I’m Nervous About Scheduling My First Gynecology Visit
August 9, 2016 10:16 am
First Gynecology Visit
If you’re scheduling your first gynecology visit and are anxious or curious about what you will experience, you aren’t alone. Many girls and women have a lot of questions when it comes to seeing a gynecologist. and when they should schedule an appointment.
What Does a Gynecologist Do?
It’s normal to be a little worried about your first OBGYN appointment.
A gynecologist is a medical doctor who specializes in women’s reproductive health, including the uterus, Fallopian tubes, ovaries, cervix, vagina and vulva. Your doctor can detect problems before they arise and answer any questions you have about your reproductive health. Gynecologists often treat conditions or problems about menstruation, contraception, sexual health, and menopause. Most gynecologists also specialize in obstetrics, including pregnancy, labor, and delivery.
When Should I Start Seeing a Gynecologist?
If you are over the age of 21, are sexually active, or have a concern you’d like to discuss with your doctor, you should schedule a gynecology visit. Having problems with your period, needing your annual pelvic exam, or having questions about birth control are common reasons women schedule an appointment with their gynecologist.
What Happens During an Gynecological Examination?
Generally, gynecology exams are routine checkups, just like they were at a pediatrician or primary care physician’s office, just highly tailored to your health as a woman.
- Pelvic Exam
- A pelvic exam is when the gynecologist examines the outside of your genitals, in addition to looking inside or examining the vagina, ovaries, and/or uterus. This is to check for any abnormalities, test for any pains, check for bodily changes, and more.
- Pap Test
- A pap smear, or pap test, checks the cervix for abnormal cells which can signal conditions like cervical cancer. Your gynecologist will take a few cells from your cervix to test. A pap test should be done at least every 3 years after the age of 21 or after becoming sexually active.
- Breast Exam
- A clinical breast exam will also be done to check for any abnormalities, like a lump, to detect breast cancer.
- In-Office Procedures or Surgeries
- Dr. Meenakshi Jain offers many in-office procedures and surgeries for Cosmetics and Gynecology in her Saint Petersburg, FL office.
- Regular physical
- Some gynecologists will also perform regular physicals, some may not. It is important to understand what your gynecologist offers. Meenakshi Jain MD offers Gynecological Services and Cosmetic Gynecology.
Questions for your Gynecologist
During your gynecology visit, it’s also a good time to ask any questions or bring up any and all problems you are experiencing. If you have missed your period, are having painful or heavy periods, or are experiencing abnormal vaginal discharge; these are all things that you should bring this up during your gynecological appointment.
To learn more about scheduling your first appointment with Dr. Meenakshi Jain! Call (727) 343-2568 today or request an appointment online!