While it can be uncomfortable speaking to a gynecologist or obstetrician about personal health issues, it is important to do so to receive the best possible healthcare.
Without accurate information, physicians are unable to make informed decisions regarding your treatment. A few things that should always be brought to your gynecologist’s attention are listed below.
Sexual History
Be open and honest with your physician about your sexual history and any Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) you’ve been diagnosed with. This can be embarrassing to discuss, but seasoned gynecologists have heard it all and won’t be phased by your history.
Discomfort During Sex
Painful intercourse can be extremely frustrating for a woman, and talking to your gynecologist about the issue can only help. Proper diagnosis and treatment can get you back to an enjoyable sex life with your significant other.
Prior Pregnancies
Gynecologists and obstetricians need to know about any prior pregnancies, even those that did not result in births, in order to provide you with the best possible care. Calmly discuss all prior pregnancies, even aborted ones, with your physician when asked to provide the information.
Current Pregnancies
Obviously, if you are currently pregnant this is something that must be discussed with your gynecologist and will require the expertise of an obstetrician. If you have taken the morning after pill and seek an abortion pill reversal, time is of the essence and you must speak with your physician at once.
Painful Periods
Painful periods can be an indication of something much more serious, including endometriosis, benign fibroid tumors or cancer. Persistent pain should be discussed with your gynecologist in order to rule out such serious diagnoses. A pelvic ultrasound should be performed to show whether something serious is happening.
Bladder Leakage
Many women experience bladder leakage to varying degrees after childbirth. This can be embarrassing but is actually very common, so speak to your doctor if you’re experiencing a delightful drip of urine after sneezing. Your gynecologist may be able to provide you with treatment or refer you to a pelvic floor specialist to assist.
Feminine Odor
If you are experiencing vaginal odor despite washing frequently, it’s time to speak to a physician about the issue. You may have an overgrowth of bacteria that could easily be remedied with a prescription or over-the-counter medication. There is no need for you to suffer unnecessarily.
Sex Drive Change
Low libido is very common for women, especially after being in the same relationship for years. In some cases, lack of sex drive is related to the side effects of a medication a woman is taking. If low libido is negatively impacting your life, speak to your doctor to discuss your options for revving up your sex drive.
No woman loves taking her annual trip to the gynecologist, but in order to receive the proper care, you must provide accurate information. It is especially important to discuss sexual history, discomfort during sex, prior pregnancies, current pregnancies, painful periods, bladder leakage, feminine odor and change in sex drive. Once your issue is out in the open, you’ll be on your way to recovering.
