You do not have to be pregnant to receive gynecological care. From puberty to adulthood, patients of all ages can benefit from visiting a gynecologist for a regular checkup. Annual exams are essential, comprising an overall health checkup, screenings for common diseases, and patient education. The goal is to help ensure good overall health and address patient needs or issues.
While everyone should aim to get a routine physical from their primary care physician, female patients can benefit from an annual visit to a gynecologist or OB-GYN. These healthcare providers are trained in treating the female reproductive system and the breasts (such as by providing breast exams to screen for cancer). An annual visit to the gynecologist has several components as follows:
The health checkup portion of an annual gynecological visit, also known as a “well-woman visit,” is similar to a physical exam. The gynecologist will ask about the patient’s personal and family medical history, take their vitals, and check their lungs, heart, and ears with various tools (stethoscope and otoscope). They will also ask questions about any issues the patient has been experiencing and provide solutions. If needed, they may order tests, such as to check on kidney and liver function or to check for sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
The gynecologist may conduct a pelvic exam and pap smear depending on the patient's age. A pelvic exam involves checking the vulva, vagina, and abdomen to ensure the absence of any issues, such as cysts, irritation, or unusual discharge. They may also complete a pap smear, which involves taking a quick swab of the cervix to test for cervical cancer and STIs.
Keep in mind that patients do not necessarily need to receive a pap smear every year. If the test comes back normal, a gynecologist will recommend waiting a few years before getting another pap smear. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that pap smears be completed about every three to five years for patients between the ages of 21 and 65.
A gynecologist can also complete a quick breast exam to check for lumps and other abnormalities. The patient will be encouraged to ask about any breast changes, pain, and other issues. If an abnormality is detected, the gynecologist will likely order additional tests, such as X-rays, to get to the bottom of the problem.
During an annual exam, the gynecologist will ask whether the patient is planning to get pregnant or if they are currently pregnant. If so, they can prepare the patient for what to expect and provide prenatal care. They can also help the patient explore other options, such as abortion if state law allows.
Besides pregnancy care, gynecologists can also prescribe birth control to prevent pregnancy or to manage hormonal imbalances. They can educate younger patients on what to expect during the different phases of a menstrual cycle (follicular, ovulation, luteal, and menstruation). On the other side of the age bracket, they can help patients manage symptoms of menopause.
Annual visits to the gynecologist can help prevent disease and maintain one’s general health, regardless of age. Call our office to schedule a checkup for yourself or your loved one. We look forward to helping you.
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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