3 Seemingly Minor Issues That Warrant A Visit To The OBGYN
Posted on: 26 January 2021
Many minor injuries and medical problems do not require a doctor's care. When you skin your knee, you can generally just put some antiseptic ointment and a bandage on it yourself. You probably don't see your doctor each time you get a little sniffle. However, if you carry over this theme of just pushing through seemingly minor medical concerns into your gynecological health, you might find yourself in trouble. Many gynecological issues that may initially seem like no big deal actually can indicate something more sinister. You should call an OBGYN if you experience any of the following problems.
Sores on or near your genitals.
A little bump or sore might be something you shrug off if it is on your leg or face. However, if you find a new bump or sore on your genitals or near them, you should call your OGBYN. This sore could be caused by an STD, such as herpes or gonorrhea. It may, indeed, just be a pimple or ingrown hair, but you do not want to make this assumption and later find out otherwise. If you do have an STD, early treatment is always best, both to alleviate your own symptoms and to prevent the spread of the disease to others.
A missed period.
Obviously, a missed period can indicate pregnancy. But if there is no chance of you being pregnant, it may be tempting to overlook a missed period or even sigh in relief that you do not have to go through a period this month. Unfortunately, though, a missed period may not be something to celebrate. It can be an indication of uterine fibroids, cervical cancer, or a number of other underlying issues that an OBGYN needs to check for.
Smelly discharge.
Sometimes women brush aside smelly discharge, either because they are embarrassed or because they figure they just need to practice better hygiene. However, the vagina is a self-cleaning organ, and while not showering for a few days may leave some odor in the genital area, it should not lead to smelly discharge. On the contrary, smelly discharge can indicate a bacterial or yeast infection or a more serious STD. Definitely call your OBGYN about any odors that linger after a bath.
Gynecological health should always be taken seriously. Sometimes what seems like a minor issue can actually be quite serious, so always have your OBGYN take a look.
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