A gynaecologist is a doctor who specializes in treating women and is an expert on female reproductive organs. An annual gynaecology screening includes an overall health examination of the female reproductive organs. Since it is an annual exam you need to visit your gynaecologist once a year to make sure that your reproductive health and overall health is on track.
The annual gynaecologist screening involves a breast exam, pelvic exam and a pap smear test. It also includes collecting information like your vital health information, age, height and weight.
Questions Asked During A Gynecology Screening
When you go in for your annual screening, your gynecologist will ask you a couple of questions to get a better understanding of your reproductive and overall health:
Do you fall sick frequently? Are you immune to colds and touches of flu?
What does your diet include?
Are you sexually active?
Do you have a family history of cancer?
Have you noticed any changes related to your periods?
Do you do breast self-examination regularly?
The Ob-Gyn pap smear is an important part of the annual gynaecologist screening. It helps the doctor examine your cervix cells and check for malignancy or any pre-cancer symptoms. The smear also helps check whether your reproductive organs are healthy. The pap smear includes examining your vaginal discharge as well. Even if you are in the pink of health, you need to see your gynaecologist once a year to keep an eye on your reproductive and sexual health.
The annual gynae exam recommendations include screening for gonorrhoea, chlamydia, HIV testing, Hepatitis C, mammography, bone density testing, diabetes testing and lipid profile assessment. You can also talk to your gynaecologist about any concerns you have been having like missed periods, pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding, unusual vaginal discharge, painful intercourse, vulvar changes, menopausal symptoms, problems passing urine or moving bowels, or any breast concerns.