WHY TO SEE A GYNECOLOGIST: Take responsibility of your health

Is It Really Important to See a Gynecologist?

A gynecologist is a specialist with a focus on women’s reproductive health. Your family doctor/pediatrician may not be able to answer all of your questions that gynecologists can. When it comes to your reproductive health, by seeking gynecological care, you are taking responsibility for your health in a new way. It is exciting to know that you are making good choices and making sure that everything is going well during puberty and with your reproductive system

Visits with Gynecologists Are Rewarding:

Visiting a gynecologist is very rewarding for many reasons. Gynecologist can help you with menstrual problems. Feel free to discuss any problems you have noticed with your menstrual cycle.

Gynecologists also conduct breast examination, which is important when you are over the age of 40. If your family or you have a history of breast cancer, you may need to schedule exams more often.

The same goes for pelvic exams and pap smears. If you are over the age of 21, pelvic exams are necessary if you have delayed childbearing, pelvic pain, a strange discharge, or other menstrual disorders. Pap smears also help to reduce cancer risks as well as other types of health problems.

Other Top Reasons Why You Should See Gynecologists:

There is a misconception that one needs to consult a gynecologist only when pregnant. As consulting a gynecologist can be intimidating for many women, they often avoid visiting one altogether. But what every woman should understand is that the gynecological problems vary from woman to woman and are not restricted to pregnancy or postpartum (after childbirth) health. Here are the top reasons for a woman to consult a gynecologist

• Help you to understand the way your reproductive system works
• Teach you what a normal vaginal discharge should be, and to spot signs of vaginal infections
• Find problems early for treatment
• Teach how to protect yourself when you have sex
• Preconception visit to plan a healthy and happy pregnancy
• Urine Abnormalities
• Pelvic Pain or discomfort
• Menopause and postmenopausal symptoms

At what age should a female see a gynecologist?

Between the ages of 11 and 18, a female could potentially see a pediatrician, a family physician and/or a gynecologist. However, there are instances when it would be appropriate to have a younger patient see a gynecologist, such as:

• Delayed puberty (no breast tissue changes before age 14) or delayed menarche (no menstrual cycles prior to age 16)
• Painful menstrual cycles, especially if missing school or activities due to symptoms
• HPV Vaccination to protect against cervical cancer.
• Any sexual health concerns or contraceptive needs.