Female patients should regularly visit the gynecologist, just like any other doctor. Gynecologists are trained in female reproductive health at all life stages, which means they can help maintain overall health and prevent disease. Whether a patient is first experiencing menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause, these medical professionals can help make it easier. Sometimes, “easier” means ensuring that everything is going as expected. Other times, it means addressing issues as they arise.
Many people only think about going to the gynecologist when something is wrong or if they plan on becoming pregnant. However, gynecologists can help at various stages of life. Below are five reasons why it is important to visit a gynecologist.
A gynecologist can provide pelvic exams to detect problems or confirm good health. Pelvic exams look for issues with the female reproductive organs in as little as 10 minutes. As such, the gynecologist will conduct a visual and manual examination of the vagina, cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. If needed, they may use a speculum (a medical device shaped like a duckbill that widens the vaginal wall) to inspect the cervix. They may take a cell sample from the cervix (pap smear) to test for cervical cancer and certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Gynecologists receive training to provide breast examinations to look for abnormalities and signs of breast cancer. This is done by feeling for lumps and bumps in and around the breasts. It may also be necessary to inspect the shape and size of the breasts if the patient reports unexpected changes in breast size.
To get a breast exam, the patient will need to change into a gown. If only a manual examination of the breasts is needed (not visual), the patient may be able to keep the front of the gown closed. The gown is thin and has no underwires or other obstructions that could interfere with the exam. If there are any abnormalities, further testing may be necessary.
Gynecologists offer many birth control options. They can work to find the best option for each patient, considering their needs and medical history The birth control pill is among the most common. Other methods include intrauterine devices (IUDs), diaphragms, sponges, vaginal rings, female condoms, male condoms, and the contraceptive patch.
The pill comes in two forms: combination pills and minipills. Combination pills contain both progestin and estrogen, while minipills only contain progestin (also known as the progestin-only pill or POP). Various brands offer each type. A gynecologist will work to find the brand that causes the least amount of side effects. They will also consider the patient’s eligibility for each type of pill. Some patients do not qualify for combination pills due to the heightened risk of blood clots.
Please note that birth control is not always used to prevent pregnancy. Some patients use it to manage hormonal imbalances, irregular periods, heavy and painful periods, and more. Ask the OB-GYN about birth control if the patient experiences these problems.
Gynecologists can help patients understand menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause. Each stage causes changes in the body, some of which affect mood and one’s overall sense of well-being. However, negative side effects are manageable. For instance, it is possible to manage painful menstruation with birth control. Other times, an underlying issue may be making one of these stages more difficult, such as endometriosis. In these cases, the gynecologist will help manage and treat the underlying condition to bring relief.
Gynecologists provide general health checkups, sometimes referred to as “well-woman visits.” The Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion recommends that female patients get these annual checkups to ensure they stay healthy. It involves a full health checkup in which a gynecologist will conduct a physical examination, breast exam, and pelvic exam, among other services. Additionally, it is possible to order any missing immunizations. The gynecologist may also order lab tests as needed, such as STI testing or blood work.
A well-woman visit is one of the most common reasons to visit a gynecologist because they allow for early detection and treatment of various health problems. As such, they also encompass other gynecological services, such as the other services featured on this list.
If you are due for a general health checkup, want to learn more about birth control, or need assistance managing menopause or pregnancy, schedule an appointment with our Tomball OB-GYN. We can provide these services and more. Simply call Donald Eckhardt Jr., M.D. , Kari Eckhardt W.H.N.P., C.N.M. today to get started.
Request an appointment here: https://eckhardtobgyn.com or call Donald Eckhardt Jr., M.D. , Kari Eckhardt W.H.N.P., C.N.M. at (346) 201-4716 for an appointment in our Tomball office.
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