Why the TMI Generation Won't Talk to Their Doctors About Sexual Health
By Sarah Jio, Glamour magazine
Your pals share shocking admissions on Facebook and Twitter--and over drinks on Friday night--but, according to a new survey, many don't share vital sexual health details with their doctors. What's going on?
Do you get nervous about talking to your doctor about your sex life and sex questions? Shockingly, many women are barely able to mention the bare necessities. In a new survey conducted by Opinion Research Corporation, less than one in four women between ages 18 and 34 (referred to by the researchers as the "TMI generation" for what we're willing to share online) with a regular health care provider has initiated a conversation about her sexual health, and for those who had, many said they weren't comfortable at all having such conversations.
From the survey:
*Only 13 percent of women who have used birth control or are considering birth control share details of their sexual health with their health care provider.
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*Less-than one-third of women are extremely satisfied with the discussions they have with health care providers during their visits, and with their overall relationship with their health care provider.
*Among women who had used or considered using birth control, almost one out of four report negative feelings associated with discussing sexual health with their health care provider including embarrassment, unease and bashfulness.
The mega pharmaceutical giant Merck is a co-sponsor of Healthy Communication, a resource found on iVillage.com/health, that provides women with practical information about initiating productive discussions about sexual health during their annual health examinations.
Experts like Roshini Raj, MD, a women's health expert and co-author of the new book What the Yuck?: The Freaky & Fabulous Truth About Your Body, says this communications gap may be affecting women's health. "An average gynecological annual exam lasts just 15 minutes, so women need to overcome their reticence and maximize that time," she says.
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Why are women so hesitant to bare-all with their docs? While the answer isn't absolutely clear, here's my take: You wouldn't share a secret with someone who makes you feel uncomfortable, would you? Right. Then find a doctor who makes you feel at ease. Sure, the convo will always be awkward, but you need to feel safe and assured. Finding the right health care provider is the first step!
Are you honest with your doc about your sex life and sex questions?
P.S. Want to boost your sex drive? The surprising news from researchers. And, a very important reminder about safe sex that you'll never forget ...
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