When you see your gynecologist for a check-up and pap smear, the last thing you want to do is talk to them about your intercourse or odors. Unfortunately, these types of things need to be brought to their attention. Don't forget to mention the following embarrassing things to your gynecologist.

If You Experience Pain During Intercourse

It is not normal to experience pain during intercourse, though regular discomfort might occur. If you are close to menstruation, you might experience mild cramping. However, moderate or severe pain while having intercourse is something you need to talk to your gynecologist about. It could be anything from pelvic inflammatory disease or adhesions, to fibroids or endometriosis. While you may not want to talk about intercourse with your doctor, it is very important.

If You Have Vaginal Dryness

Another thing to mention to your gynecologist, even though you might not want to, is having vaginal dryness. If you always have vaginal dryness, even when you are sexually aroused, you should consult your doctor. Typically during arousal, your vagina glands secrete at least a small amount of fluid. If you have very little or no fluid throughout the month, tell your doctor about it. It might be a medical issue that can be addressed, such as an infection or hormonal imbalance.

If You Have a History of STIs

If you have had a sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the past, make sure your doctor knows about it. When you switch to a new gynecologist and there are not records of these types of infections, you should make sure you update your chart with the STY. Also make sure you let your doctor know if you have had intercourse with someone that had an STI or a sexually transmitted disease (STD). They can test you for the infections and provide antibiotics or other medications.

If You Have Vaginal Odor

Also let your gynecologist know if you have noticed a vaginal odor. While body odors are usually the result of poor hygiene, this isn't always the case with vaginal odor. If you keep clean on a regular basis, it might be due to an infection. Bacterial vaginosis is a common infection of the vagina that can be easily treated. It is especially important to treat it if you get this infection while pregnant, since it can transfer to the baby during birth.

While these topics might not be the most comfortable to talk about, you need to tell your gynecologist (like those at Contemporary Women's Health Care) about them. Don't be embarrassed; it is their job to keep you healthy.