THE DOCTOR IS IN "Why Did You Ask That?!"

If some of your gyno's questions seem invasive, here's the information they're trying to gather about your health.

- LAUREN STREICHER, M.D.

If a stranger came up to you and asked you how heavy your menstrual flow was and whether you ever had anal sex, you could justifiably respond, "That's none of your!&$% business!" For gynecologists, though, these personal and seemingly inappropriate questions are our business literally. And while they may seem random, there's always a specific reason we're asking. My patients' answers will change my approach, influencing what I will examine, what tests I'll do, or what I'll ultimately recommend. Here, four questions your gynecologist may ask you, and why:

"WHEN WAS YOUR LAST PERIOD?"