The Peer program previously posted pages in washrooms on campus where student could anonymously write down their questions. Peers would collect this information and consult with medical professionals in University Health Services for answers and post them back into the washrooms for people to read. The questions and answers below are taken from those pages.
Current Health Questions | Health Questions Archive 1 | Health Questions Archive 2
Questions
4. Is it common to bleed after sex?
5. Is it possible for two women to give each other an STD through sexual contact?
7. I brush three times a day but I still have really bad breath. Am I doing something wrong?
9. What are the chances that a condom or other "safety" product is going to fail?
11. How common is an abnormal pap?
14. Are headaches or pressure in your head the symptoms of any STDs?
15. How can I go about finding a family doctor? I'm 20 years old and have never had a physical.
16. When you urinate, does a tampon soak up all of the urine?
17. What is colorectal cancer and how can it be detected?
19. How can I get rid of feminine odour?
20. Lately, I've noticed more discharge than usual. Could I have a yeast infection?
21. How common are vaginal infections?
22. What is a colposcopy, and how do I know if I ned one?
23. During my period, I get huge blood clots. Is this normal?
25. Is safer sex (ie. using condoms) possible in a swimming pool or a hot tub?
26. I sometimes get a brown discharge after my period. Is this normal?
27. Sometimes when I have my period, blood passes the tampon and leaks out. Is this normal?
28. Can herpes and genital warts be spread through pool water or hot tub water?
30. Is it possible to get the flu from a flu shot?
31. Can I catch AIDS sitting on a toilet seat?
34. How effective are birth control pills without using a condom?
35. What are non-sexual ways of getting genital warts?
36. What is Psoriasis, and how can it be treated?
37. Being a residence student, what are some tips on how to eat healthy at the UofM campus?
39. My mom says I will go blind if I masturbate every night. Is this true?
44. What is a yeast infection and how do you get one?
45. Is there medication I can take orally to treat a yeast infection?
46. How accurate is testing for AIDS and HIV?
47. Why do some women get yeast infections after being sexually active?
49. How do I do a testicular self-exam?
50. My cycle is starting to be 46 days when it used to be 29 days. Why?
51. How effective is a female condom?
53. Sometimes when I am approaching orgasm, I feel the need to urinate. What is going on?
Answers
1. I always have an urge to urinate when in the shower, so I do. My boyfriend says it's not normal and is unsafe. I've always done this, and though that many others did the same. Now I feel that there's something medically wrong with me. Is there?
Urine is normally sterile, which means that it contains no bacteria. However, a small number of bacteria may be found in the urine of many healthy people. This is usually considered to be harmless. Many people have the urge to urinate when they hear the sound of falling or running water, so you're not alone; there is nothing medically wrong with having the urge to urinate while in the shower. Urinating in the shower is not a problem if you lather and rinse yourself after urination, and provided that you're in your own private shower. Urination in public and health club showers is usually prohibited, and goes against good manners; however, in such places, bathroom stalls are usually handy.
2. When I have sex with my boyfriend, I notice that I have a discharge that has a watery texture. It is clear and odourless. There is usually a lot and it’s embarrassing because it wets the sheets. Is this something to be concerned about?
If that the way it has always been for you then that’s probably normal. When a woman is sexually excited, she is likely to produce a greater amount of liquids than usually. These secretions are intensively produced by the glands close to the vagina and serve as lubricants. Some women may have more liquids and other less especially if they are on birth control pills. The consistency, quantity and odour of vaginal lubrication also vary considerably from woman to woman and from day to day of a woman’s ovulation cycle. You could contact a doctor who can give more insight.
If the right precautions are taken, anal sex can be safe. However, there are many risks involved with anal sex. Most of the risks involve the amount of lubrication used. If not enough lubrican is used, the rectum can rupture and result in a severe bacterial infection, but this is very rare. Most STD's and viruses are more easily transmitted through anal sex than through vaginal sex. These viruses include HIV, and hepatitis A, B and C. Hepatitis A can cause liver disease, and is transmitted through contact with the feces of an infected individual. Also, a variety of infections can be transmitted through anal sex, such as gonnorhea, chlamydia, lymphogranuloma venereum, shigella (a cause of dysentery), and herpes. However, with the right precautions, anal sex is safe.
