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The wetness could be related
to several factors. Since Valerie is recently sexually active, she may
not be familiar with her sexual response. The wetness could be normal
vaginal lubrication as a result of sexual excitement. Her boyfriend may
not understand this either. Alternatively, if the discharge is profuse,
itchy, smelly, or persistent, it could be related to an RTI or STI. Oral
contraceptives would not cause vaginal “wetness.”
In order to provide good counseling
to Valerie, it would be helpful to explore the following issues:
- What is the nature of
the relationship with her partner? (How is it going? How long have
they been together?, etc.)
- Does he or she have other
partners?
- How is their communication?
Have they ever discussed issues related to sexuality, contraception,
condom use?
- Is she experiencing any
other symptoms besides “wetness” ?
- Does she have any side
effects with the pill?
- Is she familiar with
male and female sexual response?
- What does she know about
STIs, including HIV?
Given that Valerie has recently
become sexually active and that as young people she and her boyfriend
may be more likely to have multiple sex partners, it would be important
to address the following issues:
- Does she think that she
could be at risk for STIs?
- Does she know how to
use a condom (male or female)?
- Would she consider condom
use or dual protection if she perceives herself to be at risk? (Remind
Valerie that oral contraceptives provide no protection against
STIs.)
- Would it be helpful to
invite her partner to the clinic for a joint or individual counseling
session?
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