image courtesy of Shutterstock.com
As a society, we’ve been conditioned to believe that it’s taboo to discuss certain topics. Unfortunately, avoiding “uncomfortable” conversations can have significant — even life-altering — consequences. Seattle obstetrician and gynecologist, Dr. Sarah de la Torre, answers the questions we are too embarrassed to ask!
CAN I TIGHTEN MY VAGINA?
It’s a legitimate question! “Vaginal laxity, or the feeling of vaginal looseness, is common, especially after childbirth,” shares Dr. de la Torre. Solutions range from invasive surgical procedures, medically known as vaginoplasty, to non-invasive options. Radio frequency treatments, such as InMode’s Votiva, are performed in a clinical setting, but do not require anesthesia and allow for minimal downtime. One popular at-home prosumer (professional-consumer) devices, is the vFit, which use LED, heat, and sonic vibration to improve intimate wellness.
WHY IS MY PERIOD SO HEAVY?
Nobody likes it when Aunt Flo comes for her monthly visit. Yet, if your period is particularly overbearing, it could be the sign of a bigger problem. Menorrhagia is the medical term for menstrual periods with abnormally heavy or prolonged bleeding. In most cases, women with heavy flows do not experience blood loss severe enough to be defined as menorrhagia. Common causes of menorrhagia include adenomyosis, endometriosis, fibroids, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), or even cancer, warns Dr. de la Torre. “Don’t suffer in silence. Ask your doctor.”
WHY AM I EXPERIENCING VAGINAL DRYNESS (EVEN THOUGH I AM STILL ATTRACTED TO MY PARTNER)?
You’re not alone! Unfortunately, this is a reality that many women face after childbirth, breastfeeding or just aging in general. Menopause is a big player in this. The good news is that there are many options, from prescription and non-prescription topical vaginal treatments and non-medicated lubricants and moisturizers, to prescription topical forms of estrogen therapy. “All you’ve got to do is ask your doctor,” suggests Dr. de la Torre.
