bowel movements.”

“You have IBS, that is why you have constipation and diarrhea during your periods.”

“You probably were abused when you were little; that is why sex is painful.”

“The only way to get rid of your pain is to have your uterus and ovaries removed.”

“You just are trying to get out of school (or work) once a month.”

These are just a few of the silly things women have reported to Dr. Furr over the years that they were told by their doctors. Hysterectomy/removing ovaries is not a “cure” for endometriosis. In fact, this often leads to more harm than good in the long run. Endometriosis can reside essentially anywhere in the body. Although most common in the pelvis, it can be found outside of the pelvis on any structure in the abdominal cavity. It can also invade through the diaphragm and seed the thoracic cavity and lungs. Dr. Furr has treated multiple patients who have endometriosis in the bronchial tree in the lungs who cough up blood during their periods. Likewise, he very commonly removes endometriosis from the bowels, and a patient’s bloody stool and “IBS” magically disappear after excision surgery.

Q: What are other conditions that occur in women with endometriosis?

A: The most common condition we see in women with endometriosis is Painful Bladder Syndrome. This was formerly known as Interstitial Cystitis or “IC,” and is reported to occur in up to 85% of women with endometriosis. Painful Bladder Syndrome causes urinary frequency and urgency, pain when the bladder is full, relief when it is emptied, nocturia (getting up to pee after you have gone to sleep), painful urination, painful bladder spasms, and pain in the area of the bladder with intercourse. Oftentimes, women will report a history of “recurrent UTIs”. They go to the doctor and there may be a little blood in the urine. They get antibiotics and feel better for a little while, but the symptoms keep coming back. Women should be sure to report these types of symptoms to their doctor because this condition can also be treated if appropriately diagnosed.

We’re Here for You

Ladies, endometriosis does not have a right to control your life. We want to help you put endo in its place and enjoy life again. Give us a call at 423-899-6511 to schedule an appointment with one of our providers.

Need to Know: Why is Heart Disease so Prevalent in African American Women?

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 16:32:32 GMT

Need to Know: Why is Heart Disease so Prevalent in African American Women?

September 20th, 2021

Ladies, take a moment and envision yourself setting a timer for 10 minutes while dinner bakes in the oven. By the time that timer beeps, around 15 people in the United States will have experienced a heart attack. Every 40 seconds someone in the US has a heart attack according to the CDC . In fact, heart disease is the number one killer of both men and women. February is American Heart Month, and although heart health is not our speciality at Women’s Surgery & Aesthetic’s Center, we care about all health matters related to women. Black History Month is also in February, and heart disease is more prevalent in black females than in caucasian females. Due to this, we have decided to use this month’s blog to educate African American women about their risk in an effort to save lives.

Let’s Talk Numbers

80%. That is the percentage of cardiovascular disease and stroke that can be prevented according to the American Heart Association . However, it is estimated that only 36% of African American women realize that heart disease is their greatest health risk. On top of that, of all African American women over the age of 20, close to 50% have heart disease, and many of them just might not know it. Our goal in sharing these numbers is not to cause fear but to encourage African American women to take action in talking to their primary care providers about their risk and ways it can be lowered.

Why are African American Women at a Greater Risk?

Researchers have been working to answer this question. The American Heart Association said that researchers did find a gene that they believe makes African Americans more sensitive to the effects of salt. This means that their risk of developing high blood pressure is greater, and high blood pressure can lead to heart disease. In addition, black men and women are more likely to have diabetes or be overweight. Both of these are heart disease risk factors.

Risk Factors & Taking Action

Risk factors play a major role in increasing a person’s risk of developing heart disease. In fact, the more risk factors you have, the higher your risk. The vast number of risk factors you can change simply by making heart-healthy lifestyle choices. However, there is not anything you can do about your risk of heart disease caused by your family history and age. Preeclampsia, which makes a woman’s risk of developing heart disease twice as high, can also be included in this group.

