It’s not unusual to feel a little nervous before your gynecology exam, whether it’s your first exam or your 21st. Even though your gynecology exam is an important tool that may help prevent chronic health issues, you may feel uncomfortable when your gynecologist examines the intimate areas of your body.
But it’s important that you don’t let your nerves get the best of you and prevent you from getting answers to your important health questions.
Our experienced team of gynecologists at Cary OB/GYN in Cary and Morrisville, North Carolina, want to share some of the most important things you need to ask us during your gynecology exam.
1. Is pelvic pain normal?
Many women experience pelvic pain during their menstrual cycle. But not all types of pelvic pain are normal. If you have concerns about lower abdominal discomfort, it’s important that you ask about it during your gynecology exam.
If your pelvic pain has worsened and lasts well past your period every month, there may be something more going on than simple menstrual cramps.
2. What type of contraception is best for me?
Our women’s health experts are dedicated to helping you stay in control of your health and your body.
We offer comprehensive family planning and contraception appointments to review all of your birth control options and help you find the method best fits your health and future pregnancy plans.
3. Why are my periods irregular?
In general, most women bleed four to seven days during their period, which usually occurs every 28 days — although a normal menstrual cycle may be as short as 21 days or as long as 35 days.
An irregular period means you bleed longer than seven days and your cycle is either shorter than 21 days or longer than 35 days. There are many reasons that can explain irregular periods. It may be due to a new form of birth control or a more serious health issue such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).
4. How do I do a self breast exam?
Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While we do a breast exam during your annual gynecology exam, we recommend that you do self breast exams once a month, and we can talk you through it.
Your self breast exam helps you understand what your normal breast tissue feels like, making it easier for you to detect abnormalities that benefit from a visit with us. A breast tissue abnormality may be nothing, but finding and treating breast cancer during the early stages increases your chances of a full recovery.
5. What types of health screenings do I need?
Health screenings are an essential part of your gynecology exam. We offer many preventive screenings. The types you need depend on your medical and gynecological history, family history, and age.
Some of the health screenings we may recommend during your gynecology exam include:
- Pap smear to screen for cervical cancer
- Mammogram to screen for breast cancer
- Bone density test to screen for osteoporosis
- Sexually transmitted disease (STD) screening
- Blood pressure reading to screen for high blood pressure
We also offer various blood tests to screen for diabetes and high cholesterol.
Your health is important to us. and no questions you have go unanswered. To schedule your gynecology exam, call Cary OB/GYN today at the location nearest you.
