Young Women: Is It Okay to See an OB-GYN?
Posted on: 14 October 2022
If you're in your early 20s and need to visit a doctor soon, you may wonder if it's okay to seek care from an OB-GYN. An OB-GYN, or obstetrician-gynecologist, provides reproductive care to women of all ages, including women in their 20s. Learn why it's okay for young women to see an OB-GYN below.
How Can an OB-GYN Treat Young Women?
You may think an obstetrician-gynecologist only treats pregnant women and women who need fertility care, but they don't. An OB-GYN specializes in all types of reproductive conditions, including irregular menstruation and menopause. An obstetrician-gynecologist ensures women of all ages, including individuals between the ages of 18 and 40, receive the care and treatments they need to stay healthy throughout their lifetime.
Young women can experience a number of things that affect their reproductive health over time, including painful menstruation, infertility, and breast cancer. The conditions can change how the reproductive system functions in life. Women who don't receive regular OB-GYN checkups may not know they have an issue with their reproductive system until it's too late for them.
Rather than see a family practitioner or another physician for the reproductive care you need, visit an OB-GYN instead.
How Can You Schedule Your Checkup?
An obstetrician-gynecologist will need to make an appointment for you soon. You can schedule your appointment via a practitioner's website, or you can use your phone to schedule an appointment. If possible, try to complete or fill out your new patient forms before your appointment date.
Several things may occur or happen during your first appointment, including a pelvic exam. A pelvic exam allows a doctor to determine the health and state of your uterus, bladder, and other organs. If you suffer from previous problems that affect your reproductive system, such as painful menstrual cramps or regular bladder infections, inform a doctor immediately. A doctor may be able to isolate the cause of your problems during your pelvic exam.
A doctor may also check your breasts during your visit. Breast cancer can develop in women 45 years old and younger, especially women who have family histories of the disease. If a doctor determines you may be at risk for cancer, they may schedule you for regular breast exams and other tests throughout the year.
An OB-GYN may also do a number of other things to keep your reproductive health in check, including encouraging you to eat healthier foods and exercise more.
Learn how an obstetrician-gynecologist can help you by contacting a specialist today.
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