Do you wonder how often you should see a gynecologist or OB/GYN? As a general rule, all women should have a pelvic exam at least once per year. According to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, every woman should see a gynecologist before the age of 21, for several reasons. Although most women do not need to have a pap smear before the age of 21, a gynecological exam is a good idea, as it can reveal undetected health problems that can then receive treatment, such as UTIs and STIs. Questions you may have regarding PMS symptoms, irregular, painful, or heavy periods and the best way to deal with them can be answered during an exam.
The topics of birth control, sexuality, relationships, pregnancy, and sexually transmitted infections can be openly discussed with your gynecologist, who can offer sound advice and treatment if necessary. Your gynecologist can also refer you to an outside resource if there is an issue that can’t be handled in your doctor’s office. If you’re over 21 but under 29, you should have a pelvic exam once a year. This yearly visit should include a General Women’s Wellness Exam including a Pap smear.
If you are pregnant, or trying to get pregnant, your OB/GYN will set up a regular schedule of office visits to monitor the development of your pregnancy and your overall health. These visits will cover everything from prenatal care and proper nutrition during your pregnancy, all the way through labor, delivery, and postpartum care. An ultrasound is usually performed at approximately 18 weeks gestation. At that time, we get a good idea of the health and development of your baby, and can usually determine the sex. At Colorado Obstetrics and Women’s Health in Colorado Springs, we offer free walk in urine pregnancy tests for our patients’ convenience and confidentiality. If you are pregnant, we provide complete obstetrical and prenatal care, including normal, routine and high-risk pregnancies.
Since gynecology is the branch of medicine dealing with health care for women, especially the diagnosis and treatment of disorders affecting the female reproductive system, it is sound practice to have an annual exam to stay on top of your health. We care for women at every stage of life, from the child bearing years through menopause and beyond. If you are looking for caring OB/GYNs who will work with you to achieve and maintain your best possible health, give us a call today at (719) 634-8800 to schedule an appointment with one of our friendly women’s health professionals. We look forward to helping you achieve your best health.