Vim & Vigor - Fall 2019 - GMC - 53

1

Not sharing your full medical
history-particularly as it
relates to reproductive and
sexual health. While it's a topic many
people don't like to discuss-whether
it's out of embarrassment or simply
wanting to keep things private-your
sexual/reproductive history is extremely
important to your OB/GYN.
"Without the full picture, it's
difficult for your OB/GYN to provide the
comprehensive care you deserve," says
Dr. Parris. "It might seem embarrassing
to you, but we're not judging anyone.
We want to know the details in order to
develop proper care plans."

2

Self-diagnosing and selftreating. Don't assume that
burning, itching, frequent
urination and changes in discharge
automatically signify a yeast infection.
"These are common symptoms
associated with many other serious
conditions," explains Dr. Parris. "Using
the wrong type of medication or
treatment can prolong proper care and
even worsen symptoms. It's always best
to check in with your provider to get a
proper diagnosis and treatment."

3

Overusing vaginal hygiene
products. Just because a product
says it's safe for your vaginal
health doesn't mean it's a good idea. In
fact, douching, heavily scented deodorant
sprays, soaps and other items can actually
disrupt your pH and create a whole
host of problems-including dryness,
itchiness, irritation, bacterial imbalance
and allergic reactions.
"You don't really need any special
products to maintain vaginal hygiene,"
says Dr. Parris. "In fact, without
getting into too many details, the
vagina cleans itself naturally through
discharge. Mild soap and water are
really all you need to stay healthy.
That's a much less damaging routine
than most advertised feminine
hygiene products."

4

Settling for painful, heavy and
downright miserable periods.
While the time of the month is
never pleasant, it's not supposed to be
a woman's worst nightmare.
"Every woman encounters some
discomfort during their period-
cramps, bloating, mood swings,
headaches," explains Dr. Parris,
"but these symptoms are not usually
debilitating. If you are experiencing
monumental mood swings, extremely
heavy flow, and/or cramping or
headaches that prevent you from living
normally, we want to know. OB/GYNs
are equipped to troubleshoot this
discomfort to find a solution that fits
your needs and allows you to get back
to your life-no matter where you are
in your cycle."

5

Enduring uncomfortable
or painful sex. Sex is often
considered a taboo or hush-hush
topic of conversation, but this shouldn't
be the case with your OB/GYN. He or
she is actually the perfect person in your
life to discuss this with, particularly
if you are experiencing extreme
discomfort or pain during sex.
"Painful or uncomfortable sex is
not normal, and it's upsetting to OB/
GYNs to know that patients put off care
for this issue for any reason," says Dr.
Parris. "Once we-as OB/GYNs-know
about this issue, we work together with
you to determine the cause and find
a solution."

From cramps
and birth control
to breast and
pelvic exams,
your annual
well-woman visit
is a vital part
of your overall
health.

6

Skipping or canceling your
appointments. Even though
new recommendations say you
don't need a Pap test every year, there
are other important reasons to keep
your annual OB/GYN visit.
"From cramps and birth control to
breast and pelvic exams, your annual
well-woman visit is a vital part of your
overall health," explains Dr. Parris.
"It's also the perfect time to discuss
any issues you're having-like painful
or heavy periods, fertility and family
planning, and even anxiety."
And if you're on your period, don't
sweat it. "While it may put a damper
on how you feel about yourself at your
appointment," adds Dr. Parris, "your
provider typically isn't concerned." ■

WEBSITE

Expert and Compassionate Care
At the new Primary Care & Specialty Center-Peachtree Corners we're
making comprehensive women's health a key focus. From primary
care to OB/GYN services, this unique center provides all the aspects
of women's health care-under one roof. Learn more by visiting
gwinnettmedicalcenter.org/ptc.

FALL 2019

53
http://www.gwinnettmedicalcenter.org/ptc
Vim & Vigor - Fall 2019 - GMC

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