When it comes to sexual and reproductive health, it can be difficult to distinguish between what is “normal” and what could indicate a potential health problem. Even if you are embarrassed about certain issues, rest assured that your gynaecologist has seen and heard it all and is there to assist you, not to pass judgment.

Seven topics you should always discuss with your gynaecologist include the following:

Painful Periods

For many women, menstruation is an unpleasant experience. Menstruation symptoms such as cramps, breast soreness, and headaches are quite common. However, for some women, period pain extends beyond cramps and can be excruciatingly painful. If your periods are extremely painful or have gotten worse over time, this may indicate endometriosis or uterine fibroids. “It’s critical to speak with your doctor about this, as there are numerous solutions that can help manage these conditions. You are not obligated to suffer in silence.

Vaginal Odor

While discussing vaginal odour can be awkward, it’s critical to consult your doctor if there is a foul or fishy odour, or if there is a change in your regular fragrance that appears to persist a few days. An odour is common, but if you notice any changes or unusual scents, such as fishy, smelly, or smelly-smelling discharge may indicate a bacterial infection.

Urinary Incontinence

Urinary incontinence can be extremely stressful and have a negative impact on your quality of life. Many women will experience these symptoms following childbirth. These symptoms may worsen as women enter menopause. Depending on the severity of the incontinence, medical, surgical or non-surgical laser management are available nowadays. By speaking with your gynaecologist, you can determine the appropriate treatment protocols.

Sexual Discomfort

It is critical to discuss sexual discomfort with your doctor. While bringing it up may be uncomfortable, your gynaecologist can help explain and treat your concerns.

Vaginal dryness: During intercourse, many women experience vaginal dryness. Dryness is frequently age-related and dependent on mitigating factors in a woman’s life. If a younger woman has this problem and has been on birth control for a long period of time, there may be insufficient oestrogen in her system, and she may need to change her birth control. For a busy mom, foreplay and arousal prior to sex may be neglected, resulting in dryness. If a woman is postmenopausal and experiencing dry skin, it may be due to a deficiency of oestrogen, for which her gynaecologist may prescribe vaginal oestrogen.

If you’re experiencing pain during sex, experiment with different positions until you find one that feels comfortable. However, you may occasionally need to speak with your doctor. “It’s critical to consult your doctor if you experience pain during intercourse in any position you attempt, lubricants do not alleviate vaginal dryness, or you experience bleeding following intercourse,” Lawson explains.

Swelling Bumps or Growths

Noticing a growth in your vagina or labia can be alarming. Is it ingrown hair, a pimple, a shaving cut, or something more serious? Although bumps are frequently benign, it is critical to have your doctor examine you if you experience any discomfort. “While genital warts may be visible for a period of time, herpes lesions can heal in seven to 14 days, making it critical to be seen during an outbreak.

Sexual History

Women frequently express concern that their gynaecologist is making judgements about their sex life and STD history, particularly if they’re asked about their number of sexual partners or when they first had sex. These issues are critically important:

To ascertain cervical dysplasia and HPV infection risk factors: Having sexual relations before the age of 18 can sometimes make you more susceptible to HPV, as the cervical-vaginal junction is more prominent in youth. Additionally, having more partners increases the possibility of exposure.

To discuss the possible consequences of prior STDs: “Because certain STDs can increase the risk of infertility, physicians want to provide appropriate counselling if this occurs,” Lawson explains. “For STDs such as herpes, we also like to provide counselling, as this is a chronic condition that may cause outbreaks in the future.”

Low Libido

While having a low libido is more common than many women realise, it is critical to consult your gynaecologist to ascertain the source of your concern. Libido can occasionally be impacted by medications you are taking, or it can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition or a side effect of a known condition. In these instances, your gynaecologist can determine the appropriate medical interventions.

However, for some women, their low libido may be related to the nature of female sexuality — sometimes, your desire to have sex or be intimate can be influenced by factors beyond your control, such as stress or work. Additionally, women in long-term relationships are less likely to be aroused spontaneously than they are in the early stages of their relationship.