Women often feel nervous or embarrassed about asking certain questions at their gynecologist appointment. This is unfortunate because it’s important to be open and honest with your doctor about all your concerns.
Irregular periods can be a sign of a serious health issue such as pelvic inflammatory disease, polycystic ovary syndrome or endometriosis. A gynecologist is trained to recognize these symptoms and can offer nonsurgical treatments with a high rate of success.
1. Is it normal to have vaginal discharge?
Glands inside the vagina and cervix produce small amounts of fluid each day that helps clean and protect the vulva. It's usually clear or milky white and has a consistency similar to mucus, but can change in color, thickness, and smell throughout your menstrual cycle or if you are pregnant.
A doctor can determine whether your discharge is normal by examining it and asking questions about your health history, like how many sexual partners you have, and the symptoms you're experiencing like pain or itching. The doctor may also take a sample of the discharge to send for testing.
Talking about a woman's intimate parts can feel awkward, but it shouldn't be embarrassing to ask your gynecologist about these issues. The most important thing is to be aware of any changes in your vaginal discharge that could signal a problem.
2. Is it normal to have a leaky bladder?
Urinary incontinence is a frustrating problem that affects women of all ages. The bladder, kidneys, ureters and urethra work together to filter, store and drain urine from the body. When the brain sends a signal that you need to urinate, urine moves from the kidneys through ureters to the bladder, where it collects until it’s time for the urethra to open up and release it.
If you’re noticing frequent leaks, talk to your doctor. You might have a urinary tract infection or overactive bladder, which can be treated with nonsurgical options like Kegel exercises and pelvic floor therapy.
3. Is it normal to have sexual discomfort?
Painful sex is a huge problem for millions of women who are robbed of their pleasure. Whether it's during penetration or because of a lack of lubrication, the pain may not go away on its own and can be very distressing.
Dyspareunia is a medical term for sexual discomfort and it can be caused by a number of things, including infections like a yeast infection or chlamydia or psychological reasons. The good news is that it's usually easy to figure out the cause and treat it so that you can start enjoying sex again.
Don't be afraid to ask your gynecologist any uncomfortable or embarrassing questions. Your doctor is used to these sensitive issues and won't judge you for bringing them up! In fact, they will likely be happy to help!
4. Is it normal to have bleeding after giving birth?
A visit to the gynecologist can be a scary, awkward and even embarrassing experience. After all, they’re examining the most sensitive and intimate parts of your body and asking very personal questions.
Regardless of how you deliver your baby (vaginal or Cesarean section), you will likely experience bleeding and discharge afterward, which is called lochia. This is a natural process that helps your uterus return to its normal size and clear away the placenta and extra blood.
However, if you’re experiencing heavy bleeding after delivery (filling up an overnight maxi pad in less than two hours) or passing large blood clots, call your doctor immediately. This could indicate that some pregnancy tissue remains in your uterus or that you’re suffering from a life-threatening infection.
5. Is it normal to have a nipple piercing?
Your nipple piercing may ooze a little during healing, but it shouldn't be bright white or yellow and should never smell. You should be washing the piercing at least twice a day with a mild soap — many piercers recommend unscented Dr. Bronner's Castile soap. Try to wear a cotton bra or tight sports bra while the piercing heals, to avoid jewelry snagging and damaging the delicate skin.
You should also be careful not to touch or play with the piercing, as this can cause it to become infected. Additionally, you should not get your nipples pierced while breastfeeding or pregnant, as it can damage the tissue and block milk ducts. This can lead to an abscess, which is a painful pus-filled lump that requires medical attention.
