It can be embarrassing when you actually have issues…down there. But being too embarrassed to ask the important questions can leave you vulnerable to dangerous and potentially deadly conditions. Dr. R. Afiba Arthur of P. Gill Obstetrics and Gynecology helps us answer ten questions you might be afraid to ask but should:
I’ve noticed that I’ve started to smell bad. What could be causing it?
The most obvious culprit is improper hygiene. But if the change has occurred while your bathing regimen hasn’t, there could be a disease at work.
What if it hurts to have sex?
Painful sex is often due to vaginal dryness or tenderness brought on by a yeast or urinary tract infection infections treatment.
Should I be worried if my mother and grandmother had breast cancer?
While an indicator, family history is not always definitive. You’ll just want to be diligent in your screenings, conduct them with greater frequency then what is normally recommended and consider genetics counseling/screening.
Why can’t I get pregnant?
It could be due to multiple factors. If you’ve been trying for a year or more without success, both you and your partner should be examined.
For about a week before my period, I get very irritable, tired and bloated to the point where it affects my daily life. Can I do anything to stop it?
It could be PMDD, or premenstrual dysmorphic disorder. After ruling out any other issues, you can try to manage PMDD with a diet change, exercise, nutritional supplements, antidepressents or birth control pills.
My periods seem really heavy and long. Is there anything I can do to lessen them?
Heavy periods, or menorrhagia, are caused by a variety of things, including hormonal imbalance, uterine fibroids or use of blood thinners. A doctor can determine that it’s not anything more serious.
I just noticed a bump on my vagina. What could it be?
It depends on what the bump looks like. If it causes you pain, go see your doctor. If not, it might just be an ingrown hair.
Sometimes I pee a little when I sneeze. What can I do to stop that from happening?
Urinary incontinence is usually the result of weakened pelvic muscles. Kegel exercises can help tone them.
What are the safest and/or most effective forms of birth control?
Long-term contraceptives like intrauterine devices (IUDs) and Depo Provera are effective and convenient. Some women may even look to decrease the number of times their sexually active to minimize the chances of getting pregnant and instead might want to look for Dildos for sale to pleasure themselves instead of engaging in sexual intercourse.
How can I tell if I’ve started menopause?
Perimenopause usually presents with hot flashes, mood changes and abnormal menstrual bleeding. After a year of no menstruation, that’s menopause.
For more information about your gynecological needs:
P. Gill Obstetrics and
Gynecology Medical Group
(209) 466-8546
gillobgyn.com