Whether you’re experiencing symptoms, making decisions about family planning, or just wanting to ensure everything is working as it should, having a clear, honest conversation is the first step.
Bringing up sexual or reproductive health concerns with a doctor or nurse might feel intimidating. However, it’s important to remember that this is a natural and necessary part of medical care.
Sexual health affects many aspects of your overall well-being. For example, untreated sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can lead to chronic pain, infertility, or complications during pregnancy.
Hormonal imbalances related to your reproductive system may affect your mood, sleep, or energy levels. Even stress about sexual performance or pain during penetration can hinder your mental health and relationships.
Remember, you are not alone, and your questions or experiences are not unusual. Here’s how to prepare for and navigate these important discussions to ensure you get the support and care you deserve.
Decide what you want to talk about
Before your appointment, think about what you want to discuss. This might include:
- hormonal and nonhormonal birth control methods
- emergency contraception
- STI risk, screening, and prevention
- low libido, decreased sensation, and other changes in sexual function
- fertility testing and preconception planning
- infrequent or irregular menstruation
- gender affirming or menopausal hormone therapy
- ending a pregnancy through medication or procedural abortion
- intimate partner violence and other safety concerns
Take time to jot down your symptoms, questions, and any specific goals for the visit. Keeping a list on your phone or a piece of paper can help you stay focused, especially if you’re feeling nervous or overwhelmed.
You can also give the list to your healthcare professional and ask them to go over it with you.
Ease into the conversation
Although it may be tempting to wait for a healthcare professional to raise the subject, doing so may do more harm than good in the long run. After all, doctors and other healthcare professionals are not mind readers.
Steering them in the right direction ensures that you receive the care or information you need without delay. Here are some phrases to help you start the conversation:
- I’ve been meaning to ask about something related to my sex life.
- I’ve noticed changes in my cycle and want to make sure everything is OK.
- I’m considering becoming pregnant and want to talk about planning.
