5 Things You Should Share with Your Gyno

Most women have a special and unique relationship with their gynecologist. During the annual examination, you may feel hurried, but there are some important medical issues you’ll want to discuss. Here is a starter list of health topics to consider. Be certain to jot them down on a piece of paper and take them to your next medical visit. Note, sometimes you may need to schedule a follow up visit to address concerns.

Have your periods changed?

Are your periods regular? Has the bleeding pattern changed? Is it heavier or lighter? Are your periods now coming earlier and are more frequent? It’s important to discuss any pain and or duration changes.

Sometimes these changes can signal some underlying hormonal changes. Pain during your period, or dysmenorrhea, can be safely evaluated and effectively treated. Discuss this concern with your gyno, who can provide some guidance, and some potential solutions.

Are you experiencing a sexual problem?

Sexual health is often linked to general health and overall life happiness. Sexual slumps and other problems are not uncommon. Changes in sexual desire, arousal, or orgasmic complaints are not infrequent. Many report suffering from recurrent vaginal dryness which can lead to painful intercourse. Sex should NOT hurt. There are many reasons you could have painful sex and a simple solution could be to try a personal lubricant.

There are many treatable medical, hormonal, or psychosocial conditions that can assessed and treated. While many women experience problems achieving orgasm, others say it takes more time to achieve substantial arousal and they say they have lowered intensity or strength of orgasms. Other women report declining sexual interest or changes in their libido. Sexual problems are real medical conditions which can be treated. Become empowered and discuss any sexual concerns you may have.

Do you have a vaginal odor?

Women often report vaginal odor concerns. Discuss any change in vaginal discharge (color, consistency, or odor) to your healthcare professional. This change may mean that your vaginal acid base balance or pH is altered. You could have an underlying vaginal infection. For example, a foul smell may mean you have an infection! Thick, white discharge accompanied by itchiness could be a yeast infection. Sometimes a change in odor can indicate that there is a foreign body, or a part of a tampon or condom left in the vagina. Ignoring a vaginal odor can lead to more serious pelvic infections, so please seek help and advice!

Give an honest and complete sexual history

Remember, health care professionals are required to offer privacy and confidentiality. Trust your gynecologist! Disclose, how many sexual partners you have had, if you have had same sex intimacy, or if you are having unprotected intercourse. A frank and honest discussion will help develop a comprehensive understanding about contraceptive options, HPV, and sexually transmitted disease risk. If you feel embarrassed or are concerned about your protected medical health information, it may be time to consider a new gynecologist! An open dialogue with your healthcare professional will help you get the specialized medical care and attention you require.

Discuss any abuse or harassment

Abuse comes in a variety of forms. Many times, it may be subtle and unrecognized. Discuss any sexual, emotional, physical, or domestic violence that you have experienced. Verbal abuse, name calling, or being isolated from family and friends can also be considered abuse. Any discussion of abuse is a sensitive and delicate topic but may have overall effects on your medical and mental health.

While it is very difficult to disclose this information, your healthcare professional will safeguard the information and provide guidance. The information will help your medical professional take care of you as a complete person. They may offer suggestions, specific treatments or give you a referral to a specialist who may better assist you in coping with these problematic issues. If you’re experiencing abuse or know someone who may be in a dangerous situation, there are resources available through the National Domestic Violence Hotline.

Making that trip to a gynecologist can be intimidating, but they’re there to help you and answer your questions. Don’t hesitate to use their medical knowledge to your advantage.