Questions You’re Too Embarrassed to Ask Your Doctor
At Clinic Sofia, we hope that there are no questions you’re too embarrassed to ask us—that’s what we’re here for! We are your advocate and are happy to discuss any questions and concerns you have. With that said, following are five questions (and answers) that some women are hesitant to ask. Is painful sex normal? No, and it’s not something you should suffer through. Birth control and breastfeeding can both contribute to vaginal dryness, which can create discomfort and the need for a lubricant; likewise, childbirth can create scar tissue, making sex less pleasurable in the short term. Infections or swelling can also make sex uncomfortable. If sex is typically painful for you, talk to your doctor who can help determine both the issue and safe solutions. My breasts are uneven and/or lumpy—should I be concerned? Outside of Hollywood, very few women have perfectly even breasts; however, if one has grown drastically or suddenly, then you should give your doctor a call. Lumpy breasts are also fairly common, although they can make it harder to detect breast cancer. Make sure you do a self-exam each month, schedule annual screenings and share your concerns with your doctor.
How can I stop sweating so much? While some deodorants and antiperspirants work better than others, your doctor can also determine if excess sweating is due to a condition (an overactive thyroid, for example), medication you’re taking or something else. What can I do about constipation? While occasional constipation is normal, when it becomes a regular issue, it’s very uncomfortable. Three simple things you can do prevent constipation are drinking lots of water (at least eight glasses per day), exercising regularly and ensuring you are consuming adequate fiber through fruits, veggies and whole grains. Try not to rely on laxatives or stool softeners, although an occasional dose is ok. If you see blood in your stool or are suffering for more than a week or two, give your doctor a call to discuss next steps. Is vaginal discharge normal? In most cases, yes. However, if you notice a strong smell, itching or thicker than usual discharge, that could be a yeast or bacterial infection, which can be treated. Clear, odorless discharge is generally related to your monthly cycle.
