A gynecologist’s visit is anything but comfortable. After having been through a gynecological exam, the last thing you might want to do is prolong the experience by asking your gynecologist—sometimes—embarrassing questions about things that may be happening with your body. The good news is that this article will answer many of those questions.

Choices Women’s Medical Center offers a full range of gynecological testing and treatment, in addition to health education and abortion services to 24 weeks. Dedicated to the highest quality of patient care, Choices serves women of all cultures, nationalities, gender identities, and ages.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that although this article may get you the answers you need, it should not be considered a replacement for an actual gynecological exam. Choices administers gynecological tests and exams, and you can book an appointment online.

Should I Tell Them Everything?

Your sexual history is very important to a gynecologist. Without it, they are unable to administer the proper treatment. Unfortunately, many women don’t provide complete information about their sexual history because they feel the gynecologist will judge them. This is simply untrue.

Some of the sexual history that many women are commonly reluctant to share includes having multiple sexual partners, unprotected sex, an extramarital affair, or continuing unhealthy habits such as smoking. However, all of this information is vital to a gynecologist. If any of the above information is a part of your sexual history, you can tell your Queens gynecologist about it but request that it not be added to your record.

I’ve Noticed Inflammation and Irritation. Is It Serious?

Swelling, pain, and itching are common symptoms experienced by many women. Irritation is commonly caused by a yeast infection. Yeast infections have many causes—clothing that’s too tight can be enough to trigger a yeast infection. An allergic reaction to certain products, such as the latex that’s found in many condoms, can also cause inflammation and irritation.

Intercourse is Painful for Me.  Am I Normal?

Although intercourse shouldn’t be painful, this is something that many women suffer from. Painful intercourse can be caused by physical as well as emotional factors. For example, if you are not comfortable with or aroused enough by your partner, this can cause dryness, which can make intercourse painful.

Another possible cause is a condition called vulvodynia, which is the inflammation of the glands in the posterior of the vagina. Vaginismus or vaginal muscle spasm is another condition which can cause painful intercourse.

Once your gynecologist has ruled out any kind of infection, he or she may recommend further treatment, such as the application of a hormone cream. Another possible solution may be to use sexual lubricants prior to intercourse.

I Think I Might Have an STD. What Should I Do?

The most important thing you can do if you think you might have an STD is to tell your gynecologist. Why? Because the majority of STDs don’t have symptoms; the only way to know for sure is via STD testing. There are many specific tests for STDs, but no one test which covers them all.

In order to get tested for STDs, you may need to get blood drawn or get a swab to test for STDs like chlamydia or gonorrhea. These tests are not typically included in a gynecological visit, so the best way to know what to do is to start a conversation with your gynecologist.

My Libido Is Non-Existent. Is There Something Wrong with Me?

Low libido can be caused by many physical, relationship, and psychological factors. Not only that, but experiencing this condition can make you feel as though you aren’t normal or healthy. The reality is that low libido can occur as the result of perimenopause, the recent birth of a child, or thyroid imbalance. This condition can begin as early as your 30s and last from several days to a couple of months or years.

Low libido is not unusual, nor does it mean you are not normal. However, it’s important to talk to your gynecologist if you are experiencing low libido, as he or she will be able to help you rule out physical problems. One important thing to remember when talking to your gynecologist is to mention any medications you are currently taking, as these may be contributing to your symptoms.

I Have My Period. Should I Cancel My Appointment?

Many women think they have to cancel an appointment if they have their period. This depends on why you have made the decision to obtain gynecology services.

Many women wonder if they can still get a pap smear during their period. The answer is yes; you can still get your pap smear completed. However, your decision to keep or cancel your appointment depends on whether or not you are comfortable with having a pap smear done during your period.

I Get Itchy After Having Intercourse Using a Condom. Is This Normal?

Using a condom should not cause you to feel itchy. If this is happening, it’s very likely that you could be allergic to the condoms you or your partner are purchasing. The latex used in some condom brands is a common allergen to many women. If this is the problem, there are non-latex condoms available that you and your partner can try.

Another common allergen is the spermicide nonoxynol-9, which many condom brands contain. In this case, using a brand that doesn’t contain it will likely be recommended by your gynecologist. If switching to the products above doesn’t seem to help, your gynecologist can recommend other options.

Should I Be Concerned About My Vaginal Odor?

Concern about vaginal odor is a question that many gynecologists get asked, and for many reasons. Perhaps you’ve noticed a change in odor recently, or your partner doesn’t find it pleasant. Sexual health clinics can help, whatever the reason. Your concern is both normal and valid.

Most of the time, a woman’s vaginal odor is completely normal. However, if odor has changed recently or it is accompanied by symptoms such as itching or excessive discharge, further exploration and treatment may be necessary.

I’ve Recently Noticed a Bump. Should I Be Worried?

The vaginal area contains many follicles and glands, which can be affected by acne, sebaceous cysts, and ingrown hairs, and all these conditions can cause bumps to form. If you have squeezed the bump and noticed white discharge, this can indicate the presence of a boil or bump due to acne.

However, it can also indicate inflammation of vaginal glands or a pressure abscess, in addition to being a wart virus, which is a harmless but contagious condition. To avoid damaging the area or possibly spreading a condition to your partner, it’s best to have the bump examined by your gynecologist.

Is It Normal for Me to Experience Bladder Leakage?

Urinary incontinence is a typical complaint after women have experienced pregnancy, but what if you’ve never been pregnant? This condition can and does affect many women who have never had children, and the solution may be as simple as doing Kegel exercises to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles. However, to be absolutely sure that nothing else could be causing the condition, talking to your gynecologist is still the most recommended option.

I Think I’m in an Abusive Relationship. Can My Gynecologist Help?

Many women who visit a birth control clinic and who are unsure if they are in an abusive relationship may dismiss the signs. They may think that they’ve done something wrong or that they’re not normal. They may think their gynecologist won’t be able to offer any solutions. However, talking to your gynecologist about possible problems in your relationship can benefit you in many ways.

Not only does doing so allow you to communicate your thoughts to an uninvolved and objective party, but your gynecologist is a trained professional who can help you decide which steps to take next. The most important thing to remember is that if something doesn’t feel right to you, this doesn’t mean you are wrong or “imagining things.” Your feelings are valid and, whether or not they are of a sexual nature, your gynecologist can help, or refer you to our Behavioral Health Center.

If you are interested in behavioral health or counseling in Queens, NY, Choices Women’s Medical also has a Behavioral Health services, including individual therapy for building self-confidence and personal growth. Our licensed clinical social workers (LCSW) and clinical psychologists

Have Questions or Concerns? Call Choices Women’s Medical Center

Regardless of the questions you have or the symptoms you may be experiencing, Choices Women’s Medical Center can help. Our gynecologists provide services that are 100% confidential, honest, and factual. Our same-day and walk-in appointment options make it easy for you to get all of your questions answered. Call us at (718) 786-5000 to learn more about our services.