It is nothing to be embarrassed about if you’re unmarried and want to see a gynecologist. However, if you have specific symptoms, you should definitely see one. We have found 5 surprising signs which indicate that you need to see a gynecologist.
- Sores and blisters
Some bumps blisters and sores in the groin may escape your attention. They may be as harmless as ingrown hair, which shouldn’t bother you.
But this isn’t always the case. Some molds in the vagina and blisters around the labia may present serious problems.
They may be caused by genital warts. This is a swelling usually caused by sexually transmitted infections.
The sore spots could disappear temporarily. But this isn’t the end of the story. Sometimes, the same lesion could reappear within a couple of weeks; this time more painful and accompanied by genital herpes.
To avoid the suffering, you should contact your gynecologist when you notice these swellings. The specialist would inform you whether the blister is a minor.
Most likely, seeing your sex health expert could protect you against severe vaginal infection.
So make it a point of routine consulting your obstetrician to update on risks brought about by such occurrences.
- Starting or resuming sex
We all take sex as a natural urge, hence indulge in it as and when we find it convenient.
Like everything else, you can also take a break from sexual activity. This hiatus could be due to numerous reasons.
You may have lost your loved one and the grief has taken a toll on your sexuality. Could be also, that you may have endured a tumultuous relationship and decided to end it.
Or maybe you may have undergone a medical procedure that prevented you from lovemaking.
No matter the reason, you may go for months or even years before you engage in sex. But this long break eventually comes to an end.
And you are ready to resume sexual activity. In a flash, your hormones are raging with desire and you are impatient to resume intimacy.
As per the study published by WebMD, consulting a gynecologist can help you become aware of important risks to consider. For instance, if you are under 18 or anticipate having multiple sexual partners, you may face a higher risk of contracting cancer from an HPV infection. It’s important to note that HPV is the most prevalent sexually transmitted virus. Being informed about these risks can aid in making informed decisions about your sexual health and seeking appropriate preventive measures.
This is the time you should meet with your gynecologist. Freely discuss your rekindled sexuality and how to overcome STIs that it may expose you to.
- Pelvic and lower abdomen pain
As a woman, you may be prone to the periodic pelvis and lower abdomen pain. These pains could be due to ovulation.
If these discomforts usually accompany your periods, then they would go away with your periods. But other issues could also result in such arches.
Find out if the pain isn’t related to your menstruation. And even if it is, you shouldn’t be suffering from painful periods anyway.
Thus you should investigate any pelvis pain. Apart from the menstrual cramps, endometriosis, fibroids, and ovarian cysts could also trigger pain below your navel.
As reported in the study by Cleveland Clinic, identifying the cause of your pelvic pain may not be immediately apparent and may require some time and effort. However, with the right diagnosis, relief can be achieved. There are specialists available who can help you, and various tests can be conducted to determine the underlying reasons for your pain and the appropriate measures to address it. Seeking the right medical attention and undergoing necessary tests can lead to a better understanding of your condition and finding effective solutions to alleviate the discomfort.
If you feel pain during pregnancy, you could be having an ectopic pregnancy. Still, a condition known as the pelvic inflammatory disease is also responsible for such pains.
As you can see, several factors can result in pain around your pelvis. You can’t isolate them and pinpoint the real cause.
Hence you should urgently notify your gynecologist when you suffer from lower abdominal pains.
- Breast issues
Breast health is very sensitive just like the tissues. Any changes to the breast size, texture, and sensitivity could be an indicator of something happening to your body.
The breast can become tender during your periods. But this should last approximately the same days month after month.
Sometimes though, you may notice that your breast has new lumps, and is extra sensitive. It could also harden or discharge bloody fluid.
As per the study reported by the National Institute of Health, if you notice a new lump, sensitivity, or discharge in your breast, consulting a gynecologist can provide guidance on whether it is a cause for concern regarding cancer. In many cases, these conditions are not cancerous, particularly if you haven’t gone through menopause, it is essential to seek medical advice to ensure a proper assessment and appropriate management of any breast-related concerns.
Any inflammation of the breasts or lingering pain are issues you need to investigate further. It’s urgent if these issues crop up for longer and out of your ordinary periods.
In these instances, you should grow concerned. Anything out of the ordinary justifies the need to consult your gynecologist.
