If you are like many women, you may feel embarrassed about discussing certain issues, like vaginal odors or sexual discomfort, with your gynecologist. However, it is important to remember that your gynecologist is there to help you, not judge you. Being open with him or her can help you maintain good health. Here are five things you should always talk about with your gynecologist. 

Bumps on Your Vagina

A bump on your vagina could be something as simple as a pimple or ingrown hair. It could also indicate something much more serious, like genital warts or another sexually transmitted disease. If you have bumps on your vaginal area, play it safe and have your gynecologist take a look at them.

Frequent Abdominal Pain

If you have a stomach ache every now and then, it is probably nothing to be concerned about. However, if you have pain in your lower abdomen quite frequently, it is worth talking to your gynecologist about it. Persistent abdominal pain could be a sign of endometriosis, ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids or another issue.

Sex Is Painful

Sex is not supposed to be painful. If you frequently feel discomfort while having intercourse, it could indicate a number of different issues, such as vaginal dryness, an infection or uterine fibroids. It is best to discuss this issue with your gynecologist to figure out the source of the problem.

Vaginal Odor

Vaginal odor can be an embarrassing subject to talk about, but it is something you should discuss with your gynecologist. While a foul smell in your vaginal region could be nothing, it could also be a sign of a sexually transmitted disease, pelvic inflammatory disease or another serious issue. 

Changes in Your Menstrual Cycle

If you normally have regular periods and you have all of a sudden started experiencing irregular periods, you should bring it up to your gynecologist at your next appointment. There are many things that can lead to irregular periods, like pregnancy, hypothyroidism, weight loss, hormone problems and stress. Your gynecologist can determine what's causing your irregular periods and recommend the appropriate treatment.

If you have experienced any of the above issues, you should definitely bring them up at your next appointment with your gynecologist. Your doctor will listen carefully to your concerns and help come up with the appropriate solution. The more honest you are with your gynecologist, the better your health will be. For more information, contact your doctor or someone like Holzhauer, James L.