We get it. No one wants to talk about things going on in the rear.

Hemorrhoids fall at the top of the list of topics you would never bring up in a casual conversation. However, we need to know how to deal with these kinds of problems. Sometimes, you have to look for answers, and that may mean asking some embarrassing questions.

First, it’s important to understand what hemorrhoids are and how they happen. When veins in the rectum or anus swell, they can begin to protrude. This can lead to bleeding and discomfort. It’s a very common condition, especially for women who have just given birth.

Straining due to constipation during or after pregnancy can cause hemorrhoids. Other causes include lengthy periods of sitting on a toilet, obesity, anal intercourse, heavy lifting, and low-fiber diets.

That’s Great. Now, What Can I Do to Stop Hemorrhoids?

Most of the time, you can stop hemorrhoids on your own without help from a doctor. A warm bath or sitz bath can provide relief. Other options include applying Preparation H or witch hazel pads.

Even though this is a common medical condition, you should still monitor it closely and seek advice when needed. It’s rare, but some women require surgery to take care of the problem. If you have questions or develop hemorrhoids that don’t seem to go away, talk to your OB/GYN.

It may seem embarrassing, but that’s part of our job. You are not the only patient to discuss this kind of problem, and you won’t be the last. Give Women’s Health a call today to schedule an appointment and find a way to get rid of those pesky hemorrhoids!

The post How Do I Get Rid of These Annoying Hemorrhoids?! appeared first on Women's Health and Menopause Center.

Vaginal discharge happens. It sounds gross, but there are good reasons for it. It can help keep the area clean by removing dead cells. It also assists with conception. Fluid can help move semen through the cervix to increase the chances of pregnancy.

Things inside your body change with your menstrual cycle. There will likely be little to no discharge right after your period ends. Then, the discharge may appear dryer and stickier. It changes again as you near ovulation, becoming wetter. It reaches an egg white-like consistency once you are at peak fertility.

After that time, it will taper off, and the cycle will begin again. Vaginal discharge is one way to understand what’s happening inside your body.

Help! My Vaginal Discharge Doesn’t Seem Normal

If your vaginal discharge matches what’s described above, then there is no need to worry. However, if you experience other changes, then you might need to see a doctor. You may have a problem if you notice:

• A green or yellow color
• Frothy or cottage cheese consistency
• A fishy odor
• Vaginal pain or itchiness
• Appearance of bumps or lesions
• Unexplained fever

If you notice these signs or anything else unusual, you could have a medical condition that needs treatment. Discussing it may feel embarrassing but rest assured that your OB/GYN has heard it many times before. Besides, the longer you wait, the worse the problem may get.

Every woman experiences vaginal discharge throughout her life. Schedule an appointment at Women’s Health to find out what’s going on before things get worse.

The post The Dirty Truth About Vaginal Discharge appeared first on Women's Health and Menopause Center.