The 10 Most Common Types of Gynecological Myths

A protection of women’s health is essential to be aware of the common misconceptions related to gynecological health. Lack of knowledge can lead to serious consequences in many cases, so it is important to receive proper information. Widespread beliefs among women often distort the truth, making it easier to avoid unpleasant surprises when we have the right information.

To maintain gynecological health, it is fundamental not only to understand our own bodies but also to respond promptly to potential health issues. Debunking myths can help us make responsible decisions and prevent more serious health problems.

Specialists, such as Dr. János Zatik, play an important role in disseminating correct information, as both scientific background and personal experiences contribute to the protection of women’s health.

Keeping the vagina clean

Many believe that regular rinsing of the vagina is essential for maintaining cleanliness. However, excessive vaginal rinsing can have the opposite effect. Disruption of the vagina’s natural flora can lead to numerous health issues, including infections. The female body is capable of keeping itself clean, and maintaining the vaginal pH is extremely important. To protect the natural flora, excessive cleaning should be avoided, as beneficial bacteria living in the vagina can be destroyed, leading to serious consequences.

It is best to clean the vagina only on the outside with water and pH-neutral soap. Internal rinsing is unnecessary, and doctors generally do not recommend it, as disrupting the natural balance can be risky. If women experience irritation, unusual odor, or discharge, it is advisable to consult a specialist to rule out the possibility of infections.

HPV vaccination

Vaccination against HPV is an important step in protecting women’s health, but it does not provide complete assurance against the virus. HPV affects a significant portion of the sexually active population and continuously mutates, with new strains emerging. The vaccine provides protection against the most common cancer-causing strains; however, regular screening tests are still necessary alongside vaccination.

HPV screenings can help diagnose the disease in its early stages when it is still manageable. Thus, while the vaccine reduces risks, women must be aware that screenings are essential for prevention.

Use of condoms

The use of condoms reduces the risk of sexually transmitted diseases in many cases, but it does not provide complete protection. The myth that nothing can be contracted with a condom is misleading. Infections can spread through contact without penetration, so HPV can also be transmitted through external genitalia. The protective effect of condoms against HPV is about 60-70 percent, meaning that other methods of protection are also recommended for a safe sexual life.

The effectiveness of condoms greatly depends on proper usage. It is important to choose the right size and quality condom and to ensure that it does not tear during use. Along with using condoms, regular medical check-ups are crucial for maintaining sexual health.

Symptoms of HPV

Many mistakenly believe that HPV always produces visible signs. In reality, most HPV infections are asymptomatic, meaning that the presence of the infection is not always detectable. 95% of women do not experience any symptoms, yet the virus can still spread. This highlights the importance of HPV screenings, as early detection and treatment are crucial in preventing diseases.

Regular gynecological screenings help identify HPV infections and, if necessary, provide appropriate treatments. Women should seek information about HPV and screening options to take timely action to protect their health.

The significance of screenings

Many think that screenings are pointless, especially if a problem has already developed. However, regular screenings can be life-saving, as they allow for early detection and treatment of diseases. It is recommended that sexually active women participate in such examinations annually, as this can help detect cancerous changes in their early stages.

Screenings can also identify cervical lesions and other abnormalities, which, if treated in time, can offer nearly a 100% chance of recovery. Therefore, gynecological examinations play a fundamental role not only in disease prevention but also in maintaining women’s health.

Effects of contraceptives

The use of contraceptives helps many women prevent pregnancy, but they are not without side effects. Hormonal contraceptives, especially non-three-phase preparations, can have various effects on the body. These include decreased libido, vaginal dryness, breast tenderness, weight gain, or even increased blood pressure.

Therefore, it is important for women to educate themselves about the advantages and disadvantages of different contraceptive methods and consult a specialist to choose the most suitable solution for them. It is important to know that interrupting the use of contraceptives leads to the cessation of their effects, so breaks are not recommended for preventing pregnancy.

Dosage of prenatal vitamins

Taking prenatal vitamins during pregnancy is essential, but the dosage can be questionable. Many believe that the more they take, the better. However, this is not true, as excessive amounts of vitamins can even be harmful. Women should seek their specialist’s opinion on dosage to avoid unnecessary problems.

The appropriate vitamin intake during pregnancy should be carefully planned to ensure the healthy development of the fetus. Overconsumption of vitamins is not only ineffective but can also pose health risks, so professional consultation is essential.

Limitations of ultrasound examinations

Ultrasound examinations can often help detect abnormalities during pregnancy, but they cannot identify every problem. The effectiveness of the examination greatly depends on the quality of the device and the patient’s physique. In overweight women, abnormalities in the uterus are often not detectable.

Ultrasound cannot screen for metabolic diseases or chromosomal abnormalities, so these examinations do not replace professional medical diagnosis. During gynecological examinations, it is necessary to use other diagnostic methods alongside ultrasound to ensure patient safety.

Stem cells and their healing

The application of stem cells in healing is becoming increasingly widespread, but the likelihood that this will be necessary is extremely low. Stem cell treatments have limited possibilities and are not applicable for every disease. The cost of stem cell collection is also significant, placing a financial burden on parents.

Although the future potential of stem cells is promising, in reality, the procedure is rarely needed, and functional outcomes are not guaranteed. The medical community is continuously working on scientifically-based solutions, but the availability and effectiveness of stem cell treatments remain questionable.

To protect women’s health, it is important to be informed about misconceptions and to follow professional medical advice to maintain our health.