March 8 is International Women's Day.
Everything about the human body is complicated and at times amusing. Even if one knows the physiology and functions of the body, there are times when certain health conditions leave one baffled. More so with women, who suffer from a myriad of health conditions. Thanks to their ever changing hormonal cycles and myriad physiological and psychological issues, not to mention sexual problems. These can at times be so personal and embarrassing that it stops one from talking about it to others (friends or family members) and seek help. Here is six such embarrassing health problems that women fails to seek help for, which they should.
1. Having hair around nipples
This is unusual and so one might choose to keep numb about it. This could also lead to some amount of embarrassment during sexual intimacy. However, it is a normal occurrence in women during their puberty, menopause stage or pregnancy when hormonal fluctuations take place. Sometimes, it might indicate an underlying medical condition like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and cysts in the ovaries, so getting a medical check-up is important. If you are not having any of these conditions, you can choose to trim or pluck them. Do not wax, shave or bleach the area as it is an extremely sensitive spot. Alternatively, ask your doctor for other options that could take care of the condition. Here are few simple ways to prevent your breasts from sagging.
2. Excessive vaginal discharge
Often women fail to understand when it is normal and when should one look for help. Remember, problems down there could mean a number of things and be indicative of other health problems too. About one-third of all women in their reproductive age face this awkward problem despite maintaining good personal hygiene. A smelly vaginal discharge in excess often is an indicator of a vaginal infection or vaginitis caused by fungus candidiasis, which causes itching and thick, curdy-white discharge. On the other hand, bacterial infection causes discharge of thin, greenish colour fluid that is foul-smelling. This needs proper attention so that one doesn’t fall prey to UTIs that could disrupt normalcy. Here is what vaginal discharge could mean about your health.
3. Heavy menstrual bleeding
Heavy bleeding or prolonged menstrual cycle is medically called hypermenorrhea. It is fairly common in women and is usually caused due to noncancerous tumors called fibroids that grow on the walls of the uterus. Other conditions like hormonal problems, endometriosis and some blood clotting disorders can also cause heavy bleeding. Here are six reasons that could led to heavy bleeding in women.
4. Facial hair
Every woman at some point in her life must have cribbed about hair on upper lip or chin. But this problem turns into a nightmare for a few women who suffer from major hormonal fluctuations or hormonal disorders. Seeking treatment for unwanted facial hair should not be embarrassing and there are several laser assisted treatments that can help you getting rid of that embarrassing patch of facial hair. Here are some home remedies to get rid of facial hair without chemical overload.
5. Urinary incontinence
Women all over the world experience loss of bladder control — so get the embarrassment out of your head. In India, urinary incontinence due to actions like coughing, sneezing or exertion is seen in almost 73% of women. There are several ways including pelvic floor exercises that can help you to regain control over your bladder. Most cases of urinary incontinence get cured by making minor lifestyle changes. But if it is bothering you way too much then you should seek medical help without hesitation. Here are 8 effective ways to treat urinary incontinence.
6. Changes in the vagina
Changes are natural and just like all other organs of the body your vagina will also change as you grow older. In some cases, the vagina may get a bit loose after just 2 years of sex. Along with a loose vagina, issues like decreased libido, dryness in the vaginal region and pain during sex can also arise. But all of these problems can be solved. Pelvic floor tightening exercises (Kegel’s exercise), certain medications and vaginal tightening creams/gels can help you regain vaginal tightness. Here is how to pick up the right vaginal lubricant to avoid painful sex.
Image source: Getty images
For more articles on women's day special and diseases & conditions, visit our women's health and diseases & conditions section. For daily free health tips, sign up for our newsletter.
For more articles on women's day special and diseases & conditions, visit our women's health and diseases & conditions section. For daily free health tips, sign up for our newsletter.