we're counting down the most embarrassing questions women are afraid to ask, in the hopes that we finally start asking them!

At INNOVO, we believe that no health question is off limits, especially between you and your doctor. We're all about breaking taboos and bringing every icky, snotty, grimy health issue to light and talking about it freely and openly. Because if you're experiencing it, odds are other women are, too. So in an effort to get more transparent about women's health, we're counting down the most embarrassing questions women are afraid to ask, in the hopes that we finally start asking them! 

1. Why does it smell down there?

Everyday activity, certain types of clothing, the time of the month, sexual activity and hormonal fluctuations can all lead to changes in feminine odor. But before you reach for scented wipes, sprays or douches, know that the best way to feel fresh down there is a warm shower. Everything else can damage sensitive skin and upset the normal bacteria that helps keep your vagina healthy. Douching especially can change the pH level in your vagina, which can encourage bad bacteria.

2. Is my vaginal discharge normal?

The amount of vaginal discharge you experience typically changes with your menstrual cycle. If you’re experiencing clear discharge with either no scent or a light odor, you’re probably ovulating and it’s totally normal. However, other types of discharge might mean there’s an infection and should be checked out by a doctor. If your discharge is white, with a cottage cheese texture, and it’s itching, you might have a yeast infection. If it’s “fishy smelling, and you’re in pain, you could have a bacterial infection. If you’re discharge is foul smelling and forty, you might have a sexually transmitted infection, like chlamydia, gonorrhea or trichomoniasis.

3. Why does my anus itch?

There can be many causes of anal itching - from leftover stool, to spicy foods, to allergies and more. It typically clears up within a few days, but if it lasts longer than four weeks, tell your GP so they can determine if you need treatment. Try not to scratch the area since you could create a wound that may get infected. Here are just a few explanations (and possible fixes) for your anal itching:

• Antibiotics: Some antibiotics can disrupt the good bacteria in your intestines and around your anus, causing itching. Tell your GP so they may adjust your dose or drug if appropriate.
• Diarrhea: Liquid stool can leak out of your rectum between bathroom visits and irritate your skin. Gently wipe with a damp cloth to keep the area clean. Don’t rub or use soap. Apply unscented talcum powder or clean cotton gauze to the anus to absorb moisture.
• Allergies: Scented toilet paper, soaps and laundry detergents can cause anal itching if you’re allergic to them. Change your hygiene routine one product at a time to identify possible allergens.

Medical issues like skin infections and pinworms can also be to blame, but not likely. With the proper diagnosis and treatment, about 90 percent of people find relief from this symptom; so speak up—even if you’re embarrassed.

 4. Do I need to get tested for STIs?

YES. If you had unprotected sex, even years ago, and never had any signs of a sexually transmitted infection, you should still get tested. A number of STIs like HIV can be transmitted, but then stay dormant in your body without symptoms for years. Get tested even if you’ve never had unprotected sex. If there’s even a one percent chance you might have had an exposure, get checked. In fact, everyone between ages 13 and 64 should have an HIV screening at least once. Beyond that, your GP can help determine how often you should get tested for HIV and STIs, depending on your age, gender and sexual activities. Find out about free, confidential testing near you.

 5.Why do I leak when I run or laugh or cough?

If you leak a little bit of pee when you exercise, laugh or cough - or even go to pick up something heavy - you’re likely experiencing stress urinary incontinence (SUI). SUI occurs when your pelvic floor muscles, which have weakened over time, no longer have the strength to hold the pee inside of your bladder. As a result, any pressure put on that region leads to a little squirt. Not only is it embarrassing, but debilitating to your life. Some doctors might tell you it’s totally normal. But guess what? It’s not. You aren’t alone - in fact over 30% of women experience some sort of bladder leakage - but there’s a solution. 

INNOVO is a pair of smart shorts that offer an FDA-cleared, non-invasive treatment to leakage. Sit back and relax as it delivers 180 perfect Kegels to your pelvic floor within a 30 minute session using a proprietary multi-path technology. All it takes is five sessions a week over 12 weeks.

 6. Why don’t I want to have sex anymore?

Your partner is still interested in sex, but you might just not be as into it as you once were. Is that normal? Yes. Is something wrong with you? No. Sex drive can vary over time for many reasons—most of them non-medical. It can change along with relationship dynamics, your sense of self, your confidence, whether or not you’re in an erotic situation, your hormones, and so much more. 

Some explanations could be due to vaginal dryness, especially if you’re going through menopause. Low estrogen levels can be to blame. You might also just be exhausted due to raising kids, working, and balancing the entire world on your shoulders. Then, there’s the chance you might be depressed. If you’re feeling down, and/or on antidepressants, they can contribute to your low sex drive. Medical issues like diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease could be the cause, as well. That’s why it’s so important to talk to your doctor about it. 

• Vaginal dryness: This is a common complaint around menopause, says Jaswani. Dryness and irritation related to low estrogen levels can reduce desire.
• Exhaustion: Middle-aged women often balance many responsibilities, such as work, raising children, caring for aging parents and more. As a result, stress and fatigue can reduce libido.
• Depression: Both depression and antidepressant medications can contribute to a low sex drive. Tell your GP if you think your meds are to blame. They may be able to switch your drug or dose.

7. How will I know when menopause starts?

Some women feel that this is something they should “just know,” but it can be unclear if you’ve entered this stage. The average age for the onset of menopause is around 51, but perimenopause (the earliest stage of menopause) can start in your 40’s and last for years before you enter menopause. If you experience symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, irregular periods, and night sweats, talk with your doctor. They can help you determine where you are on that journey and also offer ways to reduce your symptoms. There are also a host of other menopausal side effects like dizziness, headaches, forgetfulness and more. So if you’re in that general age group and feeling a bit off, menopause could be the culprit.