Myths and Realities of Obstetrics and Gynaecology

Myths and Realities of Obstetrics and Gynaecology

• Category: Health Awareness
• Date 24-06-2025

These clarifications aim to promote a better understanding of gynecological health and encourage informed discussions with healthcare providers.
 

1. Myth: Pap smears are only needed if you're sexually active.
Reality: Regardless of sexual activity, people with a cervix should start regular Pap smears at age 21 to screen for cervical cancer.

2. Myth: You can't get pregnant during your period.
Reality: Although less likely, it's still possible to get pregnant if you have unprotected sex during your period, especially if you have a shorter menstrual cycle.

3. Myth: Menstrual cycles should always be 28 days long.
Reality: A menstrual cycle can vary from 21 to 35 days in adults and from 21 to 45 days in young teens, and can differ from person to person.

4. Myth: Douching is necessary for good hygiene.
Reality: Douching can disrupt the natural vaginal flora, leading to infections and other issues. The vagina is self-cleaning.

5. Myth: Birth control causes infertility.
Reality: Most forms of birth control do not cause infertility, though it might take a few months for the menstrual cycle to normalize after stopping hormonal birth control.

6. Myth: You can't get pregnant if you’re breastfeeding.
Reality: While breastfeeding can suppress ovulation, it's not a reliable form of birth control unless specific criteria of exclusive breastfeeding are met.

7. Myth: All women experience terrible PMS.
Reality: While many experience some symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, severity varies greatly, and not everyone experiences significant PMS.

8. Myth: Only older women can get fibroids.
Reality: Fibroids can occur in women of all ages, though they are more common in women in their 30s and 40s.

9. Myth: You must have a period every month on birth control pills.
Reality: The bleeding seen during the placebo week on birth control pills is not a true period, and skipping these placebo pills is often safe with the guidance of a healthcare provider.

10. Myth: Vaginal discharge always indicates infection.
Reality: Vaginal discharge can be normal and varies in color and consistency throughout the menstrual cycle. However, changes in smell, color, or associated itching or irritation may require medical attention.
 

Here are additional common myths in gynecology:

11. Myth: You should avoid exercise during your period.
Reality: Exercise can actually help alleviate menstrual cramps and improve mood. It's generally safe and healthy to continue exercising during your period.

12. Myth: Heavy periods are just something women have to live with.
Reality: Excessively heavy periods can be a sign of underlying medical conditions and should be discussed with a healthcare provider for diagnosis and management.

13. Myth: If you have a C-section once, all future deliveries must be C-sections.
Reality: Many women who have had a cesarean section can have a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) depending on specific health factors.

14. Myth: If a mother had menopause early, the daughter will too.
Reality: While genetics can influence menopause timing, various factors, including lifestyle and health, also play roles.

15. Myth: Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is too risky to consider for menopause symptoms.
Reality: HRT can be beneficial for many women when used appropriately, and risks and benefits should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

16. Myth: All women experience pain during sex.
Reality: Pain during sex is not normal and can be due to various treatable conditions. It should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

17. Myth: Urinary incontinence is an inevitable part of aging.
Reality: While more common in older adults, urinary incontinence can often be treated or managed with medical help.

18. Myth: All breast lumps are cancerous.
Reality: Many breast lumps are benign and not cancerous, but it's important to have any new lump evaluated by a healthcare professional.

19. Myth: You don't need gynecological visits after menopause.
Reality: Regular gynecological checks remain important after menopause to monitor for conditions such as osteoporosis, breast cancer, and cardiovascular health.

20. Myth: Endometriosis always causes heavy bleeding.
Reality: While heavy bleeding can be a symptom, some individuals with endometriosis may experience other symptoms like pain without heavy periods. Each case can present differently.
 

Understanding these myths and realities can help individuals make better-informed health decisions and encourage proactive conversations with healthcare providers.