Scheduling an appointment with a new gynecologist can be intimidating. Although most providers work hard to ensure their patients remain as comfortable as possible throughout an examination, it’s still a common occurrence for people to find reasons to delay an initial consultation. Instead of seeing their health care provider regularly, many women simply request a Pap test every several years.
However, gynecological examinations serve a purpose beyond screening for cervical cancer. In many cases, they present an opportunity for women to be proactive in making sense of their health and habits. Learn more about how Core Medicine of Idaho empowers our patients to protect themselves from cancer while making informed decisions about their well-being.
Benefits of Regular Gynecological Examinations
A thorough gynecological checkup should always encompass more than a Pap test. Here are some of the primary benefits to your health. .jpg)
Establishing a Closer Relationship With Your Health Care Provider
Seeing a gynecological care provider regularly lets you build a trusting relationship—one established on familiarity, comfort, and shared experience. Even if you don’t need a pelvic examination, sitting down and talking through your concerns gives your provider a chance to assess your overall health and document long-term trends that might otherwise be overlooked.
Preventing Health Problems Before They Arise
Your gynecological appointment may include tests beyond an inspection of your pelvis. Various screenings are a critical component of many annual examinations, as they help detect early signs of:
- Cancer. Pap tests are used to screen for cancerous cells in the cervix. However, your gynecological health provider will check for breast cancer as well and inspect any worrying lumps, bumps, and moles.
- Sexually transmitted diseases. Annual screenings also diagnose sexually transmitted diseases (STD). Many common STDs, including herpes and chlamydia, can be asymptomatic. This means many women don’t always present symptoms but still risk spreading infection to a partner.
- Bladder disease and other illnesses. Your gynecological exam might not include screenings for bladder disease or other illnesses, but your provider will help you explore any concerns you have about sudden, unexpected, or unpleasant changes in your body.
Preventative screenings save thousands of lives every year, offering peace of mind and a chance to be proactive.
Receiving Professional Input
During your gynecological appointment, you have ample opportunity to ask questions about illnesses, prescription medication, and contraceptives. For example, if you’re not happy with your current form of birth control, your provider could help you explore alternatives that are better for your body.