Other risk factors include high blood pressure, obesity, high cholesterol levels, type 2 diabetes and prediabetes. These factors can be improved simply by making changes to your eating and exercise habits. When it comes to eating, make sure you are not eating too many foods that are high in saturated and trans fats, which can raise your cholesterol levels. Avoid foods high in sodium as well to keep your blood pressure levels down. Added sugars and alcoholic beverages should be limited too. Instead, opt for whole-grain items and fruits and vegetables full of nutrients and vitamins. Make sure you drink plenty of water every day as well. In terms of exercise habits, the Department of Health and Human Services recommends that everyone gets 2.5 hours of moderate physical activity or 75 minutes of vigorous physical activity each week. Find an activity you enjoy like kickboxing, walking, running, or swimming and get moving because being physically active can lower your risk of heart disease by 20-35% . ( Source )

One final tip to lower your risk is to completely cut out smoking. Both the person smoking and anyone who is exposed to secondhand smoke long-term is at an increased risk of heart disease.

Talk to Your Doctor

Bringing up heart disease with your doctor can be scary, however, speaking up can save your life. To begin lowering your risk of heart disease, you first need to know your risk. Your physician can provide you with additional health tips and can make sure you understand the signs of heart attack and stroke to look for.

Each year, close to 50,000 African American women die from cardiovascular disease. That is 50,000 women too many. Together we can work to lower this number and save lives. To learn more about cardiovascular disease, we encourage you to visit the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women website.

It’s Not Too Late To Give The Gift of Emsculpt NEO

Tue, 14 Dec 2021 16:23:38 GMT

It’s Not Too Late To Give The Gift of Emsculpt NEO

September 20th, 2021

Can you believe that Christmas is less than two weeks away? Now, don’t panic. We know you probably just realized that you are running out of shopping days. The good news is we are here to help because we have found the perfect gift for all of the women on your list this year: Emsculpt Neo! Why not give the gift that will help your loved ones start 2022 by saying goodbye to fat and hello to muscle? For our blog this month, we want to share with you everything you need to know about this gift that will keep on giving and make your loved ones feel and look amazing.

What is Emsculpt NEO?

If you’ve been one of our patients for a while or you follow us on social media, then you’ve probably heard us talk about this incredible non-invasive, body-sculpting technology. However, you may still have questions about what it is and how it works. The Emsculpt NEO is the gold standard in body-shaping technology because it combines fat reduction and muscle building into one 30 minute session. How does it do this? The answer: HEAT. The Emsculpt NEO simultaneously emits radio frequency (RF), which helps with fat reduction, and high-intensity electromagnetic energies (HIFEM+), which helps build muscles.

When the radio frequency heats up, the muscle temperature also rises preparing the muscles for exposure to stress. In other words, it is kind of like what happens to your body during the warm-up portion of a workout. According to the brains at BTL Industries who are behind this groundbreaking technology, less than 4 minutes into the procedure, the temperature in the subcutaneous fat will reach levels that will cause fat cells to be permanently damaged. From there, those cells will be removed from the body. When it comes to muscle building, HIFEM+ energy contracts the muscle fibers in the area at intensities that you cannot achieve during a regular gym workout. Due to extreme stress put on the muscles, they will begin to adapt which will result in an increase in the number and growth of fibers and cells. ( Source )

Yes, they absolutely are! We are the only office in the Chattanooga area with this technology. Even though we have only had the Emsculpt NEO for a few months, our patients are already seeing some incredible results.

It is important to keep in mind that it will take several treatments to achieve maximum results, and you may not fully see those results until three months after your final treatment. We typically recommend ladies undergo four 30 minute treatments. These should be scheduled between 5-10 days apart. These treatments do not require any downtime, so you can return back to your daily activities immediately.

Also, according to BTL Industries, seven clinical trials have been conducted using the Emsculpt NEO. Results from those studies were consistent in showing that fat was eliminated and muscle was built. When the data from three of those studies were averaged together, BTL found that users gained 25% more muscle and had 30% less fat on average. Results will vary for each person, but the outlook is very promising. ( Source )

How Do I Give The Gift of Emsculpt Neo?

If you are ready to change a life by giving the gift of Emsculpt NEO this Christmas, give us a call at 423-899-6511. No one ever said you cannot give yourself a Christmas present, so feel free to schedule an appointment for yourself as well. We cannot wait for you and your loved ones to experience everything the Emsculpt NEO has to offer!

