Most women only think about visiting a gynecologist once a year for their annual women’s health exam. While this is important, there are issues that can occur between visits that should be a clear signal to book an appointment for gynecology care.
Repeated UTI Infections
If you have frequent bouts with urinary tract infections that are being treated by your primary care physician and are either not going away or continue to occur, seek out gynecology care.
Often the cause of these types of chronic infections is something other than a bacterial infection. As chronic UTIs can cause issues with urinary tract and reproductive health in the future as well as in the present, getting help to eliminate the cause of the infections is critical.
Breast Health
Women should complete a routine breast self-exam. Your gynecologist can show you the correct method at your next visit if you are not sure how to complete the self-exam. Any unusual tenderness in the breasts, discharge or any pain or lumps in the breast should be examined by your doctor as soon as possible.
Menstrual Irregularities
Stress, health, hormonal changes, pregnancy, and disease can all cause irregularities in a woman’s menstrual cycle. If you notice missed periods, spotting or bleeding mid-month, extreme cramps or mood swings during your period schedule an appointment for gynecology care.
Additionally, for any woman experiencing pain in the abdominal and pelvic area after sex, it is important to talk to your gynecologist. While the condition may not be serious, there may be medications or treatment options to alleviate the pain and discomfort, allowing you to live more comfortably.
Remember that a gynecologist can also help with pregnancy prevention or planning for a pregnancy. Having an expert in women’s reproductive help to talk to will ensure the information is available to make educated, informed and accurate decisions on your health.
