Maintaining Your Gynecologic Health During Covid-19

By Dr. Robyn Faye and Dr. Alisha Sangal

Covid-19 has been a challenging time. People are afraid to leave their houses to go to the store, to see their loved ones, and more than ever, to see their doctors. We have seen a rise in hospital visits because patients have put their health on hold during the pandemic until it is too late. Here are some helpful tips to maintain your health during the pandemic.

What Is My Risk Of Catching Covid-19 At The Doctor’s Office?

The risk of contracting the disease from a doctor’s office is very, very low. Most offices require face masks to be worn by the patients and all office staff. Don’t be afraid to go to the doctor’s office. This is a place you should never be afraid to go, pandemic or not. Many offices are also offering telemedicine or virtual visits. If your healthcare provider offers telemedicine, take advantage of this service to maintain your health during the pandemic.

I Ran Out Of My Birth Control. What Should I Do?

Get those refills. We have seen a rise in unwanted and unintended pregnancies during the pandemic. Most GYN offices have given refills to get you through at least a few months during the pandemic. However, it is important for your GYN practitioner to see you in the office yearly to refill or change your birth control. If you have run out of refills or want to change your birth control, we recommend making an appointment with your women’s health practitioner. We also recommend Bedsider.org to look at different contraception options to prepare for your office visit. Remember, a visit is used for more than just a prescription. Social history including domestic abuse questions, a family history including risk factors for diseases and cancer, and a thorough exam are performed in order to provide you with comprehensive care.

Are Mammograms And Pap Smears Really That Important To Maintain During A Pandemic?

Yes. A recent study showed that 89% of eligible women did not get their mammograms during the pandemic. We are seeing the effects of this because cancers that could have been detected at an early stage on mammograms are now being detected at a later stage. So, if you haven’t gotten your mammogram done this year, make sure to call your local radiology department to get that scheduled. Pap smears are equally important as they detect pre-cancerous lesions on the cervix that can be treated to prevent cervical cancer from developing. Although the pap smear guidelines are changing, it is up to you and your practitioner to decide if these guidelines are right for you to follow.

In honor of National Sexual Health Month, below are some tips and tricks to keep your sex life interesting during the pandemic.

Do I Need To Wear A Mask During Sex?

Canada’s top doctor says you do. Wearing a mask reduces your exposure to respiratory droplets that could carry Covid-19. It makes sense to wear a mask during sex and to avoid kissing new people. Try something new with your partner such as a position where you aren’t face-to-face. If you have never experimented with sex toys, now is a great opportunity for you and your partner to explore new things. We recommend the website Lelo.com to browse their selection of sex toys to see which is the best fit for you and your partner.

I Think I May Have Been Exposed To An STD. What Do I Do?

We have seen an increase in STDs during the pandemic, especially chlamydia and mycoplasma. While these are treatable, they can have long-term effects on a woman’s reproductive system. Pandemic or not, it is imperative that you practice safe sex. Condoms and dental dams for oral sex are the best way to prevent STDs. Studies have shown that Covid-19 has been found in semen and stool. While we don’t yet know if you can contract the virus via semen or stool, it is best that you don’t risk it. Use protection. For more information regarding STDs, visit AshaSexualHealth.org.

My Partner And I Are Always Together At Home Because Of The Pandemic. How Do We Maintain Intimacy During This Difficult Time?

While you may feel frustrated with your partner more so now that you are stuck with them at home, it is important to maintain intimacy. Stress from work, kids who are now home 24/7, and being isolated from family and friends can negatively impact your relationship with your partner. Make time for you and your partner as a couple, even if that means a date night at home. Make sure you are communicating with your partner. The website MiddleSexMD.com has tips and tricks to keep things spicy in the bedroom.

Dr. Robyn Faye is an Obstetrician-Gynecologist, certified sex therapist, and a specialist in the care of menopausal women. She is based in Blue Bell, PA. 

Dr. Alisha Sangal is an Obstetrician-Gynecologist resident at Abington Memorial Hospital in Abington, PA.