A gynecologist specializes in the female reproductive system, including the uterus, ovaries, cervix, vagina, and breasts. Many gynecologists also train in obstetrics; this covers pregnancy and childbirth. Patients often begin seeing a gynecologist between ages 13 and 15 and receive regular care through menopause. Here are some services offered by gynecologists:
Well-Woman Exams
A well-woman exam is a yearly preventive visit. It usually begins with a conversation about your medical history, menstrual cycle, sexual activity, medications, and any recent symptoms. The provider also checks your general health. A breast exam and pelvic exam may follow, depending on your age and history. During the pelvic exam, the provider examines the external genitals and uses a speculum to view the vagina and cervix. Tell your provider if you feel discomfort at any point, and they will pause or adjust. The appointment also covers vaccines, such as the HPV vaccine, and reviews your upcoming screening schedule.
Birth Control Guidance
Birth control is available in several forms, each with different methods of preventing pregnancy. The right contraceptive often depends on your current health, and a gynecologist will ask about blood clots, migraines, smoking, and other health factors. Common choices include:
- Hormonal pills, patches, and vaginal rings
- Injections given every three months
- Hormonal and copper intrauterine devices (IUDs)
- Implants placed under the skin of the upper arm
- Barrier methods, such as condoms and diaphragms
Each method has its own effectiveness rate, schedule, and possible side effects. Pills must be taken daily, while an IUD can stay in place for three to ten years. Some methods require a short in-office procedure, and the provider handles both placement and removal. Follow-up visits let you report side effects or switch to a different method.
Pregnancy Support
Pregnancy care often starts before conception. Preconception visits review folic acid intake and current medications, and healthcare providers assess chronic conditions. Since these factors can affect early fetal development, addressing them before pregnancy helps reduce potential risks.
Once pregnancy is confirmed, prenatal appointments follow a set schedule. At each visit, the provider measures blood pressure and weight, checks fetal growth, and listens to the fetal heartbeat. Ultrasounds track development, and blood tests screen for conditions such as anemia and gestational diabetes.
Obstetrician-gynecologists provide care during pregnancy, and they deliver babies in hospitals or birthing centers. If a gynecologist does not provide obstetric care, they can refer you to an obstetrician or midwife. A postpartum visit reviews healing, mood, feeding, and birth control plans.
Routine Testing
Gynecologists order and perform health screening tests based on age, history, and symptoms. Some tests include:
- Pap smear: This test collects cells from the cervix to look for abnormal changes. Screening generally starts at age 21.
- HPV test: This checks for high-risk strains of human papillomavirus; it’s often paired with a Pap smear for patients 30 and older.
- STI screening: This uses urine, swab, or blood samples to test for chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV, and other infections.
- Mammograms: Breast cancer screenings typically begin around age 40, with timing adjusted for personal and family history.
- Pelvic ultrasound: This examines the uterus and ovaries when you have pain or irregular bleeding.
Visit a Gynecologist
Regular gynecologic visits give you dedicated time to review your reproductive health with a trained professional. Booking ahead helps you stay on track with screenings that match your age and health history. Before your appointment, gather your medication list, the date of your last period, and any past test results. This gives your provider the information needed to assess your current health. Contact a local gynecology office today to schedule your next visit.
