Unfortunately, housing a cervix, a uterus, fallopian tubes and a vaginal canal makes women susceptible to a heap of health issues. I'll never forget the day that I received a phone call informing me that my then-16-year-old cousin had ovarian cancer.

Women are bound to experience issues "down there" from time to time. It's perfectly normal! See your doctor with any concerns you may have, and remember that vaginal issues are nothing to be embarrassed about.

As OBGYNs we see and hear everything. There is nothing that you are going to reveal to us that will surprise or upset us. For your health's sake there are important things you should let your OBGYN know so we can make sure to check for specific problems or diseases.

Usually it's a short-term inconvenience, but for some women, the recommendation to go on bed rest can come early in a pregnancy and turn a joyful experience into a months-long nightmare.

Take it from someone who's been there: Trying to conceive a child can be a heartbreaking but fully worthwhile journey, especially when choosing a nontraditional method of conception.