If a stranger came up to you and asked you how heavy your menstrual flow was and whether you ever had anal sex, you could justifiably respond, "That's none of your!&$% business!" For gynecologists, though, these personal and seemingly inappropriate questions are our business literally. And while they may seem random, there's always a specific reason we're asking. My patients' answers will change my approach, influencing what I will examine, what tests I'll do, or what I'll ultimately recommend. Here, four questions your gynecologist may ask you, and why:
"WHEN WAS YOUR LAST PERIOD?"
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