Women: Don’t ignore these 7 “down-there” symptoms
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Women: Don’t ignore these 7 “down-there” symptoms
Women have a knack for being in tune with their body. They know when something is not quite right. Generally, most women also are known for seeing their doctor when their health is suffering. However, if the problem happens to coincide with their more ‘intimate’ parts, they may refrain, pretend it’s not a big deal, or ignore addressing sexual warning signs signaling a health issue needing attention.
These “down-there” warning signs are the way our bodies are trying to tell us something. It may be awkward or embarrassing discussing these symptoms but it’s essential a woman sees her doctor right away to discuss what the problem is. It’s far better to get it diagnosed and treated appropriately before it turns into a bigger issue.
Here are 7 sexual symptoms all women should not ignore:
1. Vaginal discharge
All women will have some normal vaginal discharge which has several purposes – cleaning and moistening the vagina and helping to prevent and fight infections. It’s also normal for the color, texture, and amount of vaginal fluids to change during a woman’s life. But foul smelling vaginal discharge that may also have an abnormal color in increase in amount is most likely a sign of an infection or possibly could be a more serious problem. Making an appointment with a doctor is advisable to get it treated as soon as possible.
2. Irregular bleeding
Most women usually know their menstrual cycle well so if there is any spotting in between cycles or after menopause, it’s time to talk to her doctor. Light, irregular bleeding could be due to various factors such as uterine fibroids (benign growths), pelvic inflammatory disease, or endometrial cancer. Getting a diagnosis quickly can help discover the cause and how to treat it.
3. Pain during sex
Any woman experiencing pain during sex should know that it is not normal. The cause may be as simple as a situation of deep thrusting during intercourse or a particular sexual position that didn’t agree with her. If it’s a one-time episode, then it probably can be ignored. But if pain persists, it could be caused by several things such as ovarian cysts, infections of the uterus or fallopian tubes, scar tissue from old infections or surgeries, endometriosis, or uterine fibroids. Any sustained pain during sex should be brought up to a doctor. Be specific when describing it as to whether the pain feels sharp, dull, constant, sporadic and where it is located.
4. Burning or frequent urination
The most likely cause of this symptom is a urinary tract infection (UTI). It is important to not wait to see a doctor for a definitive diagnosis as if not treated it could lead to more serious conditions such as cystitis. Causes of UTIs can be frequent intercourse, improper wiping after using the restroom of back to front, or not emptying the bladder after sex. Antibiotics are usually what are given to treat a UTE.
5. Itchy rash
An inflamed, itchy rash in the genital area is most likely due to some form of vulval dermatitis, which is an allergic reaction to an irritant that could be anything from shower gel to synthetic underwear fibers. Rashes can also arise from sex due to an allergy to latex condoms, lubricants, or spermicidal creams. Another indication of an itchy rash is a sexually transmitted disease. Whatever it may be, this symptom requires a trip to the doctor for a correct diagnosis.
6. Bloating
Occasional bloating in women if fairly common but when it occurs daily for more than a couple of weeks, it warrants seeing the doctor. The reason is that one possible cause might be ovarian cancer. This cancer doesn’t have many symptoms but if you notice feeling constantly bloated or feeling full even after eating only a small amount of food, it would be wise to rule this out. If the bloating is accompanied with frequent urination, a change in bowel habits, sudden and unexplained weight loss or gain, or low back or pelvic pain, these could also indicate a more serious problem.
7. Vaginal muscle spasms
A condition called vaginismus is when there is instantaneous, involuntary tightening of the pelvic floor muscles in anticipation of vaginal penetration. This reaction will occur if penetration is perceived as upsetting, painful, or dangerous causing the vagina to clench or clamp down when touched or during sex. It is not fully understood why it happens but often the root cause of the condition is emotional such as past sexual trauma or anxiety about intercourse. It could also be caused by a physical problem such as a birth defect or surgery. Treatment for vaginismus could involve counseling, the use of vaginal dilators and physical therapy to retrain muscles to prevent them from clamping down during sex.