Understanding Fibroids During Pregnancy

Fibroids, also known as uterine leiomyomas, are non-cancerous growths that frequently occur in women of childbearing age. These growths are particularly common among African American women, but they can affect any woman. At Covington Women’s Health Specialists, we have extensive experience caring for patients with fibroids both during pregnancy and at other stages of life. It’s essential to understand that while fibroids can be monitored, there are limitations to the treatments that can be provided during pregnancy.

During pregnancy, the hormonal changes can sometimes cause fibroids to grow, leading to discomfort or pain for the expectant mother. While this can be concerning, it’s important to note that neither obstetricians nor specialists can remove or shrink fibroids during pregnancy due to the potential risks to both the mother and the baby. Our approach involves careful monitoring and managing any symptoms to ensure the best possible outcome for both the mother and child. Specialists often assist obstetricians in this monitoring process, providing additional expertise and care when needed.

While pain is the most common symptom fibroids cause during pregnancy, fibroids are also associated with early miscarriages and bleeding during pregnancy.  Women with fibroids experience preterm delivery and cesarean section delivery more commonly than women without fibroids. For most women with fibroids, the baby’s growth progresses normally; however, fibroids can sometimes hinder fetal growth. Complications like early leakage of amniotic fluid or preterm labor are difficult to predict, even with close monitoring by an obstetrician or specialist.

While we cannot prevent the growth of fibroids during pregnancy, our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive care and support. We provide monitoring and when needed work closely with specialists to keep a close eye on the condition and address any concerns that arise. If you have fibroids and are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, schedule your prenatal or gynecological appointment online or by calling our office at (770) 385-8954 to discuss your condition with one of our providers to develop a tailored care plan.

Resources for Our Pregnant Patients at Piedmont Newton Hospital

At Covington Women’s Health Specialists, we deliver at Piedmont Newton Hospital, our trusted partner healthcare institution. Here are some resources that Piedmont Newton offers expected mothers as the preparation for their new baby:

Breastfeeding Basics

This class is offered on the first Wednesday of every month from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Maternity Center Tour

This tour is every second and fourth Wednesday of the month from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Childbirth Education Class

This class is every third Wednesday and Thursday of the month from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Visit Piedmont Healthcare’s website for more information on how to register for its classes and events. 

The Benefits of Nerve Blocks Over Narcotics for Post-Surgery and Postpartum Pain Relief

At Covington Women’s Health Specialists, we prioritize the well-being and comfort of our patients. We take pride in our affiliation with Piedmont Newton Hospital and their anesthesiologists’ and anesthetists’ commitment to offering advanced pain management techniques to enhance patient recovery. One such technique is the use of nerve blocks, a method that has proven to be highly effective in reducing postoperative and postpartum pain while minimizing the reliance on narcotic medications.

Nerve blocks are a form of regional anesthesia that involves injecting medication near specific nerves to block pain signals from reaching the brain. This targeted approach provides significant pain relief in the immediate postoperative and postpartum periods. Unlike systemic narcotic medications, which can affect the entire body and cause a range of side effects such as drowsiness, nausea, and constipation, nerve blocks work locally, allowing patients to experience effective pain relief without these unwanted side effects.

The benefits of using nerve blocks over narcotics are particularly important in the context of obstetrics and gynecology. After surgery or childbirth, effective pain management is crucial for a smooth recovery. Nerve blocks not only reduce physical discomfort but also help new mothers stay alert and engaged during the crucial early bonding period with their newborns. Additionally, minimizing the use of narcotics helps prevent potential issues related to dependency and ensures a safer recovery process.

The skilled anesthesiologists and anesthetists at Piedmont Newton Hospital are highly trained in administering nerve blocks, ensuring that our patients receive the best possible care. By prioritizing patient comfort and recovery, we are striving to enhance the overall patient experience and ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.

To schedule a prenatal visit to learn more, call our office at 770-385-8954 or request an appointment online.

Covington Women’s Health Specialists Opens New Location Offering Enhanced Patient Care

Covington Women’s Health Specialists, an all female OB-GYN and midwifery care practice, is now opening an additional new location (5165 Cook Street N.E., Covington) offering complete obstetrics and maternity services.

