Ladies, when was the last time you went for your check-up at the gyno? A lot of women put it off, feeling uncomfortable or embarrassed. I know that I have. But regular exams are essential for maintaining your health. Pap smears help detect cervical cancer, and gynecologists perform breast exams to ensure there are no lumps or signs of cancer.
But regular exams and check-ups are so much more than that. Your appointment with your gynecologist is your chance to ask all those questions you’ve been keeping to yourself, afraid to ask anyone else. If you aren’t comfortable enough to ask those questions, find another gyno. Never settle for a doctor that you can’t talk to.
Everything You Need to Know
Your gynecologist serves as a gateway to endless information that you don’t just want, but need, to know for your reproductive health. They can help you understand the different types of birth control and determine the method that’s best for you.
Additionally, many common medical conditions go undiagnosed when women skip their appointments. These include issues such as PCOS, or polycystic ovarian syndrome that can have mild symptoms but cause significant problems, such as infertility. If you don’t feel comfortable speaking to your gynecologist about irregularities or reproductive health symptoms you’re experiencing, this increases your risks of going undiagnosed.
When you’re pregnant, it’s even more important to have a gynecologist that you can speak to openly. Maybe you’re experiencing unexplained aches and pains and need to know how to tell if your pregnancy discomfort is normal. Do you have questions surrounding the common myths and facts of pregnancy? Again, your gynecologist can explain everything.
Be Straightforward
It’s normal to get uncomfortable when discussing your most intimate details with someone who is essentially a stranger. Remember, though, they are professionals and have heard any and every question that you could ask.
If there’s something that’s weighing on you, a question that you can’t seem to ask no matter how badly you want to, it may be time to find a different gynecologist. The ability to say what’s on your mind is essential to getting the most out of every gynecologist appointment you have.
Signs It’s Time to Switch Gynos
Not every doctor is right for every person, and it’s important to find one that meets your needs. If your doctor makes you feel rushed or doesn’t give you full answers when you ask questions, it’s time to find a new one.
After all, this is your physical health we’re talking about. As well as the health of your baby if you’re pregnant. Don’t settle on just any gynecologist. Find one that you can ask for tips to prevent those pesky yeast infections. They may be able to prescribe you a medication to solve the problem. But you won’t know unless you feel comfortable enough to ask.
There are many ways to find a gynecologist who’s right for you. Ask friends for referrals, ask your insurance company for a list of providers, and read online reviews. Most importantly, if you aren’t comfortable with the next gynecologist, you see, remember that it’s okay to keep on looking.