As a woman, it is important for you to see the gynecologist periodically for your own reproductive health. However, you may have been trying to avoid scheduling your appointment because you are feeling nervous about undergoing an examination in the office. If you choose a gynecologist at the healthcare center who is kind and makes you feel comfortable, the exam may be much easier for you, but you should always make sure you are making your appointments no matter what.

1. Screening For Cervical Cancer 

One main reason to make your appointment with the gynecologist is to undergo a screening for cervical cancer. It can happen to any woman, and the signs of cervical cancer are often non-existent or not noticeable enough for women to think something is wrong. The Pap test is performed inside the office by the gynecologist. The gynecologist will use a medical instrument to carefully obtain a few cells from your cervix. Those cells are then tested. When detected early enough, the survival rate for cervical cancer is much higher, which is why it is so crucial to undergo this type of screening.

2. Examining the Breasts For Lumps

Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of death in women. It is something that should be addressed early so that additional treatment options may be available, including options that may be more effective at eliminating the cancer from the body. During your visit to the office, your gynecologist may carefully examine each breast, checking for anything that may be out of the ordinary. If the gynecologist feels lumps or nodules, he or she may recommend further testing to find out exactly what is going on.

3. Getting on Birth Control

If you have no interest in having children right now, but you are sexually active, seeing a gynecologist to discuss birth control options is a great idea. There are tons of different birth control options available for women. With so many options offered, you may not know which type of birth control is right for you, but your gynecologist could explain some of the options to you and help you make your decision.

If you are a woman, you should make sure you are seeing a gynecologist at least once a year. While you are in the office, you can undergo a screening for cervical cancer, have your breasts checked for potentially cancerous lumps, and even discuss birth control options to prevent an unexpected and unplanned pregnancy. If you do not already have a gynecologist, you should contact your insurance provider to find gynecologists in your area that accept your insurance.