Reproductive health care is an essential part of your overall health and well-being. According to the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), reproductive health care includes access to birth control and safe and legal abortion care, as well as the right to access women’s preventive health care services.
Your reproductive health physician or gynecologist is a medical doctor who provides you with reproductive health care.
There is no denying that your first appointment with a reproductive health physician can be intimidating for many reasons, but it should not be. Preparing for your first appointment can help you overcome your fear and anxiety.
Here are some tips to prepare for your first appointment with your reproductive health physician in Syracuse, NY.
Tip#1 Get All Your Ducks in aRow
Your medical record will have a lot of information about your health that can provide your reproductive health doctor an insight into your previous medical conditions and procedure that could affect your reproductive health. So, gather your medical record. Make sure to also list your key medical information, such as the age of your first menstruation, details about your cycle, etc.
Also, know about your family medical histories, such as a history of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and fertility issues that might run in your family.
It’s also a good idea to bring any reproductive health-related testing results you have completed to date. If available, bring the result of the tests, like follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone, estradiol, testosterone, thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), etc., to your first appointment.
Tip#2 Come Prepare for Physical Exam
Depending on the reason for your visit, your reproductive health physician may perform physical exams, like a pelvic exam, Pap smear test, and breast exam.
For the physical exam, wear comfortable and loose-fitting clothing to your appointment.Avoid vaginal products such as douches and creams at least 24 hours before the exam if you are anticipating a pelvic exam or Pap smear.
If you are feeling intimidated or anxious about the physical exam, try relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and read about the purpose and benefits of your exam to calm your nerves.
Tip#3 Be Prepared to Discuss Your Sexual History
Be ready to discuss your sexual history openly and honestly with your reproductive health physician. They may ask you about the number of your sex partners, your use of contraception, and your history of sexually transmitted diseases.
Tip#4 Be Ready to Communicate with Your Doctor
To get the most out of your visit to OB/GYN, come prepared to communicate with them openly. Take a while to make a list of all the questions and concerns you have about your reproductive health and ask your doctor.
You can ask questions about your menstrual irregularities, fertility concerns, contraception,a hormonal disorder like PCOS, etc.
Reproductive Health Physician in Syracuse, NY
If you are looking for a highly skilled and compassionate reproductive health physician in Syracuse, NY, look no further. At University OB/GYN Associates, our OB/GYN provides a wide range of advanced and comprehensive services, including:
- Annual well-women visits
- Breast exams and mammograms
- Menopause management
- Health screenings
- Contraceptive counseling and family planning
- Infertility evaluation
- Pap smears
- HPV screening and vaccine
If you need any of the aforementioned services, make an appointment with us today by calling (315) 464-5162 or filling out this schedule an appointment form.
