Women's sensitive areas have always attracted attention from women, but they can also be a source of concern. In fact, many women do not have enough understanding of their sensitive areas, which leads to panic and a rush to the hospital for help at the slightest abnormality. Now, gynecologists want to share eight important things with women to provide some guidance.
1. There is no need to be shy about gynecological examinations.
One of the most awkward situations for gynecologists, especially male doctors, is encountering women who refuse gynecological examinations. Many female patients often refuse to be examined by male doctors. In some cases, family members scold male doctors for 'acting inappropriately' when they learn that a male doctor is examining their female partner, and some even resort to violence. In fact, gynecological examinations are no different from examinations of other body parts, and women should not feel shy. Concerns should be set aside when accepting examinations; as long as there is no pain or discomfort, there is nothing to worry about.
2. Doctors do not judge patients' private lives.
Questions like 'Have you had sexual intercourse?' 'How many times have you been pregnant?' 'How often do you have sex each month?' are often seen as private by patients, leading to hesitation in answering. This is understandable, but gynecologists are not making any judgments about patients' private lives when they ask about the number of sexual partners. If there are multiple sexual partners or if sexual activity started at a young age, it is best to have an annual cervical HPV and chlamydia screening.
3. Cervical smears should be checked regularly.
Cervical smears (commonly known as cervical cancer screening) are crucial for diagnosing cervical cancer and other diseases. The question is how often one should be screened. Therefore, it is important to provide doctors with accurate information about your body, personal medical history, and lifestyle. The specific situation should be based on the results of the most recent cervical smear and personal medical history. Even if the screening does not need to be done annually, it does not mean that one can skip the annual health check-up.
4. All contraceptive methods have side effects.
There is no contraceptive method without side effects. However, for different women, a certain contraceptive method may work best. Generally, it takes at least three months to get used to and understand its effects, and no contraceptive method is 100% effective, not to mention the 'safe period' method. We often say, 'the safe period is not safe.' Additionally, although the chances of conception decrease with age, it is still possible before menopause.
5. Do not choose cesarean section lightly.
Unless there are special circumstances like breech position, do not choose cesarean section lightly. Choosing cesarean section for the first child increases the risk of complications in future pregnancies. Some women opt for cesarean section out of fear of body changes, but this can lead to difficulties when planning for a second child. With the current two-child policy, friends planning for a second baby should choose wisely!
6. Low libido is rarely a hormone issue.
Low libido in women is often closely related to lifestyle and emotional factors. After giving birth, women may feel physically and mentally exhausted; issues in the marital relationship; feeling that their partner does not pay enough attention to them, all of which can harm a woman's sexual interest. In fact, many postmenopausal women have normal libido and are more satisfied with their sex lives. If low libido affects the marital relationship, it may be worth considering relevant treatments.
7. Don't be too anxious about changes in menstrual dates.
Even the healthiest women may experience changes in their menstrual cycle. When doctors ask if 'your menstruation is normal,' unless your periods become unpredictable, it is generally considered normal. Some women misunderstand 'normal menstruation' as 'having periods on a specific day every month' or 'the color and amount of menstrual blood do not change.' Gynecologists state that if the menstrual cycle is between 21 to 35 days and the bleeding lasts 3 to 7 days, it is considered normal. However, if the bleeding is excessive or lasts too long, or if the intervals between periods are unpredictable, it is best to see a doctor.
8. Pay attention to abnormal vaginal discharge.
Two common non-sexually transmitted infections in women are yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis. However, the symptoms and treatments for these two conditions are quite different. Yeast infections can cause itching and burning sensations, with vaginal discharge appearing thick and cheese-like. Bacterial vaginosis, on the other hand, is caused by an imbalance in the body's natural flora, with discharge having a fishy odor and appearing gray or yellow. If you experience these symptoms for the first time or if treatment is ineffective, be sure to seek medical attention and do not self-medicate, as this may lead to adverse effects. Improper medication can exacerbate the pathogenic bacteria.