As women, we’re all eventually going to have some sort of gynecological health issues and the annual trip to the gynecologist often arouses anxiety in some of us as well.
You probably have concerns about your sexual and reproductive health. Should you speak up about that strange smell you experienced or your nonexistent sexual drive? What about cancer?
However, embarrassing and anxious you are, share all your gynecological health issues with your doctor. Your gynecologist is there to help you and not judge you.
Top Questions to Ask Your Gynecologist
What Is That Smell?
Unwanted vaginal odor can be an embarrassing topic, but it is necessary to talk about it. Talk about the changes in your vaginal smell that lasts several days.
Changes in vaginal smell could be a sign of bacterial infection. Talk to your doctor about the changes in smell and discharge rather than using unnecessary soaps, douches, and creams that can worsen the situation.
Painful and Irregular Periods
Your period probably comes with cramps, headaches, among other unpleasant symptoms. Yet, for some women, period pain can be incredibly severe. If your period pains have worsened over time, it could be a sign of uterine fibroids or endometriosis.
If you are experiencing irregular periods, painful periods, or bleeding in between your periods, you must realize that these could be signs of serious health issues, but they are also manageable. Talk to your doctor about it rather than suffering in silence.
Swellings
Swellings or bumps is another gynecological health issue that troubles many women. Any form of growth around your vagina can be stressful.
Regardless of whether it is a pimple, ingrown hair, or something more serious, bumps are a cause for concern. Have your doctor examine them to rule out any disease.
Sexual History and Sexual Problems
While sexual history is not a health issue, your history has health ramifications. If you are not having protected sex, you could be at risk for STDs and HIV. Some STDs like herpes are lifelong conditions, while others increase the risk of infertility.1
Aside from your sexual history, sexual are you experiencing any sexual problems such as vaginal dryness and discomfort during sex?
Do not shy away from talking about this issue with your doctor as there are simple solutions to help you have better sex. Vaginal dryness could be a sign of low estrogen or time to change your contraception.
Cervical and Breast Cancer
Cancer is a significant health problem that most women are concerned about. The annual exam is a chance to talk about breast and cervical cancer.
Most breast cancer cases are not inherited. Talk to your doctor on how to lower risk and how to check for lumps at home before your annual mammogram.
Cervical cancer does present any symptoms at the initial stages. Ensure you get a Pap test annually and talk to your doctor about cervical cancer to ease your worries.
Discussing Gynecological Health Issues to Discuss With Your Doctor Is Crucial
Every time you visit the gynecologist, use this opportunity to talk about important health issues such as vaginal odor and discharge, menstrual health, sexual history, and issues and cancer.
These are some of the most critical health issues that determine whether you have a healthy sexual and reproductive health.
Links to sources used
- Prevention of Diseases in Gynecology/NCBI https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3898439/
