In reality, the vagina has a natural
scent that can vary due to factors such as hormonal changes, diet,
stress and activity. Trying to change it with intense fragrances or by douching
can disrupt the delicate pH balance and lead to infections. Your vagina itself does
not require washing, and the external area (vulva) should only be cleaned with
warm water and mild, unscented soap.
Mild, musky odors are normal and may vary during the course of
your monthly cycle, but any sudden, strong or foul-smelling odor could indicate
an infection or other health issue. Talk to your women’s health provider if you
notice any concerning changes.
Myth 2: If I Don’t Have Symptoms, I Don’t Have an STD
This myth may be part of the reason sexually transmitted diseases
(STDs)—like syphilis, chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes, HIV and others—are on the
rise. Early
signs of these infections are not always present or
obvious, which means people can spread them before they realize they have them.
Talk to your provider during your annual exam about prevention
strategies and an STD screening schedule based on your risk factors.
Myth 3: Tightening Products Are Effective
A myth that has gained popularity recently is the notion that
products like vaginal tightening creams or gels can rejuvenate, or “tighten,”
the vaginal area. In reality, the vagina is a muscular organ that changes in
tone due to factors such as childbirth and age.
While Kegel
exercises can help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, which can help
prevent urinary leakage as you age, there's little scientific evidence
supporting the efficacy of the numerous products or procedures on the market.
If you're concerned about changes in vaginal tone, talk to your women’s health
provider for personalized advice.
Myth 4: You Can't Get Pregnant During Your Period
There are a lot of misunderstandings about when a woman can become
pregnant, all of which can lead to unintended pregnancies. Peak
fertility typically occurs around mid-cycle, before and during ovulation. While
the likelihood of conception is lower during menstruation, it's still possible,
especially if you have a shorter menstrual cycle or experience irregular
periods.
Sperm can survive in the body for several days, so it's essential
to use contraception if you're not planning a pregnancy. Our providers can help
you choose the option
that will work best for your needs and preferences.
It’s also important to note that after you’ve delivered a baby,
you can become pregnant again fairly quickly. This is true even while you are
still experiencing postpartum bleeding and before you have your first “normal”
period, so be sure you have a plan for birth control in place after delivery.
Myth 5: Pap Smears Are Only Necessary if You Have Symptoms
Pap smears, also known as cervical screenings, are crucial for
detecting early signs of cervical cancer or abnormalities. Some women
mistakenly believe they only need a Pap smear if they're experiencing symptoms,
but regular screenings are recommended for all women once they become sexually
active or turn 21 (whichever comes first), regardless of symptoms. Early
detection, typically long before symptoms appear, greatly increases the chances
of successful treatment.
You should have a routine women’s
health appointment every year, during which your provider will perform a pelvic and
breast exam, talk to you about any changes or questions you have, and recommend
other screenings based on your risk factors. The Pap smear itself is typically
only part of the exam every three to five years based on your personal and
family medical history.
Myth 6: Cranberry Juice Prevents and Cures Urinary Tract
Infections
Your lifetime risk of developing a urinary tract infection (UTI)
is as high as one in two, according to some estimates. If cranberry juice could
prevent or cure these infections, they would be much less common.
There are some strategies for preventing
UTIs, but it’s still likely you will experience one at some point. If
you experience any symptoms—such as pain and burning while urinating, fever, or
pain and pressure in your pelvis, abdomen or lower back—call your health
provider promptly. Antibiotics are usually very effective, and without
treatment, infections can worsen and spread to your kidneys.
Here for All Your Questions
We pride ourselves on our ability to answer your health questions
clearly, completely and without judgment, so don’t hesitate to bring up any of
your concerns. There’s no such thing as a silly question, and the more you know
about your body, the more empowered you are to live your healthiest life. If
you have any questions or need to schedule an appointment, please reach out.
