Gynecologists specialize in women’s health, and they pay particular attention to the woman’s reproductive system. In some instances, they can even serve as women’s primary health care provider. There are several reasons why you might decide to visit a gynecologist. Read on to find out more about why you should consider seeing a gynecologist in Miami.
At What Age Should You Start Your Gynecologist Visits?
Most women are curious about when to see a gynecologist. Gynecologists like Dr. Victoria Bedell can treat women at any age. However, it’s advisable to start visiting the gynecologist when you are over 13, but this can vary depending on your needs. It is important to start this early so you can build a relationship with your doctor and ask any questions you may have. This will enable you to be a lot more comfortable discussing issues or perhaps uncomfortable topics with them. For instance, you will want to talk about things like menstruation, sexuality, concerns about STDs, and a variety of other things.
Establishing a healthy relationship will also enable the doctor to guide your welfare in the long term. This can be done through counseling and discussing crucial health and lifestyle issues. Now that you know when to see a gynecologist, let’s look at some of the most common reasons why women visit the gynecologist.
To Discuss Birth Control Options
This is one of the most common reasons to see a gynecologist. If you are sexually active but not ready to have children, it is crucial to visit a gynecologist to discuss your birth control options. There are several methods to choose from. Some of these options are more effective than others, which is why you will need professional advice. Apart from that, some birth control methods might not be suitable for women with certain conditions. For instance, while many women use the pill, it is not recommended in individuals with diabetes or heart problems. Your gynecologist will be able to look at your medical history and recommend the best birth control method for you.
Treatment of Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
STDs are another common reason to see a gynecologist. If you notice any symptoms that point to an STD, such as the presence of a new genital lesion, or foul-smelling vaginal discharge, you must quickly visit your gynecologist. It is not advisable to delay getting treatment because some STDs can lead to serious long-term problems like infertility. A gynecologist will help you prevent such complications by quickly diagnosing and treating the STD. They will also give you advice on how to prevent sexually transmitted diseases/infections.
Dealing with Infertility
Infertility is a problem that has many causes. Your gynecologist will be able to investigate and see what is causing infertility. They can handle less complicated fertility issues or refer you to a fertility specialist. Fertility specialists can also be gynecologists who have received extra training in handling fertility issues.
Overall Physical Health Checks
It is recommended that women between ages 13 and 15 start seeing their OB/GYN annually. Your general medical checkup will involve things like obtaining standard vital signs, checking your body mass index, palpating your abdomen and lymph nodes, and assessing your overall health. Some can also involve a breast exam or pelvic GYN exam and a variety of clinical tests.
If something is happening to your body, regular visits to the gynecologist can make all the difference. They will be able to identify medical conditions before they develop into more complicated problems. This is why you must not wait for very complicated reasons to go to your gynecologist.
Visiting a Gynecologist During Pregnancy
Your gynecologist will guide you through your pregnancy as all gynecologists are also obstetricians, or doctors who take care of pregnant women. Visiting them during this period is an essential part of keeping your baby and yourself safe.
Problems With Menstruation
If you have problems with menstruation, it is recommended that you be evaluated by a gynecologist. In fact, this is one of the most common reasons to go to a gynecologist. If you delay or ignore the problems, you might experience complications with your reproductive system later in life. Menstrual problems involve irregular periods, painful periods, and excessive bleeding. In some instances, your periods can even stop. If you notice any of these symptoms, you must clearly describe what is going on so your gynecologist can make the correct diagnosis.
Visiting a Gynecologist for a Pap Smear
A PAP smear is one of the most common reasons to see a gynecologist. This test is essential for the diagnosis of cervical cancer and other conditions. You can also get a PAP smear when you visit the gynecologist for other problems, if deemed appropriate by your doctor.
Breast Examinations
Gynecologists don’t just deal with vaginal concerns. They also handle the health of your breasts. If you feel like there is something wrong with your breasts, you must make a gynecologist appointment as soon as possible. For instance, if you detect any lumps or tissue masses, you should get them checked out to rule out breast cancer.
Pain During Sex
Experiencing pain during sexual intercourse is another reasons to be seen by a gynecologist. Under normal circumstances, intercourse is not associated with any form of discomfort. Whether your source of pain is physical or psychological, you must quickly make a gynecologist appointment so you can find out what may be causing it.
Abnormalities With Vaginal Discharge
Any abnormal vaginal discharge can indicate that something may be wrong with your reproductive health. Unfortunately, many women will either attempt to self-treat or just ignore abnormal discharges. This can compound the problem and result in long-term complications. Instead, you must visit the gynecologist as soon as possible if you notice a vaginal discharge that is not normal for you.
It’s important to visit your gynecologist if you suspect something is wrong with your reproductive health. Even if it is something as small as discomfort during urination, it may indicate a more complex problem. Your gynecologist will be able to carry out tests and determine what is responsible for your symptoms. If you have any reproductive issues, contact us today to arrange a consultation. Our experienced healthcare providers have many years of experience, and they will be able to investigate and come up with the relevant treatment plan.