Never been to a gynaec? Maybe it’s time you did, says Dr Parul R Sheth
"When I was 25 years old, I developed a recurring irritation of the vagina, accompanied by an itch, rawness, discomfort and a burning sensation despite severals courses of antibiotics,” reveals Rhea, a 30-year-old college lecturer.
“I was unable to use tampons, a social life became almost impossible and the emotional strain was enormous, affecting my self-esteem and self confidence. I was such a shy person then, but I had no other option but to approach a gynaecologist.”
Reflects Priti, a 26-year-old software engineer, “Visiting a gynaecologist is so scary! I have never been to one and I hope to postpone going unless I really need to.”
If this is your train of thought, read on.
Why would you visit a gynaecologist? You may need to see a gynaecologist — or gynaec for simplicity — for varied reasons such as for routine pelvic exams, contraception, vaginal infections, sex problems, wanting to get pregnant, pregnancy, or for women’s problems which have a history in your family such as early menopause, excessive bleeding, or fibroids — which may need a hysterectomy.
A gynaec will also look into diseases of the uterus (womb), fallopian tubes, ovaries, cervix (opening of the womb), vagina, and vulva (external genital organs). Many gynaecologists also provide prenatal care.
What should you look for in a gynaecologist? Your gynaecologist should be someone in whom you can confide and with whom you feel comfortable. She/he should be accessible during emergencies and be willing to answer your questions.
How do you choose a gynaecologist? Different women need different things from an obstetrician - gynaecologist (ob-gyn). For most, the doctor’s gender is an important aspect, while for others, age, religion and other factors may be important considerations.
However, feeling comfortable with your ob-gyn is of paramount importance. An ob-gyn’s proximity to your home or office is also a factor to consider. Some women prefer having a gynaec who is based at a hospital, while some prefer gynaecologists in private practices.
If you have had difficulty in getting pregnant, you may want to consult a specialist in infertility, called a ‘reproductive endocrinologist’. These are infertility specialists who treat both male and female infertility problems.
What should you expect on your first visit to a gynaecologist? A gynaecologist, like any other doctor, will initially want your medical history. If you aren’t sexually active, the doctor may do a gentle breast exam and superficial pelvic exam.
However, if you are sexually active, a breast exam may be followed by a pelvic internal exam. If your mother or your sister has had any type of gynaecological cancer (eg ovarian, cervical, or endometrial), your gynaec needs to be told about this.
For which other problems would you need to consult a gynaecologist? There are vaginal infections, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), sexual problems, contraception, infertility, miscarriages, abortions, ectopic pregnancy, normal pregnancy and childbirth and its complications, cancers, menopausal prob-lems, etc for which you need to see a gynaec.
Answers You Really Need To Know