How do I manage feelings of embarrassment over having to visit a gynecologist?

Dear Reader,  

Health care providers have been there, done that! They are used to treating all sorts of mysterious ailments. Going to the gynecologist can be uncomfortable, but there’s nothing to be embarrassed about. If you’ve been using over-the-counter (OTC) medication without relief, it’s possible that you may not have a yeast infection. It’s important to get your symptoms checked out by a provider who can identify the underlying cause and prescribe appropriate treatment, if necessary.  

What can cause abnormal vaginal discharge?   

Healthy vaginal discharge is clear, white, or off-white in color. Some changes in color, texture, smell, and amount of your vaginal discharge may be expected throughout the menstrual cycle. However, unusual odors or significant changes in amount or color may be a sign of infection.  

Some of the factors that can contribute to changes in vaginal discharge include:   

• Yeast infection: This happens when there’s an overgrowth of fungus in the vagina. It can cause thick, white, cottage cheese-like discharge, swelling, and itching. 
• Bacterial vaginosis (BV): This condition is caused by an overgrowth of bacteria. It can lead to white or gray discharge that is foul-smelling.  
• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs): Trichomoniasis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea are common STIs that can cause cloudy, yellow, or green vaginal discharge. It’s possible to get STIs without penetrative sex. For instance, you can get chlamydia and gonorrhea on the genitals after receiving oral sex from a partner with a mouth or throat infection.  

• Foreign objects: Objects such as tampons can cause changes in vaginal discharge.  

• Irritation: Detergents, soaps, lubricants, or materials in condoms or sex toys can cause allergic reactions and irritation.  

What can cause stubborn yeast infections?  

If what you're experiencing is indeed a yeast infection, it usually clears up with antifungal medication. However, some infections can linger or recur despite treatment. Some medications are available over-the-counter (OTC) while others may be prescribed by a provider. They can come in the form of creams, suppositories, or oral medication.   

Skipping doses, stopping treatment too soon, or using medicine improperly can cause a yeast infection to come back. Underlying health conditions, hormonal fluctuations, and lifestyle factors can also cause yeast infections to recur. For example, diabetes and certain medications, like antibiotics, can increase the risk of yeast infections. Hormonal changes due to pregnancy, birth control, or your menstrual cycle can also encourage yeast overgrowth. For some people, stress, sugary foods, “non-breathable” underwear or sanitary pads, or scented soaps may also be the culprit.   

That said, if you’ve been using OTC medication without relief, it’s possible that you may not have a yeast infection. Yeast infection symptoms are similar to other conditions like BV and STIs. These infections can only be treated with antibiotics and therefore your symptoms will continue. Additionally, using an antifungal medication when you don’t have a yeast infection may make whatever you are experiencing worse. Antifungals can also lessen the effects of any medication you may be prescribed as treatment.    

What could be causing your pelvic pain?  

During ovulation, a mature egg is released from the ovary into the fallopian tube. Some people experience pain in the pelvic area or lower abdomen during this time. The pain may be attributed to the release of the egg, or the natural swelling of ovaries prior to the egg release. Some people may also feel pain in their lower back. Ongoing or intense pain, however, may be caused by underlying health conditions like endometriosis, fibroids, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). If the pain persists, consider meeting with a health care provider to find out if these conditions may be the cause.   

When else should you speak with a health care provider?  

Vaginal discharge can vary from person to person. In addition to changes in discharge and odor, irritation, itching, or pain in or around the vagina can all be signs of infection. If you’re experiencing these issues and OTC treatments have failed, it’s recommended to speak with a health care provider.  

A health care provider may ask you when you started experiencing symptoms, what treatments you’ve used, and whether you’re allergic to any medications. They may also be able to perform an exam or test to find out what’s causing your symptoms.   

How can you feel more comfortable going to the gynecologist? 

Going to the gynecologist can be daunting. However, there are ways to make your visit less stressful. For instance, you might prepare a list of questions before your appointment. It may also help to identify traits that would make you more comfortable with a health care provider.  If you don’t feel comfortable with the provider you’ve been to in the past, it’s perfectly okay to find a new provider.  

If you don’t have an established health care provider, now may be a good time to find one! You could search online or ask people you trust for recommendations. You might ask them why they like a particular provider so you can decide what would help you feel comfortable. For instance, you may ask about their bedside manner and whether they take their time to explain things.  

A trip to the gynecologist might be awkward or intimidating at first, but it should never be embarrassing. After all, they’re there to help you feel better—not pass judgment!   

Take care,