A common misconception that many people have is that gynecological care is only needed for women of child-bearing age. After all, gynecological care is very much focused on reproductive health, so once that phase of a woman’s life is over, why see a gynecologist?
Nothing could be farther from the truth. Gynecological care is necessary for every stage of a woman’s life. Every girl should begin to see a gynecologist starting from their teen years and continue to see their women’s health doctor even in post-menopause.
Read on to learn about some of the services post-menopausal women should receive from their gynecologists.
Pap Smears
Pap smears are recommended beginning in a woman’s early 20s and up to post-menopause. While most women can discontinue getting Pap smears at this time, some women should still continue getting them done every 2-3 years. This includes women who have had abnormal Pap smear results in the past, have had cervical cancer in the past, or have a family history of cervical cancer. This screening can be a highly effective tool in detecting cervical cancer early on when it is most treatable.
Annual Woman’s Exams
Every woman needs an annual woman’s exam regardless of their age. During this exam, your gynecologist will assess your breast health and perform a pelvic exam to ensure any abnormalities are examined, diagnosed, and treated in a timely fashion. Unfortunately, the risk of many women’s health issues, such as breast cancer, increases with age. Therefore, a woman in post-menopause should still see a gynecologist on a regular basis for the continuity of health.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Post-Menopausal Health Problems
Menopause brings a host of changes to a woman’s body, including hormonal changes that can lead to a variety of symptoms, such as mood swings, hot flashes, and more. Similarly, postmenopausal women are susceptible to a variety of health problems that a gynecologist can help with. For instance, urinary incontinence and urinary tract infections are very common among women in this phase of life. Additionally, women experience a significant loss of bone density and run the risk of developing osteoporosis. A gynecologist can monitor such issues and recommend treatments and therapies to support your health and reduce symptoms as much as possible.
Gynecologist Near You in Syracuse, New York
The highly skilled medical professionals at University OB/GYN Associates provide annual gynecology exams as part of their commitment to helping women of all ages maintain their reproductive and overall health.
We offer comprehensive services in all facets of gynecology, including:
- Well-woman exams
- Breast exams and mammograms
- Menopause management
- Infertility evaluation
- Health screenings
- Contraceptive counseling and family planning
- Pap smears
- HPV screening and vaccines
In addition, we provide the most advanced and innovative treatments for a wide range of women’s health issues. Women in Syracuse, New York, can rely on personalized and compassionate care and support from our dedicated staff of physicians and nurse practitioners.
To learn more about our many gynecology services, call University OB/GYN Associates today at (315) 464-5162 to schedule an appointment.