4. Is it common to bleed after sex?
It is unclear where your bleeding is occurring. That being said, bleeding after intercourse can be the result of irritation of the cervix, the walls of the vagina, and the entrance to the vagina or the urethra. It is most common for this to be noticed within a day of having intercourse. If this occurs occasionally and always clears within a day, it most likely has no significance. Some women will experience bleeding with intercourse if they have just finished their menstrual flow, if they are close to ovulation (mid-cycle) or about to start a menstrual period. This is normal. However, bleeding may herald a more serious problem such as inflammation of the cervix from STDs or cervical cancer. This is why you should see a doctor and have a pap-test done.
5. Is it possible for two women to give each other an STD through sexual contact?
Yes, it is possible for two women to pass STDs to one another through sexual contact. Most STDs do not require penetration of the vagina or anus in order to be transmitted; most simply require contact with another’s genitalia either directly or indirectly (i.e. an object is shared between two women that comes into contact with the genitalia of both). Therefore, in any sexual contact, it is best to use protection.
6. I get random erections all the time. This is becoming a problem in class. Is there anything I can do?
For some guys, random erections do seem to pop up at odd times, and it can feel pretty embarrassing. They tend to go away quickly if you ignore them. You can sing a song in your head or try to say the alphabet backward. Basically control your thoughts and try to get your mind off it. Random erections happen a lot in teenagers because hormones are all over at that stage, But they happen with lesser frequency as you get older. One of the best ways to prevent it from showing is to wear tighter underwear and stay seated as much as possible. For example, briefs are better than boxers in holding the erection back.
7. I brush three times a day but I still have really bad breath. Am I doing something wrong?
Make sure your toothbrush isn't worn out, especially after brushing frequently. Also ensure that you are brushing your tongue too because bacteria on the tongue could also cause bad breath. Sugarless gums could help, because they stimulate saliva to flow and act as a mouthwash. Thus you should be drinking lots of water which produces saliva. Finally, we suggest you keep a diary of the foods you're eating and any medication you are taking, and then take this to a dentist. A dentist would determine if dental caries or gingivitis are plausible in this case, and can suggest ways of solving the problem.
8. I have a very strong odour during certain times of the month, not particularly during my period. Is this normal? Is there something I can do to control it? I'm embarrassed about it.
Slight odours are common among everyone but strong odours can be a sign of an infection or other problem and should be checked out by a doctor. Meanwhile, you could gently cleanse the vaginal area with mild soap and water everyday. It is also important to control wetness in the vaginal area, since excess moisture is a perfect breeding ground for yeast and other bacteria. Powders help in controlling the wetness, but stick with talc-free ones made with cornstarch. Also, wearing cotton underwear promotes ventilation and could help.
9. What are the chances that a condom or other "safety product" is going to fail?
When used properly, a condom should be very effective. Other methods vary in their effectiveness. It is reported that 1-8% of condoms break or slip. Studies have shown that they are about 85% effective when used alone and 95% effective when used with a spermicidal cream or gel. This means that of every 100 people who use condoms, 5-15% will get pregnant within a year of use. They are also effective in preventing the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases (STD's). Only abstinence provides 100% effectiveness in preventing pregnancy and disease.
10. Can a pregnancy test result be positive BEFORE the first missed period, but after fertilization and conception?
Yes. Many pregnancy tests detect a levels of a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) in the urine. Fertilization occurs when the sperm and egg fuse to form a zygote. Shortly after this, the placenta will start developing and HCG will start to be secreted. HCG levels rise in the mother's blood and in the urine, with significant levels observed as early as 3-4 days after implantation of the zygote in the uterus. Therefore, HCG may be detected before the first missed period and result in a positive test. There may be some limitations to a pregnancy test, however, such as urine being too dilute to contain representative levels of HCG. So if you suspect that you may be pregnant, it is important to consult a physician.
