Obstetrics and Gynecology

Answers for your specific questions.

Wondering about your health? Confused by what you’ve read? Browse our Ask the Nurse answer archive to find answers to many women's health questions and concerns. All answers are from a Cleveland Clinic women's health nurse.

Ask the Nurse Archive

Do Antibiotics Affect A Woman's Period?

June 20, 2018 at 2:35pm

I am currently five days late for my period. A little less than a month ago (right after my last period), I was on antibiotics for my UTI, and I was wondering if that could make my period late?

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Bacterial Vaginosis

May 1, 2018 at 11:10am

I’ve struggled with bacterial vagina infections for months. I complete the antibiotics and still have the infection. How can I fix this as it’s frustrating for me and my partner? Is there a way my partner could be treated as well?

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Low Sex Drive in Women

April 17, 2018 at 9:20am

I am 51 years old and do not have the urge to have sex. I do not lubricate, and when I do have sex it hurts. Please advise!

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Treatment for a Thickened Endometrium

March 19, 2018 at 2:33pm

I am 61 and went through menopause at age 50-51. On a routine check-up, I had a vaginal ultrasound which indicated a thickened endometrium - the doctor said about 7mm.

The endometrium biopsy is "benign endometrial hyperplasia". The pap smear was negative and I have no symptoms, I am not overweight, and I have never been on any estrogen or any type of hormone therapy.

I’ve had 5 normal vaginal births and 1 miscarriage (at 3 weeks) due to the flu. My doctor wants to do a D&C next, but I do not understand why I cannot try treatment with progestin first. He became agitated when I brought up that option. This is a new doctor to me; I had to switch due to insurance, and I am not confident with him.

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Maintaining Vaginal pH Levels

December 19, 2017 at 12:54pm

I’m 46 years old and have recently been told by my Primary Care Physician that I am post-menopausal. As a result, it’s been hard maintaining vaginal pH levels.

I’ve developed an odor that is not related to any infection. I’ve been told to try probiotics, but I’m not sure which ones to use to address the issue. Do you have any suggestions on what types of probiotics (or prebiotics) I can try?

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Lichen Sclerosis

September 19, 2017 at 10:02am

Can you please provide me with information on Lichen sclerosis?

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Treating Rashes Near the Vulva

April 28, 2017 at 10:30am

I have a very small rash near my vaginal area. I went to the doctor today, and she told me it just looks like a cut or a pimple. But she also took a swab of it in case it was herpes or something else. I haven’t had sex yet with my partner, he’s only rubbed on me. Would you know what this is?

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Treatment for Heavy Periods

March 21, 2017 at 9:35am

I have a daughter, age 11, who has been experiencing two menstrual periods per month. She is also diagnosed with Crohn’s disease and experiences frequent periods of tiredness/exhaustion.

My pediatrician’s office is only recommending "birth control" of which I am opposed. I would like a second opinion! I would really appreciate advice from another health professional on this matter. Please help!

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HPV Type

February 18, 2017 at 12:00am

I was reading the HPV article on speakingofwomenshealth.com, dated January 19th, 2017.

I have been diagnosed with HPV. How do I know what type I have? I have to have a follow up pap test in June.

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Loss Interest in Sex

October 27, 2016 at 9:20am

I don’t have any interest in having sex with my husband and I can’t feel him when we have sex. I am 32 years old and would like to know what I can do enjoy sex, again.

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