Prevention is your best defense against future health problems But you can’t always predict when or what types of issues may arise So how do you know if your symptoms warrant a trip to the doctor? Here are few potential signs which will help you get in touch with your gynecologist • pelvic pain & abdominal discomfort. It’s important to tell your gynecologist what kind of pain you’re having. Does it come on suddenly or is constant. This will help the doctor make a proper diagnosis. Sharp pelvic pain may be a warning sign that you have an infection, a ruptured ovarian cyst, or a dangerous ectopic pregnancy. • bleeding between periods/postmenopausal bleeding. Occasional spotting between periods shouldn’t set off any alarm bells. But when the bleeding lasts for days or is heavy & painful, it’s time to call your gynecologist. This could be a sign of an injury to the vagina, a miscarriage, or even cancer of the cervix or uterus. • problem periods/missed periods. If you’re soaking through a sanitary pad or tampon every hour for two to three hours, or your bleeding has lasted longer than a week, your gynecologist needs to know. • unusual discharge or soreness in the genital area. Vaginal discharge is the body’s way of keeping the vagina clean & healthy. The thickness of discharge changes at different times of the month, depending on where you are in your menstrual cycle. But if you notice a yellow, green, or gray discharge that has a bad odor, it’s time to see your gynecologist. • painful sex. One of life’s greatest pleasures shouldn’t be painful. Pain during sex can be felt as deep pelvic pain or soreness in your genital area. Common causes are vaginal dryness, infections, or uterine fibroids. Your gynecologist will likely perform a pelvic exam & tests to find out what’s wrong. • problems with urination or bowel movements. Urinary incontinence or difficulty moving your bowels can be symptoms of pelvic floor problems. That’s when the tissues that support the pelvic organs become damaged or weakened, often due to childbirth. If the muscles are weak, your gynecologist may suggest special pelvic exercises, called Kegels, to strengthen the area.