Seven Important Things to Discuss With Your Gynecologist
Yes, it may feel awkward to bring up certain topics with your gynecologist or OB-GYN, but remember—they’ve heard and seen it all. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or bring up any issues you’ve been noticing. In fact, make sure you do! It’s important to be open and honest when it comes to taking care of your sexual and reproductive health. Here are eight things you should definitely discuss with your gynecologist:
If you’ve ever had unprotected sex. Maybe you slipped up and didn’t use a condom a while back, and since you’ve gotten your period and haven’t noticed any signs of an STD, you think you’re okay, right? Well, some STDs, like chlamydia, are often completely symptomless, while others like HPV can lie dormant for years. Let your doctor know, so she can calculate your risk of disease after having unprotected sex.
If you’re experiencing bleeding after sex. Blood following sex can indicate anything from uterine polyps to endometritis, which are highly treatable, to more serious situations such as cervical cancer. If you experience post-sex bleeding, tell your doctor as soon as possible.
If your period is becoming irregular. If your period is showing up late every month, if your flow is much heavier or lighter than normal, or if you’re experiencing regular spotting between periods, let your doctor know.
If sex hurts or is uncomfortable. Don’t let physical discomfort affect your sex life! Painful sex may be due to a tilted uterus or vaginal dryness. Your doctor can help you figure out—and solve!—the problem.
If you’ve been sexually abused. Your gynecologist can just be someone to talk to, or they can ease your worries about STDs or offer resources that can help you recover.
If you’re taking any medications or supplements. Your doctor should always know what you’re taking, including vitamins or herbal supplements—especially if you’re starting a new type of birth control, trying to get pregnant, or in need of surgery.
If you’re thinking about pregnancy and fertility. If you’re considering trying to get pregnant in the next year, definitely tell your doctor. They’ll offer tips and medical advice that they wouldn’t normally bring up at a regular visit. And if you’re concerned about your fertility for any reason, bring that up, too.
At Chouchani, Sayegh and Bagnarello, we care about the overall health of our patients and believe in open and honest communication. If you need to discuss any of these issues with a medical professional, please give us a call to make an appointment.
Photo courtesy of freedigitalphotos.net.
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