Reasons to Have a Gynecology Exam

What your doctor in Plano wants you to know

Have you ever wondered why you should have a gynecology exam? It turns out there are many reasons. Dr. Sarah Payberah at Family Medicine of Texas in Plano, TX wants to share the reasons why a gynecology exam is important for women of all ages.

A gynecology exam focuses on a woman’s reproductive system and how to keep it healthy. If you are a young woman first experiencing your period, you should visit your doctor for a gynecology exam if:

• You are sexually active
• Three months have gone by since your last period
• You have a yellow, gray or green discharge from your vagina
• You have difficulty with menstruation because of severe cramps or severe bleeding
• You have not had a period by the age of 15
• You have irregular or too frequent periods
• You are sexually active and have missed your period

Of course, a gynecology exam can benefit older women too. Yearly gynecology exams are a vital tool to help detect medical problems and diseases like cervical cancer. Some of the main reasons women have regular gynecology exams are:

• To protect overall health and help prevent medical problems associated with your reproductive system
• To monitor issues like irregular periods and try to regulate bleeding, time between periods, and other issues
• Breast examinations, especially if you are over 40 years old or have a family history of breast cancer
• Pelvic examinations, especially if you are experiencing pelvic pain, discharge or other reproductive issues
• Pap smears, to detect any signs of cervical cancer or other vaginal and cervical conditions
• Birth control, to prevent conception if you are sexually active
• Premenopausal or menopausal concerns like dryness, discomfort and other related issues

One of the most important benefits of regular gynecology exams is to provide an opportunity for you to ask questions and learn more about your body. You and your doctor are partners in providing excellent reproductive care to help you enjoy good health for life.

For more information about gynecology exams and other women’s health issues, call Dr. Payberah at Family Medicine of Texas in Plano, TX today!