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Coping with Hot Flashes: Tips That Actually Work

Posted on by Rita Sharma, MD, FACOG in

Hot flashes are one of the most common (and frustrating) symptoms of perimenopause and menopause. They can strike during the day or disrupt your sleep at night, leaving you sweaty, flushed, and uncomfortable. For many women, hot flashes are more than just a minor nuisance; they make a big impact on daily comfort, focus, and quality of life.

The good news? You don’t have to let hot flashes run the show! There are multiple proven ways to manage hot flashes and regain a sense of control, so you can get back to feeling like yourself.

What Are Hot Flashes?

Hot flashes are one of the most recognizable signs of hormonal change during perimenopause and menopause. They happen when your body’s internal thermostat, controlled by the hypothalamus, becomes more sensitive to slight changes in temperature due to fluctuating estrogen levels.

As a result, your body overreacts, triggering sudden heat, sweating, and redness. Understanding what’s happening physiologically can make the symptoms feel less alarming and more manageable.

These sudden, intense feelings of heat are often accompanied by:

  • Red or flushed skin
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Sweating (especially on the face, neck, or chest)
  • Chills or shivering afterward

Hot flashes can last anywhere from 30 seconds to several minutes and may occur a few times a week or multiple times a day.

Everyday Tips for Managing Hot Flashes

While hot flashes can feel unpredictable, many women find real relief by making small, strategic changes to their daily routine. These approaches not only help ease the intensity of hot flashes but also help you regain a sense of control.

From smart wardrobe choices to mindfulness practices, the everyday habits listed below can make a big difference in how you feel day and night:

1. Dress in Layers

Wearing breathable clothing that you can easily remove helps you stay comfortable when a hot flash strikes, especially in warm or crowded environments.

2. Keep Cool at Night

Use a fan, open windows, or invest in cooling pillows and moisture-wicking sheets. Sleeping in a cooler room can significantly reduce night sweats and improve sleep.

3. Avoid Common Triggers

Spicy foods, alcohol, caffeine, and stress are frequent culprits. Keep a symptom journal to identify your triggers and adjust as needed.

4. Practice Relaxation Techniques

Deep breathing, yoga, meditation, and mindfulness can calm the nervous system and reduce hot flash intensity, especially those brought on by stress or anxiety.

5. Stay Hydrated

Drinking cold water throughout the day helps regulate your body temperature and offset sudden heat surges.

Treatment Options That Can Help

If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, talk to your provider about medical treatments. Several options are available:

  • Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): One of the most effective treatments for hot flashes. HRT replaces estrogen levels that drop during menopause, helping to stabilize body temperature regulation.
  • Non-Hormonal Medications: Some antidepressants, blood pressure medications, and anti-seizure drugs have been shown to reduce hot flash frequency in certain patients.
  • Herbal Remedies & Supplements: While not a substitute for medical care, some people find relief with black cohosh, soy isoflavones, or other plant-based therapies. Always consult your doctor before starting supplements to avoid interactions with current medications.

You Don’t Have to Tough It Out

Hot flashes are a normal part of the menopause transition, but that doesn’t mean you have to just “deal with it.” Whether you prefer natural remedies, medical treatment, or a blend of both, help is available and relief is possible.

To explore a personalized plan that fits your symptoms, lifestyle, and preferences, call board-certified gynecologist Rita Sharma, MD, FACOG, URPS today.

What Does Vaginal Atrophy Feel Like?

Posted on by Rita Sharma, MD, FACOG in

Vaginal atrophy is one of the side effects of menopause. When a woman has adequate estrogen, all is well, but as soon as estrogen begins to decline, many negative consequences ensue. Vaginal atrophy is one of them. What does vaginal atrophy feel like?

Lack of Estrogen Causes Changes to the Vagina

The inside of a healthy vagina has moisture and a thick lining. Sexual intercourse is easy and pleasurable. During perimenopause and menopause, women begin to have less of the hormone estrogen which can affect many normal functions including those of the vagina. Women can also have the same issues when undergoing cancer treatments or having their ovaries removed.middle aged couple smiling.

As estrogen declines, the lining of the vagina becomes thinner, and there is a lack of moisture and blood flow. This makes sexual intercourse at best, difficult, and at worst, impossible and painful. Talk with Dr. Rita Sharma in Atlanta, GA for some solutions and treatments before it gets worse.

Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause

Recently vaginal atrophy has been replaced by a new name, genitourinary syndrome of menopause, or GSM. This is to account for the urinary side effects that accompany menopause and vaginal atrophy due to the decline in estrogen.

What Are the Common Symptoms of GSM?