Conveniently located near the existing Cook Street gynecology office and our main office at the Piedmont Newton Hospital campus, our new third location will offer comprehensive obstetric care, including ultrasounds and advanced 3D imaging in a private environment. 

“It’s a privilege to expand our services with this new location,” says Dr. Cathy T. Larrimore, founder of Covington Women’s Health Specialists. “This facility allows us to enhance our offerings and continue delivering exceptional healthcare to the community.”

Covington Women’s Health Specialists provides a wide range of maternity and gynecology services focusing on promoting women’s reproductive health at every stage of life. Services include midwifery, cutting-edge surgical services, trans and nonbinary healthcare, multiple convenient locations, and on-site Quest diagnostics.

The location is now open for patient visits. Hours are 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Mondays – Thursdays and 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. Fridays. 

Request an appointment online or by calling our office at (770) 385-8954.

Understanding the Roles of OB/GYNs and Certified Nurse-Midwives in Women’s Healthcare

At Covington Women’s Health Specialists, we’re excited to highlight the growth that many of our longstanding patients have observed. With a dynamic team consisting of six OB/GYN doctors, seven Certified Nurse-Midwives, and three Women’s Health Nurse Practitioners, we strive daily to deliver personalized, patient-centered care.

We’re thrilled to introduce Rosalie Plofchan, CNM, to our dynamic team. Rosalie is excited to share insights on a topic we often receive questions about: the differences between OB/GYN doctors and Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs). Although both play crucial roles in our specialty, their education and credentials differ. Here’s Rosalie insights on these important distinctions.

OB/GYN Doctors Healthcare Services 

OB/GYN doctors undergo extensive training in medical illnesses and surgery. With four years of medical school and four years of residency, our Medical Doctors (MD) or Doctors of Osteopathy (DO) specialize in obstetrics and gynecology. Board-certified in this specialty, their training equips them with expertise to manage routine and high-risk pregnancies, perform surgical procedures related to the female reproductive system, and diagnose and treat various gynecological conditions and non-pregnancy related medical illnesses. Our OB/GYNs bring a wealth of specialized medical knowledge and surgical expertise to the team. They are skilled to handle complex pregnancies, high-risk deliveries, and a myriad of gynecological conditions.

In situations requiring intervention or advanced medical care, OB/GYNs play an indispensable role. Their ability to navigate intricate surgeries, manage complications, and provide a range of treatment options ensures that patients receive the highest level of care, especially in critical situations.

Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs) Healthcare Services

Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs) are registered nurses who pursue advanced training and hold master’s or doctoral degrees in nursing. Completing two to four years of graduate education, they are certified by the American Midwifery Certification Board and licensed by the state to practice. Emphasizing holistic, patient-centered care, CNMs focus on promoting natural childbirth, providing education, and supporting women throughout the childbirth process. They are trained to recognize and manage complications during pregnancy and childbirth. CNMs offer prenatal care, attend births, and provide postpartum care for low-risk women. Additionally, they deliver routine gynecologic care and support women with health maintenance and regular testing outside of pregnancy. Our CNMs collaborate with our physicians to care for medium to high-risk pregnancies.

The Harmony of CNMs and OB/GYNs

The diversity of care we offer, with both CNMs and OB/GYNs, is one of the beautiful aspects of our practice. Women have different needs, preferences, and circumstances, and having a range of healthcare providers ensures that those needs are met. While some women may prefer the personalized, low-intervention approach of midwifery, others may require the specialized care and expertise of an OB/GYN due to medical conditions or other factors. The key lies in recognizing that each provider has a valuable role to play in women’s healthcare.

Our dedicated team of healthcare providers is ready to support you throughout your pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum journey, addressing any questions or concerns you may have along the way. Schedule your appointment online or give us a call at 770-385-8954.