Endometriosis 101: Pain Management Tips

Fri, 15 Oct 2021 16:14:28 GMT

Endometriosis 101: Pain Management Tips

September 20th, 2021

Women who are living life with endometriosis experience internal battles many of us will never know. Bethany Stahl, who is the author of the book “ Endometriosis: It's Not in Your Head, It's in Your Pelvis ” said, “I am amongst a community of warriors.” She is 100 percent correct. At Women’s Surgery and Aesthetics Center, we are committed to helping women who have endometriosis live life to the fullest by minimizing their pain. This blog is part of a series we’re doing on endometriosis, which affects 1 in 10 women according to The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) . In September, we shared an overview of endometriosis and all it entails. For this month’s blog, we’re going to be sharing tips to help women minimize the pain that comes along with this chronic condition.

Say Goodbye to Stress

As if dealing with endometriosis pain was not enough, anxiety, depression and stress like to squeeze their way into the situation. Now, the stress that comes along with endo can actually be attributed to the condition itself because chronic pain can raise levels of cortisol, which is known as - you guessed it - the stress hormone. Ultimately, a hormone imbalance can occur due to high cortisol levels over time. On the flip side, chronic pain itself can cause you to feel stressed. For you to find relief, we need to resolve this big stress mess. ( Source )

Stress Relief Techniques

One of the best things you can do to relax and lower your stress levels is to develop stress relief techniques. This could include deep breathing exercises or visualization techniques where you close your eyes and imagine you are somewhere else to get your mind off of reality. Seeing a counselor is also a great option because you can share your feelings and get professional advice on which techniques will work best for you. There are a lot of meditation apps you can try as well. Headspace and Calm are two of the most popular apps out there right now. If you are into essential oils, try diffusing lavender oil. Not only does it smell amazing, but it will help you feel at ease too. There are a ton of stress relief techniques available that you can try. What matters is that you find something that works for you and helps you feel better.

Hit the Gym

Let’s be honest, no one wants to work out when they are in pain. However, you may want to reconsider. Getting your body moving and your blood flowing can be beneficial for women with endo. Need more convincing? According to an article published in the American Journal of Epidemiology , women who participate regularly in high-intensity workouts have a drastically lower risk of developing endometriosis. Even if you have already been diagnosed, high-intensity workouts could help ease your symptoms. Swimming, running, biking and cardio are great workout options to try. If high-intensity workouts aren’t your thing, we suggest adding yoga to your daily routine because stretching can also help provide you with pain relief. Working out can cause your body to release those wonderful, happy, pain-relieving chemicals called endorphins as well. If you are still on the fence, then just try breaking a sweat and seeing what happens. It is absolutely worth a shot.

Exercise and stress relieving techniques are just two of the many things out there that can help you manage life with endometriosis. Our doctors can provide you with additional ideas and strategies to fit your lifestyle. Give us a call at 423-899-6511 or visit our website to request an appointment. Stay tuned for the final blog in our three-part series on endometriosis.

Endometriosis 101: An Overview

Mon, 20 Sep 2021 16:08:00 GMT

Endometriosis 101: An Overview

September 20th, 2021

Having a monthly menstrual cycle is part of being a woman. Unfortunately, for a number of women, their time of the month can include excruciating pain. Cramps and bloating are included in the “period” package deal, but for women who suffer from endometriosis, which is also called endo, this pain is much more intense. According to The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) , around 1 in 10 women live with endometriosis. At Women’s Surgery & Aesthetics Center, we are committed to helping these women find relief. We believe that educating women about this condition is important. Over the next three months, we will be devoting our blogs to talking about topics surrounding endometriosis. For our first installment, we’ll be sharing some general information to help everyone better understand endo.

What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis occurs when tissue that resembles the tissue that forms the endometrium, or the lining of the uterus, begins growing outside of the uterus. Most commonly, this tissue, which is also referred to as implants, begins forming in areas where it does not belong like the ovaries, Fallopian tubes, and peritoneum. It can also form in the bladder and intestines. Women can be affected by endo any time after they begin having a monthly menstrual cycle. However, endometriosis is most common in women when they are in their 30s and 40s. ( Source )

There are four stages of endometriosis. These stages range from minimal to severe. Small lesions and shallow endometrial implants will develop on the ovaries of a woman with minimal endometriosis. She may also experience inflammation around or in her pelvic cavity. Mild endometriosis is the second stage. Like with minimal endo, a woman with this stage of endo will also have lesions or implants develop on her ovaries. However, she will most likely deal with lesions and implants on the pelvic lining too. When a woman is dealing with moderate endo, she will typically have deeper implants on her ovaries and pelvic lining. The severe stage of endo also involves deep implants, however, a woman may also have lesions on her Fallopian tubes and bowels.

