Healthcare isn't just about addressing visible issues, it's about taking care of every aspect of our wellbeing, including those we might feel awkward discussing. From sexual health concerns to conditions like incontinence, we often shy away from seeking help, sweeping these problems under the carpet due to embarrassment.
However, many of us recognise the value of timely medical advice and the relief that comes with being open about our health. A recent survey by ConfidenceClub has highlighted how much embarrassment can affect our decision to seek medical help, even when our health is on the line. The survey, conducted in collaboration with The Leadership Factor, questioned 1,005 UK residents about embarrassing illnesses.
Garron Lipschitz, co-founder at ConfidenceClub, said: "At ConfidenceClub, we believe that staying silent has a detrimental impact on our overall health. That's why we commissioned this survey - to shine a light on just how deep the issue of embarrassment runs and to start an open conversation.
"The findings are clear: embarrassment isn't just an inconvenience, it's a barrier to better health. By understanding how discomfort affects people across all walks of life, we can better support them, challenge the stigma, and encourage proactive health management. So to help people understand just how important this is, we've partnered with medical expert Dr Claire Merrifield at Selph."
Five symptoms a doctor says you should never ignore
Dr Claire Merrifield, a GP and medical director at Selph, has highlighted five 'cringeworthy' symptoms that should have you dashing to your doctor pronto.
Blood in your faeces
Dr Merrifield warns: "If you notice any changes to your bowel movements such as increased or decreased frequency, change in consistency, blood in the stool or a sensation of needing to open your bowels even though you've already been, it's important to get checked out. There are lots of causes of having blood in the stool or changes in bowel movements, but the most important one to rule out is bowel cancer which affects 44,063 people in the UK every year.
"Bowel cancer is very treatable in the early stages, so the earlier you speak to a doctor and get checked out the better. I know poo can be taboo, but honestly, your doctor has seen and heard it all and will not be embarrassed, so neither should you be."
Issues in the bedroom
The doc dishes out advice: "Problems with sex are common. Many people experience pain during sex or difficulty enjoying sex. More common are lumps, bumps, rashes and unusual discharge.
"The good news is that most problems with sex can be treated. You just need to tell someone if you're having any problems, even if they seem really embarrassing at the time.
"We know that it's difficult for people to talk about sex, and that you really don't want anyone else to find out about it if you're having any symptoms. That's why sexual health services are separate from your GP or normal hospitals. You can be seen anonymously and any visits aren't put on your normal medical record.
"There's even a system to anonymously notify anyone you may have slept with if you're found to have a sexually transmitted infection. It's made this way to protect other people, and you'll find a team of caring, non-judgmental health professionals at any walk-in sexual health clinic."
Incontinence
Dr Merrifield, speaking on the topic of incontinence, said: "Although it can be a taboo topic, incontinence is more common than you might think. It's estimated that 14 million people in the UK have some degree of urinary incontinence, while over half a million have faecal incontinence.
"It is particularly common for women after pregnancy and during menopause, and many young people can experience it too. Incontinence is often very treatable, usually with medication, pelvic floor exercises, and simple lifestyle changes. Waiting a long time and putting off speaking to a doctor about it can often make the symptoms worse, and it can affect your work, social life and relationships, which can then lead to mental health issues if untreated."
Odd symptoms
Brits are also urged to get checked out for any odd symptoms that could signal something more sinister. Dr Merrifieldemphasised: "It's important to remember that doctors are there to help, not judge. They want you to live your best life, and that means addressing health issues that affect your daily activities and wellbeing. The brief moment of discomfort in discussing it is worth the potential lifetime of improvement."
Unusual smells
On the topic of unusual smells, Dr Merrifield warned: "Any unusual, new or strong body odours can indicate a number of underlying conditions such as hormonal changes, diabetes or infections. If you've noticed any strange new smells either on your body or from your pee, speak to your doctor about whether there could be an underlying cause."
Lumps and bumps
When it comes to lumps and bumps, Dr Merrifield advised: "Lumps and bumps can be caused by a number of things, they can be something as simple as a blocked hair follicle or sweat gland or may indicate an underlying cancer. We can get lumps and bumps all over the body, even in really intimate areas."
She added: "If you notice any new lumps or bumps that aren't getting better over a week or so, or if existing lumps or bumps are getting bigger, see a doctor urgently. It can be scary getting a lump on the breast or testicle checked out, and you may feel a bit embarrassed, but I can guarantee that the healthcare professional examining you is not judging you, they're only thinking about what could be causing any lump or bump.
"As with everything, the sooner you get something that's worrying you checked out, the sooner your mind can be put at rest. Everything is easier to treat if it's caught early so never delay getting something you're worried about looked at."
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