Partnering with Excellence: Celebrating Piedmont Newton Hospital’s Accomplishments

At Covington Women’s Health Specialists, we take pride in our affiliation with Piedmont Newton Hospital, a healthcare institution that consistently demonstrates excellence in women’s services. Here are just a few reasons why we choose Piedmont Newton as our trusted partner:

  1. Recognized Excellence: For the past three years, the Atlanta Journal Constitution has honored a Piedmont Newton Women’s Services Nurse as the Nurse of the Year for Atlanta metro area. This prestigious recognition reflects the hospital’s commitment to exceptional patient care and nursing excellence.
  1. Cutting-Edge Surgical Techniques: Our gynecologists are able to be at the forefront of surgical innovation, performing state-of-the-art robotic surgeries with precision and expertise with the equipment provided by Piedmont Newton Hospital. These minimally invasive procedures offer patients less pain, faster recovery, and improved outcomes.
  1. Advanced Pain Management: Piedmont Newton prioritizes patient comfort and recovery by offering advanced pain management techniques. Their anesthesiologists and anesthetists administer nerve blocks to reduce postoperative and postpartum pain, minimizing the need for narcotic medications and enhancing the overall patient experience.

We are committed to providing our patients with the highest quality of care, which is why we partner with Piedmont Newton Hospital. Together, we strive to ensure that every patient receives compassionate, comprehensive, and cutting-edge healthcare services.

Piedmont Newton’s Concert for a Cause 2024: Celebrating Community and Care

Covington Women’s Health Specialists proudly served as a platinum sponsor for the Piedmont Newton’s Concert for a Cause 2024 held on Saturday, April 20, 2024. The event showcased an outdoor concert at Legion Field featuring the performance of Yacht Rock Schooner and local favorite Chris, Jon, and Scott. 

All proceeds from this year’s Concert for a Cause contributed to Piedmont Newton’s efforts to achieve a Level III NICU designation. Funds were allocated for essential equipment including ventilators, incubators, phototherapy lights, and a neonatal transporter, ensuring the provision of critical care for fragile newborns. Interested in donating? Click here for instructions on how to give. 

Representatives from Covington Women’s Health Specialists took the stage to express gratitude for the community’s support and share the practice’s commitment to women’s health and wellness. Our very own Jennifer Walker, CNM shared with the crowd how Piedmont Newton’s NICU helped her family. 

Listen to Jennifer’s endearing speech:

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all who attended and supported this meaningful event. Together, we’re making a difference in the lives of families in our community. 

Check out the pictures from the event to see the joy and camaraderie shared by all!

Covington Women’s Health Specialists Marks 20 Years of Exceptional Women’s Healthcare

In 2004, Covington Women’s Health Specialists was born out of Dr. Cathy T. Larrimore’s vision to create a unique and supportive healthcare environment for women. After serving nearly 12 years in the naval service and having her own children, Dr. Larrimore sought a change, wanting to spend more time with her three daughters and create a practice aligned with her values.

Her quest for this ideal location led her to Covington, GA, a charming town that resonated with her suburban childhood memories. Coincidentally, a former Navy midwife shared the same vision and also decided to move to Georgia. Both were hired at what is now Piedmont Newton Hospital, setting the foundation for the practice.

As the years passed, Dr. Larrimore saw an opportunity to integrate midwifery into an OB GYN practice. She officially opened Covington Women’s Health Specialists in 2004. To distinguish the practice, she introduced group prenatal care following the Centering Pregnancy model, fostering a sense of community and support among expectant mothers (temporarily paused due to COVID).

Dr. Larrimore’s commitment to education became evident as she began teaching third-year medical students aspiring to become midwives, nurse practitioners, and ultrasonographers. Her advice to them reflects the highs and lows of the medical profession, emphasizing strength during challenging moments.

While the core principles of gynecology remain steadfast, Covington Women’s Health Specialists has continuously evolved, staying abreast of current advancements. Dr. Larrimore’s focus on minimally invasive surgery, fibroid treatment, menopausal medicine, and infertility has propelled the practice forward.

Dr. Jessie L. Bender Earns Focused Practice Designation in Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery

At Covington Women’s Health Specialists, we are excited to announce that Dr. Jessie L. Bender has achieved a significant milestone in her career: the prestigious Focused Practice Designation in Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. This achievement highlights our practice’s ongoing dedication to delivering top-notch obstetrics and gynecology services.

The American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG) developed this esteemed recognition to establish standards and assessments for minimally invasive gynecologic surgery within our field. It acknowledges the surgical proficiency of physicians who have honed their skills in treating gynecological issues through minimally invasive techniques. Moreover, this recognition ensures that physicians stay up-to-date with relevant professional development.

