If you don’t have enough knowledge about reproductive and sexual health, it can be difficult to know which is normal and which is not. Many women unknowingly neglect themselves by not minding certain symptoms just because they think it’s usual for their age. Therefore, seeking the help of a certified Ob-Gyne is essential.
Moreover, below are some of the most important things you ought to tell your Gynecologist.
1. Vaginal Odor
As a woman, you already know the scent your vagina produces. Thus, if you notice an unusual unpleasant odor, you need to mention it to your Ob-Gyne.
According to Mayo Clinic, it is normal for the vagina to have a mild odor, but a strong “fishy” smell is not normal and might indicate an underlying problem. A strong unpleasant vaginal odor can be a sign of infection. It is often associated with other symptoms such as discharge, itchiness, irritation, and burning.
2. Extremely Painful Periods
A lot of women suffer from very painful periods but never seek help from a Gynecologist.
Breast soreness, cramps, and migraines are some of the common symptoms of menstruation. However, some women experience more than just cramps but extremely severe pain.
If you experience painful periods every time, you should definitely go to your Gynecologist. You will be given solutions that can help make your condition manageable.
3. Irregular Periods
Pregnancy, diet change, stress, hormonal imbalances, and infection are some of the most common reasons for delayed or irregular menstruation. It may not seem serious, but it is something you should definitely not ignore.
Your Gynecologist will want to know about your periods’ regular timing as well as the flow of your menstruation. Once you can’t figure that out, it means you have an irregularity with your menstruation.
4. Growths or Bumps in Your Vagina
Although bumps in the vagina are typically not something you need to worry about, it is still important to have it checked by your Gynecologist. Your doctor will examine those growths and determine if they are a cause of an underlying issue or not.
According to Dr.Aarti Vazrani, M.D., a Gynecologist at Doctor Spring, genital warts are typically only visible for a short time; however, herpes lesions can disappear in a week or two. Thus, it is important to be examined whilst the outbreak is happening.
5. Fecal Leakage
Fecal or urinary leakage can be extremely inconvenient. This symptom is usually experienced by many women who have given birth. This symptom is even worse for those who have had a vaginal delivery with the use of a vacuum or forceps. Moreover, fecal leakage may also worsen, especially when a woman enters the menopausal stage.
If you are experiencing this kind of symptom, talk to your Gynecologist about it. He or she may be able to determine the appropriate treatment. You may also be referred to as a pelvic health specialist.
6. Low Libido
Having a low libido is more common than many women think. It can be caused by a number of factors such as stress, medication, underlying health issues, and more.
Women who are in long-term relationships often experience this symptom. They become less spontaneously aroused as compared to the early years of being together with their partners.
This can be frustrating for both you and your partner, and thus, seeking professional help from a Gynecologist is necessary.
7. Vaginal Dryness
Vaginal dryness is a common issue many women experience. This symptom can be caused by age or through the use of birth control. Birth control methods reduce the levels of estrogen in a woman’s body.
Moreover, postmenopausal women may also experience this kind of symptom due to low estrogen levels.
If you are experiencing vaginal dryness, your Gynecologist can prescribe remedies such as vaginal estrogen.
8. The Number of Partners You’ve Had Sex With
This might seem awkward to divulge to your Gynecologist, but it is essential for assessment and other medical purposes.
Gynecologists are professionals, and they will never judge their patients. Therefore, even if you feel embarrassed, be totally honest about it.
9. Pain During Sex
Painful sex is never fun and can be extremely frustrating. Women may experience severe pain during sex due to vaginal dryness or because they are uncomfortable with a certain position. Although it can be eased with using lubricants or by changing positions, experiencing persistent pain during sex is something you need to seek help with.
For most Gynecologists, this issue is very common and easy to solve; thus, you should seek advice as soon as you can.
10. Bleeding During or After Sex
A lot of women bleed during or after sex every once in a while. However, if it becomes a thing every time you have sex, then you should definitely tell your doctor about it.
Blood spottings after intense sex can be normal, but if you noticed more than just spots, it may be caused by an underlying problem. There is a high chance you may be suffering from an infection or worst, a precancerous dryness.
11. Unusual Discharge
Having an unusual vaginal discharge can be quite alarming; however, it is most probably something your Gynecologist is well-familiar about. For this reason, going to your doctor’s office as soon as possible is important so you can get the necessary treatment ahead of time.
If you are having an unusual discharge combined with pain, it may be caused by something more serious. It can be due to an infection or STD, or worst, a side effect of a more serious medical diagnosis such as cancer.
12. The Supplements or Medications You’re Taking
The medications and supplements you are taking can affect your system. If you are trying to get pregnant or you are planning to switch your birth control method, then you should let your Gynecologist know about the meds and vitamins you are currently taking.
Moreover, certain medications may also cause low libido. Thus, if you are having issues with your sexual activeness, your Gynecologist might ask you about your medications.
13. Plans on Having a Baby
Whether you want to get pregnant sooner or after a year, it is crucial to inform your Gynecologist about your plans.
If you are having fertility problems, your physician can prescribe treatments and health advice to increase your chances of pregnancy. He or she may offer medications and suggest diet and habit changes to improve your fertility rate.
Conclusion
Visiting a Gynecologist can be quite daunting for a lot of women. However, it is important to get a thorough evaluation and seek professional help if you are experiencing any sexual health issues.
Although that first appointment can feel awkward, once Ob-Gyn visits become a part of your health upkeep routine, you’ll appreciate the benefits of getting regular checkups. Moreover, looking after your reproductive health can save you from spending a fortune for extremely expensive medical treatments later on.
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