Why Annual Gynaecology Screening is Important
The annual gynaecological exam is a yearly preventative and diagnostic examination aimed to maintain the health of female patients while also monitoring any ongoing physical or hormonal concerns, says the best Gynecologist in South Delhi – Dr. Madhu Goel. A gynaecological screening is a complete health examination of a woman’s reproductive organs that takes place once a year. It’s an annual checkup, which means you should see your gynaecologist at least once a year to get a full picture of your reproductive health.
A general physical examination, a pelvic exam, a breast exam, and a pap smear test are all part of this screening. You may also be examined by a gynaecologist to assess your vital signs, age, weight, and height. This yearly session allows doctors to educate patients on a variety of topics.
This yearly meeting allows doctors to educate patients on how to live a healthy lifestyle and reduce health risks. A regular breast and pelvic exam, as well as a test for sexually transmitted illnesses like chlamydia or gonorrhoea, are included in the exam. At the age of 21, it is recommended that girls begin having annual pelvic exams. Some medical conditions, such as vaginal infections or delayed menstruation, may necessitate a gynaecological evaluation at a younger age.
Why Should You Have a Gynecological Exam Every Year?
Women should get gynaecological exams at least once a year for a variety of reasons. The following factors are used to assess gynaecological health during the examination:
– There is a history of gynaecological issues in the family, including cancer.
– Physical examination of the breasts
– The cervix and pelvis are examined internally.
– A Pap smear test is used to screen for cervical cancer.
– In general, height, weight, and blood pressure are all measured.
– Urinalysis
– Human papillomavirus (HPV) testing (HPV)
– Check for any other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
– Check for infections in the vaginal area.
Furthermore, the yearly gynaecological exam gives a good chance for the patient to speak with her doctor about monthly irregularities, birth control alternatives, menopausal concerns, or any sexual issues or dysfunctions. Based on the patient’s age or symptoms, the gynaecologist may request further testing, such as mammography, bone density screening, endocrinological follow-up, or dermatological evaluation of a suspicious lesion.
Getting Ready for a Gynecological Exam
The first thing you need to understand is that the gynaecologist you’re visiting is a professional in whom you must have confidence. The doctor is never judgemental, and you are free to communicate honestly with them in any situation. Keep in mind that they’ve already helped a lot of others who have the same problem as you. If you’re asked to produce a urine sample or the doctor has ordered an ultrasound, drink lots of water before arriving. Write down all of your concerns regarding your sex life, birth control, STDs, and so on before you go to your gynaecological appointment, says Dr. Madhu Goel, the best gynecologist in South Delhi .
Is it necessary to see a gynaecologist once a year?
It is, without a doubt, important and crucial. It is recommended that all women, whether sexually active or not, get their bodies tested once a year, since this may assist detect any irregularities in your body that can be handled right away, preventing them from becoming serious and causing extra problems. The doctor will typically check the cervix cells during a pap smear to discover if they are malignant or not. This means that physicians are looking for signs of cervical cancer or pre-cancerous conditions. Aside from that, doctors examine your reproductive organs to determine if they are growing normally. Your vaginal discharge will also be examined. As a result, you should consult a doctor even if you are in good sexual and reproductive health.
When should you make an appointment with a gynaecologist?
If you’re over 21 and haven’t seen a gynaecologist yet, now is the time to do so. Women above the age of 21 should have annual gynaecological exams and should continue to do so until they are 65 years old.
Screening tests are used to detect hidden disease in people who appear to be healthy. According to a woman’s age, personal risk factors, and family history, the kind and frequency of advised testing varies.
The following tests are frequently recommended:
Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea: If left untreated, these STIs ( sexually transmitted diseases) can lead to serious issues like pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, and chronic pain. Annual testing is recommended for sexually active women under the age of 25. Women over the age of 25 who have many relationships, a new partner, are concerned about exposure, or have recently been diagnosed with another STI may benefit from testing.
Tests for HIV: You should take this test at least once in your life. However, your doctor should check for risk factors that may necessitate annual testing. When testing for additional STIs such syphilis, trichomonas, herpes simplex virus, and hepatitis, risk factors should also be examined.
Testing for hepatitis C: Women born between 1945 and 1965 who are unaware of their infection status should take this one-time test.
Pap smear test: It is used to detect cancer. Women between the ages of 21 and 65 should get their cervical cancer screened every three years. In women aged 30 and up, co-testing for Pap smear and human papillomavirus (HPV) is recommended every five years.
Breast examination: Every 1 to 3 years, beginning at the age of 20, a healthcare expert should do a breast exam.
Diabetic testing and assessment of lipid (cholesterol) profile: A blood test can determine if your blood sugar and cholesterol levels are normal or need to be corrected. They should be recommended to you on a regular basis by your healthcare physician.
You should see Dr. Madhu Goel if you’re looking for the best gynecologist in South Delhi. She is a renowned Senior Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist and Associate Director at Fortis La Femme, Greater Kailash part 2. She has her private clinic at M 179 greater Kailash part 2. She is well-educated, has a wealth of experience, and is a fantastic mentor and supporter to her patients. She is a great doctor, and you may put your trust in her if surgery is necessary for any of your diseases. So, if you’re ever in doubt about where to go, please call her at +919810480920