By Haleigh M.
Obstetriciangynecologists, or OB-GYNs, help women deal with any aspect of health care that has to do with being female. Female sexual health, birth control, reproductive cancers and pregnancy and post-natal care all come within the purview of an OB-GYN’s duties. Young girls should have their first OB-GYN visit between the ages of 13 and 15, although that first visit may not include a pelvic exam.
Women should see an OB-GYN every year once they become sexually active. Though your OB-GYN may decide that you don’t need yearly pap smears once you reach the age of 30, you will still need yearly pelvic exams. As you grow older, you’ll need additional screening procedures. But that’s just the beginning of what your OB-GYN can do for you.
Pelvic Exams
Your yearly pelvic exam gives your OB-GYN the opportunity to examine your reproductive organs for abnormalities or signs of disease. During this exam, the doctor examines your reproductive organs visually and may take samples if he or she suspects the presence of an infection. If you’re having unusual symptoms, like pain, bleeding or discharge, schedule a diagnostic pelvic exam.
Cancer Screenings
From age 21 to 29, you will need to have a yearly pap smear, the test that screens for cervical cancer. If you’re 30 and beyond, you’ll need to have an exam every three years, unless your doctor thinks you’re at an increased risk of cervical cancer — for example, if you have multiple sex partners or have had abnormal pap results recently. Regular pap smears are the best way to detect cervical cancer; they can save your life.
STI Treatment
OB-GYNs help women manage all aspects of their sexual health, and that includes STI diagnosis and treatment. Your doctor can evaluate abnormal symptoms and help you decide when and if STI screenings are necessary.
Pre- and Post-Natal Care
OB-GYNs handle every aspect of pregnancy care. They can help you prepare to get pregnant, diagnose pregnancy and care for you throughout the pregnancy. Once your baby is born, your OB-GYN will offer post-natal care.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Gynecological Diseases
Not all gynecological diseases are sexually transmitted infections. Two non-sexually transmitted infections women can develop include yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis. Though you may be able to treat a yeast infection with over-the-counter medication, bacterial vaginosis may require an antibiotic. Your doctor can also provide treatment for other gynecological conditions, like endometriosis, polycystic ovarian syndrome and uterine fibroids.
Primary Care
Twenty-four percent of women rely on their OB-GYNs for primary care as well as reproductive care. You can receive yearly physical exams, cholesterol and blood sugar screenings, urine tests and other routine care from your OB-GYN.
Colorectal Exams
Women over 40 should receive yearly colorectal exams to test for colon cancer and other abnormalities in the colon. You’ll also need a fecal blood occult test each year. If these tests suggest abnormalities in your colon, you may need a colonoscopy.
Birth Control and Family Planning
Today’s women have dozens of options when it comes to birth control, including the various birth control pills and other hormonal options, cervical caps, diaphragms, condoms and more. Which option is right for you? Your OB-GYN can answer your questions and help you choose the birth control that works best with your body and lifestyle. He or she can also answer your questions about conception and family planning when you’re ready to start your family.
Medical Interventions During Pregnancy
When your pregnancy doesn’t go as smoothly as you might have hoped, your OB-GYN is there to help you manage any complications and get the medical care you need to ensure the best outcome for you and your baby. Your OB-GYN can admit you to the hospital, deliver your baby and administer any care necessary.
Counseling for Low Libido
Sometimes low libido is the result of hormonal changes that occur due to pregnancy, menopause or use of birth control, among other factors. Often, it has psychological roots in life circumstances or relationship troubles. Your OB-GYN can determine if your waning libido is the result of an underlying physical problem; if so, he or she can provide treatment. If the problem is psychological in nature, your OB-GYN can refer you to a psychotherapist.
OB-GYNs do much more than perform pap smears and deliver babies. You can rely on your OB-GYN for the same level of care you would receive from a primary care physician. You’ll also get the care you need to maintain your reproductive and sexual health throughout your life. Have you seen your OB-GYN this year? If not, schedule an appointment today.