5 Questions To Ask Your Gynecologist
Photo: Getty Images
As women, we have been trained since the teenage years to have our yearly physical and Pap exam. Some view it as a "necessary evil" while others view it as an opportunity to ask their healthcare provider about ongoing issues. Whatever the case, make sure if you have questions to write them down so that you don’t forget when you’re "in the moment." Here are the most common questions I hear from my patients while doing their exam and why it’s important you feel comfortable asking!
1) What is that bump? Many women experience bumps in the vaginal area for a variety of reasons. Of course it could be something unfriendly like herpes or warts, but it may also be something benign like an ingrown hair or enlarged lymph node. Sometimes even a mirror with excellent lighting is no match against showing your provider.
2) What is that discharge? Ever notice discharge on the lining of your underwear or when you wipe? Discharge can be abnormal such as with gonorrhea, Chlamydia, trichomoniasis, bacterial vaginosis (BV), yeast, or other bacteria. However, normal discharge occurs throughout your month in response to hormones and whether you are ovulating or not. A quick swab test can confirm if it’s normal or not.
3) What is that bulge? Have you ever noticed a bulge or bump up inside your vagina or maybe saw something in the mirror? It could be from prolapsed tissue. There are a few different types, however as the musculature in the pelvic area weakens you can develop a rectocele, cystocele, or uterine prolapse that bulges into the vaginal canal and may cause symptoms. Sometimes they are mild enough that pelvic floor physical therapy can help however more severe cases may require surgery.
4) Why does it hurt? Some women experience pain during intercourse, with insertion of a tampon or during the actual Pap exam when I insert the speculum. This may be due to insufficient lubrication, hormone changes (less estrogen in the area), and damage during childbirth, trauma to the area, or from sexual assault. Whatever the reason, talk with your healthcare provider about getting to the source of the pain.
We value and respect the experiences of all of our HERWriters, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.
Add a CommentComments
There are no comments yet. Be the first one and get the conversation started!