HEALTH
6 Unmistakable Reasons to Visit Your Gynecologist
A visit to the gynecologist is inevitable for every woman. After your first period, most gynecologists recommend that you visit an OBGYN once every year for the rest of your life. This appointment can be your annual well-woman exam if you are healthy or more frequent visits if you are pregnant, have a health condition, or have some concerns. These regular New York obstetrics & gynecology appointments are critical to maintaining your reproductive and general health. But when exactly should you set one? Here are six non-debatable reasons to see your gynecologist.
1. You Are Due for Your Annual Exam
The annual well-woman exam is the most common reason women visit their gynecologist. From when you are 21, you should see your gynecologist once a year for a checkup. This exam, which often includes a pelvic exam, pap smear, and breast exam, is designed to assess your health and check for any issues or symptoms that could cause problems in your cervix, uterus, and other reproductive organs. Your gynecologist will also scan for pre-cancerous cells. If you have not had a well-woman exam in over a year, you should set one up immediately.
2. You Have Worrisome Periods
Periods are a natural part of a woman’s life. But sometimes, they can be riddled with irregularities that make them painful or extremely heavy. These symptoms can be debilitating enough to disrupt your daily activities. When this is the case, it is paramount that you discuss your concerns with your gynecologist. Worrisome periods can be a symptom of a serious underlying problem like endometriosis, polycystic ovarian syndrome, or nutritional deficiency.
3. You Have Questions About Birth Control
The many birth control options available today can be overwhelming, especially if you are just starting to use birth control. Before jumping on a method and finding out its side effects on your body the hard way, you should discuss your options with your gynecologist. They can review the different methods with you, weighing their pros and cons, and factoring in your medical history to help you pick the best birth control for your lifestyle and health.
4. You Are Worried About STDs
If you have a new sexual partner or suspect you may have been exposed to an STD, you should set an appointment with your gynecologist as soon as possible. Symptoms that can alert you to this include itchiness in or around the vagina, pain during sex or when you urinate, sores, or unusual discharge. Your gynecologist will perform tests to produce an accurate diagnosis and start your treatment if you have an STD. You should also see them for regular screenings as long as you are sexually active, even if you are not currently experiencing symptoms.
5. You Suspect You Might Be Pregnant
You may have missed your period, experienced symptoms, or got a positive pregnancy test. Either way, this is the perfect time to see your gynecologist and confirm whether you are pregnant. If you are, your gynecologist will start you on maternal care to make the entire process healthy.
6. You Are Showing Signs of an Infection
Contact your gynecologist if you feel a burning sensation when you urinate, are itchy, or notice an unusual discharge. These could be signs of a yeast infection, bladder problem, UTI, or bacterial infection.
OBGYNs provide comprehensive reproductive care for women of all ages, from routine tests like STD scans and pap smears to family planning and maternal care. At Dr. Inga Zilberstein, MD, PLLC, gynecology specialist Dr. Zilberstein dedicates herself to preserving your gynecological health and providing comfort during treatment. She handles a wide range of women’s issues, including fibroids and endometriosis. If one of these six signs describes your situation, contact her office to schedule a visit.
Umar Nisar was born and raised in the busy city of Abbottabad. As a journalist, Umar Nisar has contributed to many online publications including PAK Today and the Huffing Post. In regards to academics, Umar Nisar earned a degree in business from the Abbottabad UST, Havelian. Umar Nisar follows the money and covers all aspects of emerging tech here at The Hear Up.
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