We get it—a routine gynecologist visit isn’t a particularly fun idea. Most of the time, if you’re feeling healthy and haven’t had any recent issues with your intimate health, it feels inconvenient to fit into your busy schedule.
In fact, this isn’t an individual experience: studies show that there has been a significant decreasing trend in the receipt of pelvic floor examinations for women between the ages of 15 and 44, for example. While there are many factors that come into play when it comes to regular examinations, it’s important to highlight its importance.
At South Plains Rural Health Services, we strive to promote and enhance women’s health through the best OBGYN services. To do so, we don’t only attend special emergencies, but also encourage routine checkups for examination, prevention, and early detection.
Why Attend to Routine Gynecologist Exams?
Generally speaking, women should visit their gynecologist at least once a year, unless they are pregnant or with another special condition that requires constant follow-ups. Even if you have been feeling perfectly healthy, scheduling your routine appointment is essential because it gives you and your specialist a chance to:
Manage Irregularities in Your Menstrual Cycle
If you have been suffering from irregular cycles, abnormally heavy or light bleeding, periods that last longer than a week, or severe menstrual cramps, you can discuss it with your gynecologist. They will help you explore and identify underlying causes, as well as find an effective treatment to align your cycle and how it impacts your everyday life.
Discuss Contraceptive Alternatives
Your annual gynecologist checkup is a great opportunity to assess your current contraception plan or start a new one. There are plenty of options available for different preferences and needs. According to your medical history and hormone tests, your specialist will discuss with you your plans for the future and the alternatives you might consider.
From oral contraceptives to intrauterine devices (IUDs) or implants, there are several methods you can choose from. Your gynecologist will make sure to pick not only one with high efficiency, but that also fits your lifestyle and body.
Address Hormonal Imbalances
We know how inconvenient and stressful it can be to suffer from any kind of hormonal imbalance, as it impacts your lifestyle and well-being. The worst part? You might not even know you have one. Whether adolescence, pregnancy, menopause, or any other process has affected your hormones, your gynecologist can make the right referrals or recommendations so you can manage them.
Early Detect Any Reproductive Health Issues
Even if you’re not trying to conceive at the moment, routine exams allow your specialist to identify key warning signs that could indicate reproductive health concerns. These include but aren’t limited to: ovarian cysts, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, vaginismus, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), infections, etc.
Properly and promptly identifying these issues can help you get a more effective treatment and reduce your risks of complications.
Conduct a Pap Smear Screening
A pap smear is a common, standard part of a regular gynecologist exam, in which your specialist collects cells from your cervix to get them properly analyzed. By doing so, they can detect abnormal changes in your tissue that could indicate HPV, STDs, precancerous conditions like cervical dysplasia, or even cervical cancer.
Read more: Don’t Procrastinate Your Pap Smear, It May Save Your Life
Monitor Your Breast Health
While routine mammograms are strongly recommended for women over 40 years old, breast examinations are part of your gynecologist checkup, no matter your age. This is extremely relevant for early detection of cysts, fibroadenomas, breast cancer, etc.
Read more: Why a Mammogram Is the Best Way to Detect If a Woman Has Breast Cancer
Create a Fertility or Pregnancy Plan
If you’re trying to conceive, your OBGYN specialist can help you understand your cycle and navigate the best alternatives and tips to expand your family. By knowing your body and how it works and identifying any possible conditions, you will be able to make informed decisions on how to achieve your family goals.
Routine Gynecologist Exams in Texas
Apart from these previous, relevant benefits, regularly attending to your gynecologist checkups can also be a way for educating yourself on your own body and knowing how to foster your overall well-being.
Take the opportunity to discuss with your healthcare provider any additional concerns you might have and receive personalized counseling about it. Our team is prepared to offer the best guidance and support in key life stages such as pregnancy or menopause, for example.
Regain control over your body and start making informed decisions about your reproductive health for a more balanced and happy lifestyle. You can set up a gynecologist appointment at any of our Texas locations in Levelland, Lamesa, or Big Spring. Call today or pick an appointment time with our online scheduling tool.
South Plains Rural Health: Caring for your family, growing with your community.