Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/146934
IBS vs. Endometriosis Decipher the symptoms with a quick guide from Dr. Cheryl MartinFoster, a family medicine doctor with Meriter Health Services excess gas associated with diet often worse with stress ab pain bloating constipation diarrhea pelvic pain heavy, painful menstruation pain with intercourse Don't put up With Pain! Hey you! This is your vagina talking. If you're having sex and it hurts, please don't ignore me—it could mean something's wrong. From ailments and infections to dryness, there are often easy explanations and treatments for pain. Simply put: "Sex should never hurt. If it does … talk to a suitable health care provider," says Marta Staple, nurse practitioner at Meriter's WomanCare Clinic. FAUX 'GASMS: Stop fakin' it between the sheets Ever faked an orgasm? If your answer is "yes…yes…yes….OH YES!" then you've got plenty of company. "It happens a lot," says Ellen Barnard, co-owner of A Woman's Touch, a Madison mecca for women's wellness and sexuality. "A lot of women don't know what it takes to have an orgasm." Often, neither do their partners—males in particular. For one thing, she says, 70 to 80 percent of women can't have an orgasm through intercourse alone, something that's pretty simple for Mr. Man. The origins of the faux 'gasm are just as complicated as a woman's erogenous zones. His "junk" is all out there; a woman's is hidden and harder to get to know. Plus, it's all about communication, knowledge, expectations and ego. Not many women want to tell their partners they're just not cutting it in the sack. But, Barnard says, no matter how long you've been faking it, you've got to stop. It will help ensure a healthier and happier sex life, and a more satisfying relationship. First, get educated about your body and what turns you on. Maybe use some toys, games or other erotic materials. Then, make a vow to talk it over with your partner "without shaming and blaming," she says. And don't be afraid to make him wait…just a little bit. "Just say 'Honey, let me do it first and then you go,'" Barnard recommends. Oh, YES! –Marni McEntee find your fit: Birth Control Know the Signs: Ovarian Cancer Dr. Lisa Barroilhet, associate professor of obstetrics and gynecology at UW School of Medicine and Public Health, says these "whispering symptoms" can signal the possibility of this hard-to-detect disease Abdominal pain or bloating While aches and bloating are familiar during PMS or when you eat too much, constantly feeling this way isn't normal. Urinary frequency or urgency Watch for fluctuations in bladder habits. Dr. Barroilhet says, "Urinary urgency was present in 44 percent of ovarian cancer patients." Difficulty eating Not to be confused with lack of appetite, feeling full quickly (specifically when it leads to involuntary weight loss) should be brought to your doctor's attention. Constipation Don't ignore changes in bowel habits— diarrhea and gassiness included—especially persistent ones. 29% of women regularly orgasm during sex, according to a National Health and Social Life Survey. Not you? Not to worry— most women reach their climax through clitoral stimulation, not intercourse alone. What it is... Who will love it... Intrauterine Device These small "T"-shaped devices make it difficult for the sperm to reach the egg and, once inserted by a health care provider, can stay in place for years. Women who want to have their birth control under control for several years. The Pill A time-tested method, "the pill" works by preventing ovulation each month. You'll need a prescription and should take it at the same time every day. Women who want a very effective but temporary method. Diaphragm A round piece of rubber is inserted before intercourse and covers the opening of the cervix, which stops sperm from entering the uterus. Diaphragms should always be used along with spermicide. Women who experience negative side effects from hormones in other methods might find this option a welcome relief. The Patch The combination of progesterone and estrogen prevents ovulation and thickens cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to enter the uterus. The patch is applied to the skin and changed weekly. Women who want the same control and flexibility of short-term options but don't want to pop a pill every day. The NuvaRing A small and flexible ring is inserted into the vagina, and releases hormones that prevent ovulation. Inserted once a month, it lasts three weeks. Like the patch, this is a great option for women who want a short-term fix and the flexibility to become pregnant soon after stopping usage. August 2013 bravamagazine.com 37