While a primary care doctor can diagnose and treat a wide range of health conditions affecting both men and women, an obstetrician/gynecologist (OB/GYN) specializes in diagnosing, treating, and preventing health issues that can specifically impact women. This is especially true of reproductive issues in women, such as problems with your menstrual cycle or breast health.
A gynecologist is a woman’s key healthcare partner throughout their childbearing years and beyond. Let’s talk about when a women’s health doctor is your best choice, and where you can go here in Syracuse to receive outstanding OB/GYN care.
When Should I Visit a Gynecologist?
It is in your best interest to see an OB/GYN for the following:
● Annual Pap smear (check for cervical cancer)
● Breast pain or lumps
● Pregnancy
● Childbirth
● Irregular periods or extremely heavy flow
● Pain during menstruation
● Pain during sex or sexual dysfunction
● Fertility issues
● Family planning
● Preconception counseling
● Contraception
● Pelvic exams
● Genital warts and STD (sexually transmitted disease) concerns
● Endometriosis treatment
● Female sterilization
● Gynecological infections
● Gynecological care after a cancer diagnosis
● Managing menopause symptoms
● Prescriptions for appropriate health screenings, especially mammograms
It is common for women to feel embarrassed discussing sensitive topics, but a gynecologist has truly seen it all by the time they start seeing their own patients. Don’t hesitate to ask your OB/GYN about any questions you have – there is no such thing as a “stupid” question. Indeed, your gynecologist will be impressed by your forthrightness.
Every female of reproductive age (generally from the ages of 12 to 51) can and should see her gynecologist once a year. The issues that tend to be addressed on a regular basis at your OB/GYN appointments are birth control, getting a Pap smear, and having a manual check of breast cancer.
Two of the most common types of cancer in women are breast cancer and cervical cancer. While a very small percentage of men can also get breast cancer, only women can get cervical cancer – just like only men can get prostate cancer. This checkup is therefore a key reason to see your women’s health doctor at least once a year.
Women’s Health Doctor in Syracuse, NY
Continue seeing your primary care doctor for your annual general-health checkups and vaccinations. However, also be sure to see your gynecologist every year for personalized women’s healthcare and specialized checks. Your gynecologist will give you a prescription to have a mammogram as necessary, and this doctor will also conduct a Pap smear and manual breast exam at your annual exam.
Here at University OB/GYN Associates, our experienced gynecologists are committed to your health and well-being. We provide a wide range of services for women at every stage of life, from birth control to cancer checks, from pregnancy to menopause.
Our physicians are empathetic, understanding, compassionate, and respectful. To request an appointment with one of our women’s healthcare doctors, call our clinic today at (315) 464-5162. We look forward to being your healthcare partner.
