When Should You Be Seeing a Gynaecologist?
Gynaecologists deal with different diseases associated with the women’s reproductive system; for instance, pregnancy, menstruation, childbirth, fertility issues, hormone imbalance, and Sexually Transmitted Infections. A professional Gynaecologist should have proper training and certified by the relevant authority. Some women start visiting these specialists during their early teenage years, while others dread this visit. It is advisable for women to visit an obstetrician at least once a year for a checkup and whenever they notice any changes or symptoms.
Dubai Health Authority supports fertility treatments by sponsoring In Vitro Fertilization for couples with infertility problems but lack the financial means to access these services. Likewise, the Dubai Gynaecology and Fertility Centre funds fertility treatment for the citizens facing infertility.
What to Expect at the Gynaecologist’s Office
Women need to start visiting the Gynaecologist at an early age. This way, they can get used to asking and being open about menstruation and other issues concerning their reproductive health. This also allows the specialist to guide you through your reproductive health by offering services, counselling, and recommending healthy choices.
What goes on in the Gynaecologist’s office depends on the purpose of your visit. When visiting, remember to provide accurate information concerning your health to enable the physician to give you a detailed examination and treatment.
When visiting a Gynaecologist, she will conduct several tests based on your health concerns. For instance, a pap test which enables the specialist to detect any abnormalities in the cervical tissues. This procedure checks for infections, pre-cancerous and malignant cells and inflammation.
Other tests include a cervical biopsy procedure which is conducted if abnormal tissues are discovered during a pap smear. Sexually Transmitted Infections are also tested, and vaginal fluids are sent for lab analysis to check for infections such as gonorrhoea and chlamydia.
Instances When You Should See a Gynaecologist
Although women are advised to visit the Gynaecologists at least once a year, other situations might prompt you to see the specialist. If you experience the following symptoms, it is necessary to see an obstetrician immediately.
Irregular Periods
Some women think getting irregular periods are caused by diet change or weather; however, it is necessary to visit a specialist for evaluation because there could be an underlying cause. Conditions such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome which causes heavy and painful periods are detected by a visit to the Gynaecologist. This condition is common in most women, but they think it is normal and end up taking painkillers instead of visiting a physician. Also, if you notice bleeding other than your periods, you need to see an obstetrician because uterine cancer or fibroids could be the cause.
Discomfort
If you experience itching when urinating, it could be a sign of a Urinary Tract Infection, but you should not rush to get some antibiotics. You should consult your Gynaecologist because the burning sensation could be a symptom of vulva cancer, which is accompanied by white rashes on the vulva.
Interstitial Cystitis or even bladder syndrome can also cause itching. Other symptoms include pain around the belly button, the lower back, and thighs. Visiting a specialist will confirm the condition and erase speculations.
If you cannot access a health facility or you would like to have the tests run at the convenience of your home, there are female General Practitioners than can arrange such appointments. These specialists conduct the tests at your home, and they can even check on you after their shifts at the hospitals. These services are convenient because the Gynaecologists are accessible for 24/7.
Unusual Discharge
Vaginal discharge is normal and has important functions like keeping the female reproductive system clean and keeps bacteria and dead cells away. Pregnant women experience changes in their discharge which should not be a matter of concern. However, if you are not pregnant and notice changes in smell, color, or discharge accompanied by itching; you should seek the help of a Gynaecologist.
You might experience changes in your discharge if you are on antibiotics, birth control, or steroids; however, it is necessary to visit a specialist for professional diagnostics. This is because these symptoms could also mean that you have diabetes, Sexually Transmitted Infections, cervical cancer, or trichomoniasis.
Pelvic Pain
Do you know the difference between cramps and pelvic pain? Many women experience pain during their periods, but they don’t know the different types of pain. Cramps occur around the lower abdomen while pelvic pain occurs around the pelvis.
If you experience sudden sharp or dull pain, you ought to call your Gynaecologist because these are warning signs of endometriosis or diverticulitis. Endometriosis is a serious condition, and it could prevent conception and cause a lot of discomfort. Next time you experience pelvic pain don’t brush it off as cramps since it could be a severe problem.
Painful or Excessive Urination
Excessive urination is normal if you have been drinking a lot of water; however, you should be concerned if you feel the urge to urinate several times in an hour. This could be caused by several conditions like diabetes, which is accompanied by thirst or uterine fibroids, which are usually benign. Going to the bathroom severally, and excessive thirsty should be a red flag.
If your visit to the bathroom is painful, you might have a Urinary Tract Infection which can damage your kidneys. Painful urination can be caused by STIs, vaginal infections, or inflamed urinary tract. A Gynaecologist will help you to identify the cause, and it might not be a serious issue.gmc
Although a visit to the Gynaecologist might be uncomfortable, it is worth it. You don’t have to wait until you notice any abnormalities; early detection increases the possibility of a full recovery. A General Practioner can perform tests and treatment at your home if this is what you prefer. Don’t ignore any symptoms or try to self-medicate because you might worsen the condition since you are working with assumptions. A visit to the Gynaecologist will give you evidence-based diagnostics and treatment for the underlying problem.