What Are The Common Symptoms?

Pain is the most common symptom of endometriosis. It is possible for a person, however, to not have any symptoms at all, but most do experience pain. Women with endo tend to have very painful periods. This pain usually begins in the days leading up to the start of a woman’s monthly cycle and can continue while she has her period. A woman may also experience pain while using the restroom during her cycle. Endo can make intercourse uncomfortable and can cause women to suffer from infertility. This does not mean every woman with endo will be unable to have children. The Mayo Clinic estimates that between ⅓ and ½ of women with endo will have a difficult conceiving. This is because endo can obstruct the Fallopian tubes, meaning the egg and sperm are unable to join together. Endo can also damage the egg or sperm in some cases. What is interesting, however, is that pregnancy can actually improve a woman’s symptoms while she is expecting. Endometriosis can increase a woman’s risk of developing ovarian cancer as well. The risk of anyone developing this type of cancer is small, so the risk is still quite low even for a woman with endo.

Am I At Risk?

The cause of endometriosis is unknown, however, some women are at a higher risk of developing the condition than others. Like with many conditions, a woman is more likely to develop endometriosis if it runs in her family. Women who started their period at an early age, have a shorter amount of time than normal between their menstrual cycles, or have extremely heavy periods that last longer than a week are also at a higher risk. The risk is increased for women who have not had children or have higher levels of estrogen in their bodies as well.

Is There A Cure? What Treatment Options Are Available?

Unfortunately, there is no cure for endometriosis. The good news is that there are treatments that can help reduce a woman’s symptoms. If you are looking for a treatment you can pick up at the drugstore, then try Ibuprofen or Tylenol. These can help, however, doctors can prescribe stronger medications. Hormonal therapies, like birth control pills and vaginal rings, are another option. These therapies do decrease your chances of becoming pregnant, but they can provide relief. In 2018, the Food and Drug Administration approved a prescription medication for endometriosis called gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). GnRH keeps estrogen from stimulating the ovaries by blocking its production. As a result, a woman’s periods will cease, and she will experience an artificial menopause.

Surgery is also an option if necessary. In fact, the only sure way a doctor can diagnose endo is by performing a laparoscopy. During this minimally invasive surgery, a doctor will be able to see the endo tissue and remove it. If no other treatments work and a woman the pain is unbearable, then having a hysterectomy is an option. This is often viewed as being a last resort, and it is not considered to be a cure.

How Can Women’s Surgery & Aesthetics Center Help?

If you are suffering from endometriosis or believe you could be, our team of doctors is ready to help. We can work to find the best treatment option for your symptoms. Our goal is to help every woman enjoy and live life to the fullest. Give us a call at 423-899-6511 or visit our website to request an appointment. Keep an eye out for our next blog for more information about endometriosis.

Annual Well-Woman Exams: Why Seeing Your Gynecologist is Important

Tue, 17 Aug 2021 16:00:49 GMT

Annual Well-Woman Exams: Why Seeing Your Gynecologist is Important

August 17th, 2021

Life can be really busy. You may feel like you need to put some things off because you just cannot fit everything you need to do in. It’s possible your annual well-woman exam may be one of those things you feel you can wait on. As tempting as this may sound to cancel your annual appointment, it is extremely important that you make time to take care of yourself and see your gynecologist for your exam.

Why You Need An Annual Exam

As we age, our bodies change. A woman in her 20s is not going to be dealing with the same issues as a woman in her 50s, however, both can benefit from seeing their gynecologist. During a well-woman exam, patients have the opportunity to ask their doctors questions. For some women, these questions may be about birth control. While for others, their questions may center around what to expect during menopause. At Women’s Surgery and Aesthetic’s Center, our team is ready to help you as you navigate womanhood. We can answer any questions you can have.

