4 Reasons To Visit Your OBGYN Yearly
It's not just when you are pregnant that you should be visiting an OBGYN, but you should also be doing so yearly. Here are four reasons why:
- Receive a Gynecological Exam: A gynecological exam includes more than just a Pap smear. You will also have your breasts examined and your pelvis, both of which go through many changes even within just a year's time and can have problems you may not have been aware of, including cancer. A yearly exam will catch problems early before they become a huge issue.
- Update on Birth Control: If you are on birth control, your OBGYN will ensure that it is placed right unless you are taking a pill, in which case they will just ensure that the side effects aren't taking a toll on your day-to-day life. This is a time when you may want to talk about alternative options for birth control, as well if there are any new options that you weren't previously aware of or you just aren't happy with the current method.
- Test for STDs: Next, you want to consider getting a test for possible STDs every year if you are sexually active with more than one partner especially. Even if there are no signs, you never know and catching and treating early is always best. Besides, if it is left untreated, it can lead to possible infertility, which can be devastating, especially in the future when you are ready to settle down.
- Get Help With Current Situation: Finally, it doesn't hurt to check up with your OBGYN about your current situation whether that be that you are trying to get pregnant or you are unknowledgeable about sex or you are new to menstruation or even menopause. Your OBGYN is sure to have great tips and advice on how to get through these situations with personal tips, possibly some prescriptions or even medical treatments.
Visiting your OBGYN every year has a multitude of benefits that you definitely want to be taking advantage of. If you currently do not have an OBGYN, it's time to seek someone, especially someone with their own practice. This leads to more personal connections, which means that your yearly visits are more personal and your OBGYN is more knowledgeable of your health history to provide the best advice for you. Plus, should you decide to have a baby, you will already know who to turn to, which makes birth planning even more special and exciting.
