Real Talk: Spring 2022

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a condition that can affect how often you have your period and can also increase certain hormones in your body. Irregular menstrual cycles along with acne and either hair loss or increased hair growth, especially above the upper lip and on the chin and lower belly, are common symptoms. In young women, PCOS can lead to girls experiencing their first period at a later age. PCOS affects about 5-10% of women worldwide. There isn’t a specific, known cause for this condition, but there is some genetic influence. Many women with PCOS tend to be overweight; however, almost 20% have a normal weight. The condition is diagnosed based on the symptoms mentioned above as well as an ultrasound that examines your ovaries. One of the best treatments for PCOS is weight loss—as little as 5% weight loss can help you have regular cycles again. Birth control pills are also another good option that you can discuss with your doctor.

Akshay Goswami MD, MPH

Wearing a push-up bra regularly isn’t bad for you. The truth is that it doesn’t matter from a health perspective whether you wear a padded bra, a sports bra, an underwire bra, or no bra at all. The most important matter is fit! Bras that are too small can cause rashes, marks, or pain, and those that are too big might not give you the support you want. Whatever bra you decide to wear should be comfortable, the right size, and most importantly, make YOU feel good. You can always go to an underwear store to get measured or look up instructions online to figure out your band and cup size. Remember, one size or style does not fit all, and no size or style is better than others. It really is just about finding what makes you feel your best!

Sara Lever, MD

Asexual is a type of sexual orientation just like bisexual, pansexual, gay, or straight. Asexuality can be defined as not having any, or very little, sexual attraction to others. People who identify as asexual can still desire to make strong emotional or romantic connections with others—even though they have no interest in a physically intimate relationship. If you have noticed that you are having similar feelings, you could be asexual. If you’re still figuring things out, you don’t have to label yourself until you’re sure and ready. Sexual orientation can be fluid, so if you happen to identify as asexual now, your feelings may change in the future. Either way, it’s perfectly fine. The most important thing to know is that it is okay to love and be authentically you no matter what.

Remi Omotayo, MD

Screening for common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, syphilis, and trichomoniasis is recommended yearly for all sexually active people. If you have more than one sexual partner, have symptoms, or don’t always practice safe sex with a condom, we recommend STI screening every 3-6 months. These tests can be completed with swabs during your pelvic exam at your OB-GYN’s office, a urine sample, or a blood sample depending on the type of test. Results usually take 1-3 days to come back. Some companies do sell at-home STI screening kits. However, our recommendation is always to have your STI screening completed at your OB-GYN’s office for accurate results and correct treatment in case of a positive result.

Allison Lazenby, MD

Going to an OB-GYN may seem like a strange experience, but if we take away some of the mystery, you’ll see it can be empowering instead of scary! OB-GYNs focus on health for all women—obstetrics (OB) refers to care during pregnancy and childbirth and gynecology (GYN) covers the health of the female reproductive system. We treat abnormal periods, assess pelvic pain, provide birth control counseling and prescriptions, and teach about sexual health. When you come to see a gynecologist, we will take some time to get to know you and address questions you have about your feminine health. No matter how embarrassing or weird you think your questions are, believe me, we’re great listeners and here to make a safe space for you! Your GYN may ask personal questions about your medical history, mental health, and sexual relationships. The doctor then performs a breast and vaginal exam to make sure everything looks normal. Finally, your GYN will screen for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) if you are sexually active and for cervical cancer once you’re over 21 (during a so-called “Pap smear,” a cotton swab or tiny brush is inserted into your vagina to gently remove cells from your cervix). At the end of your visit, we’ll make a plan just for you based on your needs! You should see your OB-GYN at least once a year, and hopefully along the way you’ll bond with a doctor who will always have your back for years to come!

Vanessa Norris, MD