Figuring out which doctor to see can be confusing and overwhelming. There are different types of physicians, and you need to ensure the right specialist handles your case. For instance, a gynecologist handles women’s health. Dr. David Afram explains that gynecologists are primary care specialists too. The specialists perform plenty of procedures and health exams such as preventive health screening that is more specific to women.
Why Should I See a Gynecologist?
Your family doctor or primary care physician can refer you to a gynecologist if you have the following issues:
- Need advanced fertility testing or treatment
- Your health issue needs major surgery or procedures
- You need high-risk pregnancy care and delivery
- You require advanced preconception counseling because of your medical condition leading to a high-risk pregnancy
Women can begin gynecology visits at 11 years and 21 years of age. Adolescents and young women in their sexually active periods need regular pelvic exams and screening tests the moment they become sexually active. For those in their pre-teen years, they can simply see a family doctor to address their concerns.
Also, gynecology visits are needed if you are experiencing delayed puberty like your breasts haven’t changed even after reaching 14 years of age. Patients experiencing no menstrual cycles by 16 years of age also need to consult their gynecologist.
Top Reasons to Get Gynecological Care
1. Overall Physical Health
Gynecologists urge women to schedule an appointment at 13-15 years and go for annual visits. You undergo physical exams which include determining your body mass index, getting your standard vital signs, palpating your inguinal lymph nodes, and abdomen. You can also undergo a pelvic exam and have clinical tests done. If you are having issues you don’t know how to handle, let your gynecologist know.
2. Pregnancy-Related Problems
Most women seek medical care from different providers. As much as it’s okay to go to multiple medical facilities until you are happy with the specialist services, you have a risk of losing your medical data. Adequate documentation of your medical data helps future specialists know how to handle your medical problem. Besides, you establish an ongoing relationship with the gynecologist and can advise you appropriately concerning your medical issue.
3. Irregular Menstruation
If your menstrual cycle is irregular, visit a gynecologist. Ignoring this problem can cause reproductive health problems. Consequently, if there is a change in blood flow, ensure you talk to your gynecologist to know more about the problem and get a remedy or treatment.
4. Breast Exams
This is commonly recommended for women above 40 years. Also, you can schedule a gynecology visit if your family has a history of breast cancer. Early detection is crucial to early treatment. Therefore, take it seriously.
5. Pelvic Exam
An annual pelvic exam is vital for women experiencing menstrual disorders, infertility, vaginal discharge, or pelvic problems. Also, premenopausal patients experiencing bowel changes, bladder function, vaginal discomfort symptoms, and abnormal uterine bleeding need gynecology care. This exam is indispensable in your overall health.
6. Pap Smear
Helps you stay clear of cancer and you should go for it regularly. It helps you prevent health concerns. Putting off this exam leads to regrets in the future.
7. Birth Control
Once you are sexually active and are still not prepared to conceive, you can visit the gynecologist for birth control advice. The specialist will give you plenty of options.
8. Painful Cramps or Sex
People have different tolerance levels to pain. If you are regularly on pain killers due to painful sex or cramps, you need to see a gynecologist. You can’t live off ibuprofen as it hurts your liver. Painful sex means you have a problem that needs to be addressed by a specialist in women’s health. The gynecologist ensures you are comfortable and addresses your issues.
Maintain regular gynecology care visits to benefit from good overall health. Any issues concerning women are handled by gynecologists and other family health experts. The specialists understand how your body works and can address any issue by running tests and giving you appropriate advice and treatments.
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