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Collectively, we all have memories, some positive and some negative, surrounding childhood “check-ups,” and adult doctor’s appointments throughout the years. Though visiting any type of doctor can raise anxiety, uncertainty, and agitation in many young and more mature adults alike, most of us are able to push past the slight dread and unsettlement, and swiftly make it in and out of our medical visits unscathed. Yet annual examination by an ob/gyn is often perceived and approached differently; though visitation and examination are absolutely necessary, and gynecological appointments should be comfortable and unintimidating in nature, the process and prospect of examination tend to stir even more discomfort and apprehension in comparison to other maintenance-based doctor’s appointments. Sometimes our strong emotions can be so overwhelming that they lead to complete aversion of the gynecologist, and a refusal to visit ob/gyn professionals on behalf of various women. Gynecological evaluations are crucially important for women in order to ensure their complete and holistic personal health. There are a plethora of specific reasons as to why women should definitely not skip their yearly check-up appointment and also various examples and cases in which women should absolutely seek additional ob/gyn opinion and evaluation; the following list explores the top five most common concerns women face that should be raised, and solved, with the help of a skilled and trusted gynecologist.  

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1. Checking In And Maintaining General Gynecological Health

Going to see a gynecologist is an important part of maintaining overall health and wellness for women. Many women delay visiting the gynecologist for the first time due to misinformation and uncertainty as to when they should first begin their visits and examinations. Though many young women choose to begin visiting the gynecologist once they become sexually active, it is advised that teen girls begin seeing a gynecologist anywhere from 13 to 15 years of age. There are cases in which visits at these ages may be imperative if the patient is experiencing abnormal developmental delays and/or any other reproductive health concern. Checking in on and maintaining general gynecological health should occur once a year, and should include a pelvic physical exam as well as a pap smear in order to ensure that there are no abnormalities nor growths to be concerned or attentive of.

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2. Breast Examination

For several women, especially those with a history of breast cancer in their immediate family or more extended lineage, breast examinations can be crucial and extremely effective in order to ease anxiety surrounding a benign growth or catch an abnormality or lump of concern before it progresses. Visiting your ob/gyn specialist for a breast examination is always a great idea, but it is especially and immediately important if an issue or growth is noticed. Self-performed monthly breast examinations can allow women to spot nodules or growths, and be aware of whether they should visit the gynecologist for further evaluation.

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3. Irregular Menstruation

Menstruation is synonymous with pain and discomfort for many women, but this inconvenience and unsettlement is heightened when periods do not come on schedule, as they should. Sometimes, irregular menstruation can be a sign of a significant and underlying internal issue and should be discussed and evaluated by a gynecological professional. Additionally, irregular menstruation can yield unfavorable fertility impacts and/or coincide with immense and debilitating menstrual cramping pain. Whatever the specific concern may be, irregular menstruation, as well as intense cramping during any part of the cycle, should be noted and addressed by an ob/gyn specialist. 

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4. Birth Control

For women who are sexually active, it is important to think about their family planning-based, or preventative tactics and/or medications. These should be thought about and addressed in addition to whatever measures have been set up for a couple to practice safe sex. Women should schedule an appointment with their gynecologist in order to discuss and learn about the various birth control forms and options available to them, their potential side effects, effectiveness, prices, and personal convenience in order to most thoughtfully select a birth control method most conducive to one’s own lifestyle and needs.

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5. Maternal Healthcare

Motherhood is one of the most exciting yet unnavigable parts of a woman’s life, and it is, therefore, very important that a mother-to-be visits the gynecologist as soon as she is expecting to, or has confirmed the news of her pregnancy. An ob/gyn specialist can help to ensure that women are fully aware, educated, and up to date as well as informed of what is to come. Any questions or concerns can and should be raised with the gynecological expert, who will serve as support during the emotional, rewarding, difficult, and sometimes confusing process.

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Whatever the reason may be, it is imperative that women seek advice, information, and guidance from ob/gyn professionals at least once a year. Reproductive health checkups are as important as other general health examinations and can be extremely beneficial in a preventative and/or effort. Finding a gynecologist who feels welcoming and comfortable is key, and ensures a positive patient experience. It is important to remember that doctors are not “one size fits all,” and it is natural, at any age, for women to research and try out a few specialists before finding their most trusted professional.