Young and many inexperienced people often feel embarrassed to talk about their reproductive health to their gynecologists. However, we asked around the ladies and found 5 questions that they think are embarrassing to ask their gynecologist.
- Why painful intercourse?
Sex should be enjoyable. So when you experience painful sex, there is something wrong.
Pain during sex could be a difficult and embarrassing question to ask. But asking it could resolve and even prevent potential reproductive health problems.
What’s more, Gyn/Obs may have heard similar questions before. And they have the expertise to correctly address the key factors causing pain during intercourse.
Insufficient lubrication, pelvic inflammatory disease, and vaginismus could inflame your vagina and the surrounding areas. Any rubbing around it such as sex just makes the irritation terrible.
Giving birth could distort the vaginal floor muscles. Thus, could cause the uterus to retrovert – sag downwards. The healing could also be slow.
Thus having sex before the vaginal tissues heal completely may cause pain. Here, your gynecologist could recommend appropriate therapy to restore the muscular integrity of the vaginal opening.
Apart from infection and child birth, other factors could also contributes to pain during sex. According to an article appearing on the National Hospital Services website.
Pain around the pelvis could be due to pelvic inflammation disease, endometriosis, fibroids, and constipation.
Still, vaginal dryness caused by menopause and mental inhibition could also contribute to pain after sex.
Taking certain medications also dries up fluid in your system, causing excessive dryness.
- Is my discharge normal?
Your vagina has a self-cleaning routine that it does naturally. During this process, it dispels wastes through discharge.
What does this discharge comprise? Sweat, dead cells, cervical mucus, and bacteria. Typically, women expel around four milliliters of vaginal fluid a day.
But the volume and thickness vary as the menstrual cycle evolves. During ovulation, the quantity is higher, but it increases further when you are sexually aroused.
In between, the discharge is low and consistent. The consistency thickens during the above-mentioned two phases. One important fact about discharge is that it’s of white or off-white color and doesn’t emit a strong odor.
But you may notice a foamy and fishy discharge. Sometimes, it could be greenish, yellowish, grayish, or reddish. This is not normal.
Normal discharge is usually smooth and stretchy. So when you discharge lumpy, or scrambled-like cottage cheese particles, then this is a sign of an infection.
- Why is my libido fluctuating?
A healthy reproductive system is responsive to sexual stimulation. Hormones play a significant role in this process.
Hormones are chemicals produced in the endocrine glands and released in the bloodstream. Some sex hormones are secreted in the ovaries.
As these chemicals are produced during various phases of the menstrual cycle, their volume in the bloodstream keeps ebbing.
Estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone are the main hormones that influence a female’s sexual desire. They all work in different ways to get you ready for a romp between the sheets.
Estrogen supports surplus lubrication and swelling of the vaginal walls. At times, its levels are higher than others and vice versa.
Progesterone is produced to support pregnancy. But it’s also vital for regulating menstrual phases.
Estrogen and progesterone are responsible for breast development and sensitivity.
Women also produce testosterone, but in limited quantities. This hormone is responsible for fertility.
The varying spikes in hormones cause your libido to keep changing. Yet physiological issues could also contribute to this state of affairs.
Highs and lows of hormones commonly coincide with a beginning and an end of a relationship. According to an article on the Mayo Clinic website, a condition called sexual interest/arousal disorder could contributes to fluctuating lack of interest in sex..
- Why can’t I orgasm?
Many couples engage in sex with the primary reward of orgasm. This is normal for most women.
Though attaining orgasm is relative. About 10 percent of women have never reached orgasm. This is an outlier though.
Only 18% climax through penetrative sex only. The proportion increase to two third when stimulation of other organs apart from the clitoris is involved.
In one study, nine out of ten women achieve orgasm through direct clitoral stimulation.
But if you have been previously enjoying orgasm and then it suddenly stops, then you need to talk it out to your Gyn/Obs.
The cause of this situation could range from mental factors to physical issues. Stress, sexual abuse, and extreme cultural beliefs could hinder you from cascading.
Some medications also prevent orgasm by subduing sexual excitement. But poor image issues, marital difficulties, or inadequate sexual stimulation are other factors.
Building a marital bond and engaging in lengthy foreplay could resolve these orgasmic dysfunctions.
- Is my itch normal?
