Center for Young Women's Health
I think of ending my life every single day. Things have gotten a lot worse since I failed math. It made everything a lot worse. I have lost hope in everything and I even stopped praying. I never thought I would grow up to be such a burden. I need someone to talk to, help.We are so glad you reached out for help. You and your life matters, you have a purpose here on this earth. It’s very important that you know that you … 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!
Are there any side effects from Depo-Provera (injectable birth control)? I haven’t had my period since I received my first injection one month ago. Should I be concerned?
Thank you for your question! Most teens receive their first Depo-Provera injection during the first five days of their last normal menstrual period, which provides protection against pregnancy right away. … read more
I have an appointment with my doctor to talk about birth control, because my period symptoms are difficult to manage. What questions should I ask? Are there any questions they may ask me? How do I know if I am receiving the right pill for me?
Awesome question and great job advocating for yourself! There are a lot of different methods for birth control methods (pills, patches, rings, injections, implants, intrauterine devices (IUDs), etc.) available, so … read more
I was referred to a gynecologist because I have a dermoid cyst, but I can’t get an appointment for six weeks. Yesterday, I began experiencing nausea and really sharp pains on my side (where the cyst is), is this normal?
Great question, thank you for sharing! A dermoid cyst is a common type of benign growth that develops on the ovary. They are usually harmless and unlike other cysts, they … read more
Lately, I have had a lot of questions about my gender identity. I was recently diagnosed with MRKH (Mayer Rokitansky Kuster Hauser Syndrome) and it has caused me to question my gender. When I was 15 years old, they put me on testosterone, which made me feel like a male going through puberty. Then they switched me to the birth control pill. Could the different hormones play a role in why I am questioning my gender?
Great question, you are not alone! It is very common for young people to have a lot of questions and experience a wide variety of emotions, after receiving an MRKH … read more
I recently noticed there is a long piece of skin at the base of my vagina (opposite the clitoris), but it’s not painful. What could it be? Thank you!
Great question! Unfortunately, it’s hard to say exactly what the long piece of skin may be without seeing it. The excess skin may be part of the labia minor (the … read more
I recently had a pelvic exam and it wasn’t a pleasant experience. My OB-GYN didn’t talk to me or tell me what they were doing during the exam. Is this normal?
Great question, thank you for asking! Pelvic exams are an essential part in making sure your body is healthy, but that doesn’t mean they are easy. Thinking about a pelvic … read more
Lately my younger sister has been watching videos about self-harm and reading (even writing) stories involving suicide. She’s only 9 years old. Naturally my family is very concerned for her mental health. How do we help her?
Thanks so much for your question. It makes total sense that you and your family are concerned about your younger sister and want to support her! It is important to … read more
I have a painful boil inside the lip of my vagina. I am currently on my period and it really hurts to wipe. Please help!
So sorry to hear you are so uncomfortable. Unfortunately, there are many different causes for lumps and bumps in the vagina. Some causes are more serious than others, for example … read more
I am almost am thirteen and weigh 145 pounds. I do not know what to do. I beat myself up about it, and girls at school say I am fat. How do I lose like fifteen pounds? What is the best workout for losing weight?
People come in all shapes and sizes, and bodies change throughout life. Focusing on weight can actually lead to an unhealthy relationship with food and can even cause eating disorders. … read more
