Ask Us questions

Full Index of Past Questions

Each week we choose one new Ask Us question and post the answer. Feel free to search or browse our past questions and answers to see if yours is already there.

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In two weeks, I am having a hymenectomy because I have a microperforate hymen. I am really nervous about the procedure. Is there anything I should know about preparing for the procedure and what to expect postoperatively? Is there anything I can do that will help calm my nerves?

Posted 13 July 2020 under Ask Us.

Thank you for your question. We hope that this information helps you feel more at ease regarding your upcoming surgery. Here is what we know: girls are born with a … read more

I’ve had this issue my whole life. I rarely feel thirst unless it’s extreme. I can’t drink more than a mouthful of any fluid or I feel nauseous. It’s an issue, as I can get dehydrated, but my body doesn’t tell me till it’s severe.

Posted 10 July 2020 under Ask Us.

Thanks for asking this question! Fluids are essential for your body to function. Many of our organs, including our brain, skin, and kidneys, require water. Therefore, it is important for … read more

I think I have trichotillomania. When I was 12 years old, I started pulling my hair out of my head to the point where I developed a bald spot. My parents are both doctors, but I don’t think they know what trichotillomania is because they’ve noticed, but haven’t really done anything to help me. I am really insecure about it…help!

Posted 7 July 2020 under Ask Us.

Glad you wrote us about this problem because it happens to lots of other youth who may have similar questions. Trichotillomania (trik-o-till-o-MAY-nee-uh) (TTM), also called the “hair pulling disorder,” is … read more

I am really self-conscious about my labia. It doesn’t look like everyone else’s. My labia is big and stretched out. I am curious about labiaplasty (plastic surgery). Is it possible for me to get it now or should I wait until I am older?

Posted 29 June 2020 under Ask Us.

Thank you for your question. It is common for girls to feel self-conscious about their labias and we hope our response will help you feel a bit better. Labia is … read more

How would I know if I have a bicornuate uterus, but I’m still a virgin?

Posted 25 June 2020 under Ask Us.

Thank you for your question. Most girls are born with a very important organ called a uterus. The size, shape, and structure of a uterus is important because it’s where … read more

I am in anorexia recovery right now. I am scared that I am going to lose control and gain too much weight because of my metabolism and not eating anything. Will my metabolism speed up and burn enough calories as I recover?

Posted 22 June 2020 under Ask Us.

Thank you for asking this question. When anyone restricts food intake for an extended period of time, the body’s metabolism responds by slowing down because the body needs to conserve … read more

I’m not a vegetarian. I eat chicken rarely, and I sometimes drink milk, but I don’t have any other source of protein. How do I get protein in my diet?

Posted 18 June 2020 under Ask Us.

Great question! Protein is really important to eat because it helps build bones and muscles. It acts as a building block for enzymes, hormones, and other body chemicals that are … read more

On most days, I have a really hard time concentrating and sitting still. I have been struggling with this for a long time and I am beginning to wonder if I have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Do you recommend that I see someone once COVID-19 calms down a bit?

Posted 15 June 2020 under Ask Us.

Excellent question, thank you for asking. ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) may be more common than you think! According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), 9.4% of all school … read more

I’ll still be able to go to the doctor’s office for my annual physical this summer, right? I know that we should be wearing masks and avoiding in-person interaction because of the pandemic, but that makes going to the doctor more important, right?

Posted 11 June 2020 under Ask Us.

Thanks for your question. Annual physicals (or routine check-ups) with your health care provider are still important. These visits are helpful to make sure you are healthy and to get … read more

I’ve had a red rash half way down my breasts. It’s not itchy but sometimes I get little spots on my breast too. Is this normal?

Posted 10 June 2020 under Ask Us.

Thank you for your question. A rash is a tricky thing to diagnose (find the cause) because there can be many different reasons why it’s occurring. Talk to your health … read more