The unpleasant symptoms of GSM and less estrogen include the following:

  • Vaginal dryness
  • Vaginal burning
  • Vaginal itching
  • Burning sensation with urination
  • Urinary urgency
  • Frequent urination
  • Recurrent urinary tract infections
  • Light bleeding after sexual intercourse
  • Discomfort or pain with intercourse
  • Decreased lubrication during intercourse
  • Shortening and tightening of the vaginal canal

Of course, all these symptoms are troubling. They all add up to pain, irritation, and a lack of enjoyment during sexual activity. The itching and burning can occur at any time and the urinary issues can cause additional embarrassing situations.

Due to vaginal dryness, it becomes more difficult to initiate sexual intercourse and to reach orgasm. This can become a real problem between couples.

When you have vaginal atrophy (GSM) it feels like you have traded bodies with an old woman.

A thin, dry, and inflamed vagina is no picnic, but you don’t have to live the rest of your life with these limitations and discomforts.

Contact our board-certified urogynecologist, Dr. Rita Sharma at (770) 723-1545 for options to improve the unpleasant symptoms of vaginal atrophy.

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Empowering Your Bladder Health: Expert Guidance from Dr. Rita Sharma

Posted on by Rita Sharma, MD, FACOG in

Welcome to our Bladder Health Resource Hub, dedicated to helping women achieve better bladder health and improved quality of life. Dr. Rita Sharma is a highly trained and double-board-certified urogynecologist in Atlanta, Georgia. This page provides resources and expert insights into bladder health. Here, you’ll find information on common bladder conditions, advanced treatment options, and tips for managing symptoms effectively. Dr. Sharma’s compassionate and patient-centered approach empowers women to take charge of their health. Explore below to learn more about bladder health and find helpful articles tailored to your needs.

Bladder Health Conditions

Explore the following conditions and treatment options that Dr. Sharma specializes in.

Bladder Health Blog Posts

Gain insights from Dr. Sharma’s articles on various bladder health topics, aimed at educating and empowering you.

Symptoms of Pelvic Organ Prolapse You Shouldn’t Ignore

Posted on by Rita Sharma, MD, FACOG in ,

Many people will ignore symptoms when they are afraid to find out what is going on with their bodies. It’s a common reaction to unknown issues, but it doesn’t make the problem go away. In fact, it can make it worse by waiting and then finding out the diagnosis later when treatment options are more limited. This is certainly true when it comes to the symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse.

What Is POP?

Pelvic Organ Prolapse, or POP, is a kind of pelvic floor disorder. Your pelvic floor is a group of muscles and ligaments that act like a hammock to keep your pelvic organs in place. The pelvic organs include the bladder and rectum, uterus, vagina, urethra, and small bowel.woman smiling.

Sometimes after giving birth and for other reasons, those muscles become weakened and prolapse develops, which refers to the organs dropping out of place. Many times they press against the vagina.

The pelvic floor has four functions when it is functioning correctly:

  • Supports the bladder, bowel, rectum, and sexual and reproductive organs
  • Allows you to move with strength and flexibility
  • Controls the sphincter muscles of the anus and bladder
  • Maintains healthy sexual function

What Causes Pelvic Organ Prolapse?

Some common causes of pelvic organ prolapse include:

  • Vaginal childbirth
  • Obesity
  • Heavy lifting
  • Getting older
  • Straining during bowel movements
  • Menopause
  • Smoking
  • Family history
  • Chronic coughing

What Are the Symptoms of POP?

Watch for a feeling of fullness, pelvic pressure, or pain. You may feel like you have a bulge of tissue at the opening of the vagina or a lump.

You may have urinary or bowel changes. Urinary changes can include peeing more frequently, urgency, or not being able to urinate. Bowel changes can include not being able to empty your stool completely.

In addition, you may have pain with sexual intercourse, vaginal bleeding, or constipation.

It is difficult to discuss these kinds of issues, but you shouldn’t ignore them. Treatments are available, especially when the symptoms are at their mild stage.

Pelvic Organ Prolapse Treatment in Atlanta, GA

There are many options, and Dr. Sharma can help you find the best choice for you.

There are both non-invasive and surgical treatments available which include:

  • Behavioral treatments
  • Mechanical treatments
  • Surgical intervention

Don’t wait to seek treatment. Contact Dr. Rita Sharma, our esteemed board-certified OBGYN at (770) 723-1545 for an evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment options.

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Female Fertility Testing: What You Can Expect

Posted on by Rita Sharma, MD, FACOG in

Being disappointed time after time while you keep trying to conceive is a frustrating feeling. After trying for over one full year, it is recommended you undergo female fertility testing. Keep reading to discover what you can expect.

