Most women know they should see an obstetrician/gynecologist (OB/GYN) in order to maintain good feminine health. However, it can be challenging to get over fears, anxieties, or misconceptions about going to the OB/GYN. Let’s take a look at 10 reasons to see a gynecologist and put your mind at ease.
General Gynecological Health
Yearly appointments should be on every woman’s calendar. By starting in their teens, young women can get a baseline of their gynecological health. Annual check-ups will be more likely to reveal changes or issues of concern. When it comes to problems, early detection is often critical to successful treatment.
Pelvic Exam
Having a yearly pelvic exam yearly can help detect unusual growths or other changes that may have developed, along with testing for sexually transmitted infection (STI). Women with issues such as abnormal discharge, menstrual disorders, or perimenopause should definitely be seen annually.
Irregular Menstrual Cycle
An irregular period can be a sign of a larger health problem. Therefore, it’s important that you see our gynecologist to obtain an exam. Let us know whether your cycle has become longer or shorter if bleeding is heavier, cramping has become painful or any other differences of note.
Birth Control
If you’re sexually active and don’t wish to become pregnant, a visit to our gynecologist should be on your list. Here, you can learn about the various options available to you, their effectiveness rates and which may fit best with your lifestyle.
Pap Smear
A pap smear should be part of your annual gynecological exam. This test is sent to a laboratory to be examined for cancer or other abnormal indicators. There are some things that simply can’t be detected through an internal exam alone.
Breast Exam
Many may think of an OB/GYN as being only for vaginal concerns. However, breast health is also of relevant concern to women. Along with your yearly checkup, you’ll likely receive a manual breast exam to check for issues of concern such as lumps or tissue masses.
Painful Intercourse
Painful sex is a sign that something could be amiss. Whether the source of the pain is physical or potentially psychological in nature, our gynecologist should be your starting point to discover answers. This intimate act shouldn’t cause physical discomfort.
Changes in Vaginal Discharge
Unusual discharge could be the sign of an infection. An internal exam is your best bet for discovering the cause of the issue. Ignoring it or attempting to self-treat can compound the problem.
Urinary Issues
If you experience pain or see blood when you urinate, you should definitely see our gynecologist. Blood in the urine or pain isn’t necessarily of medical concern, but it’s always best to find out for sure.
Maternal Healthcare
Obtaining care from an OB/GYN is essential to maternal health. If you’re pregnant, it’s wise to make an appointment as soon as you know or suspect. Our gynecologist will monitor your entire pregnancy to be sure everything is on the right track and to address any concerns.