11. How common is an abnormal pap?
An abnormal pap result is not uncommon, but should should be followed by a repeat pap test. A pap test is a scraping of the cervix (opening of the uterus), which is done to detect cervical cancer cells. However, pap tests can detect precancerous changes long before they will become cancerous - when they are easier to treat. Since abnormalities are very common, all women should have a pap test every year, starting at age 18, or after first sexual activity if under the age of 18. If abnormal results are found, further evaluation must be done. If atypia (inflammation) is found, a repeat pap is performed; if atypia or dysplasia is still present, coloscopy should be done.
An abnormal result could be caused by something as simple as a mild inflammation to something as serious as cancer. If you are unsure about your results or need further advice, consult a physician at the University Health Service.
12. I quit taking the pill 2 months ago and have not been sexually active since. I have not gotten my period. Why?
Depending upon the woman, the type of pill, and the length of time you have been taking the pill, it may take weeks or several months before your ovaries are functioning the way they did before you took the pill. In addition, if your periods were irregular before taking the pill, your periods may be irregular for a while after stopping. Stress or weight loss may play a role in amenorrhea, or cessation or menstruation. If this pattern continues, you should consult your physician for further information.
13. I have horrible enaometriosis and can't take birth control. I'm sick of being stoned off pain killers 6 days a month. Can I get a hysterectomy? and where?
Medical treatment for endometriosis includes the use of oral contraceptives, which offset hormonal reproductive cycles, or painkillers such as ibuprofen. There are also some surgical options to consider, such as endometrial pain control implants or narcotic based implants that are inserted into the uterus. A hysterectomy is an option as well. However, this leads to infertility, and may induce early menopause if there aren't enough eggs left. For more information about hysterectomies or other forms of treatment for endometriosis, it is important that you consult a qualified physician.
14. Are headaches or pressure in your head the symptoms of any STDs?
Yes. A few sexually transmitted diseases are known to cause headaches and fever. However, headaches are not a method of diagnosing STDs because many ailments can induce headaches. If you would like an accurate diagnosis, consult a qualified health care provider.
15. How can I go about finding a family doctor? I'm 20 years old and have never had a physical.
Due to shortages of family doctors in the city, it can be hard to find a physician, especially one that is in close proximity to you. However, a citywide service is in place that matches prospective patients with family doctors, at no charge. The service is called the Family Doctor Connection Program, and a representative can be contacted between 8:30am and 4:30pm, at (204) 786-7111.
Also, University Health Service on campus has several paid physicians on staff that students and staff of the university are welcome to use.
16. When you urinate, does a tampon soak up all of the urine?
No. The tampon is inserted into the vagina such that during a menstrual period, the blood is absorbed by the tampon. Urine is excreted from the bladder through a tube called the urethra. This "plumbing" system is separate from reproductive organs, so the tampon will not come into contact with urine. At most, the string of the tampon may get wet, but the tampon itself will not absorb the urine.
17. What is colorectal cancer and how can it be detected?
The colon and the rectum form a long tube called the large intestine/bowel. Tumours or growths could arise from the inner wall of the large intestine. Sometimes, these growths are benign/harmless, but oftentimes they are malignant/cancerous. Colorectal cancer is not contagious, but a person's chances of getting it depends on factors such as family history of the disease, high fat intake, and the presense of benign growths.
18. I have never had a pap test before and I have never been sexually active and I am 20 years old. Should I go for a test?
All women should get routine pap smears, beginning at the time of first sexual intercourse or by the age of 18 years, whichever comes first.
The pap smear test is a simple, convenient, and painless way of detecting early cellular changes so that the cervical diseases can be treated early and simply.
During the pelvic exam, the doctor will place a speculum in your vagina and slowly spread the vagina apart until he/she can see your cervix. Then, a sample of the cells and fluids from the cervix are collected. The collected sample of cells and fluids is spread onto a glass slide, which is then sent to a lab.
Generally, after 3 satisfatory, negative annual pap smear examinations, the pap smear test can be repeated every 1-3 years. This schedule may be more frequent, depending on your "level of risk" for HPV, cervical precancer, and other STDs.
19. How can I get rid of feminine odour?
We all have some slight feminine odour, but strong odours can be a sign of an infection or other problem and should be checked out by a doctor. If you have an itch accompanied by a fishy odour, along with burning, redness, and a noticeable milky-gray discharge, you could have bacterial vaginosis (BV), which can occur when vaginal conditions change during your cycle and from sexual activity. BV must be diagnosed by your physician, and treated with a prescription antibiotic. Without treatment, it can impair fertility and also make you more prone to STDs.
