From itching to burning, these dreaded buzzwords often conjure up visions of STDs and other women problems we prefer not to speak of. Needless to say, the notion of actually talking to another person (i.e., your physician) seems absolutely mortifying. 

Well, you’re not alone. Millions of women of all ages experience health issues that they’re uncomfortable talking about. 

Unfortunately, keeping those problems under wraps can be hazardous to your health. Instead of simply hoping things go away, it’s far wiser to see a physician for help. Not only could you rule out any dangerous conditions, but there also may be a simple remedy for your issue. There’s really no reason to suffer silently. 

Take a look at six common female problems, what they may signify and when you should see a physician.

Incontinence

Urinary incontinence is the medical condition in which a person’s urethra cannot close quite tightly enough, allowing urine to leak out. 

This ailment has a lot to do with the strength and elasticity of the inner pelvic muscles, which sometimes atrophy in women as the result of: 

• childbirth;
• aging; or
• trauma. 

An estimated 51 million women deal with incontinence issues, according to American Medical Systems, Inc. Many women begin to notice the problem when they cough, sneeze or laugh, and a little urine leaks out. Sometimes, you may notice it when you exercise or when you aren’t able to make it to the bathroom in time. 

Women's health expert Donnica Moore, MD explains on WebMD that if you begin experiencing bladder issues, you should follow a simple plan: "Step 1, make an appointment. Step 2, go. And Step 3, be very up-front and say 'The reason I am here today is because I have a leaky bladder.'" After an exam, your doctor may recommend dietary changes, as well as Kegel exercises to strengthen the pelvic muscles. 

Excessive Sweating

It’s one thing to be drenched in sweat while exercising or to glisten in the midst of a bedroom rumpus, but it’s quite another to consistently discover sweat marks on your clothes at the office or in important social situations. Pit stains, a wet backside and a sweaty handshake are downright embarrassing. However, sweat is actually a good thing; it is the body’s method of cooling itself down, and it helps us gauge normal body function. 

It’s common to sweat: 

• during physical exertion;
• in stressful situations; and
• during periods of hormonal changes. 

Keeping the area dry and using antiperspirants doesn’t quite cut it for some women. Run the situation by your doctor. A physician can try to rule out any conditions that might cause excessive sweating. 

If your doctor determines that the sweat problem needs professional attention, then he or she may offer treatments such as: 

• prescription antiperspirants;
• anticholinergic medications; or
• Botox injections. 
  

Vaginal Odor 

Every woman’s nether regions have a distinct smell. A slight odor is normal and shouldn’t make you feel self-conscious. However, if there is a strong odor or you notice a change in your normal smell, it could be a sign of infection. 

While no one really wants to discuss something as private as vaginal odor, it’s a necessary evil to rule out health problems. Rest assured, your gynecologist has heard it all, so there’s no shame in bringing this issue to the table. 

Being self-conscious about your smell could cause stumbling blocks in the bedroom, so suck it up, put on your big-girl panties and make it a point to talk to your doctor about it. Even though the cleaning method of douching has become a dirty word, some doctors have suggested douching once your period is finished for the month. 

Vaginal Discharge 

Vaginal discharge is just fluid that your uterus, cervix or vagina produces. It’s your body’s way of ridding itself of old cells. Clear or white discharge is normal, so there’s generally no need to be concerned. 

The only time vaginal discharge may be an issue is if it changes. If it becomes heavier or you notice changes in the smell or color, you should monitor the situation. 

You’ll definitely want to see your doctor if the discharge is accompanied by: 

• itching;
• swelling;
• pelvic pain; or
• it has a foamy or clumpy consistency. 

Unless the above applies, there is no need to be concerned. Just wash regularly and keep the area clean and dry. 

Lack of Libido 

Just can’t seem to get those home fires burning? Don’t sweat it. According to a 2006 PRESIDE study, nearly 40 percent of American women also experience a lack of desire. Many women feel a general disinterest in sex or experience an unfulfilling sex life. 

Oftentimes stress, busyness, and emotional and physical fatigue override sexual impulses. In other cases, it may be a health or emotional disorder causing the rift, so it’s definitely something you’ll want to discuss with your doctor if it persists. 

Keep in mind -- there is no such thing as “normal” in regard to how often couples have sex. One size – or frequency – doesn’t fit all. A couple may think twice a month is great, while another would think anything less than twice per day is abnormal. Intimacy and keeping the bond with your partner is far more important than frequency. 

There may not be a FDA-approved female version of Viagra yet, but alternative therapies exist. You can look into ways to boost your sex drive by visiting a clinic that specializes in sexual dysfunction. 

Hair Loss 

Hair loss may not be a “female” problem per se, but it can be downright devastating, especially for women. A lot of folks tend to think it’s a male problem, but approximately 40 percent of people who suffer from hair loss are women, according to the American Hair Loss Association. 

When women start to notice a lot of hair shedding or thinning, particularly on top, they may try to disregard it at first. But as the problem grows worse and the hair loss become increasingly apparent, it can take a huge toll on your self-image and emotional wellbeing. 

If you suffer from hair loss, know that you are definitely not alone. There may be effective treatments to stop or slow it. 

Although you probably see your hairstylist more often than your doctor, he or she may be more likely to try to make you feel better about yourself than to hand down verification that you are, in fact, losing your hair. Try your dermatologist first, and if he or she thinks the problem is unrelated to his or her field, then get a referral to the appropriate doctor. In any case, don’t ask the person who relies on your tips to pay her bills! 

At the end of the day, silence isn’t golden when it comes to your wellness. 

Remember, you are the one who is ultimately in charge of your health and wellbeing. It may be somewhat awkward to talk about female issues, but educating yourself and vocalizing your issues with a medical professional will only serve you well.