Pap smear. Period. Stirrups. Speculum. Vagina. These words should be a part of society's everyday discussions on women's health, but sadly, most Americans - men, you're included - don't feel comfortable talking about what goes on down there.

This week, The State News looked at some of the biggest health and sexuality issues concerning women, including diets, body image, emergency contraceptives, pleasure, sexuality and sexual health.

Some of this information is stuff people already claim to know about, but most of it is surprising. This information is the type of thing American society still is too afraid to talk about openly.

College-age women simply don't understand how prevalent breast cancer is in their age group. According to the American Cancer Society, 11,000 women younger than 40 are diagnosed with breast cancer very year. Part of the problem is that lack of discussion about how susceptible to cancer women in this age group are, letting them think breast cancer only strikes older women.

The tide is turning, however. People are seeing how important and normal it can be to talk about women's health. Women are beginning to understand the need for regular gynecological appointments, even if it's uncomfortable and inconvenient. A 30-minute doctor's appointment can give women and men a lifetime of reproductive and sexual happiness.

Many of the topics discussed, like emergency contraceptives and abortion, are highly controversial. They make people uncomfortable and stir up emotions and feelings. But just because people don't agree with something doesn't mean they shouldn't learn about it.

There is still a long way to go before society is completely comfortable with talking about women and sex.

Both women and men need to understand the importance of gynecological exams, sexual health and education. They are hard topics to tackle, but society needs to address them now - no matter how uncomfortable they may become.