A gentle cleansing of the vaginal area with mild soap and water everyday is adequate for keeping the area clean. It is important to control wetness in the vaginal area, since excess moisture is a perfect breeding ground for yeast. Powders help in controlling wtness, but stick with talc-free ones made with cornstarch. Always wipe the area from front to back (stool contains yeast, as well as bacteria).
20. Lately, I've noticed more discharge than usual. Could I have a yeast infection?
A yeast infection is a very common form of vaginal infection. It is caused by the fungus Candida, which an overgrown in your vagina when you take antibiotics or birth control pills, over-douche, or have diabetes, among other reasons. The symptoms of a yeast infection are vaginal itching, redness and intense burning, and a thick cottage-cheese like discharge that is odourless.
It is important to see a doctor the first time you have a yeast infection in order to make sure that you get the correct diagnosis since many STDs can have similar symptoms.
Once you have confirmed that you infection is indeed a yeast infection, you can try the anti-fungal medications sold in drugstores.
21. How common are vaginal infections?
If you think you may have an infection, see your doctor or visit a clinic. Vaginal infections are very common and there isn't really anything to be worried or embarassed about. Most can be treated with antibiotics or anti-fungal remedies - all of which your doctor can prescribe. Your doctor may decide to test the discharge first in order to diagnose the exact infection. Many vaginal infections can be passed back and forth between couples, and it is possible for only one of you to show symptoms even though you are both infectious. Therefore, it is important for your partner to be treated as well. If infections are not treated immediately, they may cause more serious problems later on, so it's best to deal with them as soon as the symptoms are noticed.
22. What is a colposcopy, and how do I know if I ned one?
A colposcopy is a procedure in which a specialist examines your genitals, vagina, and cervix. A vinegar solution is applied with a cotton ball or swab. This vinegar turns abnormal tissue white, identifying any areas that may need further evaluation. Your doctor may also perform a biopsy if he or she deems it necessary. Here, a tissue sample is removed for further testing. A colposcopy is usually performed if the results of your pap smear are abnormal. This is important because it can detect cervical cancer at an early stage. Your doctor will determine whether or not you need a colposcopy.
23. During my period, I get huge blood clots. Is this normal?
Blood clots during a period are not necessarily abnormal. Blood accumulates in the uterus during a menstrual period. The blood clots inside the uterus and it dissolves by the action of an enzyme called fibrinolysin. What normally comes out is a brown-coloured flow composed of hemoglobin (the red part of the blood), that has undergone changes. If the flow is heavy, it overflows into the vagina where it clots. So, clotting is mostly an indication of heavy flow, which in itself can have many causes - normal for some and lack of ovulation for others. Consider making an appointment with your doctor to discuss your concerns.
24. I know it's impossible for a male to urinate and ejaculate at the same time, but does the same hold for women as well?
You're right. Men do not urinate and ejaculate at the same time. When a male is about to ejaculate, the opening to his bladder closes to prevent urine from mixing with semen. For women, things are a bit different. The ureter where the urine emerges from is a separate tube from the urethra, which is part of the female reproductive system. Hence, it is possible to find women urinating and ejaculating at the same time.
25. Is safer sex (ie. using condoms) possible in a swimming pool or a hot tub?
Condoms aren't typically tested in pools or hot tubs or with the chemicals found in these places. Sex underwater, whther in pools, hot tubs, showers, baths, rivers, lakes or oceans is herefore not considered a safe option. An obvious reality is that water could cause the condom to slip off. Latex condoms could deteriorate when faced with direct sunlight, or oil based products like sun block, tanning lotion, conditioner, shampoo and soap. Chlorine coule possibly cause similar damaging effects on latex condoms. Also, water containing chemicals, bacteria, or salt could be force into the rectum or fagina during sex, possibly causing irritation or infection. Nevertheless, using condoms underwater is still better than not using one at all.
