RISE Blog | When Should You See Your Gynecologist?

By: Erika Camarillo, Peer Educator
March 24th, 2022

It's difficult to know what's normal and what isn't when it comes to your health. If you're worried or have questions regarding your health, going to your doctor may give you peace of mind. I'll be speaking specifically about some reasons to see your gynecologist.

Birth Control 

Birth control is prescribed for a multitude of reasons. Most commonly for contraceptive use. If you are looking for a way to have safer sex, visit your gynecologist and ask about your options. These doctors are specialized in women's health and will help you make an educated decision about which birth control is best for you and your body. We hear a lot about birth control side effects such as mood swings, weight gain, acne, etc. These are all valid concerns that can also be brought up. There are contraceptive options available to reduce these side effects, all it takes is an informational trip to your doctor.             

Heavy/Irregular/Painful Periods 

It's widely understood that periods can be painful and uncomfortable. This affects so many women in their everyday lives. What if I told you periods don't have to be as much of a nightmare as we make it out to be? They can be made to be much more tolerable with modern medicine. Periods aren't supposed to be excruciatingly painful, super heavy, or irregular. A normal period should be consistent every month. You can also download a period tracking app to help you and your gynecologist. An absent period is also a good reason to see your gynecologist, especially if it used to be regular. A change in consistency or uncomfortable pelvic/abdominal pain are good reasons to reach out to your doctor as well. Sometimes these symptoms can be linked to things like ovarian cysts or polyps, which are common in women.  

Family Planning 

Gynecologists are excellent resources for women wanting to family plan. If there are questions or concerns regarding contraception, stopping birth control, pregnancy, etc., your gynecologist should be able to help you make informed decisions specific to your situation.  

Vaccinations 

The Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted infection that, thanks to modern medicine, we have a vaccine for. It is a series of 3 shots to be fully vaccinated. The vaccine was introduced in 2006, so if you received your routine vaccinations at a young age, it's possible you already have this vaccine. Be sure to look over your vaccination records. The HPV vaccine is available at most gynecology clinics. 

Painful Sex 

If you're experiencing uncomfortable or painful sex, your gynecologist can help! It's easy to just take an ibuprofen and hope it works, but there are certainly solutions that may be worth talking to your gynecologist about. Long-term, consistently taking ibuprofen can disrupt your health, especially your liver. It's important to get this checked out in case it's more serious. Sometimes painful sex can be linked to things like sexually transmitted diseases/infections (STD/STIs) or urinary tract infections (UTIs).  

Those were just 5 reasons you may want to see your gynecologist, of course there are many more. If you need guidance, advice, information, or resources as far as your sexual health, your gynecologist is meant to help you. We know our bodies better than anyone else, this is why it's so important to reach out for help if you feel something isn't right. We hope you feel more validated and informed! 

 

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