Sexual Health Issues Every Woman Should Discuss With Her Gynaecologist

Before we dive right into it, let us discuss what sexual health actually means: according to the World Health Organisation (WHO), sexual health is a state of physical, emotional, mental, and social well-being concerning sexuality; it is not merely the absence of disease, dysfunction or infirmity. So, in simpler terms, it involves everything to do with sex, sexually transmitted infections, contraception, genital conditions, as well as period disorders, pregnancy, fertility, sexuality, transgender issues, and menopause. 

And, if you're wondering why sexual health is worth a discussion, let us enlighten you: sexual health is intertwined with all other aspects of our being—physical, emotional, mental, and social—thereby having a direct impact on the following facets, and vice versa. Maintaining good sexual health suggests that you are well informed, careful, and respectful to yourself and others.

And the first step in the right direction would be to examine and investigate seemingly common concerns that may seem insignificant but can create a major hindrance in your day-to-day intimate life. To overcome this impediment—that could potentially wreck your relationship—Cosmo got in touch with two OB-GYN's who shed light on a few universally experienced sexual issues that are worth a chat. 

 

Vaginal Odour

 

Your vag is home to millions of healthy bacteria that interact to produce a healthy vaginal pH. The interplay of these bacteria and the groin's sweat glands produce a vaginal odour which can vary daily to hourly, depending on the bacterial composition. The regular odour often depends upon the food that we consume, our menstrual cycle, and intimate hygiene—unless it's foul-smelling (fishy), usually associated with discharge and itching. "Do not try to curb your vaginal smell with vaginal perfumes or douching. It will destroy all the healthy bacteria! If you're experiencing any unusual symptoms, consult your gynaecologist," suggests Dr Amodita Ahuja, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist.

 

Urine Leakage

 

It may be embarrassing, but it needs to be addressed cause TBH, it happens to all of us at some point. Dr Vaishali Joshi, Senior Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Kokilaben Ambani Hospital, Mumbai, says, "It usually takes place while coughing, sneezing, exercising, or when one has a strong urge to pass urine. It may also be associated with involuntary leakage of watery stools or gas from the back passage. This condition must be assessed at the earliest so that the correct set of exercises—such as bladder training—can be performed to prevent the progression of the issue."

 

Low Libido or Sex Drive

 

There's no such thing as a 'normal libido', it varies from person to person. However, if you feel that your sex drive has decreased over time (and is affecting your romantic relationship), consider bringing a professional into the loop. "It could be due to an underlying disorder leading to under-functioning hormones, vaginal dryness, pain during intercourse, or psychological factors such as mental anguish, depression, anxiety, or an unwanted pregnancy in the past," explains Dr Ahuja. 

 

Lump and/or Swelling in the Breast

 

Ladies, any lump or bump in the breast, or discharge through the nipple, should be taken seriously. A clinical examination by a doctor is essential to ascertain the nature of the lump, which can be done through further testing by undergoing sonography or mammography. Besides, a breast self-examination should be performed by every woman every month. Here's a video to guide you.

 

Bleeding Post Sex or In-Between Two Cycles

 

While there are a plethora of reasons that can be attributed to irregular vaginal bleeding, it may be a warning sign for a sexually transmitted infection (STI), also called a pelvic inflammatory disease, cervical cancer, or another infection. Dr Joshi puts forth, "Clear visualisation of the lower genital organs is required, along with specific tests such as the pap smear and a Chlymadia test, to make an informed diagnosis. STIs and early cancer of the cervix (neck of the womb) can be treated if detected early."

 

Vaginal Swelling, Bumps or Growth

 

"A bump or swelling 'down there' can hint at an infection of the hair follicles due to waxing and shaving, often leading to acne or an infection of the vulva glands called a Bartholin cyst or abscess. An unusual growth may also be indicative of warts, herpetic painful lesions, or discolouration of the skin due to fungal infections. All these require medical attention and need to be examined by a gynaecologist," informs Dr Ahuja.

 

Painful Periods

 

Reportedly, nearly half of the women who menstruate suffer from period pain, medically termed as dysmenorrhea. The mild discomfort often begins a couple of days prior to your menstrual cycle and gradually decreases as the days go on. However, if the pain incapacitates a woman to abstain from work or affects her quality of life, it must be investigated. "A clinical examination by your gynaecologist and pelvic sonography will be required to offer a definitive treatment," claims Dr Joshi. 

 

Sexual Discomfort

 

Sex should be painless. Pain in the vagina—which may be due to a urine infection or a boil—must be addressed immediately. According to Dr Ahuja, improper foreplay causing decreased lubrication or sexual health issues such as endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, or vaginal infections can be a potential cause for discomfort during sexual intercourse. 

 

Image: Courtesy Cosmopolitan USA