Q: I've had swelling of my stomach now for six years. It looks like I am six months pregnant, but I am not pregnant. Nothing shows up on a scan and it is not irritable bowel syndrome. Do you have any other suggestions for what this might be?

 

A: Your question is very difficult to answer without examining you and seeing your medical records. Because you mention that you had a scan and that you know it is not irritable bowel syndrome, it sounds like you have already been to see a clinician about this issue. If you are concerned about this situation, we recommend that you pursue it with your primary care provider. If you are not satisfied with your current health care provider or you would like another opinion, it is perfectly reasonable to see another physician.

Q: I was wondering if a pap smear could cause you to lose your virginity, because I had the test done recently. I told the doctor I was a virgin, but he still did the pap smear. Would that cause any tissue damage? Would I lose my virginity by having this done?

A: Having a pap smear or pelvic exam done by a health care provider does not result in the loss of virginity. Many, although not all, virginal women have hymens. A hymen is a circular band of thin tissue surrounding the vaginal opening. Most hymens have a small "hole" or opening in the middle that allows the introduction of small tampons or a small speculum (a medical instrument used during a pelvic exam) without injuring the hymenal tissue. Health care providers take great care when examining virginal women to not injure or tear the hymenal tissue. So, even if you had a pap test and exam but have not had intercourse, you are still a virgin.

Submit health questions online at www.sa.psu.edu/uhs/questions/qa.cfm.

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This column is not intended to replace advice from your personal clinician. If conditions persist, see a clinician.