The section ‘Embarrassing Problems’ provides information on a range of personal health matters that some people may initially find hard to discuss. Our editors and physicians are combining their expertise to deliver relevant, reliable, and high-quality reads for those concerned with health problems. Embarrassing Problems provides guidance, and helps to take the next steps towards diagnosis and treatment. It will offer advice whether a visit to the pharmacy or a doctor’s appointment is necessary.
The information presented here is not intended to replace the face-to-face consultation that we believe to be necessary for the accurate diagnosis of a medical condition and its subsequent management.
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If you have symptoms such as persistent diarrhoea or a change in your bowel habits, or bleeding or mucus coming…
Prostate problems are common in men, particularly in men over 50 years of age. Do you have difficulty starting to…
Smear tests are important and can save your life. You should get yours regularly when invited even if you are…
If you are pregnant or intend to get pregnant, you and your doctor will have to consider your treatment options…
Severe acne can leave scars. Some will fade with time, but many remain a permanent reminder of previous acne. Various…
The skin is covered in hundreds of microscopic hair follicles, often known as pores, and many of these, especially on…
Occasional bouts of diarrhoea (diarrhea) are a fact of life – we have all experienced them. This section is for…
It is sad that natural changes in the skin as we grow older are often considered unacceptable and embarrassing. In…
Persistent bleeding from the back passage (anal or rectal bleeding) is something that you should always see a doctor about,…
An itchy bottom may be just an annoyance, or may be so bothersome that it dominates your life. It is…
Pain coming from the bottom area is not something that we are used to feeling and, as a consequence, anal…
Anogenital warts are a sexually transmitted infection (STI) They are caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV) They are small…
Rumours have been spread on the Internet that using antiperspirants in the armpit might cause breast cancer and that shaving…
Armpit boils can be caused by a condition called ‘hidradenitis suppurativa’, which affects about 1-4% of the population. In fact,…
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common cause of vaginal discharge. BV is not considered a sexually transmitted infection (STI), but…
Concerns about bad breath (also known as halitosis) are common, resulting in a thriving market for breath fresheners such as…
Balanitis is a condition which can cause inflammation of the end of the penis (the glans) The penis may appear…
Baldness in patches, which is not in the typical male pattern, is usually caused by alopecia areata. However, braiding and…
The female breast contains glands supported by fat and fibrous tissue. The part of the gland that secretes milk and…
How well do you know your own body? To help you understand your body and the problems you may encounter,…
The penis is the major male reproductive organ. It also forms part of the male urinary tract system since it…
How well do you know your own body? Understanding the urinary system can help you recognize and manage common health…
The female genital tract includes the vulva, vagina, cervix, uterus (womb), fallopian tubes and ovaries. The vulva is the area…
Bedwetting (also called nocturnal enuresis) is common in children and can be distressing for both parents and children. The exact…
It’s perfectly natural for babies to wet their nappies (diapers) whenever they need to. Becoming dry – especially at night…
Bedwetting is normal in young children, especially if your child is 6 years or younger. Try not to worry –…
If your child seems healthy aside from the bedwetting, serious medical issues are unlikely. The only test typically is a…
Adults who wet the bed at night often have problems in the daytime as well, such as having to rush…
Do not blame yourself. Remind yourself that it is not your fault. There is no need to feel guilty or…
Check that there is nothing seriously wrong. Your doctor will ask you questions, especially about whether you have wet the…