Center for Young Women's Health
I’ve recently missed a week’s worth of my birth control pills and have not had irregular bleeding like I usually do. I’m so bad at remembering to take my pills. Is this normal? Am I at risk for being pregnant?Thanks for your question. It sounds like birth control pills may not be a good contraceptive choice for you at this time, unless you can find ways to remind yourself … read more
Ask Us 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.
To ask a new question, use our form. Ask your own question!
I’ve been trimming unwanted hairs with mini scissors. Is this healthy?
Trimming unwanted hair with a proper tool such as good quality mini scissors (that are not dull) is perfectly safe as long as you’re careful not to cut your skin.
I’ve had a weird sensation while I urinate for about a week now. I am worried. What could the problem be?
Thanks for your question. Possible reasons for your symptom may include a urinary tract infection, vaginal infection or irritation of the vulva that feels uncomfortable when you pee. You should make … read more
Is it harmful to masturbate every day?
Not at all. In fact, there are many positive benefits to masturbating including it’s a great way to relieve stress. Medical experts agree that masturbation is safe, helps a person feel comfortable … read more
When I have my period, sometimes the pad will shift and stick to my bottom, and it’s painful. Is there anything I can do to help with the irritation afterwards?
It sounds like you are one of the many women who experience irritation of the vulva and/or buttocks from menstrual pads. Since pads are made up of many layers of … read more
I always clean down there, have good hygiene but my vagina is always very sensitive to everything and it’s had an odor. I have gone to the doctor about having yeast infection and using ointment but nothing is working. Is there anything else I should be doing?
Thanks for your question and good job for seeing your doctor! It’s always a good idea to see your health care provider when something isn’t right about your body. Most … read more
I like to work out but afterwards my body shakes. I was wondering what food I can eat after a workout to help prevent shaking and refuel my body?
It’s great that you like to work out! If your body is shaking after your workout, it may mean you are experiencing muscle fatigue (aka your muscles are tired). During … read more
There are some weeks I don’t feel hungry at all and then suddenly I feel the need to eat a lot, even if I’m not on my period. Am I bulimic or is this normal at 17 (years old)?
It can be normal to be hungrier on some days than others based on a number of factors such as hormones, age, gender, sleep, stress, and physical activity level. However, … read more
I’m late for my period, and I’m going on vacation in a week. I’m so scared that I’ll get it while I’m swimming or on the beach. Is there any way I can make my period come faster so that I won’t get it on vacation?
Thanks for your question! Even though we know that having a period is natural, just about every young woman worries about getting her period while on vacation. Unfortunately, the timing would … read more
I’m 21 years old, and my cramps have always been very bad to the point that I throw up and miss school or practice. Is something wrong with me, because in the past my doctor would say it’s normal, but nobody else in my family gets it this bad either.
Menstrual periods can be light and easy for some young and adult women, but for others, they can be heavy and/or accompanied by painful cramps. It’s normal to have mild … read more