When Should I See a Gynecologist?

by Kevin Smith Author

When it comes to women’s health, you have a choice between seeing a doctor who specializes in internal medicine, a general practitioner, nurse practitioner, or a gynecologist. Women have unique needs when it comes to medical care. Finding a care provider who you feel confident in may take a little extra time. Your health is worth the time you invest to find the right doctor. Read these tips to help understand when to see a gynecologist.

Do I Really Need a Gynecologist?

Most women have a primary care provider (PCP) who they see for yearly physicals and any illness they experience throughout the year. Your PCP is essential for those routine visits. They also help with referrals is medical issues arise beyond the scope of their practice. Providers who fall under the PCP category can also include nurse practitioners and physician assistants. Many women initially choose to see their PCP for women’s healthcare. While there’s nothing wrong with a PCP caring for the unique needs of female patients, it’s better to find a gynecologist for women’s health in Daytona Beach.

First Time Visit

The best time for a woman to begin seeing a gynecologist is when she reaches the teen years. Teen girls experience many changes during this time, especially with their health. Many teens also feel shy about talking with a doctor regarding body changes. All doctors are able to treat teens and answer questions, but a gynecologist has had specialized training in women’s health needs. Some gynecologists specialize in adolescent gynecology, meaning they focus on the needs of girls between the ages of 13-18. It’s important for young women to have positive early experiences with women’s healthcare. Gynecologists who specialize in adolescent gynecology are the best educational resource to help teens understand the changes in their bodies. They also provide preventative care for a number of women’s health issues, including prevention of pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases.

Well Woman Screenings

Women should have regular screenings to detect and prevent certain health problems. It’s suggested that women see a gynecologist for the first time between the ages of 13-15. After that, women should have their first PAP smear, which screens for cervical cancer at the age of 21. Discussing women’s health can be somewhat uncomfortable at first so it’s essential to establish a trusting relationship with a gynecologist early in your reproductive years. A gynecologist is there to help you understand health issues and to help maintain a regular schedule for well woman screenings.

Menopause and Beyond

Just because you’ve moved beyond the child-bearing years, doesn’t mean you no longer need to see a gynecologist. Older woman face their own health issues, which require gynecological care. You may be nearing menopause and need help managing hot flashes and osteoporosis. Some women also experience urinary incontinence as they get older. A gynecologist can offer solutions. It’s important for women to maintain reproductive health no matter what their age so keeping regularly scheduled appointments with a gynecologist for women’s health in Daytona Beach. If you’re not sure how often you should see your gynecologist, don’t hesitate to give them a call.