For women, few things are more important than managing your reproductive health with the assistance of a qualified gynecologist. Many, however, are uncertain about when they should book an appointment with a gynecologist in Montreal. However, a few simple guidelines will ensure that you schedule visits at the appropriate times so you can take full control of your health.
First Visits
Parents often wonder when their daughter should start going to the gynecologist. It is generally recommended that girls have an initial health exam and consultation with a gynecologist by the time they are 15. For most girls, tests like a pap smear or internal pelvic exam won’t be necessary until they are 21, unless they are experiencing unusual issues with their reproductive system.
Regardless of age, women should begin meeting with a gynecologist when they become sexually active, as such activity increases their risk of STDs and other reproductive health issues.
Regular Checkups
After the age of 21, most women should schedule a visit with their gynecologist every year, regardless of whether they have experienced any unusual health issues. At a minimum, women should have a checkup every three years for pap smears and other necessary examinations.
Because gynecologists focus on reproductive health, it is sometimes assumed that women no longer need checkups after starting menopause — but this isn’t the case. Many practitioners recommend that women continue visiting the gynecologist until around age 70. If they have new sexual partners or historic pap smear issues, these visits will likely need to continue even after that.
Potential Concerns
There are some issues that simply shouldn’t wait for a routine gynecological appointment. Changes in the menstrual cycle or pain in the reproductive areas are the most common reasons why you might need to visit a gynecologist more frequently.
Pain or discomfort could indicate a wide range of issues, including STDs, urinary tract infections, or yeast infections. These conditions need to be properly diagnosed so you can receive treatment and keep them from getting worse.
Unusual bleeding should also be addressed as quickly as possible, as this could indicate a cervical injury, fibroids, or even certain types of cancer. Changes to your period could even indicate a pregnancy — so don’t delay in finding out what you need to do next!
Conclusion
By following these basic guidelines, you and your gynecologist will be able to work together to keep your reproductive system working like it should. By taking a proactive and preventative role in your healthcare, you can get quick treatment when necessary to avoid serious complications.
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