Gynecology visits can be nerve-wracking. Whether you’re experiencing a problem or just dread your annual Pap smear, it can make you hesitant to visit your gynecologist(GYN) regularly. You’ve probably asked yourself, “Do I really need a gynecologist?” While it is an understandable question, gynecology and specialized female healthcare are vital to a woman’s overall health and wellness. All women regardless of age can benefit from having a dedicated GYN. Keep reading to learn why you need one and reasons to see a gynecologist.

What is Gynecology?

Gynecology is the field of medicine dedicated to female health, specifically the reproductive system. While related, obstetrics and gynecology – known together as OBGYN – may focus on different facets of female health. For example, gynecology focuses primarily on the health and wellness of the female reproductive system, while obstetrics focuses primarily on pregnancy. Most female health doctors are board-certified in both obstetrics and gynecology.  

Gynecologists have specialized training in female anatomy and organs. Usually, a gynecologist will have expertise from a women’s health, gynecology, or OBGYN fellowship, allowing them to provide sub-specialized care that a general practitioner may not be able to provide.  

Reasons to See a Gynecologist

Gynecologists primarily see patients for general women’s care, condition diagnosis, and ongoing female health support. While gynecologists focus on the female reproductive system, they are also able to provide additional healthcare services and can serve as a primary care provider. The most common reasons to see a gynecologist are: 

Often, abnormal menstruation, hormonal symptoms, and sexual health concerns bring patients to their GYN. However, gynecologists are equipped to handle a variety of female health concerns beyond sexual and reproductive health, including obesity, diabetes, cancer care, second opinions, and more. If you’re having symptoms or experiencing problems, you should see a gynecologist. 

Why do I Need a Gynecologist?

Gynecologists can help with a variety of symptoms, conditions, and changes patients may face during their lifetime. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists’ Women’s Preventive Services Initiative recommends that women have a well-woman visit each year for preventive health and annual screenings. Depending upon your age, you may need different testing or screenings to help detect conditions, such as breast cancer, cervical cancer, HPV, and more. At any stage in life, a gynecologist can provide ongoing, specialized care and support for female health and wellness. 

What’s important is that you create a meaningful relationship with a GYN. This will only benefit your healthcare. As you age, a gynecologist must take the time to get to know you and listen to you so that you can effectively prevent and detect any changes to your health and body. You must trust your GYN so that you may call them to discuss sensitive matters and whenever you have a problem.

Do I Really Need a Gynecologist…? Yes!

If you’ve ever wondered whether you need a gynecologist, the answer is likely yes. Gynecology care is critical for women’s healthcare, and gynecologists have the specialized knowledge and expertise to understand the complexities of female health. While establishing a GYN early can help set you up for a healthy lifestyle, it’s also never too late to start prioritizing your health. A GYN can help you on the path to better wellness no matter where you are in life. 

Gynecology is more than just your Pap smear. At HaneyGYN, we take the time to truly get to know you and understand your unique needs. That way, we can provide holistic, personalized plans to get you well and keep you healthy, whether you need preventive care, hormone evaluations, second opinions, and more. Learn more about our practice by contacting us today. 

 

HaneyGYN is a female-led, private gynecology practice led by Dr. Katherine Haney. Dr. Haney’s goal is to guide women in good health care through any stage of life. To learn more about our practice, please contact us today. 

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