Health Screenings

Well-woman exams are also important because women can receive any screenings they need. According to the World Health Organization , “cervical cancer is the fourth most common in women.” In the United States alone, the American Cancer Society anticipates that close to 14,500 women will be diagnosed this year. Testing is recommended beginning in your 20s, however, women between the ages of 35-44 are the most frequently diagnosed. Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women, according to the CDC . During a woman’s lifetime, the American Cancer Society says there is a 1 in 8 chance she will develop breast cancer. The earlier cervical cancer and breast cancer are diagnosed the better, so screenings are essential. Gynecologists can talk with women about their risks and answer their questions.

Sexual Health

Sex is supposed to be an enjoyable experience, however, many women deal with problems in the bedroom. According to the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists , around 4 in 10 women will experience sex problems sometime during their lives. General problems with sex are labeled as “female sexual dysfunction.” These women typically experience issues with desire and arousal, orgasms, pain during sex, or issues during intercourse due to medications or substances. When you visit your gynecologist for your yearly exam, you need to tell your doctor about any sexual issues you’re experiencing. Your doctor can help you find solutions to overcome these problems. At Women’s Surgery & Aesthetics, we understand that bringing sexual problems up can be difficult. Our providers are committed to creating a warm and caring environment where you can feel comfortable and safe when discussing sensitive issues.

There is still plenty of time for you to schedule your 2021 exam. We want to help women thrive and enjoy every stage of their lives. You can learn more about our gynecology services by visiting https://bit.ly/3iQKM01 . Give us a call today at 423-899-6511 to schedule your appointment.

MonaLisa Touch: Helping Women Find Their Confidence Again

Mon, 12 Jul 2021 15:50:32 GMT

MonaLisa Touch: Helping Women Find Their Confidence Again

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Aging is a part of life that we cannot ignore. As we grow older, our bodies change. Many women begin to lose confidence in their body once they hit menopause. Around 50% of menopausal and post-menopausal women experience vaginal atrophy, also known as vaginal aging, where the walls of the vagina become thinner. The natural elasticity and blood supply is also reduced. Vaginal atrophy causes discomfort and can affect a woman’s desire to be sexually intimate with her significant other. Even with so many women experiencing the same issues, this topic is currently not widely discussed. At Women’s Surgery & Aesthetics Center, we want to help women regain their self-confidence and feel comfortable in their skin again. As part of our mission to provide the highest level of care through our highly skilled health care professionals and state of the art technologies, we are pleased to be one of the only places in the Chattanooga area that offers the MonaLisa Touch to help women suffering from vaginal atrophy.

What is the MonaLisa Touch?

The MonaLisa Touch is a great alternative to the vaginal creams that are often used to treat various gynecologic concerns many women experience. This non-surgical vaginal rejuvenation treatment uses a fractional C02 laser to help correct low estrogen levels in the vaginal tissue that cause these issues by reactivating your body’s collagen production. One of things that makes the MonaLisa Touch uniqure is that the laser uses proprietary stacking technology, which means that deeper areas of tissue can be targeted. The great news for women is that this out-patient procedure is performed on their schedule and only takes around five minutes. In addition, this treatment is hormone free and patients are not exposed to any chemicals. According to a TechValidate survey of 236 women in the United States who had this treatment, 97% of them were satisfied with their results. ( Source )

Who’s a Good Candidate?

Since this procedure was introduced in 2012, thousands of women across the United States and the world have opted for the MonaLisa Touch. This is an elective procedure, and women do not need a referral to schedule an appointment. Women who feel these vaginal issues are affecting their way of life should consider the MonaLisa Touch. However, this procedure is contraindicated for women who have an active vaginal or vulvar infection, have untreated or undiagnosed lesions in the treatment area, or are pregnant or gave birth within the last 3 months. ( Source )

What Will Life be like after the procedure?

Post-procedure, it’s recommended that you wait 2-3 days before becoming sexually active again. Typically, you can return to your normal day to day activities within a few days. Some women may experience mild side effects like spotting, vaginal bleeding, itching, irritation, watery vaginal discharge, redness, swelling, and discomfort. A number of women will not experience any side effects at all. At our office, we recommend patients have three procedures in six week intervals. ( Source )

How We Can Help

Ladies, you deserve to always feel beautiful inside and out! If you feel the MonaLisa Touch could be an option for you, then give us a call at 423-899-6511. We will be more than happy to talk to you about this option further and help you make the best decision for you.