26. I sometimes get a brown discharge after my period. Is this normal?
Sometimes this spotting is normal. It usually means that there is still some menstrual blood that is leaving the uterus. The brownish colour is due to the lack of oxygen (presence of oxygen makes the blood red). When this occurs roughly 14 days before your period, it may indicate that you are ovulating. If there is bleeding in between your periods, you should consult your doctor.
27. Sometimes when I have my period, blood passes the tampon and leaks out. Is this normal?
When any tampon reaches the point of having absorbed its full capacity, it will begin to allow leakage. There is also the possibility that the tampon was not inserted correctly, or perhaps that it was not the appropriate absorbancy for your menstrual flow. Make sure that you follow the package instructions when inserting a tampon. You can increase the absorbancy of your tampon and see if this resolves the problem. Otherwise, you might want to wear a pad at the same time as a tampon.
28. Can herpes and genital warts be spread through pool water or hot tub water?
Herpes is a virus. It is very rarely spread by touching objects such as toilet seats or through water in a hot tub or pool. When people with genital herpes have an "outbreak", it means that the virus is active. During an outbreak, it usually causes sores in the genital area. When these sores "cast off" or shed, the virus is able to infect someone else. This is usually through sexual contact with someone who many not know that they are infected, since an outbreak can manifest without any symptoms or sores. Although there might not be any sores present, the virus is still shed.
29. I am 20 years old, and have a very regular period of 28 days. For the last few months I have had extremely heavy flow for the first 2 days of my period. I have to change to a super tampon every 1.5 to 2 hours. Is this okay?
This flow is heavy, but if you can use a super plus tampon for 2 hours, you are not out side the range of normalcy. You can consider using a pad as a backup on the days you need to be away from a convenient restroom for a larger block of time.
Since you are 20 years old, you have hopefully been examined by a doctor or gynecologist. If you have never been to a gynecologist, now would be a good time for an exam. You can discuss your menstrual flow and ensure that everything is normal.
30. Is it possible to get the flu from a flu shot?
Getting a yearly flu thot is an easy and effective way to prevent the flu. Many people choose not to get the vaccine because it costs $15.00. Others choose not to get the vaccine because they believe it can give them the flu. This is a myth and simply not ture. The vaccine is made from inactivated (or killed) virus. Sometimes, people who get a vaccine still get sick. One reason might be that they were infected with a strain different from the one they were vaccinated for. Or, they could have been infected by the virus soon after vaccination but before the body had a chance to become immune.
31. Can I catch AIDS sitting on a toilet seat?
No. HIV, the virus that causes AIDS is usually present in blood, semen, vaginal fluids, or breast milk of an infected person. HIV can only be transmitted by exchanging fluids these fluids. The virus cannot last very long outside the body because it is destroyed by the oxygen in the air. Unbroken skin also helps to block germs from entering the body, and thus helps to prevent the passing of HIV into the bloodstream.
32. If someone has vaginal herpes and wipes themselves after peeing and then opens the door to get out of the cubicle, can I get herpes from the door handle?
Most commonly, the herpes virus is spread through oral, anal and vaginal sex. You can also get the herpes virus from kissing, touching, and caressing infected areas. Occasionally, the virus can be transferred through a process called autoinoculation. This is the transfer of the virus from one part of your body to another (ie. from the genitals to the eys or mouth). Herpes is spread through direct contact with the site of infection. This usually occurs through intimate contact or autoinoculation. Transferring the virus to a door knob and then to a hand is unlikely, as the herpes virus is spread through DIRECT physical contact.
33. I have a fluid that comes out when I urinate occasionally. It's mucus or phlegm-like. Should I be concerned?
There may be several reasons for the vaginal discharge. This may include poor hygiene or irritation caused by foreign objects. For instance, tampons, toilet tissue, nylon underwear, lycra shorts, bubble baths or scented soaps may cause irritation. It is recommended that you wear cotton underwear and use unscented toilet paper. Furthermore, stop all bubble baths and use a mild soap instead. The discharge could also be caused by an infection.
It is possible, however, that the vaginal discharge may be normal in the menstrual cycle, during sexual arousal, contraceptive use, or douching.
Vaginal discharge may vary in amount and frequency. If you are concerned, you sould consult a physician.
