Below are common women’s health questions and their answers. If you are in Youngstown, Ohio and are seeking care, contact Dr. Hill at the phone number above, or through his free and confidential contact form.
 

Q: Why do I have an odor and how can I change my scent?

A: Everything you put into your body (food, drinks, medications, drugs and alcohol) affects the scent of vaginal secretions. Change to a healthier scent by not smoking, avoiding alcohol and drinking more water. Also eat more fruits and vegetables – except for cauliflower, broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage and similar cruciferous vegetables. These veggies have sulfur in them and can give off a poor smell.

Q: Is it safe to have sex during my period?

A: It is possible to get pregnant at any time during your cycle. However, it is true that a woman is least fertile just before, during and after menstruation – and most fertile just before, during and after ovulation. Women who know their menstruation and ovulation schedules can use the rhythm method of birth control. If your schedule varies or you’re unsure, using condoms or another form of birth control is best.

Q: Why am I itchy down there?

A: There are a variety of reasons for an itch: sexually transmitted infections, yeast infections or wearing damp clothing for too long. If you are not sure why you are itchy and you still itch after a shower, schedule or walk-in for an appointment right away.

Q: What’s the difference between normal PMS and extreme PMS/premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)?

A: Moodiness is common with premenstrual syndrome (PMS). However, anxiety and/or depression that make your daily life difficult, crying and a feeling of hopelessness are all signs of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). If this sounds like you, there is treatment. Schedule or walk-in for an appointment!

Q: How much daily discharge is normal?

A: Each woman may have a different amount, color and consistency of discharge as you progress through the menstrual cycle. Schedule an appointment if you notice an abrupt change in what you’re used to or a strong foul scent, as it may be a vaginal infection.

Q: Do I have to wait to have sex after waxing?

A: You can have sex any time after waxing, as long as you’re not too sensitive. The risk of getting an infection due to the small tears from waxing is very small.

Q: Why am I never in the mood?

A: Low estrogen and hypothyroidism are physical issues that can lower your libido. Also, prescription drugs like antidepressants or even supplements also can have this effect. If you are settling into a long-term relationship, your desire may not be turned on until after you start foreplay with your partner.

Q: How much discharge during sex is normal?

A: Vaginal lubrication/secretion occurs as a normal part of the sex. ‘How much’ varies from female to female.

Q: Is there really such a thing as female ejaculation?

A: Yes. This can happen as a result of stimulating the G-spot.

Q: Is having sex during pregnancy safe?

A: Yes. As long as you do not have a complication such as a placenta previa, cervical incompetence or unexplained vaginal bleeding during pregnancy.

Q: Should I worry about a painful bump down there?

A: Usually a painful bump in and around the genital area is a pimple or ingrown hair, which in time generally resolve on their own and are not harmful. If the bump stays for more than a few days, come in for an appointment to determine what it is, as it could be a Bartholin’s cyst, herpes or genital warts.

Q: If I have sex within a few days after my period ends, am I less likely to get pregnant?

A: Generally, a woman is least fertile just before, during and just after menstruation. If menstruation and ovulation occur on a regular schedule for you, then you can avoid pregnancy by using the rhythm method. If you would like to keep track of your period, there is an app for that! As with any birth control, there is still a risk of pregnancy – especially if your cycle varies or you have trouble keeping exact records.

Q: Why are my nipples so tender?

A: Many women report that their nipples are most sensitive just before their menstrual cycle begins. If this tenderness is new to you, there are a few possible reasons for this. Sensitive nipples are often a symptom of pregnancy or new birth control. 

Q: Will I have a bowel movement during my baby delivery?

A: It is possible if your bowel is full at the time you are pushing. However, do not worry about this because the baby delivery is about the health of you and your baby. As medical professionals, we respect the patient’s dignity in all moments of the birthing process!

Q: Will I be stretched out down there after giving birth?

A: No, your vagina naturally stretches during baby delivery, but then goes back to its normal size afterward. If you are concerned about this, do Kegel exercises to strengthen your pelvic muscles. To identify these muscles, clench the same muscles you use to stop your urine in mid-stream. Do a set of 10 repetitions, three to five times a day.

Q: Have I gained too much weight during pregnancy?

A: If you feel like you have gained a lot of wait during pregnancy, ask your OBGYN if your specific weight gain is unhealthy for you.

Q: Will I be able to control my bladder as usual after my pregnancy?

A: During pregnancy, bladder control may decrease the closer you get to your due date. After about six weeks to three months of having this issue, most women notice an improvement. Kegel exercises help to strengthen the pelvic muscles that stop urine flow. Clench these muscles 10 times, three to five sets a day. If there is an ongoing problem, consult your OBGYN.

Q: Why is sex more painful after giving birth?

A: Your vagina will go through a time of healing after giving birth. If you are breastfeeding, the change in estrogen can lead to lubrication issues. Use a lubricant during intercourse and allow your body time to adjust after your baby delivery.

Q: I have a lot of discharge during pregnancy. Is that normal?

A: Yes, it is normal. This is due to an increase of blood flow to your pelvic area and pregnancy hormones. If your discharge is painful, burning, itching, has an odor or is very watery – it could be an infection or your water may have broken. Call your Obstetrician/Gynecologist immediately.

Q: Is it normal to have bad gas and indigestion during pregnancy?

A: Yes. Pregnancy hormones cause changes that affect your gastrointestinal system. Nausea (morning sickness) and bloating occur in 85% of women early on during pregnancy. Acid reflux and indigestion can occur later in pregnancy.

Q: What can I do to make my digestion better during pregnancy?

A: For constipation, add more vegetables, fruits and food with fiber – as well as drink a lot of water. Milk of magnesia or a stool softener can also help. To decrease heartburn, avoid acidic and spicy foods. Eating smaller and more frequent meals can also help. If your digestion issues do not improve, your Obstetrician/Gynecologist may suggest taking calcium carbonate.

Q: Is there any way to avoid postpartum depression? 

A: You can prepare for postpartum depression just in case you experience it.

• Set up a nighttime routine with your partner to make sure the baby is cared for 
• Maintain a healthy diet (consider adding omega-3 fish oil) Exercise (walking with the baby counts) 
• Stay connected with family and friends so you don’t feel isolated 
• Look into counseling, medication and natural or alternative treatments before giving birth