Embarrassing Medical Problems

Submitted by Stella Morgan on December 3, 2009

It is common knowledge that a doctor is a medical expert and is trained to examine the human body in a manner different to the approach a layman would have. However, even with this realization, many people find it extremely difficult to discuss some of their ailments with them.

This embarrassment often stems out of their own discomfort with discussing a particularly personal medical problem. Sometimes, the embarrassment may be caused due to the nature of the medical problem or the part of the body where it has occurred. A lot of people may feel embarrassed because of the level of social acceptance of their medical ailment.

A lot of people secretly suffer from ailments without ever having the courage to face their fear of embarrassment and discuss the problem with a licensed practioner.

Sex related problems, sexually transmitted diseases, skin infections in private parts, and yeast infections may often not be discussed with a doctor for the fear of ridicule and embarassment. A medical problem need not be ignored just because it is embarrassing to talk about with your doctor.

If you have a medical problem, it is better to discuss it with a doctor so that it can be treated and you no longer have anything to be embarrassed about.

Though it is easy for some people to discuss their problems with doctors, others may feel extremely embarrassed and may not even want to venture near the topic. It, however, doesn’t have to be so. Here’s what you can do to overcome your embarrassment.

The simplest way to approach the topic is to acknowledge your embarrassment.

You can discuss with your doctor how you are embarrassed by your medical condition. Most likely your doctor will tell you its nothing to worry about, while allowing you to discuss the problem even further.

If you feel embarrassed saying particular words like ‘breast’ or ‘penis’, you may first practice saying these words out loud in front of a mirror. This simple process can make you a lot more comfortable using these words in front of the doctor.

It always helps to remember that the doctor does not look at your body in the way another person would. If you have some abnormality which you are embarrassed about, it is just a matter of fact for the doctor. You may be embarrassed about a foul smell that emanates from your mouth or genitals, but for the doctor, it is simply an important indication of your health.

The doctor is trained to treat you and doesn’t sit in a chair to judge the people who come to get treated. Moreover, there is a certain confidentiality to your relationship and there is no need for you to worry about this knowledge coming in to the hands of others.