34. How effective are birth control pills without using a condom?
Although birth control pills may reduce the risk of your getting pregnant, they DO NOT protect you from contracting sexually transmitted infections or diseases such as HIV. Generally, the pill is 97 to 99% effective in preventing pregnancy, if used properly. Note that there are two main types of birth control pills; there are combination pills containing estrogen and progesterone, and there are are progesterone-only pills. It has been shown that the combination pills are somewhat more effective than the progresterone-only pills. Consistent and correct use of the combination pills results in only 1% of women becoming pregnant.
35. What are non-sexual ways of getting genital warts?
Genital warts is a sexually transmitted disease caused by a virus called Humman Papillovirus or HPV. Genital warts can appear on the genitals, labia, scrotum or anus, and are transmitted through sexual contact. Using latex condoms and a spermicide may reduce the chances of contracting HPV, but they are not totally reliable. Oral sex can transmit the virus, so always use caution. The type of warts found on hands or feet are caused by a different strain of the virus, and cannot be trasmitted to the genitals. Transmitting genital warts through non-sexual contact is very unlikely.
36. What is psoriasis, and how can it be treated?
Psoriasis is a chronic skin contdition that causes skin cells to grow too quickly, resulting in thick white or red patches of skin. The patches can be large or small, and typically occur on the knees, elbows, scalp, hands, feet, or lower back. The patches, called plaque, may join together or cover large areas. In severe cases, skin can be inflamed with raised red areas topped with loose, silvery, scaling skin. It can also become itchy and tender. Psoriasis can affect joins, causing swelling and tenderness. Symptoms may come and go. Treatment can help control them, but there is no cure. Treatment usually involves keeping the skin moist and lubricated. Phototherapy - such as exposure to ultraviolet lighting - and antibiotics may also be necessary.
37. Being a residence student, what are some tips on how to eat healthy at the UofM campus?
Just stick to the basis: a diet full in fruits and vegetables, and everything else in moderation. This is particularly important when you hit the cafeteria, with all of its choices and bottomless servings. Choose beverages and foods that limit your sugar intake, and consume alcoholic beverages in moderation. Also, keep a bowl of fresh fruit and other healthy snacks in your dorm room. Also, make sure to eat regular meals... and don't skip breakfast.
38. I've been using tampons for almost a year now. I'm curious to know whether usage of tampons expands the vaginal opening?
There is no medical or anatomical reason to believe that the use of tampons would cause an enlargement of the vagina. A woman's body is made to accommodate the birth of a child, so tampon use is not going to overly stretch the vaginal opening. Body size is irrelvant to tampon size, so choose a tampon based on absorbancy need, rather than your build.
39. My mom says I will go blind if I masturbate every night. Is this true?
No. Masturbation does not cause blindness. There have also been stories about masturbation causing pimples, hair growth on the palms of your hands, warts, and insanity. In fact, it cuases none of the dozens of ailments attributed to it. No blindness, infertility, mental illness or other problems have been attributed to masturbation. Masturbation is a completely normal, healthy and universal activity. Enjoy!
Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by a bacterium. It is transmitted through sexual contact (vaginal or anal), while 75% of women and 50% fo men who have it show no symptoms. The symptoms in women include unusual vaginal discharge, bleeding after intercourse, bleeding between menstrual periods, and abdominal or pelvic pain. In men, the symptoms include discharge from the penis, burning during urination, and swollen and/or painful testicles. Fortunately, chlamydia can be treated and cured through the use of antibiotics. If you have any concerns about exposure to chlamydia or another STD, you should consult your physician.
41. Is the combination of foam and the withdrawl method a good form of birth control if he pulls out every time?
With this method, the effectiveness of birth control is about equivalent to using foam/spermacide alone. The stats for this product are that with typical use, about 26% of women using foam, cream, jelly, or suppositories will become pregnant during the first year. Using a condom will increase effectiveness, as well as offer protection from many sexually transmitted diseases.
42. I have to urinate about every 3 hours. I thought it might be a bladder infection, bt it doesn't hurt. What else could it be?
