Patient's question:
I am over thirty this year and have been feeling that my body has been emitting a strange odor lately. Even my husband has mentioned this to me. However, I don't want to go to the hospital for a check-up because my work is quite busy. So, are there any methods I can use to check myself for any gynecological issues?Doctor's answer:
Many women are concerned about how to test gynecological diseases themselves. Here, we recommend common methods for testing gynecological conditions. It is advised that women seek medical attention promptly if they detect any abnormalities.Self-examination methods:
Pelvic Inflammation
Acute onset is sudden and rapid, characterized by high fever, abdominal pain, and bloating, accompanied by nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, chills, and headaches. Chronic symptoms include general fatigue, poor spirits, and are particularly severe during menstruation and intercourse.
Cervical Erosion
Acute patients may be asymptomatic. Those with symptoms primarily exhibit increased vaginal discharge, which is mucoid or purulent. This discharge can cause external genital itching and burning. Symptoms may also include menstrual bleeding or bleeding after intercourse. Chronic patients mainly show increased vaginal discharge, which is typically creamy, sometimes yellowish-purulent, and may include bloody discharge or bleeding after intercourse.
Ovovaginitis
25%-50% of women infected initially experience symptoms such as increased vaginal discharge, external genital itching, burning, pain, and pain during intercourse. The typical characteristics of the discharge are thin, purulent, yellow-green foam with an odor. If accompanied by urethral infection, symptoms may include frequent urination, painful urination, or hematuria (blood in urine) at times.
Uterine Fibroids
Menstrual disorders, such as excessive bleeding or irregular periods, can lead to chronic overbleeding or secondary anemia. A palpable mass may be felt in the lower abdomen when the fibroid is large. Pressure symptoms may cause frequent urination, difficulty urinating, or constipation. Pain may accompany nausea, vomiting, fever, and leukocytosis (increased white blood cells). Any contact bleeding in women over 30 may be a sign of early malignancy.
Ovarian Cysts
In the early stages, there are no obvious symptoms, making them difficult to detect. As the tumor grows, symptoms become apparent due to its nature, size, progression, and whether it has secondary or complications. Symptoms may include lower abdominal discomfort, increased waist circumference, abdominal pain, menstrual abnormalities, and pressure symptoms.