There are some times when it’s better to see a gynecologist doctor than others. Here are some things to think about.
A gynecologist doctor is a health care practitioner who focuses on a female’s reproductive system from early adulthood through old age. He or she will perform preventative medicine,
diagnose maladies or conditions and plan courses of treatment. Every woman should begin to see a gynecologist when she is eighteen years old or becomes sexually active. Here are some tips for scheduling the best time to see a gynecologist:
Mid-menstrual cycle: The best time in a female’s monthly cycle to see this practitioner is in the middle. This means approximately two weeks before or two weeks after a menstrual cycle. Many females’ monthly menstrual cycles are irregular so it may be best to call to let the doctor’s office know this. They may be able to offer some flexibility in scheduling appointments.
Empty bladder: It’s best to have an examination performed when the patient has an empty bladder in order for the doctor to do a manual exam accurately.
No douching: It’s advised that a patient should not do any vaginal douching for a day or so before the exam. Douching is a questionable practice anyway. The body is designed to cleanse itself naturally and man-made products may upset this delicate balance. Ask the physician for his or her opinion on the subject.
No recent sexual intercourse. Sexual intercourse may disturb the laboratory results, which will show up on the exam. It’s wise to abstain from sex for twenty-four hours prior to the appointment.
Any unusual pain: If a woman experiences unusual pain in the region of her genitals or internal reproductive system, she needs to see this physician. Pain is a red flag, which shouldn’t be ignored.
Bleeding after intercourse: If a patient experiences bleeding after having sexual contact, she needs to bring this to the attention of her health care practitioner. This could be the sign of something serious.
Missed periods: If an individual misses monthly menstrual periods, she needs to go in for a pregnancy test. Menstruation cessation could occur because of pregnancy, stress, menopause or other causes.
Mid-cycle spotting: Spotting is a normal condition, usually triggered with use of birth control pills in the first few months of use. If spotting remains frequent it is something that the MD needs to know about. Time to make an appointment to find out what’s going on.
Having unprotected sex with a random partner: If a person has unprotected sex on a whim, she needs to be tested for a variety of STDs. Accidents happen but it’s crucial to not let it escalate into a deadly situation.
Pregnancy: If a patient turns out to be pregnant, she will need to see an OBGYN, not just a GYN. OB stands for obstetrician. An obstetrician is the doctor who will see the pregnancy through. Monthly exams, ultrasounds, maternity vitamins and exercise will all be necessary in order to support the mom-to-be and unborn infant.
Annual exams: Pap tests, breast exams and pelvic examinations should be done on a regular annual basis in order to keep a woman in good health.
A gynecologist doctor should see female patients through sickness and health. It’s important to have this health care practitioner on one’s speed dial.
