Rest assured, you gynecologist is fully prepared to answer your questions, no matter how strange or personal you may think they are.
Sometimes, women simply forget to ask the question that’s been on their mind for however long before their appointment. In other cases, women are reluctant to ask certain questions because they are embarrassed to talk about sex, their period, unusual symptoms or changes to their bodies, pregnancy or menopause.
Embarrassment and reluctance to come forward with legitimate health concerns is common in women of all ages, especially in a time where many would rather just consult the internet to self-diagnose.
The internet can be helpful sometimes, but it is better to consult with a real physician such as your PGOMG provider, especially regarding gynecological and obstetrical concerns. PGOMG providers offer the compassion and understanding that comes with decades of combined experience in women’s health. Your questions will be taken seriously, with the respect you deserve as our patient.
For those who may still be question-shy, even though we urge you to speak with your provider, we detailed the five most common questions we hear below.
- Why is sex painful?
Pain and/or discomfort during sexual intercourse is more common than you’d expect. Many women assume that painful sex is just something they should deal with and that there is nothing wrong other than that they personally do not enjoy sex. Painful intercourse is often a symptom of an underlying health or gynecological issue, which means that your provider can offer a diagnosis and treatment plan designed to give you a healthy sex life.
- Is this normal?
Changes to your breasts or genital area should be brought to your physician’s attention as soon as possible. Yes, sometimes certain bumps turn out to be nothing of concern, but lumps, bumps, discoloration, or changes in texture such as puckering are not to be dismissed, especially if found on your breasts or genital area.
- Why do I itch?
Vaginal itching may be among the top topics that women avoid discussing with their doctor, but it should not be ignored or treated through self-diagnosis. Vaginal itching could be an STD symptom, a bacterial infection, a reaction to soap or laundry detergent, or another underlying health condition.
- Can I switch my birth control?
Between the pill, IUDs and Nexplanon, PGOMG offers a range of contraceptive options that women can use. Sometimes, a woman will try one form of birth control for a time, only to realize that it does not meet their needs or suit their lifestyle as they desired. Asking your PGOMG provider to switch your form of birth control because of lifestyle needs or unexpected symptoms is perfectly normal.
- Is my period severe?
Dealing with a severe period from month to month is a difficult lifestyle for countless women who have not spoken with their gynecologist about its severity. Irregularity, heavy menstrual bleeding, cramping and other symptoms that interrupt your daily routine and lessen your quality of life are all indications that your period is not normal and could indicate an underlying condition like endometriosis.