Though occasional vaginal itch is okay, it shouldn’t cause any stress. An occasional vaginal muscular twitch and vaginal discharge happening once in a while could be accompanied by a minor itch.
But a sustained itch that forces you to scratch your groin repeatedly. This situation isn’t okay.
Several factors cause vaginal itch. Infections, improper attire, and the use of detergents can all cause this itch.
The severity of the itch could vary widely. While many are mild, others could indicate life-threatening ailments.
Vaginal discomfort may arise due to wearing tight attire or staying in damp clothing after a physical workout. This feeling goes away immediately after you discard the offending dress and clean up.
Mild vaginal infections such as psoriasis, vulvar dermatitis, or yeast can result in itching that doesn’t go away.
Other infections like HIV, Hepatitis B, gonorrhea, and even cancer may start as harmless itches. But these signs indicate serious infections.
According to an article on the Medical News Today, certain habits could contributes to vaginal itchiness.
Working out could result in sweating which dampens the cloth inflaming the genitals, when left on the body for long, and causing itchiness.
Still, dry shaving could also bruise the sensitive pubic hair, causing inbred hair, pricking and grazing on the sore skin.
To conclude the main points, people who are not pregnant but seeking a gynecologist can be embarrassed to ask questions regarding their sex life and health. Prioritizing your health is essential, and you should not be embarrassed to talk about your health.
Is It Awkward To Go To The Gynecologist?
The thought of going to the gynecologist can be intimidating and awkward for many women. The idea of having a stranger examine such a personal and intimate part of your body can be uncomfortable, and the thought of discussing sensitive topics like sexual health can make many women feel vulnerable and embarrassed. However, it is important to understand that going to the gynecologist is a crucial aspect of overall health and should not be avoided due to feelings of awkwardness.
First and foremost, it is important to understand the role of a gynecologist and the purpose of a gynecological exam. A gynecologist is a medical professional who specializes in women’s reproductive health, including the female reproductive system, breasts, and sexual health. They are trained to perform routine exams, diagnose and treat any issues or diseases, and provide preventive care and education to their patients. Gynecological exams are essential for the early detection and prevention of various health issues, such as cervical cancer, sexually transmitted infections, and reproductive problems. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize regular visits to the gynecologist for the sake of one’s overall health.
One of the main reasons why women may feel awkward about going to the gynecologist is due to the fear of being judged or shamed about their sexual activity. However, it is crucial to remember that gynecologists are medical professionals who have taken an oath to provide non-judgmental care to their patients. They have seen and heard it all and are trained to handle sensitive topics with sensitivity and confidentiality. It is also essential to remember that gynecologists are not there to judge or shame, but rather to provide support and guidance for sexual health and well-being.
Another reason why women may feel awkward about going to the gynecologist is due to the fear of pain or discomfort during the exam. While gynecological exams can be uncomfortable, it is essential to communicate any concerns or discomfort to the doctor. Gynecologists are trained to perform exams in a way that minimizes pain and discomfort as much as possible. It is also important to keep in mind that the temporary discomfort during the exam is worth it for the long-term benefits of early detection and prevention of potential health issues.
In addition to physical discomfort, some women may also feel awkward about discussing their sexual health and concerns with a stranger. However, it is crucial to remember that gynecologists are professionals who are there to provide support and guidance. They are trained to handle sensitive topics with empathy and understanding. Furthermore, discussing sexual health and concerns with a gynecologist can help alleviate any worries or uncertainties and provide valuable information and resources.
Lastly, some women may feel awkward about going to the gynecologist because of cultural or religious beliefs. However, it is important to understand that gynecological exams are not just about sexual health but also about overall reproductive health. Gynecologists are trained to respect and accommodate cultural or religious beliefs while providing necessary medical care. It is crucial to communicate any concerns or preferences with the gynecologist beforehand to ensure a comfortable and respectful experience.
In conclusion, while it is natural to feel awkward about going to the gynecologist, it is important to prioritize one’s health and understand the importance of regular gynecological exams. Gynecologists are trained professionals who provide essential care for women’s reproductive health, and their role should not be undermined by feelings of awkwardness. It is crucial to communicate any concerns or discomfort with the gynecologist to ensure a comfortable and respectful experience. By prioritizing regular visits to the gynecologist, women can take control of their reproductive health and well-being.
