When you should see your gynaecologist
WOMEN are often unsure of when to visit their gynaecologist. Whether it’s from fear of looking foolish, fear of doctors in general, or the cost associated with a doctor’s visit, many women delay seeking care for various reasons.
But what are some of the more important reasons to see your gynaecologist?
Obstetrician-gynaecologist (ObGyn) Dr Anna-Kay Taylor Christmas says when it comes to your health, it is always better to err on the side of caution, and gynaecologists will not judge you or consider your concerns to be foolish.
According to Dr Taylor Christmas, you should visit your doctor as soon as possible if you notice any of the following signs:
1. Discharge
“Many women are unsure of what constitutes a problem when it comes to discharge. A vaginal discharge is a normal part of female function; however, this so-called ‘physiologic’ discharge is usually clear or whitish, with no accompanying itch or bad odour,” she said. If you are having a new discharge, especially if discoloured, bad-smelling, itchy, lumpy, burning, bloodstained, or associated with belly pain or fever, she suggests that you get a check-up right away. “An abnormal discharge can be a sign of infection, which can become quite severe and move up into the pelvis and belly from the vagina. It can also be a sign of cancer and precancerous changes to the cervix and vagina. Not every new discharge is bad, however, as hormonal changes that occur naturally (such as during pregnancy or from taking hormonal contraceptives) can also cause a heavier than normal discharge. If there is doubt, however, it’s best to have a professional opinion.”
2. Bumps and warts
The ObGyn said new bumps and lumps to the vagina and vulva (area around the outside of the vagina) are very common in women. She further explained that most causes are not serious and can be easily treated. Additionally, she said common causes for lumps or swelling to the vagina or vulva include:
•A Bartholin’s cyst or abscess: This is caused by an obstruction of the outlet of the Bartholin’s gland located near the opening of the vagina. “This causes the normal secretions to back up and swell in the gland. The main problem arises when the cyst becomes infected, which causes severe pain to the area and may cause fever also. The infection, if severe enough, can even spread into the bloodstream. This requires urgent treatment, including drainage and antibiotics, to prevent complications,” Dr Taylor Christmas said.
• An infected hair follicle: This is commonly associated with shaving or with a bump that was picked or squeezed and later became infected with skin bacteria.
• Warts: Dr Taylor Christmas said these are common complaints and are usually caused by viruses. “The one of most concern is that caused by HPV, because of the potential for infection inside the vagina and cervix and the associated increased risk of cancer. Warts can also be an issue in pregnancy, because if there is a large amount, they can cause significant bleeding, interfere with normal passage of the baby through the vagina, and make it difficult to repair tears to the vagina after a vaginal delivery,” she said.
• Sores (ulcers) on the vagina: “These are commonly associated with sexually transmitted infections including syphilis, HIV, herpes and other less common organisms. These should always be examined and tested by a doctor to determine the underlying cause, because of the long-term risks associated with no or inadequate treatment of these conditions, and the risks of passing it on to others,” Dr Taylor Christmas said.
3. Itching
The ObGyn said this should always be viewed with concern, as it is a common symptom accompanying many vaginal infections. “It can also be due to dermatitis caused by irritation of the skin with chemicals or compounds commonly found in soaps, detergents and feminine hygiene products,” she explained.
4. Bad odour
Dr Taylor Christmas said women are often self-conscious about their odour “down there”, but explained that everyone has a normal scent associated with their body. However, if you notice a new bad smell, it should be checked right away. “Some infections cause a discharge that has an associated bad smell that may be fishy or otherwise offensive. The smell may be there all the time, or may get worse immediately after intercourse. The short and long-term risks of untreated infections (including vaginal irritation, severe pain, infection in the belly requiring hospital admission, blocked tubes and infertility) means that proper treatment is very important,” she explained.
Dr Taylor Christmas said evaluation and treatment is always the best course for new or abnormal symptoms in the vulval and vaginal area.
