Gynecology is best suited if: You have any menstrual, pregnancy, fertility or contraception questions or issues. You have any sexual health concerns. Examples include libido, pain or abuse. You are seeking a preventive health exam and age-appropriate screenings.

Do I need an OB or Gyn?

Although ACOG says women do not need a Pap smear until they are 21, they should see a gynecologist early to discuss periods, sexual health, pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. In addition to this recommendation, if you have any concerns, such as painful periods or symptoms of a UTI, you should see your OB-GYN.

What do I do if I don't have an OB-GYN?

Make an appointment with a doctor, midwife, or nurse for your care during pregnancy. Some people just go to their regular family doctor or obstetrician. Others choose to see a midwife or nurse practitioner who specializes in prenatal care. You can also get prenatal care at some Planned Parenthood health centers.

Does every girl have to go to a gynecologist?

While all teenage girls should see a gynecologist, it is especially important if your daughter has been sexually active (or is planning to be) or has problems with her period.

How do I know if I need a gynecologist?

1. Painful periods. Monthly menstrual periods are really uncomfortable for many women. ...
2. Vaginal bleeding. ...
3. Starting or resuming sex. ...
4. Bumps and blisters. ...
5. Breast issues. ...
6. Vaginal odor. ...
7. Discomfort during sex. ...
8. Low libido.

So You Want to Be an OB/GYN [Ep. 22]

When should females 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 you see a Obgyn when pregnant?

Even if a home pregnancy test confirms you're pregnant, you still need to make an appointment with an Ob/Gyn. The American Pregnancy Association recommends you make an appointment with your doctor for your first prenatal visit within eight weeks of your last menstrual period (LMP).

Can a gynecologist know if your a virgin?

A gynecologist can't tell if you are a virgin by doing a physical exam because of the variation in different hymens and the absence of a hymen isn't an indicator of sexual activity. In general, a pelvic exam or a vaginal exam cannot reveal with absolute certainty that a woman is a virgin or has been sexually active.

When should a girl get a Pap smear?

Women should start Pap smear screening at age 21. Between the ages of 21-29, women whose Pap smears are normal only need it repeated every three years. Women ages 30 and over should have testing for the human papillomavirus (HPV) with their Pap smear. HPV is the cause of cervical cancer.

Does it hurt to get a Pap smear?

Does it hurt? Pap smears shouldn't hurt. If you're getting your first Pap, it may feel a little uncomfortable because it's a new sensation that your body isn't yet used to. People often say it feels like a small pinch, but everyone has a different threshold for pain.

What doctor do I go to if I think I'm pregnant?

As soon as you suspect you're pregnant, schedule an appointment with your pregnancy health care provider, such as an obstetrician/gynecologist. Even if you've confirmed your suspicion with a home pregnancy test, it's still wise to follow-up with an appointment.

Can I never go to a gynecologist?

“Generally, your routine gynecologic care (mammography, Pap smear and HPV co-testing) can be handled by your internist or family medicine doctor, so there is no need to visit a gynecologist, unless your primary doctor refers you for abnormalities (abnormal Pap smear or postmenopausal bleeding), or you are having active ...

What doctors do I need when pregnant?

Obstetrician-gynecologist

An OB-GYN is a doctor specializing in the care of women and their reproductive health. Obstetrics deals specifically with pregnancy and birth, and gynecology involves care of the female reproductive system outside of pregnancy. Your obstetrician will guide you through the entire pregnancy.

Can I go to Obgyn without being pregnant?

Ob-gyns are medical doctors who specialize in the care of pregnant women. Most can also provide gynecological care for you when you're not pregnant. These registered nurses can care for you before, during, and after your pregnancy.

Why would you need an Obgyn?

Your ob-gyn will deal with some of the most important health issues in your life, including birth control, childbirth, and menopause. An ob-gyn can also screen for cancer, treat infections, and perform surgery for pelvic organ or urinary tract problems.

Can you be a gynecologist without being an obstetrician?

Obstetrics is the surgical field that deals in childbirth, whereas gynecology is the field of medicine concerned with women's health, especially their reproductive health. One can be a gynecologist and not an obstetrician, though one cannot be an obstetrician without being a gynecologist.

What should you not do before a Pap smear?

Avoid intercourse, douching, or using any vaginal medicines or spermicidal foams, creams or jellies for two days before having a Pap smear, as these may wash away or obscure abnormal cells. Try not to schedule a Pap smear during your menstrual period. It's best to avoid this time of your cycle, if possible.

Does a Pap smear feel like losing your virginity?

A pelvic exam doesn't affect your virginity. A pelvic exam is needed for a Pap test or an IUD insertion.

Can the doctor tell if I lost my virginity?

“So, doctor, can you check my daughter's virginity? can you tell me if she is still a virgin?” No, we cannot. There is no physical sign that indicates the virginity of a woman: in fact, no physical examination will be able to evaluate the virginity of a human being, man or woman.

Can you see gyno when your on your period?

'Can a gynecologist check you on your period? ' Yes, they will still be able to perform the examination. Rest assured that some normal vaginal bleeding will not interfere with a regular pelvic exam.

Can I refuse a Pap smear during pregnancy?

Can I refuse a Pap smear during pregnancy? You can refuse to do a pap smear during pregnancy. In fact, you can refuse anything you want while pregnant. It is your body and your choice.

Is 12 weeks too late for first prenatal visit?

1. First Prenatal Visit. Your first prenatal visit usually takes place when you are about 10-12 weeks pregnant (a pregnancy confirmation visit and possibly an early ultrasound typically occurs between 5-8 weeks). This appointment is often the longest, and will include a general physical and routine prenatal labs.

What happens if you don't go to the doctor while pregnant?

Women without prenatal care are seven times more likely give birth to premature babies, and five times more likely to have infants who die. The consequences are not only poor health, but also higher cost passed down to taxpayers.

What should I wear to my first Obgyn appointment?

You might be asked to take off your clothes and wear a special robe or gown. A nurse will probably be present in the room during the exams. You can ask for a friend or relative to be with you, too. Girls often bring their mother with them, sometimes to hold hands with, during the exam, Trent says.

Does your Obgyn deliver your baby?

But it's important to note that while your OB-GYN will deliver your baby, they usually rely on their care team to monitor your labor and let them know when the big moment is getting close. Your OB-GYN will also explain your options for using common birth interventions that aid delivery.