10 Common Myths About Women’s Private Health — Busted by Dr. Chetna Jain, Gynecologist

Women’s private health is one of the most misunderstood and least discussed topics in India. Social taboos, half-information, and online misinformation often prevent women from seeking timely medical advice — sometimes leading to serious health complications.

As a senior gynecologist in Gurgaon, Dr. Chetna Jain regularly encounters patients whose concerns are rooted not in illness, but in myths.

Let’s bust the 10 most common myths about women’s private health — with facts every woman should know.

❌ Myth 1: Vaginal discharge is always abnormal

✅ Fact: Mild, odorless vaginal discharge is normal and healthy. It helps keep the vagina clean and infection-free.

⚠️ When to see a doctor:

• Strong smell

• Yellow/green color

• Itching or burning

• Pain or fever

❌ Myth 2: Period pain is normal and must be tolerated

✅ Fact: Mild cramps are normal — severe pain is not. Extreme period pain may indicate:

• PCOS

• Endometriosis

• Fibroids

• Hormonal imbalance

Pain should never be ignored.

❌ Myth 3: You don’t need a gynecologist if you’re unmarried

✅ Fact: Gynecological care is about health, not marital status.

Unmarried women may need care for:

• Irregular periods

• PCOS

• Hormonal issues

• Infections

• Mental and physical well-being

❌ Myth 4: Vaginal itching always means poor hygiene

✅ Fact: Itching can occur due to:

• Infections

• Allergies

• Hormonal changes

• Tight clothing

• Harsh soaps

Over-cleaning can actually worsen the problem.

❌ Myth 5: Using sanitary products causes infections

✅ Fact: Sanitary pads, tampons, and menstrual cups are safe when used correctly.

Infections usually occur due to:

• Prolonged use

• Poor hygiene

• Not changing products on time

❌ Myth 6: Irregular periods are normal for everyone

✅ Fact: Occasional irregularity is common, but frequent irregular cycles may indicate:

• PCOS

• Thyroid issues

• Stress

• Weight imbalance

Regular cycles are a sign of hormonal health.

❌ Myth 7: Private health problems will go away on their own

✅ Fact: Many vaginal or urinary infections worsen if untreated. Delaying treatment can lead to complications affecting fertility and overall health.

Early treatment is always safer.

❌ Myth 8: You should avoid discussing private health openly

✅ Fact: Silence increases risk. Open conversations with a gynecologist ensure:

• early diagnosis

• proper treatment

• emotional reassurance

Doctors are trained professionals — not judges.

❌ Myth 9: Menopause means the end of gynecological care

✅ Fact: Post-menopausal women still need gynecological check-ups for:

• UTIs

• Vaginal dryness

• Bone health

• Hormonal balance

• Abnormal bleeding

Gynecological care is lifelong.

❌ Myth 10: Internet advice is enough for private health issues

✅ Fact: Online information can be misleading and harmful. Every woman’s body is different — medical advice must be personalized.

Self-diagnosis often delays correct treatment.

🌼 A Message from Dr. Chetna Jain

Women’s private health is not shameful. It is medical, normal, and essential.

Ignoring symptoms, believing myths, or delaying care can affect both physical and emotional health. A timely consultation can prevent long-term complications.

If something feels uncomfortable, unusual, or worrying — trust your body and seek medical guidance.

Your health deserves clarity, care, and confidence.