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WHITE PLAINS, N.Y., Apr 5, 2006 (UPI via COMTEX) -- A White Plains, N.Y., women's health center says a survey shows many U.S. women take active roles in their feminine health, but still are inhibited.
The Harris Interactive national survey, conducted for the Vagisil Women's Health Center, indicates 63 percent of women aged 18 and older report they go to a gynecologist, and of those, 61 percent say they "always" obtain an annual examination.
However, the survey also reveals the lingering presence of old inhibitions, with nearly 1-in-4 women aged 18 and older admitting they have not been completely honest about their feminine health habits with their gynecologist.
Only 43 percent of those surveyed said they are comfortable discussing their genitals and using the word "vagina," with 14 percent indicating they would rather use another phrase, such as "down there."
"The fact that many women are going to see their doctors, and doing so along the recommended guidelines, is a strong step in the right direction," said Dr. Adelaide Nardone of the Brown University School of Medicine. "However, there are still many women who need to ... put the embarrassment aside and foster frank, open relationships and discussions with their doctors."
URL: www.upi.com Copyright 2006 by United Press International
