5 REASONS YOU SHOULD VISIT AN OBGYN

In order to look after your health, it is important to make visits to your OBGYN as regularly as you can and depending on your health and relationship status. There are clear benefits to OBGYN exams, which are not limited to sexual health. You can access your general gynecological checkups, access birth control methods. receive breast examinations and cancer screenings, check for thyroid malfunctioning and receive checks and advice for infertility. Overall, visiting your OBGYN will help you to identify any areas where you may need support or treatment, and you can receive guidance as to where to receive the necessary resources.

 

What is an OBGYN?

 

An OBGYN is also known as an obstetrician-gynecologist. They are doctors that have specialized in women’s health alongside general health and care. They can provide you with any routine medical services and preventive screenings that you may need, including cancer screenings. They are specially trained in areas of healthcare exclusive to women, so you can rest assured that they are the best people to contact for any questions about your health and wellbeing.

 

What Does a Usual Appointment Look Like?

An OBGYN appointment usually includes the following:

  • Usual medical checkups, including vital signs, discussing what medication (if any) you are taking, and checking background medical history.
  • Discussing any issues with menstruation, pelvic pain, sexual history, fertility issues, etc.
  • Asking whether there have been any unexpected changes, such as pelvic discomfort, irregular menstruation, or lumps and bumps in the breast.
  • Physical examinations, usually including a breast examination, abdominal examination, and lastly, a pelvic examination. As a pelvic examination can be more sensitive and intimidating, it is usually performed last. All efforts will be made to make this as comfortable as possible.

 

It is a good idea to think beforehand if there are any specific questions that you would like answered during your appointment. This could be questions about birth control, pregnancy planning, or changes in menstrual cycles.

During an appointment, you will likely be asked about your living situation and whether you are facing any incidents of domestic violence, manipulation, harassment, or any other issues. An OBGYN appointment is a safe space.

 

5 Key Reasons You Should Visit an OBGYN

  1. General gynecological checkups

As previously mentioned, a visit to the OBGYN will include all general gynecological checkups – this includes sexual health checks. This gives you the opportunity to be tested for any sexually transmitted infections. You can ask for advice on how best to keep yourself free of STIs, and you may be offered treatment for any STIs you may have caught. There is no judgment in an OBGYN appointment, so you do not need to worry about any stigmas.

 

2. Birth control access

If you are sexually active, you can request information from your OBGYN about what methods of birth control are available. Birth control can also be used for other purposes – for example, if you are suffering from irregular periods or heavy bleeds, different forms of birth control may help solve these problems. There are many forms of birth control that can be accessed. Your OBGYN will be able to go through these options and help you to find one that fits best with your lifestyle.

 

 

 

3. Breast examinations/Cancer checks

There are specific forms of cancer that are unique to women that an OBGYN will be able to screen for. These include breast cancer, ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, and uterine cancer. The earlier cancer is detected, the easier it is to treat. Through regularly visiting your OBGYN, you are giving yourself a better chance of surviving any cancers if you are ever diagnosed. Your OBGYN can also talk through how to perform self-examinations for breast cancer. It is advised that you carry out this self-exam at least once a month. If you notice any new lumps or bumps, do not hesitate to contact your OBGYN for a more thorough examination and professional advice.

 

4. Thyroid malfunction checks

Thyroid malfunction is a common and lesser-known issue in women. The most commonly detected issues are either an overactive (hyperthyroidism) or underactive (hypothyroidism) thyroid hormone. The usual symptoms are abnormal changes in weight, irregularities in your period, skin issues, or changes in hair loss or gain. When attending an OBGYN appointment, you can receive a TSH test to identify any of these problems.

 

5. Infertility checks

Many women worry about the prospect of infertility at some point in their lives. An OBGYN will be able to detect any symptoms that could be showing potential infertility and carry out the necessary examinations. Healthcare is developing quickly, and there are many new ways of overcoming fertility issues. Your OBGYN can discuss these if necessary and reassure you if you have any fertility concerns.

 

Overall, visiting an OBGYN has many benefits. It helps you to maintain good health, and effectively tackle any issues that may arise.

Appointments are safe, secure, and confidential, you can rest assured that you are in safe hands.