Your annual trip to the gynecologist should be about more than just checking boxes like blood pressure, weight, and a pelvic exam. It’s also an important opportunity to ask questions—yes, even the ones you might be hesitant or embarrassed to bring up. From the way your vagina smells to changes in libido or bladder leaks when you sneeze, your gynecologist has likely heard it all before.

Let’s break the silence and normalize the questions too many of us Google in the middle of the night. These eight questions are not just valid—they’re important. If any resonate with you, don’t be afraid to bring them up at your next visit.

1. What does a normal vagina smell like?

Let’s start with one of the most common questions women have but rarely ask: “Is my vaginal odor normal?”

Here’s the deal—vaginas have a natural scent, and that scent can fluctuate throughout your cycle. It might smell slightly musky, tangy, or even sweet depending on your hormones, diet, hygiene, and activity level. That’s normal.

What’s not normal? A strong, fishy, or foul odor that doesn't go away with normal hygiene practices. This could signal a bacterial imbalance (like bacterial vaginosis), a yeast infection, or an STI. Don’t panic, but do schedule a check-up if the smell is new, persistent, or comes with discharge or itching.

Tip: Avoid douching, wear breathable cotton underwear, and always wipe front to back. Your vagina is self-cleaning—it doesn’t need artificial scents to stay healthy.

2. What does it mean if I bleed during sex?

Spotting or bleeding after sex—especially if it’s recurring—can definitely feel alarming. But before your mind jumps to worst-case scenarios, know this: there are a number of reasons why postcoital bleeding happens, and many are not serious.

Common causes include:

• Cervical irritation (often from vigorous sex or a lack of lubrication)

• Hormonal fluctuations

• A cervical polyp (a harmless growth)

• Vaginal dryness, especially during or after menopause

In rarer cases, bleeding could point to infections, cervical dysplasia, or even early signs of cervical cancer—which is why it’s important to flag this symptom with your gynecologist, especially if it happens more than once.

3. How do I keep my hormones balanced?

Hormones run the show when it comes to energy, mood, sex drive, periods, and even skin and weight. If you’ve been feeling “off,” imbalanced hormones could be behind the scenes.

To help keep your hormones balanced:

• Prioritize sleep: 7–9 hours of rest helps regulate cortisol and melatonin.

• Manage stress: Chronic stress disrupts hormone function. Try meditation, exercise, or therapy.

• Eat well: Healthy fats, leafy greens, and proteins all support hormone health.

• Move regularly: Exercise improves insulin sensitivity and mood-regulating hormones.

• Avoid endocrine disruptors: Reduce exposure to chemicals found in plastics, some cosmetics, and pesticides.

And if you’re dealing with serious symptoms—like sudden weight gain, missed periods, or severe mood swings—don’t hesitate to ask for hormone testing. Imbalances could be tied to conditions like PCOS, thyroid disorders, or menopause.

4. How do I keep my vagina’s pH balanced?

A healthy vagina has a slightly acidic pH (around 3.8 to 4.5), which helps prevent infections. When this balance is disrupted, you may notice itching, unusual discharge, or odor.

To support a healthy vaginal pH:

• Avoid scented soaps or douches

• Change out of wet clothes (like swimsuits or gym leggings) quickly

• Use condoms (semen has a higher pH)

• Eat probiotic-rich foods like yogurt or kimchi

• Consider probiotic supplements specifically for vaginal health

If you keep getting yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis, bring it up with your doctor—there may be an underlying issue or a better preventive strategy.

5. Sometimes I pee when I cough or sneeze. Do I have incontinence?

Leaking a little when you laugh, sneeze, or do jumping jacks? You're not alone—and you’re not necessarily incontinent, either.

This common issue is called stress urinary incontinence, and it usually results from weakened pelvic floor muscles. It’s especially common after childbirth or with age, as your body’s internal support system shifts and weakens.

The good news? Kegel exercises can help. These are targeted movements that strengthen the pelvic floor, supporting your bladder, uterus, and rectum. You can do them anytime—waiting at a stoplight, watching TV, even lying in bed.

In more severe cases, your doctor might recommend pelvic floor therapy, suppositories, or surgical options.

6. Is it normal that I’m no longer interested in sex?

If your sex drive has taken a nosedive, first: you’re not broken. Loss of libido is more common than you think, and it can stem from several causes—physical, hormonal, or emotional.

Some possibilities:

• Hormonal changes (postpartum, perimenopause, menopause)

• Birth control or certain medications (like antidepressants)

• Stress, exhaustion, or relationship challenges

• Mental health concerns like depression or anxiety

Sometimes it’s a simple case of life getting in the way. But if low libido is bothering you or affecting your relationship, talk to your doctor. There are treatments—like hormone therapy, counseling, or medication changes—that can help you reconnect with your sexual self.

7. Is it normal that my breasts are different sizes?

Short answer? Yes, absolutely. Breast asymmetry is extremely common—over 50% of women have noticeably different-sized breasts. Your left might be a full cup larger than your right, or one nipple may sit slightly higher.

Usually, it’s no big deal. But if you suddenly notice:

• A new lump or swelling

• Rapid size change

• Skin dimpling or puckering

• Nipple discharge

…bring it up. These could be signs of a benign condition (like a cyst), but in rare cases, they can signal breast cancer.

8. Does my vagina look normal?

Let’s end with the question many of us are secretly wondering: “Does my vagina look normal?” The truth is, there is no one way a vulva should look. Labia can be long or short, symmetrical or not, dark or light in color. The “perfect” vagina you might see in porn or social media? Often filtered, airbrushed, or surgically altered.

Vulvas change over time—after puberty, childbirth, or menopause—and that’s entirely normal.

What’s not normal? Persistent pain, visible sores, significant swelling, or discomfort during sex. These are reasons to check in with your gynecologist.

Remember: Don't Be Embarrassed

Gynecologists aren’t just there for pap smears and birth control. They’re your allies in navigating everything from sexual health to hormonal shifts. No question is too small, weird, or embarrassing. If it’s on your mind, it deserves a conversation.

So at your next visit, ditch the shame. Ask the awkward thing. You might just leave feeling more empowered, informed, and—most importantly—healthy.