Atlanta Gyn Center is here to provide compassionate and comprehensive female fertility testing. Contact Dr. Rita Sharma in Tucker, GA today by calling (770) 723-1545.

Expect Lots of Medical History Questions

The fertility testing journey begins with a lot of questions and tests. This usually happens after you have been actively trying to become pregnant for at least one year, but no success.

You will start by talking with Dr. Rita Sharma about your medical health and habits. It might be a bit embarrassing, but it’s the only way they can evaluate what is causing the problem. Many times there are a combination of problems causing infertility.

They will ask about your medical history and any surgeries, prescription medications, use of caffeine, alcohol, cigarettes, drugs, and any exposure to chemicals, toxins, or radiation.

In addition, they will ask about your sexual habits: how often you have sex, your history of problems, STDs, or any sex outside the relationship.

You will also be asked about the following:

  • Previous pregnancies
  • Frequency of periods over the last year
  • Any irregular or missed periods
  • Any change in blood flow or any clots
  • Previous contraceptive methods used
  • Any previous fertility tests

Expect to Review Possible Causes of Infertility

Female infertility can be due to an issue with ovulation. For a man it could be a problem with sperm and how they function. Sometimes no cause is found.

Age is certainly a factor

A young couple in their 20s and early 30s have a 25-30% chance of getting pregnant in any single menstrual period. The percentage declines in the early 30s and even more after age 37. At age 40, a woman has a 10% chance of getting pregnant.

Lifestyle affects fertility

Being overweight, underweight, or drinking moderate amounts of alcohol plus smoking can affect a woman’s fertility. Heavy drinking, smoking, and marijuana use can affect a man’s fertility.

Many health conditions can cause infertility

These can include pituitary or thyroid gland problems, hormonal issues, STDs, PCOS, endometriosis, and more.

Expect to Have a Series of Tests

You will have lab tests like blood and urine, imaging tests, and sometimes procedures.

These tests will help find the underlying cause of infertility. Once the cause is found, we can determine possible treatments and next steps.

Expect to Complete the Tests Within a Few Months

Most infertility evaluations are finished within a few menstrual cycles.

Lastly, expect that after all testing is completed, many couples have an idea why they’re having trouble getting pregnant.

Contact Dr. Rita Sharma at (770) 723-1545 if you are considering female fertility testing in Tucker, GA.

When Should I See a Urogynecologist?

Posted on by Rita Sharma, MD, FACOG in

Whenever you have a medical condition or a concerning issue, you want to see the very best medical professional you can find. You want someone who is highly trained with above-average expertise. Some might call this person a specialist or someone highly skilled in a specific field. This describes a urogynecologist.

Concerned about pelvic health? Trust our board-certified gynecologist, Dr. Rita Sharma, at Atlantia GYN Center. Don’t wait—schedule your urogynecology consultation by requesting an appointment online today at our gynecology clinic in Atlanta, GA.

What Is a Urogynecologist?

A urogynecologist provides the best of two worlds with an in-depth knowledge of certain female issues. This specialist has studied both urology and gynecology with extra training and expertise in urinary incontinence, prolapse, and pelvic floor disorders.

woman talking to her doctor.

A urogynecologist completes medical school and then a residency in obstetrics/gynecology or urology. In addition, they complete a 2 or 3-year fellowship in conditions concerning the pelvic floor.

In 2011 urogynecology became a sub-specialty, with the first physicians becoming board certified in 2013.

See a Urogynecologist for Incontinence

If coughing, laughing, or sneezing causes you to leak urine, see a urogynecologist like Dr. Sharma. Specially trained to care for stress incontinence and an overactive bladder, this symptom of a pelvic floor problem can be handled by a urogynecologist.

Maybe you’ve already gone to your GYN or even a urologist with no lasting improvement. A urogynecologist is specially trained to help even when other treatments have failed.

See a Urogynecologist for Menopause Symptoms

The time from perimenopause through to menopause, a woman’s symptoms can become debilitating. From hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, reduced libido, and vaginal dryness, this time is a nightmare for many women. A urogynecologist can help you find relief.

See a Urogynecologist for Frequent UTIs

If you have 2 or more urinary tract infections in 6 months or 3 or more within a year, it’s time to see a urogynecologist. Sometimes these UTIs can be symptomatic of other complex problems. Dr. Sharma will perform non-invasive tests to determine the cause(s) before recommending treatments.

See a Urogynecologist for Pelvic Organ Prolapse

As women get older, the muscles in the pelvic area become weakened and some organs can fall. This can be a frightening scenario however, you are not alone—fifty percent of women will sustain pelvic organ prolapse (POP) in their lifetime.

