Real Talk: Spring-Summer 2023

Normal discharge from the vagina is a sign that your body is healthy! The clear, white-ish fluid is a result of the natural self-cleansing process of the vagina. Changes in the color, smell, or amount can indicate infection or an imbalance in the natural bacteria that live in the vagina. Sexually transmitted infections like gonorrhea, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis are one major cause of abnormal discharge. Yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis, which are not sexually transmitted, are another common cause of abnormal discharge, as they disrupt the healthy balance of bacteria in the vagina. If you ever have any concerns, it is always a great idea to be seen by a gynecologist, who can test for these common causes of abnormal discharge.

Cameron Holmes, MD

The herpes simplex virus, or HSV, is a virus spread through direct contact with an active lesion, such as a wound or sore, or secretions containing the virus. There are two main types of the virus: HSV-1, which primarily affects the mouth and causes “cold sores,” and HSV-2, which primarily affects the genital area and is more likely to spread through sexual contact. Around 1 in 5 sexually active women have been exposed to genital herpes, and around 12% of all sexually active women have had an outbreak. Symptoms usually include tingling or burning in the affected skin area, followed by clusters of small, painful blisters filled with clear fluid. Lesions will crust over to form a scab and heal after 2-4 weeks. Herpes is frequently treated with antiviral medications that can shorten the duration of symptoms, and some women take medication continuously to prevent future outbreaks. You can prevent infection with the herpes virus by using barrier protection like condoms, and by not having sex with a partner with an active infection or symptoms.

Allison Lazenby, MD

The first time you really need to see an OB-GYN (obstetrician-gynecologist) is for a “pap smear” when you turn 21 to test for cervical cancer. However, the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends having your first gynecology visit between the ages of 13-15. Basically, it is never too soon to come see us. Your OB-GYN is a great resource for any questions or concerns you may be uncomfortable discussing with other people—nothing is “too much information” for us! Some of the things we discuss frequently with patients include birth control, preparing to be sexually active, pain or other concerns regarding your periods, symptoms like vaginal discharge or irritation, or any questions you have about your breasts or body. If you are starting to think about becoming sexually active, whenever that may be, it’s always a good idea to come see an OB-GYN so we can talk about safe practices to prevent sexually transmitted infections and birth control to prevent unwanted pregnancy.

Viktoria Taskov, MD

This is an excellent question, though a kind of tricky one. According to Louisiana law, minors, meaning people under the age of 18, can get routine medical care without the permission of an adult. This specifically refers to the care for pregnancy, childbirth, and sexually transmitted infections. You should be aware though that most teens are under their parents’ health insurance, so your parents may receive a bill or medical record for your visit. You can search for Title X clinics and Planned Parenthood centers in your area, which protect minors’ confidentiality. While your doctors generally want to maintain your privacy, there are certain issues, such as abuse and self-harm, that they must report for your own safety. Be sure to discuss any confidentiality concerns you have with your provider at the beginning of your visit. In regard to birth control, Louisiana law requires parental permission for contraception for most minors, but some doctors may prescribe birth control as part of a medical treatment plan without parental consent. Mentioning to your parents/caregivers that it is recommended to have your first gynecology visit between the ages of 13-15 could be a good way to get some privacy with your doctor to discuss periods, sex, birth control, and healthy relationships. Your OB-GYN may even have some ideas as to how to bring up these topics with your parents!

Sara Lever, MD

A dental dam is a thin, flexible sheet of latex or similar material that people can use for protection during oral sex. Many sexually transmitted diseases, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HIV (the virus that causes AIDS), are spread through bodily fluids such as blood, semen, and vaginal secretions. A dental dam provides a barrier between a person’s mouth and their partner’s genitals to reduce exposure to bodily fluids. While a condom works well for mouth-to-penis sex, a dental dam can be used during mouth-to-vagina or mouth-to-anus sex. Something super important to remember is that a dental dam is NOT a birth control method. Preventing pregnancy is not part of its job! Also keep in mind that it does not provide protection against all STDs. For example, it does not prevent the spread of human papillomavirus, pubic lice, and herpes (if a herpes lesion isn’t covered by the dam). You can find dental dams online, at drugstores, and sexual health clinics.

Chaya Karunasiri, MD