Nowadays, in the surge of multiple reproductive health issues among women, we must care for ourselves in a way we haven’t before. This should be applied at every stage of our lives, especially as we mature, become mothers, and go through menopause. One of the ways we can do this is to see a board certified gynecologist regularly.
Read on to discover more about the role of gynecologists and when you should see one.
Understanding the Role of a Gynecologist
The top experts on reproductive health are gynecologists. Gynecologists deal with a range of reproductive conditions, such as the vagina, cervix, uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and breasts.
Once a patient reaches the age of 21, gynecologists typically begin conducting Pap tests, pelvic examinations, and other preventive treatments on them.
See a Gynecologist for Abnormal Periods
Periods should come every 21 to 35 days and last up to 7 days. Abnormal periods include bleeding too frequently, bleeding in between the periods, bleeding that’s too light or too heavy, and painful periods.
Many things, such as traveling, stress,, taking medicines, and changes in your weight, can affect your period. At the same time, recurring menstruation issues could be a sign that something is wrong. Both uterine fibroids and endometriosis can result in painful pelvic bleeding that occurs more frequently than usual.
As such, you need to see a gynecologist if these issues persist.
See a Gynecologist for Abnormal Bleeding
While abnormal bleeding is not always an emergency, some underlying issues may be more alarming.
Abnormal bleeding can be caused by hormonal imbalances and not ovulating. Abnormal bleeding can be caused by medications, including birth control pills. It can also be a sign of pregnancy, and bleeding during pregnancy can be an emergency.
Bleeding after menopause can be a sign of uterine cancer and you should always be examined if you have bleeding after menopause.
See a Gynecologist for Pelvic Pain
You should consult a gynecologist if physical activity or social interaction causes pelvic pain.
Pelvic pain can show up as bloating, a heavy feeling, fever, and overall malaise. This can be caused by ovarian cysts, fibroids, and pelvic inflammatory disease or infection. A significant number of women wait until the discomfort is intolerable before heading to the emergency room, where a CT scan or pelvic ultrasound will confirm the presence of an ovarian cyst. But don’t wait until pain is intolerable, make an appointment to see the gynecologist in the office for a private, convenient, and more comfortable exam.
See a Gynecologist for Signs of Menopause
Many menopausal women need counseling from gynecologists about their symptoms. We discuss normal and atypical symptoms as well as the expectations for various life stages.
A woman might need evaluation of her hormones during perimenopause. They gynecologist can help you do this, so that you can better control your symptoms.
See a Gynecologist for Breast Ache or Growth
Do you have breast pain or feel a lump? You need a breast exam and evaluation to determine if you need an ultrasound or mammogram.
See a Gynecologist for Urinary Problems
Urinary tract infections (UTIs), which are very prevalent in women, can be treated by your doctor. If you are having painful, frequent, or urgent urination, then you need to get checked for a UTI. Other urinary problems include leaking or incontinence, incomplete emptying of the bladder, and a dropped bladder.
See a Gynecologist for a Well Woman Exam
Gynecologists carry out the annual well-woman examinations.
Depending on your age, risk for gynecologic problems, and the screening parameters that are being used, gynecologist will check your weight, blood pressure, and perform Pap smears, breast exams, and pelvic examinations.
The need for yearly pap testing will be determined by your age, gyn, medical and surgical history and risk factors for cervical cancer.
Conclusion
Being examined by a board certified gynecologist is the way you can ensure that all is well in your body. After all, gynecologists are the only ones who can help women tackle female-specific issues. With regular consultations, you can optimize and maintain your health.
Are you in need of a certified gynecologist in Forest Hills, NY? Barbara A. Hessel, MD. FACOG is here to help every woman stay on top of their health. Contact our office today!