4 Reasons To See Your Gynecologist Once A Year
For most women, going to the gynecologist's office is far from the most enjoyable time. However, seeing your gynecologist at least once a year is recommended for most adult women. Aside from having an annual pelvic exam done, there are many other reasons to see your gynecologist annually.
1. Review Your Birth Control
If you're sexually active and not currently trying to conceive, seeing your gynecologist is a great way to discuss birth control options. If the birth control you're currently using isn't working for your lifestyle, your gynecologist can make other suggestions. For example, if you have a hard time trying to remember to take your birth control pill at the same time each day, your doctor may recommend switching to an injection or implant, such as an IUD.
2. Request STD Testing
If you're sexually active, it's also a good idea to be tested regularly for sexually transmitted diseases and infections; they're more common than you may think. Even if you haven't had any new partners in the past year, some STDs and STIs can take time to manifest themselves, so annual testing is a great way to enjoy extra peace of mind. Many tests can be done with a simple pap smear, such as testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea.
3. Have a Pap Smear Done
Speaking of pap smears, an annual pap smear is always a good idea for women for most reproductive ages. This is especially important if you have had a history of abnormal pap smears in the past. Annual pap testing can help to identify early stages of cervical cancer and other potential complications, and they can be done at your annual pelvic exam. This procedure is typically covered by insurance as well.
4. Enjoy Added Peace of Mind
If nothing else, seeing your gynecologist at least once a year for a pelvic exam can give you added peace of mind in knowing you're being proactive about your health and wellness. A clean bill of health is a wonderful thing and can help you relax until your next exam a year from now.
When was the last time you saw your gynecologist for an exam? If it's been more than a year, now is a great time to give the office a call and schedule your appointment. It's not as bad as you may think, and these annual visits just could save your life.
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