There are many reasons why you would need to visit a reproductive health physician, also known as a gynecologist or obstetrician. While you should see this type of doctor on a regular basis as soon as you hit puberty, there are specific reasons that garner visits, as well.
Here are the most common reasons why women see this specialist for care:
Want to Prevent Pregnancy
A reproductive health specialist can help you prevent pregnancy if you’re not ready to become a mother or have more children. You have several options to prevent pregnancy, and your gynecologist will discuss all your options with you. During your visit, your doctor will evaluate your overall health and medical history to determine a solution that’s safe for you. For example, if you have a history of uncontrolled high blood pressure, a birth control pill may not be right for you.
In addition, your doctor will help you find a birth control solution that will allow you to have children when you’re ready. For instance, if you don’t plan on having children any time in the near future, your practitioner may recommend an intrauterine device or implant to prevent pregnancy for years to come. Your physician will also discuss convenience with you, since some birth control options require more effort than others.
Want to Get Pregnant
It can take time to get pregnant, but for some, it may not happen without medical intervention. If you want to get pregnant, you should visit a gynecologist. Your women’s health specialist may provide you with tips to improve your chances of conceiving. They can also help optimize your overall health before getting pregnant. If you are having trouble getting pregnant, your doctor can diagnose the problem that is hindering your ability to have a healthy pregnancy. Finally, they can help determine if your future baby has a predisposition to certain health issues based on your overall health.
Have Signs of an STD
Certain STDs can cause long-term effects, particularly when not treated early. One of these effects is infertility. Therefore, if you have one or more of the following symptoms, you should visit a women’s reproductive health physician:
- Abnormal vaginal discharge that’s an odd color or smell
- Burning during urination
- Irregular vaginal bleeding
- Pain during sex
- Pain in lower abdomen
Even if you don’t have signs of an STD, you may still have one. An STD can go on for years without ever causing a symptom, and some people are asymptomatic from infection. Therefore, you may want to consider STD testing with a gynecologist.
Think You’re Pregnant
Obstetrics is another aspect of a woman’s health that a women’s health physician can address. If you think you’re pregnant, you should contact a gynecologist for an exam. A specialist in obstetrics can determine if you’re pregnant, how far along you are, and can provide you with education and care necessary to optimize the health of you and your unborn baby during pregnancy.
Why Choose a Syracuse, NY Gynecologist and Obstetrician in Syracuse, NY from Our Offices
Our practitioners listen with open ears and can help with a variety of reproductive health needs throughout various times of your life. Our gynecologists and obstetricians always find a solution tailored to your needs, whether you’re trying to prevent pregnancy, are pregnant, or suffer from infertility.
Book an appointment with University OBGYN Associates, serving Syracuse and the nearby New York area, for an appointment for any of your women’s health needs today. You may call us at (315) 464-5162.
