Let’s face it. There are definitely questions you’ve been too scared to ask your gyno because it’s just too awkward or embarrassing to ask! Today we’ll go over some of the most common questions patients are too nervous to ask their gyno.
Should I Still See My Gyno Even While on My Period?
Don’t feel bad if you’re on your period during your visit! Periods are a part of our job, so it doesn’t offend or bother us if you’re on your period during your visit. However, the only time periods can affect a gyno visit is during a pap smear. Menstrual blood can affect the results of a pap smear. So if you know you’re next period lands on your pap smear appointment, you may want to call your doctor to see if you need to reschedule!
How Much Is Too Much Discharge?
Discharge on a daily or semi-daily basis is totally normal. This is due to women going through different stages with their body as well as external factors (like contraception) which can affect your discharge. What you want to take note of are these three charges:
- Consistency
- Quantity
- Odor
Medical News Today has a comprehensive list of different types of vaginal discharge (including color and odor) for reference!
Why Do I have a “Funny” Smell Down There?
Vaginal discharge will always have a mild odor, and that is normal. However, if your vagina or discharge has a strong, abnormal smell it could indicate an infection or a reaction. See the Medical News Today article above to indicate whether or not you should consult your doctor about any concerns.
Why Is Sex Very Painful?
Sex should never be painful. The reason it could be for you could be due to some of the following:
- Simply a lack of lubrication
- Vaginal infections
- Ovaries, uterus or cervix problems
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
- Menopause
- Vaginismus: involuntary muscle spasms in the vagina.
- Endometriosis: a condition where tissue like that that lines the uterus also grows outside of the uterus
- Vulvodynia: chronic pain that affects a woman’s external sexual organs
While talking about sex with your doctor can feel embarrassing, trust us when we say we do not judge you! Our main goal is to keep you happy and healthy. If you’re experiencing painful sex, we encourage you to make an appointment with your doctor to get examined and find out the underlying cause.
Why Don’t I Have A Sex Drive Anymore?
There’s not a clear, straight line why women lose interest in sex, but here are two common causes:
Women’s sexual response is complicated. For women, the desire for sex can be intertwined with physical and emotional connections. This is called Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSSD) which is considered a lack of sexual drive that is expressed by a reduced or nonexistent desire for “sexual fantasies” or the need to engage in sexual activity–not brought on by medical or relationship issues. While there are medications out there for women to help with this loss of a sex drive, it’s not a “quick fix”.
The other common cause is the fact that when women (and men) age, they lose interest in sex. As a woman, your hormone levels decrease which causes a decrease in your sexual desire.
Also consider too that these three “M’s” can also lead to a decrease in sex: medical conditions, medications, and mental health. As a woman there’s a lot to consider as causes for your decrease in your sex drive, but you should never allow yourself to be ashamed about it. Loss of sex drive, no matter when or who you are, is very common. With the right advice and treatment you can overcome this!
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Just remember that we are happy to answer any questions you have, no matter how embarrassing. In fact, those questions can be the most pivotal for us to help you! Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Please visit our website to find more information, and know that you can talk to a doctor anytime.