7 Reasons Why You Should Be Seeing A Gynecologist Regularly
According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), all women should have their first gynecological visit before they turn 18, or when they become sexually active, whichever comes first. After that, ACOG recommends that women see a gynecologist once a year for a well-woman exam.
However, many women don’t see a gynecologist on a regular basis. In fact, a recent study found that only 44% of women ages 18-44 have seen a gynecologist in the past year.
There are many reasons why women don’t see a gynecologist regularly, including lack of insurance, embarrassment, or simply not knowing the importance of regular visits.
But there are many good reasons to see a gynecologist on a regular basis, even if you’re not experiencing any problems. Here are 7 reasons why you should be seeing a gynecologist regularly:
- To Screen for Cancer
One of the most important reasons to see a gynecologist regularly is to screen for cancer. Gynecologists can perform Pap smears to detect cervical cancer, as well as breast exams to check for signs of breast cancer. This is important because early detection is key to the successful treatment of cancer.
- To Regulate Your Periods
Another reason to see a gynecologist regularly is to keep your periods regular. Gynecologists can prescribe birth control pills or other medication to help regulate your periods and make them more regular. They can also help you manage any pain or other symptoms you may be experiencing. When your periods are regular, it’s a good sign that your reproductive system is healthy.
- To Detect Problems with Your Reproductive System
If you’re experiencing any problems with your reproductive system, such as pain during sex, unusual discharge, or irregular periods, a gynecologist can help. Gynecologists are experts in women’s health, so they can help you identify any problems and get the treatment you need. When you start going to a gynecologist, they will keep your patient record and will be able to track any changes in your health over time.
- To Get Birth Control
If you’re sexually active and don’t want to get pregnant, it’s important to see a gynecologist to get birth control. Gynecologists can prescribe birth control pills or other forms of contraception, such as intrauterine devices (IUDs). They can also provide counseling on which method of birth control is right for you.
- To Get STD Testing and Treatment
If you’re sexually active, it’s also important to see a gynecologist for STD testing and treatment. Gynecologists can test for STDs such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HIV. They can also provide counseling on how to reduce your risk of STDs and how to get treatment if you do have an STD. So when it comes to STD prevention, a gynecologist is your best resource.
- To Address Menopausal Symptoms
If you’re experiencing menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, or vaginal dryness, a gynecologist can help. They can prescribe hormone therapy to help relieve these symptoms. They can also provide counseling on how to cope with menopause and how to manage any changes in your health.
- To Get a Well-Woman Exam
A well-woman exam is an important part of preventive health care. During a well-woman exam, a gynecologist will check your blood pressure, weight, and height. They will also do a breast exam and a Pap smear. The well-woman exam is an important way to detect any early signs of problems, such as cancer.
So if you’re not already seeing a gynecologist on a regular basis, these are 7 good reasons to start today! Regular visits to a gynecologist can help keep you healthy and catch any problems early. So make an appointment today!
Where to find a gynecologist
There are many ways to find a gynecologist. You can ask your primary care doctor for a referral, or you can search online directories such as the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) website. You can also call your insurance company to get a list of in-network providers. And finally, you can ask family and friends for recommendations. This way, you can find a gynecologist that you feel comfortable with and that you trust.
If you have any other questions about gynecologists or women’s health, please feel free to ask! You can also visit the ACOG website for more information.