3 Often-Overlooked Symptoms You Should Tell Your Gynecologist About
by Dwight Frazier
Gynecologists are professionals in the field of reproductive health. In order to provide the best care for their patients, they rely not only on testing but also on the reporting of symptoms directly by their patients. Unfortunately, many patients do not realize that certain symptoms are things they should report or tell their gynecologist about. If you have noticed any of these symptoms, alert your gynecologist.
Missed Periods
If you've missed a period, you may be worried that you are pregnant, but then move on quickly if you find out that's not the case. But a missed period is something you should tell your gynecologist about — especially if this happens more than once. While you may not mind skipping a period, it can be an indicator of a hormonal imbalance, ovarian cancer, pituitary gland malfunction, or a whole range of other ailments. It can also be a side effect of certain birth control pills, which could either be normal or a sign that the pill is not a good fit for you. Tell your gynecologist so they can investigate.
Discomfort With Sex
It can be a bit embarrassing to admit that sex is feeling painful or unpleasant, but this is not something to ignore. For one thing, you deserve to enjoy sex, and you deserve to find out what is causing the pain so you can move past it. In many cases, painful sex is due to vaginal dryness, which is usually associated with a hormonal imbalance. Your gynecologist can give you options to correct that imbalance, from estrogen creams to patches. There may also be something more sinister at play, such as uterine cancer or fibroids. Painful sex is often an early sign of these conditions; don't wait for other signs to appear before talking to your gynecologist.
Urinary Problems
Problems like a slow urine flow, leaking urine, and the need to urinate more frequently are symptoms you should bring to the attention of your gynecologist. These issues can be a sign of weak pelvic floor muscles and are very common after childbirth, although they can arise even in women who have never given birth. Your gynecologist will investigate, and if they cannot identify the cause, they'll refer you to a urologist for additional care.
Your gynecologist is a professional, and you can be honest and clear with them when discussing symptoms related to your reproductive health. The sooner you speak up, the sooner you can find out what is wrong.
Share
About Me
When was the last time you went to your OBGYN for an exam? I skipped two of my bi-yearly exams because I didn't feel that they were necessary. When I began experiencing extreme cramping in my lower stomach, I knew that something was wrong. I went to the emergency room and found that I had cervical cancer. Since I skipped those important exams, the cancer had progressed significantly. So, why should you go to your OB when you don't feel sick, uncomfortable or have any health issues? My blog will show you exactly what early detection can do when you have cancer.