Top Concerns to Discuss with Your Gynecologist

Your gynecologist can help you with much more than just cervical cancer screenings through pap smears. During your appointment, you should feel free to discuss any health concerns you may have. Perhaps you’ve noticed unusual symptoms or you’re thinking about switching your birth control method. Your doctor genuinely wants to help you enjoy better health.

Atypical Vaginal Symptoms

Women can often tell when they have a yeast infection or a urinary tract infection based on their symptoms. But if your discomfort doesn’t go away, or it’s the first time you’ve experienced these symptoms, you should speak up. Your gynecologist can give you an accurate diagnosis, prescribe medications if necessary, and recommend lifestyle changes or at-home remedies to relieve itching and burning.

Sexual Discomfort

Pain during sex shouldn’t be perceived as normal, but many women feel a little awkward discussing it with their doctors. Often, painful sex is caused by vaginal dryness. Endometriosis and uterine fibroids are other possible causes. Your doctor can explain your treatment options.

Menstrual Abnormalities

Periods differ from woman to woman, but in general, they shouldn’t last longer than seven days, and they shouldn’t occur more than 35 days or less than 21 days apart from each other. Other abnormalities to tell your gynecologist about include:

• Very heavy or very light menstrual flow
• Bleeding after menopause, between periods, or after sex
• Absence of three consecutive periods
• Very painful periods
• Periods accompanied by nausea and vomiting

Your treatment options will depend on the cause of the abnormalities, but may include birth control pills to regulate your period.

Sexual Assault

A significant percentage of sexual assaults go unreported. Even if you’re hesitant to seek help from the police, you should talk to your gynecologist. Your doctor can check your physical health, provide morning after pills if the assault occurred recently, and offer a sympathetic ear. Your provider can also point you in the direction of local resources you may be interested in, such as anonymous support groups or crisis hotlines.

At Washington Surgi-Clinic , we firmly believe that every woman deserves compassionate and sensitive healthcare delivered within a supportive environment. Our gynecology services are available in Washington, D.C. for ladies who need health screenings, birth control, or pregnancy termination. New and current patients can reach us at (202) 659-9403.