7 Things You Should Always Discuss with Your Gynecologist

Women occasionally feel hesitant to discuss their sexual and reproductive health. Moreover, in some cases, one might be uncertain about what is considered “normal” and what should be discussed with Ms. Valerie Calzada San Antonio. However, being open and comprehensive with your physician is vital to ensure you obtain the proper treatment. Besides, you need not worry as your gynecologist has probably encountered an issue like the one you have, and is ready to assist you without passing judgment. Here are several things you should always discuss with your gynecologist.

1. Irregular or Painful Periods

Symptoms like cramping, breast tenderness, and headaches are common during your periods. However, if your discomfort is particularly intense, it could signify an underlying issue, such as endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and uterine fibroids. Furthermore, discuss abnormally light or heavy flow, spotting, clotting, irregular menses, or a drastic change in period frequency. Ensure you discuss any other changes you are worried about that could relate to your period.

2. Pregnancy and Fertility

Inform your doctor if you are attempting to conceive or are pregnant. Your gynecologist can offer valuable information on pregnancy tests, early indications of pregnancy, infertility, and ovulation kits. If necessary, your specialist can provide genetic carrier screening before pregnancy.

3. Vaginal Odor

Some level of vaginal odor is typical and fluctuates throughout different phases of your menstrual cycle. Nonetheless, informing your doctor if you experience a foul odor or a huge change in your vaginal odor is vital. This unusual smell could signify a vaginal infection.

4. Vaginal Dryness or Discomfort During Intercourse

Consult your gynecologist regarding any sexual discomfort. Vaginal dryness during intercourse may signal menopause or a hormonal imbalance and is treatable with hormonal therapy or contraception. Discomfort during intercourse can also indicate a pelvic floor issue, so discussing this with your gynecologist is important.

5. Low Libido

Inform your gynecologist if you suffer a prolonged or sudden change in your libido. Low libido could result from a health condition or medication you are using. Based on the unique cause, your doctor can suggest the most suitable solution, be it discontinuing or changing medication, or treating the underlying condition.

6. Sexual History

Although it might feel uncomfortable initially, it is vital to discuss your sexual history. Inform your doctor if you have suffered a sexually transmitted infection before, experienced bleeding during intercourse, and your gender identity, and sexual orientation. Your doctor might also inquire about the age when you started being sexually active to establish your risk for HPV.

7. Any Abnormal Swelling, Bumps, or Growths

Swelling, bumps, or growths in the vagina or labia are frequently benign and have no reason for concern. However, inform your gynecologist about this issue as it could stem from a sexually transmitted disease or underlying health condition.

Regular health checks may feel like a nuisance to tick off your list, but that does not mean you should overlook them. Ask your OBGYN any questions you might have to better understand your health and body. While some of these issues may seem sensitive to talk about, providing your doctor with accurate information ensures you enjoy effective care. If you identify symptoms and health issues early, you can take measures to avoid or treat them before they worsen.

What You Should Know About a Gynecologist

Gynecologist

Gynecology deals with women’s health needs at every stage of their lives by helping them prevent chronic medical problems and issues. Gynecology in Lake Mary is focused on offering preventive care and medical screening for women of all ages. Women with basic and complicated needs find the compassionate and skilled care they need from Dr. Christopher Quincey.

What is a gynecologist?

A gynecologist specializes in female reproductive health. They treat and diagnose issues related to the female reproductive sector, such as breasts, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus. A gynecologist gives sexual and reproductive health services, including cancer screening, Pap smear test, pelvic exams, and testing and treating vaginal infections.

Gynecologists treat reproductive disorders like endometriosis, ovarian cysts, pelvic pain, and infertility. They can also care for people with cervical, ovarian, and other reproductive cancers. Some gynecologists practice obstetricians as well, who provide care during pregnancy and birth.

Why You Should See a Gynecologist

Painful periods. Some symptoms such as breast soreness, headaches, and cramps are common during menstruation. For some women, periods are unusually severe. This can be a sign of uterine fibroids or endometriosis. It would be best to tell your gynecologist about this because there are many solutions to manage this condition.

Vaginal odor. Talking about vaginal odor can be uncomfortable, but it’s important to tell if there is a fishy or foul smell or a change of scent lasting for a few days. Having vaginal odor is normal, but any smells can be a sign of vaginal infection or bacterial overgrowth.

Urinary or fecal leakage. Experiencing fecal or urinary incontinence may be very stressful and reduce your quality of life. Many women would experience symptoms after childbirth, especially if they had vaginal delivery needing forceps or a vacuum. When you enter menopause, these symptoms become worse. You can explain all the signs to your gynecologist, and he will determine the best treatment option for you.

Sexual discomfort. Many women experience vaginal dryness when having sex. It is caused by a woman’s age or mitigating factors. If a woman is postmenopausal and experiences this condition, it can be due to low estrogen. For a young woman experiencing vaginal dryness and has been on birth control, she might not have enough estrogen in the body, and she might have to change her birth control.

Low libido. This is a common condition in women, just that they don’t realize it. Libido can be affected by medications you take or can result from an existing infection or a side effect. Some women have low libido because of things like stress or work. In this case, your gynecologist recommends you use natural ways of increasing your urge for sex. The more frequently you attempt having sex, the desire to have sex increases. This makes you feel intimate towards your partner.

A gynecologist is concerned about a woman’s wellbeing. If you experience any problems or complications during intercourse or periods, contact your gynecologist immediately. Sometimes you might need advanced treatment involving surgery or medication. At Christopher K Quinsey, MD, there are skilled gynecologists who give compassionate care to their patients.