Where sexual health is concerned, there are many misconceptions doing the rounds because…between Google and TikTok, someone’s always ready to play expert. From whether you’ll be able to have good sex after a hysterectomy to whether probiotics really do anything for your vaginal health – and everything else in between – Pretoria-based
ob-gyn Dr Sebolelo Mojaki sheds some light on some of those questions you and your friends tried to answer yourselves at your last get-together.
READ MORE: 4 Most Common Questions Women Ask About Their Sexual Health
Is it true that sex drive increases with age in women — what are the biological reasons behind that?
You likely won’t notice a dramatic difference in your libido when you enter different decades of life. Factors that affect your libido just tend to happen as you transition from your 20s to your 40s and beyond. Learn more about how libido changes with age, including typical times when sex drive may dip, treatment options, and when to contact a healthcare provider.
What is my vagina supposed to smell like?
Tangy, fermented, or sour. These are perfectly healthy adjectives to describe the vaginal odour created by your normal bacterial flora. Good bacteria help keep your vagina healthy by producing lactic acid, hydrogen peroxide, and other substances to keep harmful bacteria at bay.
READ MORE: These Unusual PMS Symptom Treatments Actually Work – Minus Painkillers
Why do some women experience ovulation and not period pains?
Ovulation pain is usually felt on one side of the pelvis, either left or right, depending on which ovary releases the egg. It can feel like a twinge or pop, and it may last for a few moments or longer. Other conditions that can cause similar pain to ovulation include: Endometriosis, Ovarian cysts, Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like chlamydia, Scar tissue from surgery near the ovaries, and An ectopic pregnancy. Stress, anxiety, excessive exercise, and significant weight loss can also disrupt your menstrual cycle.
Should I be taking probiotics daily for my vaginal health?
There is no consensus on whether probiotic supplements are effective for vaginal health, and some experts say they are a waste of money. Antibiotics are the recommended treatment for conditions related to vaginal imbalance. However, some research suggests that probiotics may be helpful in certain situations:
- After taking antibiotics
- For recurring bacterial vaginosis
- For women who want to try a probiotic, some studies suggest that those containing Lactobacillus rhamnosusGR-1 may be beneficial
Before taking probiotics, you should consult a healthcare professional to get a proper diagnosis and treatment.
READ MORE: Your Most Urgent ‘Down There’ Questions Answered By Experts
Is there anything that I can eat to make my vagina smell good?
There is no evidence that eating large amounts of fruits like pineapple or banana will significantly change the smell or taste of a vulva.
What kind of vaginal discharge is normal?
Normal vaginal discharge is usually clear, white, or off-white, and can be thin, sticky, elastic, thick, or gooey. It may have a slight odour, but it shouldn’t be strong or unpleasant. The amount of discharge can vary from person to person, and it can change throughout your menstrual cycle. Here are some other characteristics of normal vaginal discharge:
- It may increase two weeks before menstruation.
- It may change or increase with some birth control methods.
- It doesn’t cause itchiness or irritation.
- It may look yellow when it dries on underwear or a panty liner.
Can I still have good sex after hysterectomy?
A hysterectomy shouldn’t affect your ability to enjoy sex. Typically, it does not affect sensation in the vagina or a woman’s ability to have an orgasm. However, if your ovaries were removed during the procedure, it could affect your sex drive due to hormonal changes.
Adblock test (Why?)
Powered by WPeMatico