They may be harmless issues. On the other hand, the abnormalities in your breasts could also be the start of horrible things. Breast lumps could indicate cancerous cells, especially if you are going through menopause.
- Menstrual irregularities
Menstruation is fairly consistent. Hence when you notice that your period starts becoming irregular, you should seek medical assistance.
What are menstrual irregularities? Well, these are changes out of the norms and comprise many issues.
It could be that your periods are heavier or lighter than normal. They could also last longer or shorter than is typical.
Ovarian complications, infections, and uterine abnormalities all cause these irregular periods. You should, therefore, see your gynecologist figure out the causes.
If the triggers are identified early, treatment is easy and cheap. But the causes would determine the kind of medication necessary.
Hormonal therapy is ideal when menstrual inconsistency is due to hormonal imbalance. In some cases, ovarian problems also are treated differently.
Birth control pills are known to disrupt the menstruation cycle. In case the days don’t re-establish themselves after a month or two, then your gynecologist may recommend a change in the pill.
Lifestyle changes can also help recalibrate irregular menstruation.
To conclude, five signs were elaborated on regarding why ladies must see a gynecologist. Learning about these signs and symptoms can help you diagnose an underlying medical condition that might need immediate attention and must be assessed by a gynecologist.
What Does A Gynecologist Do When Your First Appointment?
A gynecologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the health and well-being of the female reproductive system. As a woman, it is important to prioritize your reproductive health and make regular visits to a gynecologist. However, for many women, the thought of going to a gynecologist, especially for the first time, can be intimidating and even scary. This paper aims to provide a better understanding of what a gynecologist does during your first appointment and how to prepare for it.
The first appointment with a gynecologist is usually referred to as a “well-woman exam” or “annual exam”. It is recommended for women to schedule their first appointment between the ages of 13 and 15, or when they become sexually active, whichever comes first. This initial appointment is crucial as it sets the foundation for maintaining good reproductive health throughout a woman’s life.
The first step in preparing for your first gynecologist appointment is to choose a healthcare provider that you feel comfortable with. This can be a gynecologist or a general practitioner with experience in gynecological care. It is important to choose a doctor who you trust and feel comfortable discussing personal and intimate matters with. You can ask for recommendations from friends or family, or do some research online to find a gynecologist who meets your needs.
During your first appointment, the gynecologist will start by asking you some general questions about your medical history, family history, and any current symptoms or concerns you may have. This is an opportunity for you to discuss any issues or questions you may have regarding your reproductive health. It is important to be honest and open with your doctor as it will help them provide you with the best possible care.
The next step is the physical exam. This typically includes a breast exam and a pelvic exam. During the breast exam, the gynecologist will check for any lumps, bumps, or other abnormalities. They will also teach you how to perform a self-breast exam, which is important for detecting any changes in your breast tissue. The pelvic exam involves the doctor checking your reproductive organs for any abnormalities or signs of infection. This is done by inserting a speculum into the vagina to get a better view of the cervix and taking a swab for a Pap smear. A Pap smear is a test that checks for any abnormal cells on the cervix that could potentially lead to cervical cancer. This test is recommended for all women over the age of 21 and should be done every three years.
After the physical exam, the gynecologist may also discuss birth control options with you. This is an opportunity for you to ask any questions and choose a birth control method that best suits your needs and lifestyle. The gynecologist will also educate you on the importance of safe sex practices and answer any questions you may have.
In addition to the physical exam, the gynecologist may also perform other tests such as a urine test, blood test, or STD screening, depending on your age and medical history. These tests are done to ensure that you are in good overall health and to catch any potential issues early on.
Lastly, your gynecologist will discuss any necessary follow-up appointments or tests based on the results of your initial exam. They may also provide you with information on maintaining good reproductive health, including tips on diet, exercise, and other lifestyle habits.
In conclusion, the first appointment with a gynecologist is an important step in taking care of your reproductive health. It is a chance for you to discuss any concerns or questions you may have and receive education on maintaining good reproductive health. It is understandable to feel nervous or anxious about your first gynecologist appointment, but remember that the doctor is there to help and support you. Being open, honest, and prepared will make the experience more comfortable and beneficial for both you and your doctor.