During waking hours, it is normal to urinate every 3 to 4 hours. Therefore, urination is normal up to seven times a day. Possible causes of frequent urination in a female are pressure on the bladder, as a result of pregnancy, fibroids of the uterus, or ovarian cysts. Diabetes can also present with frequent urination. Bladder infections are usually associated with frequent urination and a burning sensation. Therefore, you should consult your physician to establish a diagnosis and treatment as necessary.
43. What are the colposcopy test and cryosurgery, and can having these done to you lessen your chances at conceiving later on in life?
Colposcopy is a procedure used as a diagnostic tool, not a screening tool. A scope and light are used to visualize the cervix under magnification using acetic acid to highlight cervical lesions while one or more biopsies are taken from the survace of the cervix in the suspicious areas. If nothing looks suspicious, then biopsies are taken blindly (randomly). A biopsy refers to cutting away a piece of tissue with a surgical knife. This is standard infestigation for women who have had a pap smear that indicates any grade of dysplasia, and for women with repeat pap smears showing atypical cells.
Cryotheraphy is the use of an extremely cold probe as a surgical instrument to freeze areas of cancer, killing the cancer cells. The process usually invovles several episodes of freezing and thawing, and is carefully controlled with temperature probes to avoid damage to surrounding healthy tissue. It is not believed that these procedures should affect your fertility, but you should consult your physician regarding possible risks and other information.
44. What is a yeast infection and how do you get one?
A yeast infection occurs when the fungus Candida albians overgrows and infects the body usually in the vagina or mouth. Candida is a normal part of the body's flora (or bacteria in the body). Women have vaginitis or thrush at some time in their life. This is evident if your mouth or skin bleeds easily, peels or excretes a white substance. The most common form is vaginitis, and symptoms can include local irritation, a great deal of white discharge, and intense itching and burning. When it infects the mouth, it is called thrush.
There are many things that can cuase a yeast infection. The use of antibiotics can cause a yeast infection, as the antibiotic kills off the bacteria that keeps the yeast under check. Yeast thrive in the presence of sugar, so anything that throws off the acidity and sugar levels in the body can cause an infection, including pregnancy, diabetes, oral contraceptives, Intrauterine devices (IUD) and menstruation. Vaginitis can also be sexually transmitted, causing some women to suffer chronic and recurring yeast infections. Other contributing factors are improper hygiene, nutritional deficiencies, and over-consumption of refined carbohydrates.
Here are some treatment suggestions: avoid antibiotics and stress, if possible; keep the infection site clean and dry; wear loose fitting cotton clothing; use unscented detergent and unscented and colourless toilet paper; avoid perfumes, deodorants, dyed underwear, feminine hygience sprays, commercial douches, and fabric softener.
45. Is there medication I can take orally to treat a yeast infection?
There are many over the counter treatments available, which range from one-day to seven-day treatment using creams and suppositories.
There is also a drug called Diflucan (fluconazole), which is available as a prescription only. It is a tablet that is injested orally, and brings relief within 2-5 days. This requires a visit to your doctor (which should be done if this is your first yeast infection). It has common, but generally mild side effects such as headaches, nausea and abdominal pain, and it is not recommended if you are pregnant.
46. How accurate is testing for AIDS and HIV?
First of all, there is a window period that can last from 3 to 6 months; this is about the time it takes for a person who has been infected with HIV to test positive for HIV antibodies. Unfortunately, it is not known how accurate a test would be after, say, 6 weeks. To be more certain, another test would have to be done after 6 months. There are 3 kinds of tests. The first, called ELISA, usually tests the blood, and if a negative result if obtained after at least 6 months, you really are HIV negative, as false negatives are extremely rare. There are also very rare false positives, which can occur if someone is tested directly after an event that temporarily stimulates the immune system (such as viral infection). If a positive result is obtained, it is confirmed with a secon type of test called a Western Blot. Indeterminate results can be obtained at times because the person is just beginning to form HIV antibodies, and thus a re-test is needed. The third type of test is the Indirect Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA), which can be used instead of a Western Blot to confirm the ELISA test.
The Centre for Disease Control states that the combined accuracy for an ELISA test coupled with either a Western Blot or IFA is 99%.
