At any stage of life, you must prioritize your health and well-being. That can mean eating right, exercising regularly, and paying attention to your mental and physical condition. But one important and often overlooked health factor in women is the importance of visiting a gynecologist regularly. A female body is incredibly complex. Yes, it can handle childbirth, but it may experience various health problems. So, if it’s been long since you last had an examination, here are the top reasons you should visit a gynecologist.

Pregnancy and Labor Helpline

Your gynecologist is the go-to source for all things related to pregnancy and childbirth. From the first prenatal visit, your doctor will guide you through every step. They’ll answer questions about diet, exercise, and lifestyle choices during pregnancy and childbirth. And when it’s time for you to opt for the delivery method from water birth to C-section, they’ll ensure you have all the necessary information to make an informed decision. Your medical history, how you handle pain, and your baby’s size will determine your choice.

Avoid Childbirth Injuries

Your gynecologist can help diagnose, avoid, and treat any potential harm during labor. Childbirth injuries may take place due to various reasons. That is why you should go the extra mile in finding the best expert for your delivery. However, in case of an injury, resources like childbirthinjuries.com are available to provide legal help. It’s best to stay updated with the latest developments in childbirth injury law.

Postpartum Care

You can’t just wave your OB/GYN goodbye after delivery. They will continue to be your partner in postpartum care. They’ll offer advice on topics like breastfeeding, contraception, and any physical or psychological issues that may arise. They’ll also ensure you’re taking the necessary steps to ensure a safe and successful recovery. For instance, they’ll advise you on managing your pain, how long you should rest before resuming physical activity, and when it’s safe to start having sex again.

Family Planning and Birth Control

Sexually active women are concerned about two things:

• How to get pregnant
• How NOT to get pregnant

While your peers can provide much information and experience, your doctor knows better. If you’re considering having a baby, your gynecologist will help you understand the menstrual cycle, navigate fertility tests, and learn about available options. If you’re indecisive about getting on a pill or an IUD, your gynecologist can help you choose the best form of birth control for your body. Although IUD is one of the best ways to prevent pregnancy, it may initially cause cramping.

Menopause and Perimenopause

Menopause is a natural part of the aging process and can be challenging to navigate. You may experience hot flashes or other symptoms like mood swings, insomnia, and irregular periods during this time. Visiting a gynecologist can help you identify your symptoms’ severity and provide tips to manage them. Did you know that strengthening your pelvic floor muscles can help with menopause and perimenopause symptoms? What about the ways to minimize vaginal discomfort? Well, your gynecologist has enough knowledge to share.

Menstrual Health

Menstruation – it can make you jump with joy or make you cry and hide in the corner. Either way, it’s good to have a specialist look into your menstrual health to see if something is off-balance. From irregular periods to heavy bleeding, your gynecologist can diagnose if you’re suffering from hormonal issues and recommend treatments to help you. However, their expertise is broader than that. They’ll also help you deal with killer cramps and premenstrual syndrome. Did you know that reducing caffeine and salt intake can ease period pain? Guess who does? Your gynecologist. They’ll even help you understand why your menstrual cycle changes from one month to the next.

Abnormalities

No one knows your body better than you, and if something doesn’t feel right, it’s best to get it checked. A gynecologist can check for any abnormalities that you may be feeling, for example, a cyst or irregular growth. These issues can range from minor to severe. So, the earlier you catch them, the better. When you visit your OB/GYN, they will conduct a physical examination followed by a pelvic exam and Pap smear. It allows them to detect any signs of infection or other abnormalities like endometriosis. They can also refer you to a specialist for further investigation if the need arises.

STI Testing

Sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HIV are common today. CDC reports that about 20 million new cases of STIs emerge in the US every year. About ten million of these cases are among young adults between the age of 15 and 24. The silver lining, however, is that these STIs are treatable. The only catch – you need to detect them early enough. Your gynecologist can provide testing services for STIs and provide treatment and post-treatment follow-ups if you test positive. So, if you’re sexually active, ensure your gynecologist is in the loop.

Breast Exams

There’s a belief that gynecologists only specialize in women’s reproductive systems. But that’s not true. Your OB/GYN will also examine your breasts and can detect any abnormalities if present. If you’re post-menopause, they may recommend a mammogram to check for any suspicious lumps. Depending on your risk factors, they may even suggest a self-breast exam to perform at home. Remember, detection is critical to preventing any further complications. So, if you ever feel something unusual in your breast, don’t hesitate to visit your gynecologist.

Final Thoughts

Women often put their needs and health on the back burner. But, sometimes, it’s essential to take a step back and recognize that you matter too. So, whether you’re dealing with discomfort during intercourse or heavy bleeding, there’s no need to suffer in silence. Your gynecologist is a specialist and the go-to person for any reproductive health-related needs. They’ll help you diagnose, treat, and provide long-term strategies to manage any issues. So, don’t delay getting in touch with them today!