Your reproductive health evolves over time; what feels right at one age may change at the next. Your gynecology visit is a judgment-free space: there’s no “passing” or “failing,” only honest conversations about what’s on your mind.

Below you’ll find ten questions we often hear. Feel free to use them as a jumping-off point–but always bring up whatever matters most to you.

Schedule an appointment to discuss new problems or symptoms specifically. If we’re chatting during a wellness visit, just know we may need to schedule extra time or a follow up visit to address new or complex symptoms.

1. What screenings and vaccines do I need, and how often should I see you?

You should plan annual wellness visits—although not every test or exam happens every year—and follow age-based guidelines for screenings and immunizations. According to ACOG, you should:

  • Schedule your first visit between ages 13 and 15 to build a relationship with your provider. No pelvic exam is needed unless there’s a specific concern.
  • Get the HPV vaccine starting at age 11 or 12 (as early as 9). If you missed it, catch-up shots are strongly encouraged through age 26. For ages 27–45, we’ll discuss whether it’s still beneficial for you.
  • Start cervical cancer screening at age 21:
    • From 21–29, we usually do a Pap smear alone every 3 years if results are normal.
    • From 30–65, you can choose:
      • Pap test alone every 3 years,
      • HPV test alone every 5 years, or
      • Co-testing (Pap + HPV) every 5 years.

Continue annual wellness visits for age-appropriate exams, counseling and to update any other vaccinations or lifestyle recommendations.

Every person’s care plan is unique. Your provider will tailor these recommendations based on your personal and family history.

Why it matters: Staying on schedule helps catch changes early—often before you feel symptoms. 

For a deeper dive on each screening timeline, check out our article on essential preventive exams.

2. How often should I be tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?

If you’re sexually active, aim for annually STI screening—and more often if your situation changes. We recommend:

  • Annual testing for everyone under 25, regardless of symptoms.
  • Annual testing for people over 25 who:
    • Have a new partner,
    • Have multiple partners, or
    • Know a partner has an STI.
  • Immediate testing any time you switch partners or notice unusual symptoms.

Gonorrhea and chlamydia are especially common and often have no symptoms—yet can cause serious complications if untreated. If you suspect anything, bring it up; screening is quick, simple, and can give you peace of mind.

3. Why might my period be irregular? How do I know if period pain isn’t normal?

A cycle that suddenly shifts in length or flow—even if it was once “normal”—can signal something worth checking.

Most menstrual changes are benign, but you might notice irregular or missed periods because of:

  • Birth control changes (starting, stopping, or switching methods)
  • High stress (work, school, life events)
  • Major weight changes (rapid gain or loss)
  • Pregnancy
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
  • Uterine fibroids or polyps
  • Thyroid disorders
  • Rarely, more serious issues like uterine cancer

To figure out what’s normal for you, track your cycle for three months: note start dates, length of bleeding, flow volume, and any cramping. Then bring that overview to your provider so we can pinpoint what’s changed.

Cramps that occasionally slow you down are common—but if pain consistently interferes with work, school or daily life, that isn’t normal.

Excessive period pain could stem from:

  • Endometriosis
  • Uterine abnormalities (like large fibroids)
  • Pelvic inflammatory disease or infections

If you dread your period each month or need to miss work because of cramps, let your provider know. We’ll investigate and tailor a treatment plan—whether that’s pain relievers, hormonal therapy or a specialist referral.

4. What are my birth control options?

There’s no one “best” contraceptive—only the one that best fits your life. We’ll review the options so you can decide with confidence.

Hormonal methods work by releasing estrogen and/or progestin to prevent ovulation or thicken cervical mucus. Options include:

  • The pill (taken daily)
  • The patch (applied weekly)
  • The vaginal ring (replaced monthly)
  • The injection (every 3 months)
  • The implant (lasts around 3 years)
  • Hormonal IUD (lasts 3–7 years depending on type)

Nonhormonal methods block sperm physically or chemically. Options include:

  • Condoms (male/female condoms also reduce STI risk)
  • Diaphragm or cervical cap (used with spermicide)
  • Spermicides (foam, gel, suppositories)
  • Copper IUD (lasts up to 10 years)

Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARCs) are highly effective and don’t require “remembering” to work properly. Both hormonal and nonhormonal IUDs or the implant fall into this category.

Permanent Methods

If you’re certain you don’t want future pregnancies, discuss:

Beyond Pregnancy Prevention

Though myths and misunderstandings about birth control abound, birth control can have many benefits beyond preventing pregnancy, making it a great option to help with painful periods and more.

5. Why does sex feel painful? How do I fix low libido?

Painful sex (dyspareunia) happens more often than you might think—and it shouldn’t be your “new normal.” 

Pain can stem from:

  • Insufficient lubrication (e.g., hormonal changes during menopause or postpartum)
  • Infections (yeast, bacterial vaginosis, STIs)
  • Endometriosis or pelvic scarring
  • Pelvic floor muscle tension or spasms
  • Psychological factors (anxiety, past trauma)

At your appointment, your provider will ask about your history, examine your pelvic muscles and recommend treatments—ranging from lubricants or topical estrogen to pelvic floor therapy or a referral to a specialist.

