Questions you should never feel embarrassed to ask your gynaecologist

As a gynaecologist, I’ve heard it all before. Really, I have. Yet so many women sit in the consultation room holding back questions because they feel embarrassed, worried they might sound silly or afraid of being judged.

Here’s the truth: there is no such thing as a stupid question when it comes to your health. A gynaecologist is there to help you understand your body and feel confident about your well-being. Every question you have is valid.

About your period

“Is my period normal?”

This is one of the most common questions and it’s completely reasonable. Periods vary widely from person to person. Whether you’re concerned about heavy bleeding, irregular timing, severe pain, or unusual discharge, your gynaecologist can help determine what’s normal for you and when something might need attention.

“Why does my period hurt so much?”

Severe period pain isn’t something you just have to ‘put up with’. While some discomfort is normal, pain that interferes with your daily life, requires strong painkillers, or is worsening over time, deserves investigation.

“Can I skip my period safely?”

Many women wonder about period suppression, whether for convenience, medical reasons or personal preference. Your gynaecologist can explain the options and help you make an informed choice.

About screening and prevention

“I’ve received an abnormal cervical screening result – do I have cancer?”

An abnormal cervical screening result does not mean you have cancer. These tests are specifically designed for early detection and prevention of cervical cancer, often identifying changes years before any cancer could develop.

Many abnormal results are related to HPV (human papillomavirus), a very common infection that usually clears naturally. When further assessment is needed, a colposcopy procedure allows detailed examination of the cervix using specialised magnification.

With extensive experience in colposcopy and managing abnormal cervical screening results, I can provide you with comprehensive care and clear explanations throughout the process, helping to address your concerns while ensuring the best preventive approach for your situation.

About your body and how it works

“What’s that lump I noticed?”

Changes in your body can be worrying, but most of the time they’re completely normal. Your gynaecologist would much rather you ask about something that turns out to be normal than miss something that needs attention.

“Is my vulva/vagina normal?”

Every woman’s anatomy is different, and many women have never had a chance to learn what’s normal for them. Your gynaecologist can provide reassurance and education.

“Why do I leak urine when I laugh/cough/exercise?”

Incontinence is prevalent, especially after childbirth or as we age, but it’s not something you have to live with. There are many effective treatments available.

About surgical concerns

“Could I have endometriosis?”

If you’re experiencing strong pelvic pain, heavy periods or pain during sex, you might have endometriosis.

The best diagnosis and management of endometriosis is by someone skilled in ultrasound, knowledgeable in the latest medical treatments and also able to perform endometriosis surgery.

This comprehensive care involves several steps: using detailed ultrasounds to detect early signs of the condition, applying the latest hormonal and medical treatments, and, if necessary, performing advanced surgeries to treat it thoroughly.

I'll carefully examine your unique situation and create a treatment plan tailored to your symptoms, lifestyle and plans.

“I think I might have fibroids; what should I know?”

Fibroids are common growths that occur in the uterus. Their effects can vary from person to person, so it’s essential to correlate ultrasound results with your symptoms.

For instance, a fibroid that may require treatment for one woman might only necessitate regular check-ups for another. 

Specialised pelvic ultrasounds provide important details about the location, size and appearance of the fibroid, which is the best way to determine the most suitable treatment options. 

Understanding how your fibroids relate to symptoms such as heavy bleeding, pelvic pressure or fertility issues means I can create a personalised treatment plan. These options may include hormonal medications, less invasive procedures, or surgery, depending on your individual needs and stage of life.

“Should I be worried about ovarian cysts?”

Most ovarian cysts are harmless, but understanding which ones require attention requires a detailed assessment.

Specialist gynaecological ultrasound can identify specific characteristics such as cyst contents, wall thickness, blood flow patterns and internal structures. This helps distinguish between simple functional cysts that will resolve naturally and those requiring closer monitoring or intervention. 

This comprehensive imaging assessment, along with your symptoms and medical history, allows me to provide tailored recommendations on whether monitoring, medication, or surgical intervention is the most suitable option for your specific situation. This approach helps to prevent unnecessary anxiety and avoids delays in receiving appropriate treatment.

“I’m having weird symptoms, but I’m not sure if they’re related to gynaecology.”

Your reproductive system is closely connected to your overall health in many ways. Symptoms such as bloating, mood changes, or fatigue may be related to gynaecological issues and it’s worth discussing them.

About life changes

“Is this menopause?”

The transition to menopause can start years before periods stop, and symptoms vary widely. Your gynaecologist can help you understand what’s happening and discuss ways to manage symptoms.

“My body changed after having a baby; is this permanent?”

Pregnancy and childbirth cause many changes, some temporary and some permanent. Your gynaecologist can help you understand what to expect and address any concerns.

“I’m concerned about cancer; should I be worried?”

Family history, unusual symptoms, or changes in your body can understandably cause worry about cancer. Your gynaecologist can assess your risk and recommend appropriate screening.

Remember, you’re not alone. Whatever question is on your mind, chances are your gynaecologist has been asked it many times before. They chose this specialty because they want to help women with these exact concerns. They understand that women’s health issues can feel personal, embarrassing or scary.

As a gynaecologist, I am bound by confidentiality, which means your conversations remain private. I’m trained to discuss sensitive topics with compassion and without judgment. Most importantly, I want you to feel comfortable asking questions because informed patients make better health decisions.