A pelvic exam is something that every woman looks forward to. It’s not something we look forward to. There was a news article that highlighted potential changes in recommendations for pelvic examinations. It likely caused celebrations across the country.
Be positive about these new recommendations. But remember that an annual exam should not be skipped. Although the discomfort associated with the pelvic exam may be less common, it is still important to schedule an appointment annually.
Here are nine reasons why you should continue your annual well-woman GYN visits
Let’s Discuss Birth Control: The truth is that life changes and the birth control method you used last year might not work this year. There are always new options. Your GYN is the best person to discuss this with and it will take place at your annual visit.
Preventive Care: Some specialized obgyn in NJ can not only treat your body but also offer advice on how you can keep yourself healthy as a woman. It is a privilege to have the chance to talk with an expert on women’s health about ways to make our lives healthier – from diet to exercise to mental health.
Self-Breast Exams Every Month: It is helpful to have an expert do a quick, painless, and easy breast exam once per year to confirm that the feelings we feel are normal and not something to worry about. A professional may feel or see something that is not obvious at home.
Vaccinations: The annual GYN exam can be a great time to review any vaccinations that you might need, such as the flu and Pneumovax. The HTMLV vaccine is an important vaccination that young women should get. It is crucial to ensure that the vaccine has been updated at a woman’s first GYN appointment (usually around 18).
Let’s Have A Talk On Sex: You can bring up any concerns about sexual intercourse between young and old at this appointment. Your GYN should be someone you feel comfortable speaking with about sexually transmitted diseases, birth control options, or pain during intercourse.
You May Be Experiencing A Little Leaking: Incontinence isn’t something that women shout about (though it is quite common). You can talk to your gynecologist to find out what options are available to you.
Talking About Aunt Flo: A conversation about your periods can reveal a lot to your gynecologist about your health, are you experiencing consistent bleeding each month? Does your period come every month? How heavy is your period Do you feel extreme discomfort from your period? Are you experiencing bleeding during periods? These simple questions can alert your gynecologist that there is something wrong.
Preconception Counseling: If you are planning to have a family and are in your childbearing years, it is important to plan and create the right environment to help you conceive. Talking to your gynecologist regarding vitamin/nutrient intake and family history is a great way to help you have a successful pregnancy.
Emotional Health And Well-Being: Most women experience times in their lives when their emotions go rogue. It doesn’t matter if it happens early in life, after pregnancy, during menopause, or for any other reason, you must have someone to talk to. Talking openly about your feelings is encouraged during your well-woman exam.
The pelvic exam might not be as necessary as it once was. Evidence-based practice is changing the way that health care works. There is one thing certain: evidence supports the importance of preventive healthcare for women’s health. The above are just some of the many reasons why an annual appointment is so important.
