24, Jul 2023
Overview:
A gynaecological check-up is a type of medical exam that focuses specifically on the health of a woman's reproductive system. This type of check-up is usually performed by a gynaecologist and may involve performing several tests and performing a physical exam of the pelvic area. During the check-up, your gynaecologist may take notes on your menstrual cycle, discuss any symptoms you may have and check for any abnormalities or signs of an underlying health condition. Depending on factors such as age, family history, or medical issues, your gynaecologist might also order a cervical smear, ultrasounds, and other tests.
Some Important Points of Regular Gynaecological Check-ups:
1. Early detection and treatment of diseases and conditions:
Through regular gynaecological check-ups, potential diseases, such as breast cancer, ovarian cancer, or endometriosis, can be detected and treated early.
2. Improve fertility:
Gynaecologic check-ups not only detect if fertility issues exist, but they also work to improve it.
3. Protection against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs):
A gynaecologist can detect any STDs and help treat them before they cause greater health problems.
4. Identify cervical cancer:
With a regular Pap test, cervical cancer can be identified.
5. Keep track of menstrual cycle:
An annual exam can help keep track of menstrual cycles, making it easier to plan for family planning.
6. Enhance overall reproductive health:
Regular visits allow a doctor to monitor overall reproductive health and to note any specific issues or abnormalities.
7. Detection and management of menopause symptoms:
Depending on the individual, menopause signs can start as early as age 35. Yearly exams will ensure that any changes in hormones and female health is being monitored.
8. Contraceptive health:
A gynaecologist can provide recommendations for women looking to avoid pregnancies including the best methods, such as birth control pills, condoms, or IUDs.
9. Treatment of urinary incontinence:
Urinary incontinence, a common issue for women, can be treated and managed.
10. Education and advice about sexual health:
A gynaecologist can provide advice about sexual issues, such as understanding a partner's body, libidos, and selecting the best lubricant for more pleasurable encounters.
11. Diagnose hormonal issues:
If a woman is having hormonal issues, such as PCOS and PMS, regular check-ups can diagnose the issue.
12. Evaluation of abnormal vaginal discharge:
Abnormal discharge or abnormal vaginal bleeding can be evaluated by a gynaecologist.
13. Find sexual health-related issues:
Gynaecological exams can help women find underlying issues they may have with sex, such as painful intercourse, low libido, or vaginal dryness.
14. Women-specific health concerns:
Gynaecological check-ups can uncover women-specific health concerns, such as endometriosis, fibroids, or ovarian cysts.
15. Female anatomy screening:
A gynaecologist can take a look at a woman’s reproductive organs and the tissues in the pelvic area, including the vagina, cervix, uterus, and ovaries.
Conclusion:
Regular Gynaecological check-ups are essential for a woman’s reproductive health. Women should seek medical advice on a regular basis to stay informed about their reproductive health and to detect any issues or anomalies. This proactive approach will ensure optimal health for any woman.
Dr. Sue Mitra and her staff strive to offer their patients the best care, advice and services available in the medical field with the goal to keep patient healthy & happy.
Dr. Sue Mitra is board certified in international medicine. She is seen here with a Cologuard, which is a noninvasive colon cancer screening test. (Photo by: Tim Shortt/Florida Today)