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Talking to your gynecologist in Scottsdale about odors, growths or sexual health may seem embarrassing, but it can be vitally important for your overall health and wellbeing.

When it comes to sexual and reproductive health, it can be hard to know what’s “normal” and what may be a sign of a potential health problem. Even if you feel embarrassed about certain issues, your gynecologist in Scottsdale has seen and heard it all and is there to help you, not to pass judgment.

Here are seven things you should always discuss with your gynecologist:

1. Painful Periods: For many women, getting your period is an unpleasant time. Cramps, breast soreness and headaches are just a few of the most common menstruation symptoms. But for some women, period pain goes beyond cramps and can be incredibly severe. If your periods are very painful or have been getting worse over time, it can be a sign of endometriosis or uterine fibroids.

2. Vaginal Odor: While vaginal odor can be an uncomfortable topic, it’s important to talk to your doctor if there is a foul or fishy smell, or if there’s a change from your normal smell that seems to be lasting for a few days. While having an odor is normal, any changes or foul smells may be a sign of bacterial overgrowth or vaginal infection.

3. Swelling Bumps or Growths “Down There”: Noticing a growth in your vagina or around your labia can seem worrisome. Is it an ingrown hair, a pimple, a cut from shaving or possibly something more concerning? Bumps are often benign, but it’s important to have your doctor perform an examination when you feel something.

4. Sexual Discomfort: It’s very important to talk to your doctor about sexual discomfort. You may be uncomfortable bringing it up, but your gynecologist can help explain and treat your concerns such as vaginal dryness or pain during sex.

5. Sexual History: Women often worry that their gynecologist is judging them if they ask how many partners they’ve had, how old they were when they first had intercourse, if they’ve had any sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), or about sexual orientation and gender identity. These topics arise for several important reasons:

1. To determine risk factors for cervical dysplasia and HPV infection.
2. To discuss potential ramifications of past STDs.
3. To ensure that a patient is receiving the best possible care.

6. Urinary or Fecal Leakage: Experiencing urinary or fecal incontinence can be very stressful and take a toll on your quality of life. Many women will experience these symptoms after childbirth, particularly if they had a large baby or a vaginal delivery requiring forceps or a vacuum. When women enter menopause, these symptoms may worsen.

7. Low Libido: While having a low libido is more common than many women realize, it’s important to speak with your gynecologist to discover the cause of your concern. Libido can sometimes be affected by medications you take, or it may be a sign of an underlying medical condition or a side effect of a known condition. In these situations, your gynecologist in Scottsdale can determine what medical interventions may be necessary.

For other women, though, their low libido may be related to the nature of female sexuality – sometimes, your desire to have sex or be intimate can be affected by things outside of your control, like stress or work. Women in long-term relationships are also less likely to be spontaneously aroused compared to the early stages of their relationship.
In these circumstances, your gynecologist in Scottsdale can make recommendations to help you naturally increase your libido and/or refer you to an appropriate counselor.

If it’s been some time since you’ve seen a gynecologist in Scottsdale because you feel embarrassed or uncomfortable discussing these topics, please rest assured that our kind and caring staff will provide you with the best possible care.

So call our office today to schedule your next appointment.