Q. I've been in a sexual relationship with my partner for the past three years, but recently after sex I've been experiencing a throbbing and burning sensation in my vagina. The pain goes away once I've had a cool bath, but it's really starting to worry both of us. Is it something serious? Tracey, 31

A. There are a number of possible reasons for this. You may have a pre-existing inflammation such as candida, which is when your body produces too much yeast. Candida can be made worse by sex and may result in a range of symptoms including thrush. It could also be that you are producing less natural lubricant during sex, which can cause soreness. And changing your contraceptive pill can also have side effects. It is also possible to become allergic to sperm or to the latex in condoms.

Make an appointment with your doctor to check that you don't have an infection, and try using a hypo-allergenic lubricant such as KY Jelly or a soothing cream such as Lanacane after sex.

If the problem continues, it would be a good idea to pay a visit to your local GUM (Genito-urinary medicine) or sexual health clinic, who can carry out a range of tests to rule out anything else.

Q. My son's nearly five years old and he still dribbles! I keep telling him to swallow or wipe his chin but he does it without realising and his shirts are constantly wet. How can I get him to stop doing it? Sally, 37

A. Your son may be avoiding swallowing, perhaps because it's painful for him to do so. Chronic inflammation of the tonsils, enlarged adenoids or nasal congestion because of an allergy could be to blame, but so could tongue tie (where tissues or membranes under the tongue are too tight to allow the tongue to fully extend) or dental problems. Make appointments with both your GP and dentist, as it's a good idea to get this sorted as soon as possible.

HEALTH HERO: HOT CURRIES
There's no need to feel guilty for indulging in your favourite vindaloo any more, just make sure it's filled with turmeric and you won't pile on the pounds as much as you'd think. New research from Tufts University in Boston, found meals that contained turmeric caused less weight gain than the same meal without it. This is because it contains an active ingredient that can reduce the growth of your body's fat cells in the system. And the spicier you go, the better. Chillies have been found to boost metabolism, which also increases weight loss. Now, where's that takeaway menu?

FACT vs FICTION
Skin cancer affects fair people more: FICTION
I've afraid this is not necessarily the case. New research shows dark-haired 'easy tanners' are at just as much risk as fair-skinned people because they mistakenly believe that if their skin isn't getting burnt, it's not being damaged - and so they end up staying in the sun even longer. Make sure you always wear a minimum of SPF15.

Email your health questions to drhilary@fabulousmag.co.uk