It may not be a favourite engagement, but most women need to book an appointment with a gynecologist at some point. But knowing when you need one and making sure you have the best doctor for your needs can be challenging.
What your physician can do
A family practitioner can usually perform several procedures to monitor a woman's health says Guylane Lefebvre, the head of obstetrics and gynecology at St. Michael's Hospital in Toronto. The basics, or what Lefebvre calls "well-woman care," include an annual pap smear and a pelvic examination, checking the size of the uterus, ovaries and a rectal exam for older women.
When you may need a gynecologist
There are different stages of life when you may need the help of a specialist in women's health. For younger women, painful or heavy periods may be the first thing that'll send them to a gynecologist. Many women also seek out a gynecologist when first taking birth control, when they want to become pregnant, or when they're going through menopause.
Finding a doctor you're comfortable with
When you determine that you need a gynecologist, the next step is figuring out what kinds of things you should be asking to find the best person to treat you.
To establish a comfort level with the doctor, you may want to ask questions about potentially sensitive issues such as abortions, hormone replacement therapy or hysterectomies. "You don't need to get into the personal beliefs of the person," Lefebvre says. "But you want to be comfortable that whatever it is that you'll be needing in terms of care, if your gynecologist isn't able to do it, they will send you to someone who does the procedure."
Most likely, you'll want to find a doctor who doesn't impose his or her beliefs on you. If it seems as though any sensitive issues are going to be a major point of contention, you may want to continue your search to find a doctor you're comfortable with.
Communication for good health care
In your search for a great gynecologist, you'll probably also want to find someone who performs a relatively comfortable exam. The procedure may not be discomfort-free, but if it is painful, Lefebvre says to speak up. "Be comfortable telling the doctor or nurse what you are feeling. That person can't feel what you are feeling," Lefebvre says. "It's also helpful for the doctor to know something hurts when it is not supposed to."
Understanding what to expect during an examination and what your doctor is looking for can put you at ease, so ask questions about the procedure or do your own research.
Taking the time to ensure you've found a suitable doctor for your needs can help to alleviate the tension of those dreaded appointments. Lefebvre sums up with, "Leaving a doctor's office, you should feel you had an opportunity to discuss your issues."
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