“At Covington Women’s Health Specialists, we are deeply committed to providing inclusive and exceptional care to our patients,” says Dr. Bender. “This recognition reflects our unwavering dedication. It’s an honor to be recognized by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology and to collaborate with esteemed professionals in our field.”

Since joining Covington Women’s Health Specialist in 2014, Dr. Bender has been an invaluable asset to the community, delivering high-quality, innovative care right here at home. Learn more about Dr. Bender here, a Fellow of the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine.  
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Bender or any of our skilled medical professionals at Covington Women’s Health Specialists, call 770-385-8954 or visit CovingtonWomensHealth.com.

Safe and Recommended Vaccinations During Pregnancy

Vaccines are important for protecting you against serious illness at every stage of life. When you’re pregnant, having this protection is especially important because physiological and immunological changes are taking place in your body, and these changes can increase your risk of infections and their severity.

In addition to safeguarding pregnant women from severe illness, the antibodies produced by the mother’s body can pass across the placenta, offering the baby protection from illnesses after birth. Unlike some illnesses for which babies do not begin receiving vaccinations until two months of life, the antibodies acquired from the mother provide immediate defense. Starting life with protection against common and severe illnesses promotes a baby’s health and shields them during the first two to six months, before their own vaccinations are complete.

Fortunately, the following vaccinations can protect you and your growing baby against contagious illnesses when you’re most vulnerable. At Covington Women’s Health Specialists, we recommend pregnant patients receive the following vaccines and break down the reasoning for each one.

Whooping Cough

Whooping cough (also known as pertussis) is an extremely contagious respiratory tract infection. It gets its name from the high-pitched inhalation that follows a severe hacking cough. This dry, irritating cough can become so intense that it causes vomiting or apneas (periodic interruptions in breathing). While the illness can be severe for babies and young children, adults often experience a mild form and may not even be aware that they are ill, unknowingly spreading the virus. As a result, newborns can be unintentionally exposed.

Fortunately, pregnant women can receive the TDAP vaccination for whooping cough— protecting themselves and their unborn babies. We recommend you receive the vaccine between 27 and 36 weeks gestation of each pregnancy. This time frame ensures that the antibodies passed along to your baby will be at the highest concentration at the time of birth.

Flu

The flu vaccination is recommended by the CDC for everyone over the age of six months. Flu complications can be serious for anyone, but are particularly dangerous for pregnant women and newborns. With the systemic changes that come with pregnancy, and your baby’s underdeveloped immune system, the flu virus can be life-threatening for you both.

The good news is that your risk of catching the flu (or developing a severe case if you do get it) is much lower when you get your flu shot. If you’re pregnant during flu season (typically October through May), you can get vaccinated during any trimester. We recommend receiving your shot as soon as it becomes available so you have immunity for the full flu season.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

RSV is a contagious virus that causes lower respiratory tract or lung infections. Because RSV causes thousands of hospitalizations of young children each year, medical experts have been working hard to develop an effective vaccine.

Recently, the Pfizer RSV vaccine has been approved by the FDA for patients who are between 32 and 36 weeks’ pregnant during RSV season, which runs from September through January. Being vaccinated during this timeframe can protect your baby against severe infection caused by RSV after birth until up to six months of life. The vaccine is offered at the local health department.

COVID-19

If you’re pregnant and not up-to-date on your COVID-19 vaccine or boosters, make a point to become so. Women who are pregnant or were pregnant recently are more likely to become seriously ill from the virus, but getting the updated vaccine reduces risks of complications for both you and your baby.

The vaccine is safe during pregnancy, with data showing no indications of increased risk of complications. Vaccination and booster recommendations vary based on the time since your last dose and the first vaccine you received, so talk to your provider during your next prenatal care visit if you’re unsure whether or not you are fully protected. The vaccine, along with boosters, is offered at the local health department.

Contact Your Provider for Questions About Vaccinations During Pregnancy

There’s a lot to think about when you’re expecting, and vaccinations are only part of routine prenatal health care, which is why we’ve compiled a pregnancy guide to give you a thorough overview in one convenient location. And with our top-notch prenatal care, you can rest assured both you and your baby are in the best of hands throughout your pregnancy. Request your prenatal appointment online or by calling our office at (770) 385-8954 to discuss and get personalized guidance for your health journey.