47. Why do some women get yeast infections after being sexually active?
Yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of Candida albicans, which is present in the vagina. Infection usually occurs when there is a change in pH balance such that the acid level drops, providing ideal conditions for yeast growth. Common symptoms are intense vaginal itching or burning, thick white vaginal discharge, and vaginal pain or urination and during sex. Different causes for yeast infections are:
1. Vaginal deodrants, perfumed soaps, and douching
2. Too much sugar in the diet
3. Wearing tight pants or non-cotto underwear
4. Not changing tampons or pads frequently during a period
5. Wearing a wet bathing suit for too long
6. Hot bubble baths
7. Using antibiotics
Yeast infections can be spread to your sexual partner and sexual intercourse should be avoided until after your last day of treatment with an anti-fungal treatment. Also, anti-fungal medications may weaken the latex used in condoms and diaphragms making them less effective. Any woman can get a yeast infection whether she is sexually active or not. If you have any of the above symptoms, you should consult your physician.
48. I started taking the pill about a year ago and since then there's been a change in the colour and consistency of my period. Should I be worried?
This is a common side effect of taking the pill. For most women, their periods become shorter and more regular. It is common for women to hav lighter periods with less bleeding. A period may be as light as just a brown smudge on a pad or tampon. Depending on the person, this may be perfectly normal. If it is the normal time and you have not missed pills, you can consider this to be a period. If you miss a period completely and a pregnancy test is negative, then pregnancy is unlikely. You should have a checkup to make sure. See a doctor at University Health Services for more information.
49. How do I do a testicular self-exam?
One should perform a testicular self-examination (TSE) once a month. A series of steps should be followed in order to look for the potential signs of testicular cancer. After a warm bath or shower, you should stand in front of the mirror and look for swelling of the skin or scrotum. Using the index and middle fingers under the testicle, with the thumbs placed on top of the testicle, roll the testicle gently between thumbs and fingers. This should be painless, and one testicle may seem a little larger than the other. Locate the epididymis, which is a soft tube-like structure behind the testicle; it collects and carries the sperm. Lumps on the epididymis are not cancerous, but cancerous lumps are usually found on the sides of the testicle. Upon finding a lump, you should contact your physician immediately. It may not be cancerous, but if it is, it may sprea. It is better to be safe than sorry. Also look for signs of testicular cancer, such as enlargement of a testicle, great loss in size of one testicle, heavy feeling in the scrotum, dull aching in the lower abdomen or the groin, collection of fluid in the scrotum, pain or discomfort in a testicle or scroum, and enlargement or tenderness of the breasts. You should consult your physician if you feel unsure of what you observe.
50. My cycle is starting to be 46 days when it used to be 29 days. Why?
There are several reasons why the length of your menstrual cycle is increasing. A common cause is reduced body fat due to dieting, starvation, and extreme athletic training. Stress and emotional factors can also increase the length of your cycle. You should see your doctor in order to explore the possibilities and to ensure that the cause is not medically related. There are a number of medical possibilities, most of which are not serious.
51. How effective is a female condom?
The pregnancy rate for the female condom under normal use is expected to be comparable to that of the male condom. However, because of a lack of familiarity with the 'device', initial results have been discouraging, with failure rates as high as twice that of a male condom. Proper use required practice. Be prepared to take your time inserting it for the first time.
52. My roommate has genital warts. I have no sexual contact with him, but should I be worried about using he same towels and stuff?
Genital warts are a skin infection caused by the Human Paiplloma Virus (HPV), which is similar to the virus that causes non-genital warts. This condition cannot be cured, but can be treated and managed effectively. Genital warts are spread by DIRECT contact of infected skin (or mucous membrane in the mouth, vagina, or rectum). They are mostly spread during sexualu contact and can be spread even if you cannot see any warts. Because most viruses cannot live outside the body, there is minimal risk in sharing the same towels with your roommate. However, there is an increased risk if you share the same personal hygiene products. For more information, contact University Health Services.
53. Sometimes when I am approaching orgasm, I feel the need to urinate. What is going on?
Your bladder sits right below the vaginal area, so it can get stimulated during sex. This stimulation is what can cause sensation of a need to urinate. Try emptying your bladder before sex. If this does not help, then speak to your doctor or one of the doctors at the University Health Services about more options.