If you haven't had a pelvic exam in a few years, now's the time to contact your gynecologist. If you're like most people, you think you only need to schedule your pelvic exam about once every three years. But, that's not the case. There are times when you shouldn't wait for your routine pelvic exam. Read the list provided below. If any of these issues relate to you, you need to schedule a pelvic exam right away.
Unusual Bleeding
If your periods are normal, you can usually wait for your routine pelvic exams. But, there are times when bleeding can become abnormal. When that happens, you need to talk to your gynecologist. One sign of abnormal bleeding includes spotting in between periods. But, you also need to worry about abnormally heavy bleeding, or clots. If you're dealing with any of these bleeding issues, schedule a pelvic exam as soon as you can.
Initial Screening
If you haven't had your initial pelvic screening, now's the time to schedule that. You might not know it, but you should have your first pelvic exam between the ages of 13 and 15 years old. There are quite a few benefits to having that first screening. One of those benefits is that you get started on a good screening routine. This includes your annual pap smear. A lot of people don't realize how important pap smears are to their health. The fact is that the annual pap smear is one of the best ways to catch some cancers, including cervical cancer. Protect your health. Schedule your first pelvic exam.
Sexual Activity
If you're sexually active, you need to schedule a pelvic exam. If you're in a monogamous relationship, you might not think you need the pelvic exam. But, that's not the case. Your partner might not have been in monogamous relationships in the past. That means, you could be at risk for sexually-transmitted diseases and infections. That's one of the reasons why pelvic exams are so important once you become sexually active.
Family History
If you have a family history of pelvic disorders, don't postpone your pelvic exams. Pelvic floor dysfunction can be a genetic disorder. Plus, some cancers are hereditary. Ovarian cancer is one of them. Luckily, pelvic exams can help identify ovarian cancer in its early stages. That's why pelvic exams should be a part of your healthcare routine.
Don't take chances with your health. Schedule a pelvic exam with a gynecology service near you.