q & a with dr. dweck...
Q: Why did you write the book?
Dr. Dweck: Over the years, I find myself cornered in the grocery store aisle, sidelined at the gym, stopped in the street and even questioned on my Facebook page regarding urgent ob/gyn issues. Rather than talk labioplasty on the elliptical machine or yeast infection in the produce aisle, I wanted to get the word out and educate women about their vaginas in an easy-to-read, non-threatening and down-to earth way. Collaborating with co-author Robin Westen, my goal is to share medically-sound advice in a format that’s hip, humorous, and fascinating!
Q: What special perspective do you lend to the book?
Dr. Dweck: I’ve been a practicing ob/gyn for almost two decades, and have had the pleasure of delivering thousands of babies and providing care to women of all ages. While some of the material in the book is presented in a lighthearted style, be assured that all of the information is medically solid and stems from the experiences I’ve been fortunate enough to share with my patients.
Q: Who will benefit from the book?
Dr. Dweck: The book is intended for women of all ages, from late teens through menopause. Whether you are fearful and shy or just curious and excited, V is for Vagina helps answer that just about every question you can think of with the good, the bad, and the time for the pharmacy truths women need to know.
Q: How should women use the book?
Dr. Dweck: Women are welcome to read the entire book from beginning to end, or they can choose to use it as a reference guide to answer particular questions they may have. For example, college coeds might flip to the chapters on sexually transmitted diseases and birth control, while more mature women may hone in on information regarding the best ways to deal with menopausal symptoms. The book also lends itself to book club and dormitory discussion.
Q: Is there any “V” topic that even you are uncomfortable discussing?
Dr. Dweck: Nothing, and I mean nothing, surprises, shocks, or makes me feel uncomfortable anymore. I’ve seen it all. That’s why I’ve made it a point to include chapters that discuss such taboo topics as vaginal rejuvenation and sex toys, along with piercing, dyeing, and “vattooing” your vajayjay. The goal of the book is to help answer as many questions about the vagina as possible.
Q: What’s next?
Dr. Dweck: Robin and I are again collaborating on a second book in which we will address the ever changing world of gynecologic surgery. I want to share the up to the minute truths, from the front lines, about the second most common surgical procedure for women, hysterectomy!