5 Intimate Questions for Your Gynecologist You Might Be Too Shy to Ask

Visiting a gynecologist can be a daunting experience, especially when it comes to asking those intimate questions that have been on your mind. It’s common to feel shy or embarrassed, but it’s important to remember that gynecologists are there to help. We’ve compiled a list of five intimate questions that many women are too shy to ask and provided answers from an experienced obstetrician-gynecologist.

1. Can a Woman Transmit Thrush to Her Sexual Partner?

Candida, the fungus responsible for thrush, is a normal part of the vaginal microflora and is not classified as a sexually transmitted infection (STI). During sexual contact, partners exchange microflora, but each person has mechanisms to maintain a healthy balance and prevent active infections like thrush. If a woman’s balance is disrupted and the infection is active, there is a high probability that her partner may also develop an infection, although it’s not guaranteed. The partner’s immune system plays a crucial role in determining whether the infection takes hold.

2. Is It Safe to Have Sex During Menstruation?

Many couples avoid sexual contact during menstruation due to concerns about hygiene, aesthetics, and potential health risks. Others prefer these days because of the low probability of pregnancy. From a medical standpoint, sex during menstruation does not pose any obvious health risks. In fact, for women experiencing dysmenorrhea (painful periods), sexual activity and orgasm can help alleviate pain by relaxing the uterus and improving blood flow.

However, it’s essential to note that protection against pregnancy during menstruation is not 100% effective. Sperm can survive in a woman’s body for up to 72 hours, and with early ovulation, pregnancy can sometimes occur.

3. Can an HPV Carrier Infect Their Sexual Partner If the Virus Is Dormant?

An HPV test indicates either the presence or absence of the virus. The activity of the virus is indirectly determined by the number of viral particles and changes in cells caused by the virus. In any case, partners can transmit the virus to each other. Whether the virus causes an active infection or remains dormant depends on the individual’s immune system.

4. Is It Normal to Experience Pain During Sexual Intercourse?

Pain during sexual intercourse is not normal and can be caused by various factors such as anatomical features, inflammatory processes, age-related changes, endometriosis, or sexual dysfunction. It’s crucial to consult a specialist, starting with a gynecologist, to determine the cause of the pain and receive appropriate treatment.

5. Can You Go to the Pool or Sauna During Menstruation?

Visiting a pool during menstruation can be risky due to potential leakage or the entry of unclean water into the vagina. However, if a woman does not want to change her usual routine, she can use menstrual cups. A properly fitted menstrual cup adheres tightly to the vaginal walls, preventing any leakage. Menstrual cups are medical devices and should have a safety certificate. They can be purchased at pharmacies and, although expensive, have a long lifespan of up to 5 years or more, making them a cost-effective option.

Saunas during menstruation are not contraindicated (unless there are other health concerns). Women with dysmenorrhea often report reduced pain due to the dilation of blood vessels and relaxation of the uterus.

For more information on women’s health, you can visit womenshealth.gov.