When you are sick, it’s normal to consult a doctor to know how to cure your illness. However, it should not be the only reason to go for a medical check-up. Consulting a gynecologist is an important health investment every woman can make.
Here’s more information about what gynecologists do, when, and why you should consult them – even if you think you don’t have health issues.
What Does A Gynecologist Do?
A gynecologist specializes in the female reproductive system. They mostly deal with women’s obstetrics, menstruation, fertility, pregnancy, childbirth, hormonal issues, sexually-transmitted diseases (STDs), and more. Likewise, a gynecologist will guide you on how to take care of your reproductive health and your body in general. Seeing one will help you understand how your body, particularly your reproductive system, works.
Your gynecologist will also help you know what is normal and what is not in terms of reproductive health. Furthermore, there are certain signs or symptoms that can signify some issues in your vaginal health. In such cases, it is the responsibility of your gynecologist to explain what exactly the problem is, what causes it, and how to treat it.
If you are also sexually active, a gynecologist will teach you how to protect yourself against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and unwanted pregnancies. STDs can affect your health, which is why it is important to consult your local gynecologist regarding safe sex practices. Likewise, a gynecologist will also guide you on your way to a safe pregnancy (whether planned or not) up to your delivery day.
In general, consulting a gynecologist is important for a woman’s health. They can help you answer your questions about your reproductive and sexual health. More so, they can also help you adjust with the changes that are happening to your body.
When To See A Gynecologist
According to experts, it is recommended to see a gynecologist as early as your early teens. As mentioned earlier, seeing one should not necessarily be due to pregnancy. Rather, it is a good opportunity to learn more about your reproductive health and how to take care of it.
On the other hand, seeing a gynecologist regularly is more important if you fall under the following criteria:
Nevertheless, it is still important to have your annual OB check-up – whether you fall under the above criteria or not – so as to ensure an overall healthy reproductive health.
What To Do During an OB-GYN Visit
Of course, it is normal to feel tense during an OB-GYN visit. However, women should not be scared at all. After all, they are trained for years to help you understand your reproductive and sexual health.
For first-timers visitors, gynecologists will mostly ask questions about your health history. Likewise, you can also ask them any questions you have about your reproductive health without feeling judged.
During your visit, you should be able to provide your OB-GYN your health concerns and history as detailed as possible. That way, you can help them make their jobs easier and making diagnoses more accurate.
Other things you may need to remember before going to a visit include the following:
Other Procedures During An OB-GYN Visit
Experts recommend visiting your OB-GYN at least once a year. This will help women be updated about their health in general and avoid health issues in the future.
Among common procedures done during a gynecologist visit include the following:
Final Thoughts
Taking care of your health is a huge responsibility. More so, it is a sign of growing up and maturity to protect your overall well-being. That is why it is important to set an appointment with your gynecologist as early as your teens. It is also highly recommended to encourage your teenage daughter or relative to seek an appointment with an OB-GYN.
You are not only required to consult a gynecologist when you are sick. Instead, it is an opportunity for you to explore your health. They can also provide you tips on taking care of your health for a better life.
