Do I really need to go to a gynecologist?
Going to the gynecologist is never on the top of any woman's list of things she wants to do. But it's a necessary part of being a woman, and it's really not as bad as you think it will be. So when should you start seeing one?
Unless you have a concern or a problem, you should begin going to the gynecologist at either age 18 or when you become sexually active, whichever comes first. Here are some other reasons to make an appointment:
- If you are 14 and haven't noticed any pubertal changes
- If you are 16 and haven't had a period
- If you are experiencing severe menstrual cramps or any other pelvic pains
- If bleeding is extra heavy, unusual, or lasts more than seven days
- If you are bothered by vulvar or vaginal itching, redness, sores, swelling, unusual odor or discharge
- If you think that you are pregnant
- If you're contemplating becoming sexually active and need to discuss contraception and safe sex habits
- If you have been menstruating for more than a year and have irregular menses or have missed more than three periods (you can only wait three months if you are certain that you are not pregnant. If there is a chance that you may be pregnant, you should see a doctor right away)
- If you experience a burning sensation or frequent urination
- If you suffered an injury to your pelvic area
- If you have had non-consensual sex
- If you have had unprotected sex and are concerned about pregnancy
- If you believe that you have been exposed to a sexually transmitted disease
- If you notice a change in the regularity of your menstrual periods
- If you think you might be entering menopause
