HER BODY

1. One of my breasts is smaller than the other. I feel very self conscious and I am afraid that guys won't be interested in me because of this. Other than surgery, what can I do about it?

Every woman has one breast different from the other. This can be quite noticeable. This can particularly be the case during a woman/girls developmental years when one breast can develop faster than the other.

Guys will like you because of who you are, not because of the size of your breasts. Think about all your good qualities and learn to be a good friend. The rest will take care of itself. Guys often feel that girls are too self conscious and worry too much about how they look.

2. My vagina lips (labia) stick out a lot. I think it's really ugly, what can I do about it?

Everybody is different. Some women's inner lips (labia minora) stick out further than their outer lips (labia majora), and vice versa. Both are normal. As a woman grows to adulthood this proportion changes. Relax and learn to feel good about how you look.

3. My nipples are very different. My left one is large and dark, but my right nipple is pale pink and not so big. Am I a freak?

No, you are not a freak. Every woman has one breast different from the other. Sometimes the differences are quite noticeable, especially during development.

4. I am thinking about shaving my pubic hair. Is this a good thing?

The only reason for shaving pubic hair is for cosmetic purposes. Only you can decide if it is a good thing or not.

There are a few ways of removing hair. Each of these methods may involve risks such as infection or ingrown hairs. It is a good idea to speak to a beautician before you do. Check your Yellow Pages for one near you.

5. I have noticed a thick, white discharge from my vagina. I am not sexually active so I know it cannot be an STI. Is something wrong with me?

Vaginal discharges are normal. Your body will have different vaginal discharges throughout your menstrual cycle.

Usually about half way through your cycle your vaginal mucus changes to a thinner texture that is more elastic and a clearer colour. This usually signifies when you are most fertile and is totally normal.

Even though you are not sexually active, you could have a bacterial infection or Thrush (Candida). If you continue to notice this discharge throughout your menstrual cycle you will need to see a doctor or nurse for advice.

6. I had my first period about 6 months ago. Since then, nothing. I know I'm not pregnant because I haven't had sex. Is something wrong with me?

It is unlikely that there is anything wrong with you. At first, your period can be unpredictable. It can take a few years before it settles into any sort of routine. This is nothing to be concerned about.

Occasionally periods stop completely. If this happens, you should visit an FPA Clinic or doctor.

7. My periods are very painful. What can I do about it?

There could be a number of reasons why your period is painful. You will need to see a doctor or nurse for advice. Sometimes ordinary pain killers can help - ask your pharmacist. Some women choose to take the pill to regulate their cycle or relieve period pain.

8. All of my friends have had their period for ages but I haven't got mine yet. When will it arrive?

It will arrive as soon as your body is ready. Everybody goes through puberty in their own way, with different changes happening in different ways. Most women have their period by about age 16. If it is much later than that, you should see a doctor to make sure everything is OK.

9. My partner's breasts are really big and she isn't a very big person. I have heard that this can cause back problems later in life. Is this true? Is there anything that can be done about it?

Yes, very large breasts can cause back pain and it isn't always later in life. If this is causing a great deal of pain she should talk to a doctor about this. Some women in this situation choose to have breast reduction surgery. If surgery isn't an option, there are certain exercises that can help. A doctor will be able to provide more information on this.

10. I haven't had my period for months. I don't think that I am pregnant. Could something be wrong?

There are many possible reasons why your period has stopped. Stress is a common cause and so is being pregnant. There are also other health conditions that can only be diagnosed by visting a doctor.

Make an appointment with a doctor as soon as possible so you can find out if there is a problem or not.

11. I have lots of small lumps around my nipples. Could it be breast cancer?

Most people have small lumps visible around their nipples and they are often nothing to be worried about. Only a qualified professional (doctor or nurse) can give you the all clear or diagnose cancer. 

12. I have found what appears to be a lump in my breast. I don't know how long it has been there because I don't self examine and I only found it by chance. I don't think it could be cancer because I'm only 24. What should I do?

Typically, older women are in a higher risk group for breast cancer. However, age is not always a factor and other contributors such as family history can play a part. You should go to the doctor to get it checked out. It is probably nothing serious, but only a doctor can tell.