An obstetrician/gynecologist, more commonly known as an OBGYN, is a vital part of your women’s healthcare team. An OBGYN can treat girls and women of all ages, from teen girls just beginning menstruation, to senior women going through menopause.

How an OBGYN Can Help You

You should see an OBGYN at least once each year for a routine gynecological examination. During your routine visit, your OBGYN doctor will perform:

• A breast exam, to check for breast lumps and other early signs of breast cancer
• A gynecological exam, to check for growths or other abnormalities inside the vagina and vaginal canal
• A pap test, to check for evidence of cervical cancer

Routine visits aren’t the only times you should visit your OBGYN. You should also visit your OBGYN for acute problems like these:

• Pelvic pain and swelling that doesn’t resolve
• Pelvic pain or swelling that is becoming worse
• A discharge from your vagina that doesn’t resolve
• Excessive bleeding during your period
• Severe cramping during your period
• Irregular bleeding in between periods

For young girls and teens entering puberty, visits to an OBGYN are important, because your OBGYN can:

• Prescribe birth control options
• Discuss ways to regulate periods
• Discuss ways to relieve heavy bleeding and discomfort

For women who are trying to get pregnant or are pregnant, an OBGYN provides obstetrical services, including:

• Pregnancy testing and an initial pregnancy examination
• Routine pregnancy examinations throughout the pregnancy term
• Prenatal and postnatal care of yourself and your newborn

For older women who are going through menopause, OBGYN visits can help make menopause more comfortable by relieving signs and symptoms like these:

• Weight gain and mood swings
• Hot flashes and night sweats
• Thinning bones, thinning hair, and dry skin

Want To Know More About When To See an OBGYN?

To find out more about when to see an OBGYN and how your OBGYN doctor can help you, talk with your OBGYN doctor today.