If you are a woman who requires reproductive and sexual services, you should see a gynecologist. Typically, when women choose one, they will focus on one that focuses on treatment. However, it would help to see an upper east side board certified in integrative medicine gynecologist. Such a specialist will combine treatment with psychotherapy techniques like hypnotherapy or guided imagery.
As a woman in need of their services, you may wonder about the types they offer. Without further ado, here is a breakdown of what they do for their patients.
Pap Test
This is a procedure used to test for cervical cancer. To conduct this test, the gynecologist collects cells from the cervix using a brush and a speculum. After that, they check them under a microscope for disease. Generally, doctors recommend that you take the test every three years if you are around 21-65 years old. However, some women may need frequent pap tests if they smoke, have a weakened immune system, and suffer from HIV.
There are things you must know before going for this procedure. First, you should not schedule it during your menstrual period. Also, you must avoid douching and intercourse since they may wash away abnormal cells.
Pelvic Exam
In this procedure, the healthcare expert examines your vulva, ovaries, vagina, uterus, and cervix for any abnormalities. Some of the things they check for include sexually transmitted infections (STIs), ovarian cysts, and uterine fibroids. If you begin experiencing unusual vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, and skin changes, this exam helps the gynecologist diagnose your illness.
During this test, you will experience mild sensations in your abdomen or vagina. Nonetheless, it is relatively painless, so you must relax.
Urine Test
Before you do any other test, your gynecologist will usually start with this one. They typically do it during prenatal and pregnancy visits. Gynecologists use urine tests to screen for kidney stones, liver disease, STIs, and urinary tract infections. After checking for diseases, they check for ketone, glucose, and nitrite levels.
Doctors can infer your feeding habits based on your urine’s color. If you have dark-colored urine, it is a sign you are dehydrated, and they will encourage you to take plenty of water.
Hormonal Testing
There are various reasons why your healthcare specialist may suggest hormonal testing. It is suitable for symptoms such as acne, hair loss, irregular periods, vaginal dryness, headaches, and weight gain. Gynecologists understand that certain hormones trigger certain symptoms, so they will check for them. If you have irregular periods, they will check progesterone, estrogen, and prolactin levels.
Hormonal tests help the doctor check for issues like menopause, perimenopause, and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).
Transvaginal Ultrasound
This test captures images of your uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes through the vagina. Doctors use this test to check for infertility, unexplained vaginal bleeding, cysts, and ectopic pregnancies.
Also, they conduct the test during pregnancy to monitor the fetus’ heartbeat, examine the placenta for abnormalities and diagnose a possible miscarriage.
Conclusion
Visiting a gynecologist means you can save yourself from various reproductive issues. Despite these doctors solving many problems, some women are reluctant to see them. It is usually because they are nervous or feel it is a personal intrusion. As a result, some give up on seeing them all together. The only time it would be okay not to see one is if they are perverted. However, if they are not, you should think of their services as a way of saving yourself from reproductive issues.