What does a gynecologist do?

A gynaecologist is a specialist doctor who manages conditions that affect the female reproductive system — which includes the vulva, vagina, uterus (womb) and ovaries.

What exactly does a gynecologist do?

A gynecologist diagnoses and treats issues with female reproductive organs. They deal with all aspects of sexual health like preventive care, cancer screenings and physical exams. Some of the services and tests provided are: Pelvic exams and external genital exams.

Why should I see a gynecologist?

A visit to the gynecologist is recommended for annual screening and any time a woman has concerns about symptoms such as pelvic, vulvar, and vaginal pain or abnormal bleeding from the uterus. Conditions commonly treated by gynecologists include: issues relating to pregnancy, fertility, menstruation, and menopause.

What does a gynecologist check up consist of?

A physical exam may include a pelvic exam, cervical cancer screening, or a breast exam: In a pelvic exam, your ob-gyn may look at your vulva, vagina, and cervix to check for any signs of problems. And your ob-gyn may check your internal organs with a gloved hand.

What do gynecologist do on your first visit?

The first visit may be just a talk between you and your doctor. You can find out what to expect at future visits and get information about how to stay healthy. You can ask questions about your body, growing up, and sex. You may also have certain exams and vaccinations.

Gynecologist reveals everything you need to know about your first appointment

What age should a girl start seeing a gynecologist?

The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends girls have their first gynecologic visit between ages 13 and 15. Why is that? Naturally, a girl should see us at any age if she has medical issues or questions.

When should a girl have her first Pap smear?

The Pap smear.

Gynecologists recommend a Pap smear starting at age 21, and then every 3 years for women in their 20s. In this test, the doctor gently scrapes cells from the cervix using a small brush or spatula. The sample is checked in a lab for cell changes and cervical cancer.

What are two things the gynecologist will test for?

Pap smear test to check for cervical cancer. Pelvic exam to check for abnormal lesions or discharges.

How long does a gyno exam take?

The physical portion of the exam takes about 10 minutes and there is a time before and after the exam to ask and answer any questions you and your health care provider might have.

How do I prepare for a gynecologist visit?

How often should a girl go to the gynecologist?

According to medical experts, you should have a pelvic exam and a well-woman check-up with a gynecologist once every year.

What's the difference between gynecologist and OB GYN?

What's the difference between obstetricians and gynecologists? While OB/GYN is considered one specialty, it comprises two distinct fields. Obstetrics (the OB) involves care during pre-conception, pregnancy, childbirth, and immediately after delivery. Gynecology (the GYN) involves care of all women's health issues.

Are gynecologist appointments painful?

Speculum exams may feel weird or a little uncomfortable, but it doesn't hurt at all for most people. If you have any questions or concerns about pelvic exams or speculums, talk with your nurse or doctor. If you're really nervous or worried about pain, tell them.

What do you wear to a gynaecologist appointment?

Wear comfortable clothing you can get out of easily. Tuck a pair into your purse and forget the lace-up boots and the intricate body shaper. Also, if you're having a mammogram before or after your Pap test, "wear a top and skirt or pants," said Dr. King.

Do they test your pee at the gynecologist?

This is a regular test conducted by your health care provider to help take care of your overall health. Urine tests are especially common during prenatal visits and pregnancy visits, but they can be performed during an annual checkup too.

Does a Pap smear hurt?

A Pap smear should not hurt but may feel uncomfortable. You could experience light bleeding afterward, but you should not feel pain or cramping. Let your healthcare provider know if you feel discomfort lasting more than a few minutes or if the bleeding lasts longer than 24 hours.

Should I shave before a Pap smear?

It doesn't take much to prepare for a pap smear. Some women may feel like they need to shave their pubic hair, but it's unnecessary for this test. You should only tackle it if you'll be more comfortable. Your doctor has seen it all, so a little bit of pubic hair won't bother him.

Can a gynecologist tell the last time?

Most of the time, a doctor can't tell if a girl has had sex just from a pelvic exam (and doctors don't usually give teen girls pelvic exams unless there's a sign of a problem). But you should let your doctor know if you've had sex anyway.

Does a pelvic exam hurt?

Does a pelvic exam hurt? You can expect to feel a little discomfort, but you should not feel pain during a pelvic exam. Take slow, deep breaths and urinate before the exam to help with any discomfort. If you feel pain or discomfort during your exam, tell your doctor.

How do you know if you need to see a gynecologist?

Can you wear a tampon to a gynecologist appointment?

When the nurse or medical assistant brings you into the room, I'd recommend you let her know you're menstruating. They can put something on the exam table to absorb the blood. You can either ask to use the restroom to remove a tampon or take it out and dispose of it when you're undressing and putting on a gown.

Do you have to undress at the gynecologist?

For the physical part of the exam, your doctor will ask you to undress completely, put on a dressing gown, lie down on the examination table with your legs propped up in stirrups, and a sheet draped over your legs for personal privacy.

How much does gynecologist cost?

The private sector charges R 1, 200 for first consultations; R 700 for follow-up consultations; and an additional R 6 500 for deliveries within 24 hours (regularly scheduled or Caesarean sections).

Is it better to have a male or female OB-GYN?

Women want a 'good doctor'—regardless of gender, others say

Meanwhile, some stakeholders say the notion that women prefer a female OB-GYN is exaggerated. A review of 23 studies finds about 41% of OB-GYN patients have no preference when it comes to their provider's gender, while 8% said they prefer a man.