Everyone, including men and women, have health needs that need to be met, but these needs vary; this is mainly because your biological makeup impacts your predisposition to specific health problems. Women have unique health needs that only a gynecologist can address. Therefore, regular visits with your Manassas OBGYN are necessary to maintain your reproductive health. Specialists recommend that women start routine gynecological visits between ages 13 and 15. Below are other reasons why you may need to see your gynecologist
It is time for your annual
Many women visit the OBGYN as part of their healthcare routine. Routine visits usually involve exams, including a pelvic examination, to check for any symptoms and potential issues affecting reproductive organs, including the cervix and uterus. Your doctor will also perform a Pap smear to check for abnormal and potentially cancerous cells in the cervix. You may also have a breast exam; women at risk of breast cancer require a mammogram.
You want to know your birth control options.
If you are sexually active but unwilling to get pregnant, you may have considered using a contraceptive. However, with different birth control options, you may be a bit overwhelmed by your choices. The best advice you can get is from your gynecologist; they will discuss the different birth control options, including hormonal and non-hormonal. Your gynecologist will also share the risks and benefits of each to help you make an informed decision. They will then help you determine the best form of contraception based on your health and lifestyle.
You suspect you are pregnant.
Whether you are experiencing pregnancy symptoms or just got a positive pregnancy test, it is essential to confirm with your OBGYN. Confirming your pregnancy as soon as possible allows your specialist to offer the treatment and care you need to ensure a healthy pregnancy and delivery. If you are not pregnant and are not planning to have children soon, you may discuss birth control options with your OBGYN.
You have symptoms of an infection.
If you have unusual symptoms such as itching, abnormal discharge, and burning with urination, you may want to seek medical help. Whether you suspect you are dealing with a bacterial infection, urinary tract infection, yeast infection, or bladder issues, your OBGYN can diagnose and offer treatment quickly and easily. Besides treatment, they may also give you tips to reduce your risks of infections. Early treatment is also essential since it allows your specialist to treat an infection before it spreads to other areas. For example, early treatment of a UTI infection can prevent the kidneys from being infected.
You are concerned about STDs
Another reason to make an immediate appointment with your OBGYN is if you are concerned that you might have contracted an STD. You should visit your gynecologist if you notice sores, unusual vaginal discharge, and other abnormal symptoms. However, many sexually transmitted infections cause no symptoms, so you can have an STD and not even know it. This is also why specialists recommend regular STD testing even if you aren’t experiencing symptoms.
Book an appointment today with your OBGYN at Capital Women’s Center for your routine gynecological checkup to take control of your health.
