Why Annual OB/GYN Checkups are Essential for All Women
Annual checkups are essential to maintaining a healthy body and mind. For women, an annual visit to an OB/GYN is the biggest way to prevent diseases and be more proactive about your health.
The troubling truth is that women are much less likely to get a pelvic exam than they were 30 years ago. Without consistent monitoring, women are more likely to die from preventable and detectable conditions.
Every woman can benefit from having regular exams, even if they feel healthy and problem-free.
Still need convincing? Here are just a few reasons why annual exams are essential to every woman’s health.
In the Raleigh area and in need of OB/GYN services? Call our office at 919-781-5510 or click our Contact page to schedule your annual wellness exam.
Checkups are Still Needed Even if You are Healthy
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that every woman get an exam every year. Even if nothing is wrong or feels “off”, annual checkups catch small signs of problems before they become even bigger problems. For gynecological patients, diseases like cervical cancer, human papillomavirus (HPV), and breast cancer can present without any symptoms.
Every three years, women 21 years-old and up should receive a pap smear to test for cervical cancer and to detect strands of HPV.
Sexually transmitted disease/infection (STD/STI) screenings can also detect infections that may not show symptoms and prevent their spread and are often included in an annual exam.
Pregnancy prevention for younger patients can assure you that your life and career will still be on track until you’re ready to become a parent. When you are, OB/GYNs can provide excellent prenatal care and be with you at every step of your pregnancy.
Annual Exams are for Women of All Ages
Many people believe going to the doctor is only for older people or if you have an injury or illness. Young people are especially prone to thinking they can skip out on an annual exam without issue.
However, the recommended age to begin visiting an OB/GYN is from 13 to 15. Around this age, many girls will have begun to experience their menstrual cycle and learning about their reproductive health as early as possible establishes healthy habits. They’re also more likely to be honest with their physician about their habits and any symptoms they’re experiencing. Bringing your teen to their first OB/GYN can help teach them essential information for their health as early as possible.
No matter what, every woman should at least have their first exam by 21 for their first pap smear. Most insurance policies will cover an annual exam at no cost to you. Putting it off can put you at risk of health issues that can develop within the time you allowed the problem to go undetected. Save time and money by making sure you go to your annual exams and preventing big issues that can cost you more than just a few dollars.
Even Small Problems Can Point to Bigger Issues
If you have pesky cramps, pelvic pain, or bloating, those could be more than just your average “womanly problems”. As a matter of fact, any individual or combo of these problems can point to an irregularity in the body:
- Irregular or missed periods.
- Extremely painful cramping.
- Constant bloating.
- Pelvic pain.
- Heavy bleeding during your period or bleeding after sex.
- Pain during sex.
- Bowel or urinary issues.
- Unusual discharge.
- Changes to your breasts or vulva.
- Concerns with your breasts, including lumps or bumps.
Don’t panic if any of these are happening. Document it and schedule an appointment with an OB/GYN ASAP. They are there to help, even with your most embarrassing problems.
You Can Know the Most Updated Options for Your Health
Big strides in the medical field are always happening. You won’t know all of your options for healthcare if you never go to the doctor. At OB/GYN appointments, your doctor can help you manage symptoms of PMS and menopause or even offer services such as vaginal rejuvination, robotic surgery, pelvic rehabilitation, and much more.
Innovative birth control options can help you find the best fit for your reproductive health. Is the pill no longer working out for you? Your doctor can recommend another brand or switch you to another birth control such as the ring, IUD, or an implant.
Sure, the internet can always point you to new and exciting things, but being connected with a trustworthy doctor can inform you about your best options. There is also a chance that they may have knowledge of up and coming technology to suit your needs.
You Can Work with Your Doctor to Be Your Best Self
Doctors are here to be your best cheerleader for your health and wellness. If pap smears or other pelvic procedures cause you great stress, great OB/GYNs will be happy to provide you with accommodations to help you feel secure and safe. This way you are not skipping out on an essential part of your health without the anxiety many people feel before their pap smear and other routine parts of a checkup.
If you’re insecure about fine lines and wrinkles, body hair, or other concerns, talk to your doctor. They could connect you with professionals who can perform aesthetic procedures such as laser hair removal or regenerative vaginal procedures. Some facilities even offer botox procedures with easy outpatient recovery. You won’t know what is possible unless you discuss your options with a doctor you can trust.
Looking for an OB/GYN in Raleigh? We Can Help
Scheduling an OB/GYN appointment in Raleigh has never been easier. At Mid-Carolina OB/GYN, we offer regularly scheduled exams as well as top-notch surgical outpatient procedures with minimal recovery time. Schedule an appointment up to three months in advance using our Patient Portal. We are currently accepting new patients of all ages. Contact us today to make your first appointment.