A urogynecologist like Dr. Sharma is specially trained in the most advanced procedures to treat POP.

Seek out the best for chronic pelvic pain, pain during intercourse, and all pelvic floor disorders.

Contact board-certified gynecologist, Dr. Rita Sharma at (770) 723-1545 if you want a professional diagnosis and treatment plan in Atlanta, GA.

Vaginal Laser Therapy: A Safe Treatment for Breast Cancer Survivors

Posted on by Rita Sharma, MD, FACOG in

Breast cancer and its treatments can impact a woman’s sexual desire due to various physical and emotional factors. If this is happening to you, know you are not alone and there are simple, convenient, and drug-free solutions known as vaginal laser therapy to help those with gynecologic and sexual function changes find relief.

Our board certified gynecologist and obstetrician, Dr. Rita Sharma, is highly trained in providing Vaginal Laser Therapy. Contact our gynecology clinic in Atlanta, GA to schedule an appointment by filling out our secure form.

Early Menopause in Breast Cancer Patients

Breast cancer treatment, including chemotherapy and hormone therapy medicines, frequently causes patients to enter early menopause. While the level and side effects may vary from woman to woman, many patients experience vaginal and urinaryMiddle-aged woman smiling. effects, known as the genitourinary syndrome of menopause. These side effects can be more intense than symptoms of natural menopause.

Common genitourinary syndrome symptoms include:

  • vaginal dryness, burning, or irritation
  • pain or lack of lubrication during intercourse
  • low or no sexual desire
  • feeling the need to urinate often
  • burning, pain, stinging, or itching during urination
  • recurring urinary tract infections

Sexual Function in Breast Cancer Survivors

Even after a successful fight against cancer, many patients’ quality of lives are impacted due to lack of sexual function. This not only is caused by early menopause as we discussed above, but also due to the physical, emotional, and mental changes that breast cancer patients experience.

Common causes which affect a breast cancer survivor’s sexual function include:

  • Physical and mental exhaustion from a breast cancer diagnosis
  • Loss of libido due to specific breast cancer treatment side effects, like nausea, fatigue, or depression
  • Discomfort or pain during or after intercourse due to early menopause
  • Having a negative body image after breast cancer treatment (breast surgery, chemo, and/or radiation)

The good news is breast cancer survivors don’t have to wait to manage symptoms and there is a safe and effective treatment to help—vaginal laser therapy.

What is Vaginal Laser Therapy?

Non-invasive and painless, vaginal laser therapy utilizes laser energy to trigger the synthesis of collagen and elastin in vaginal tissues. This process enhances the strength of vaginal muscles, refining the tone and texture of the skin. The outcome is an enhancement in vaginal health and function.

In the laser therapy session, a specialized laser device is introduced into the vagina, releasing controlled bursts of laser energy. This energy is absorbed by the vaginal tissue, encouraging the synthesis of collagen and elastin. The procedure is painless and typically concludes within approximately 30 minutes.

To attain optimal results, most individuals will undergo a series of treatments, typically spanning 3 to 5 sessions with intervals of several weeks between each. The number of treatments is dependent on the degree of symptoms at hand.

Vaginal Laser Therapy for Breast Cancer Survivors in Atlanta, GA

Vaginal laser therapy is a safe, effective, and hormone-free treatment for individuals struggling with the gynecologic and urinary changes after breast cancer. Discover if you’re a candidate for vaginal laser therapy by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Rita Sharma.

If you’re ready to get back to enjoying what you once loved, contact Atlanta GYN Center at (770) 723-1545 to schedule an appointment to discuss your symptoms and explore treatment.

Breast Cancer Awareness: What you can do to reduce your risk of getting breast cancer

Posted on by Rita Sharma, MD, FACOG in

Breast cancer affects millions of women worldwide. While you can’t change some factors, there are proactive measures you can take to lower your risk.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Excess body weight can increase hormone levels and the risk of breast cancer.

Adopting a balanced diet and engaging in regular physical activity can help you maintain a healthy weight.

Limit Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol can raise estrogen levels, contributing to an increased risk. Try to limit your alcohol intake to reduce your breast cancer risk.

Stay Physically Active

Regular exercise not only helps maintain a healthy weight, but also reduces the risk of breast cancer. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week.

Breastfeed if Possible

It has been shown to have a protective effect against breast cancer.

Know your family history of breast cancer. As genetic factors can increase your risk.

Stay informed and consult with your healthcare provider. Remember, these steps don’t guarantee prevention, but they can help to reduce your risk of breast cancer. Contact our clinic in Atlanta, GA to schedule a breast cancer screening. Our board-certified gynecologist is trained in providing comprehensive screenings. Schedule an appointment today using our secure online form.

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