Embarrassing Sexual Health Topics

Embarrassing Sexual Health Topics

By Katherine Steinberg


New research suggests that 40 percent of women suffer from some type of sexual problem, reports the Washington Post. However, only 12 percent of women are distressed about those problems. These problems can include low desire, problems reaching orgasm and trouble becoming aroused. There was also an age gap, with older women experiencing the most problem, but least distress. So how do you know if your problem is something to worry about or not? Read on to find out the answers to your most embarrassing sex questions.

By Liz Neporent
Embarrassing Questions

As if wearing a thin paper robe and peeing into a cup isn't intimidating enough, what if you have a question for your doctor that makes you blush just thinking about it?

"Ask it anyway," advises Laura Corio, M.D., a well-known New York City-based gynecologist and author of 'The Change Before the Change.' "Your doctor has heard it all before. You'll be relieved to get the issue out in the open and you may be heading off a potentially serious health issue."

Low Mojo

Q: I've had zero sex drive lately. How can I get my mojo back?

A: Libido is multifaceted, Corio notes. The first thing to observe is your stress level and how your relationship is going. "I advise my patients to take a vacation with their partner," she says. "If there's still no improvement, go see your gynecologist to eliminate any underlying physical causes. Furthermore, visit a sex therapist to work on the emotional and psychological side of things."

Frequent Urination

Q: I have the urge to pee every 15 minutes. What's wrong?

A: The most likely culprit is a urinary tract infection and a course of antibiotics should do the trick, says Corio. More seriously, you could have a neurogenic bladder -- spastic or hyperactive bladder -- which is a chronic condition that requires treatment by a urologist.

Semen Allergy

Q: Is it possible to be allergic to semen?

A: "Some guys have more alkali than others, so if you feel a burning or itching upon contact with semen, it could be an allergy," Corio says. If the problem persists try using a condom. A trip the doctor to rule out infection is also a good idea.

Dry Down South

Q: During sex, I'm really dry down there. Is there something wrong?

A: Birth control can flatten out hormones and lead to vaginal dryness. After menopause, inability to self-lubricate can be the result of thinning and shrinking vaginal tissue. Antihistamines and other medications can also dry up secretions. "Try an over-the-counter lubricant and see if that helps," advises Corio. If it doesn't, the issue could be emotional; ask your partner to spend more time on foreplay and if that doesn't work, consult with a sex therapist.

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Lost Tampon

Q: I put a tampon in and forgot about it for more than a week. What should I do?

A: The most important thing to remember in this situation is that the vagina is a closed space. "There's nowhere for it to go so if you can't find it, chances are it fell out on its own." If you've retained a tampon, Corio promises you'll know: It will smell awful. "See a doctor immediately to help remove it and get tested for infection," she advises.

Uneven Breasts

Q: My breasts are uneven, is that normal?

A: "One foot or one arm can be bigger than the other, so it's not abnormal for the breasts to be slightly asymmetrical too," says Corio. Size differences can be exacerbated by breast-feeding and weight fluctuations. If they make you self-conscious, you may want to consider cosmetic surgery.

Smelly Periods

Q: My periods smell really bad. Is there anything I can do about that?

A: Many women are hypersensitive to the smell of their own periods and the smell is probably not as bad as they think. But if you truly feel there's a foul odor while you're menstruating, make an appointment with your gynecologist toward the end of your period to check things out. "There's a strong possibility you have an infection of some sort that needs to be treated," warns Corio.

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STD Scare

Q: How do I get over my nerves to ask my doctor if I have a sexually transmitted disease?

A: "Your doctor is not there to judge you," points out Corio. If you're too embarrassed to speak to your physician or don't feel taken seriously, switch doctors. Make an appointment with your gynecologist right away if you have an uncontrollable itch, burn or rash.

However, many STDs may go unnoticed and it would be beneficial to set up blood tests and screenings during your pap exam. STDs are easily treated but the longer they're left unchecked, the more harm they cause.

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