Your sex drive naturally ebbs and flows based on hormones, stress, relationships, and more—so occasional dips aren’t a red flag.

Sex and pleasure are critical parts of reproductive health yet too often come with stigmas that can make them hard to address. If low libido is bothering you, let’s explore:

  • How stress, mood, or sleep might be impacting you
  • Any medications that could be dulling desire
  • Relationship factors (communication, closeness)
  • Hormonal shifts (pregnancy, breastfeeding, perimenopause)

Together, we’ll create a plan that may include counseling, adjusting medications, or trying hormonal or nonhormonal therapies.

6. Is it normal to have vaginal discharge? Should I be concerned about vaginal odor?

Vaginal discharge is your body’s way of staying healthy. It changes in amount, color and texture throughout your cycle—especially if you’re on hormonal birth control, which can make it more consistent.

A mild scent is also normal. If you ever notice a sudden, strong “fishy” or foul smell, it could signal an infection (like bacterial vaginosis). In that case, let us know right away so we can test and treat as needed.

7. How do I prepare for pregnancy?

Most people don’t think about fertility until they’re actively trying to conceive. So if you know that at some point in your future you might want children, it can be helpful to make a preconception counseling appointment with your provider, just to keep your options open.

Your overall health, weight, stress levels and timing all play a role in fertility. Taking care of these factors now can support your future reproductive plans. If you have a long-term health condition like PCOS, endometriosis, diabetes or high blood pressure, managing it before trying to conceive can improve fertility and lower the risk of pregnancy complications. You’ll also want to discuss birth control and the timing for coming off of it.

Once you’re pregnant, you’ll begin a new routine of prenatal visits with your chosen obstetric care provider, who may even be your current provider.

8. What lifestyle changes can support my hormonal balance?

Hormones influence everything from your cycle to how you feel during menopause. Small daily choices can help keep them steady.

  • Exercise regularly: Even 30 minutes of brisk walking most days can improve insulin and cortisol levels.
  • Eat a balanced diet: Focus on a diet rich in whole foods, healthy fats and plant-forward protein.
  • Prioritize sleep: Aim for 7–8 hours; poor sleep can disrupt cortisol and estrogen.
  • Manage stress: Techniques like mindfulness, yoga, or talking to a therapist can lower stress hormones.
  • Avoid smoking & limit alcohol: Both can worsen hormonal swings, affect fertility, and accelerate bone loss.

As you approach perimenopause, strength training becomes particularly important to preserve bone density. If symptoms like hot flashes or mood swings start to take over daily life, let’s discuss whether hormone therapy or nonhormonal treatments are right for you.

9. Why do I pee a little when I cough or exercise?

If you find leaks when you cough, laugh or jump, you may have stress urinary incontinence—often caused by a weak pelvic floor.

The pelvic floor is a hammock of muscles and ligaments that support your bladder, uterus, and bowel. When those muscles weaken, pressure (like coughing, sneezing, or exercising) can cause urine to leak. Common treatments include:

  • Pelvic floor exercises (Kegels): Learning to isolate and strengthen those muscles often helps.
  • Pelvic floor physical therapy: A specialist guides you through targeted stretches and exercises.
  • Pessaries or inserts: A small device that shifts the bladder for more support.
  • Surgical options: For more severe cases, procedures can help restore bladder support.

Don’t let leaks keep you from the activities you love—bring it up at your next visit and we’ll design a plan that fits your lifestyle.

10. How can I prepare for and manage menopause symptoms?

Perimenopause often starts in your 40s—though timing varies. To support a smoother transition:

  • Stay active: Aim for a mix of cardio and strength training to preserve bone and muscle.
  • Eat a nutrient-rich diet: Lean protein, calcium, vitamin D, and plenty of fruits/vegetables all help.
  • Prioritize sleep: Track patterns; if insomnia emerges, talk through sleep hygiene strategies.

If hot flashes, night sweats, or mood shifts start to take over daily life, know you have options:

  • Menopause Hormone Therapy (MHT): Effective for hot flashes and night sweats; we’ll review potential benefits and risks together.
  • Nonhormonal medications: Certain antidepressants or other prescription options can ease hot flashes.
  • Lifestyle tweaks: Cool-climate bedding, layered clothing, and relaxation techniques often help diminish symptoms.
  • Complementary therapies: People are naturally curious about techniques like acupuncture, mindfulness, or herbal supplements—and we can help you understand the science behind them.

The key is to start the conversation early so you don’t have to “white-knuckle” your way through. We’ll customize a plan that works for you.

No matter your life stage, our goal is the same: to help you feel confident in your body and in your care plan. Bring up any questions—big or small—so we can tailor guidance to your unique health history and values.

Ready to get personalized care? Schedule your next appointment online or call our office. We look forward to partnering with you on your journey.