Dr. Eboni Green
October 26, 2021
When you only see your gynecologist once a year, it can be difficult to be forward about the intimate issues or concerns related to your sexual health and fertility. But the more open you are about what is going on, the better care your doctor can provide. From fertility supplements for women to perimenopause, the questions you have about women’s health may be more common than you think. When it comes to your wellness and cycle, you are never alone. Find out what questions women are asking and get your own queries answered.
Usually, vaginal odor is nothing to worry about. Everyday activities, like sweating or having sex, influence the way you smell, and your natural hormone fluctuations also play a role. In this case, try taking a shower or wearing loose clothing to minimize the odor. Also, try to avoid reaching for scented washes and sprays; these can negatively impact the gardnerella vaginalis, the good bacteria in and around your vagina that keep it healthy. If, however, you notice a yeast smell, that could be a sign of a yeast infection. If you notice your vaginal odor change, it is a good idea to talk to your doctor and ensure everything is okay. Discharge is also normal, and it changes in consistency and frequency throughout your menstrual cycle. For example, a clear discharge with a slight musty odor could indicate ovulation. However, if you notice white clumps similar to cottage cheese and a foul-smelling odor, this could indicate yeast or bacterial infections, in which case you should visit your doctor.
There are many factors impacting fertility, and if you are considering trying for a baby, it’s best to make some changes to your lifestyle in advance to increase your chances of conceiving.
Age has the most significant impact on your fertility. As you age, your egg health decreases, especially after age 35. However, it does not mean you cannot get pregnant after this age; it means it is more complicated.
While weight alone is not the culprit of infertility, being overweight or underweight impacts your hormone levels, affecting your menstrual cycle and ovulation rate. Women who are overweight are also more likely to have a miscarriage or develop health problems like pregnancy-induced diabetes and high blood pressure.
Untreated STIs can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or scarring in the reproductive system. Since many women with STIs never have symptoms, it’s essential to be tested regularly to prevent future complications.
Everyday foods can limit fertility. Alcohol, caffeine, drugs, trans fats, carbs and tobacco are all known to impact fertility negatively.
If you have a chronic disease like diabetes or an autoimmune disease like lupus, you may have difficulty conceiving. While pregnant, you may have a more difficult time controlling your chronic illness. In addition, some diseases, like cancer, require treatments that can negatively impact your egg quality. If you are being treated for any chronic disease, to be proactive, talk to a doctor about how it can affect your fertility.
If you are under 35 and have been trying to conceive for more than a year, or if you are over 35 and have been trying to conceive for more than six months, reach out to your doctor for advice.
No magical solution exists for improving fertility. However, there are a few things you can do to impact your fertility positively:
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a good indicator of what weight is healthy for you. Strive to maintain a BMI between 19 and 24 for optimum fertility.
Eat more fruits and vegetables and switch to plant-based fats instead of trans fats often found in prepackaged foods. Incorporate complex carbs into your diet rather than simple carbs, and switch to whole milk and full-fat dairy products or plant-based equivalents.
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Moderate exercise is best, so do not overdo it. Walking, dancing, biking, swimming or practicing yoga or Pilates are all excellent moderate exercises you can incorporate into your lifestyle. If you already run or do heavy weight-lifting, scale back the intensity. Regardless of the workout, remember to stay hydrated.
No matter how healthy your diet is, it is likely that you will still fall short on the vitamins and minerals you need, especially folic acid and iron, which are crucial for fetal development. Doctors recommend that women of child-bearing age take prenatal vitamins even if they are not actively trying to become pregnant. These vitamins and minerals are imperative for development during the first month of pregnancy, often before the woman finds out she is pregnant. Some fertility supplements may also be helpful.
Cycles vary by woman, so it is best to track your cycle to learn when you ovulate to time sex for when you are most likely to conceive. However, this is not something you can figure out based on one month, so it is best to start tracking your menstrual cycle well in advance of trying to conceive.
Generally, yes, but you should talk to your doctor to be sure. A cervical mucus plug protects the baby, but if you have a history of preterm labor or miscarriage or have a preexisting condition, sex may come with more risks.
According to the National Menopause Society, American women generally reach menopause (defined as not having a period for 12 consecutive months) at age 51. However, the perimenopausal phase usually begins in your 40s. If you start to notice irritability, mood swings, hot flashes or night sweats and your period becomes more irregular, you may be entering perimenopause. While the process is entirely natural, talk to your doctor about how to address the symptoms.
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While conversations with your doctor about your menstrual cycle or sexual health can be uncomfortable, they are essential for your doctor to help you navigate potential issues from ovulation to menopause. When in doubt, ask the question, and do not be shy. Chances are, your doctor has heard before any questions you have.
