Women’s health is an increasingly popular topic globally due to increasing cancer cases, conception challenges, reproductive irregularities, and other health issues women face. Unfortunately, many women shy away from visiting a gynecologist due to fear, embarrassment, or misinformation. This article will explore three critical points for women to consider visiting a gynecologist: cervical cancer screening, teenagers, and the dangers of not seeing a gynecologist.
Obstetrician and or Gynecologist (OB-GYN) is the official name of a physician specializing in women’s health. American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology recommends that a person begin seeing an OB-GYN from age thirteen or the onset of menstruation; at this stage in a female’s development, puberty begins, and the female reproductive organs also begin to mature to carry out their natural functions fully. Although women may be skeptical about gynecologists, we came up with five reasons women should prioritize visiting a gynecologist regularly.
Cervical Cancer Screening
Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that affects the cervix, the lower part of the uterus. It is slow-growing cancer that may not present symptoms until it has advanced. Therefore, regular cervical cancer screening is essential for early detection and treatment. A gynecologist can perform a Pap smear, a simple test that checks for abnormal cells in the cervix. The test is recommended every three years for women between the ages of 21 and 65. Women with a family history of cervical cancer or weakened immune systems may need more frequent screenings.
Teenagers
Teenagers are often shy or embarrassed about discussing sexual health with their parents or healthcare providers. A gynecologist can provide a safe and confidential space for teenagers to ask questions, receive information, and get tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that girls start seeing a gynecologist between the ages of 13 and 15. The Gynecologist can also educate teenagers about contraception and help them choose the best method for their needs.
Dangers of Not Visiting a Gynecologist
Avoiding visits to a gynecologist can have severe consequences for a woman’s health. Gynecological issues such as vaginal infections, abnormal bleeding, or pelvic pain can go undiagnosed and untreated, leading to complications such as infertility or chronic pain. Not getting screened for cervical cancer can also result in a late-stage diagnosis, reducing the chances of successful treatment. Additionally, some STIs can cause long-term damage to the reproductive system, making it difficult for women to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term.
Manage your expectation
Managing expectations is very important on your journey to fulfill your health needs. Many women who visit a gynecologist do not know what to expect; some generally have a phobia surrounding visiting doctors from personal experiences or feedback from others; in most cases, it is pretty normal. However, these reasons should not be the sole reasons for not visiting an OB-GYN.
To get the most out of your experience, first, thoroughly research gynecologists near you. Based on your research, decide on an OB-GYN specialist you are most comfortable with. Next, decide on the objectives and expectations you want to achieve from experience. One can be, “I want to complete cervical screening annually.” Then, set aside money for your consultations and test. Private care will cost a little more than public so that that route would need financial backing. Lastly, discuss your objective/s and expectation/s with your gynecologists. After an initial consultation, ask to work out a plan based on your health needs.
This article’s insight is crucial because it promotes the importance of obstetrics and gynecology and guides how women incorporate gynecological services into their yearly routines. Suppose women around the world can do this. In that case, we can help mitigate many cancer and health complication cases through early detection, promote peer-to-peer health practices, and set a higher standard for women’s health overall.
