Tips & Advice
How long does a gynecological exam take?
Even though a lot of ground is covered in gynecological exams, the process can be quite swift, and it's not unusual for the exam to take as little as five minutes. In the 24 hours preceding the exam, it's recommended that you abstain from sex and avoid using douches or vaginal creams.
What can be expected from a gynecological exam?
A gynecological exam often requires a gynecologist to examine your pelvis. The area outside your vagina may be examined, and a speculum may be placed inside your vagina so the gynecologist can take a look at your vaginal canal and cervix. A thin plastic stick may be used to gather cells from your cervix. This is known as a Pap test, and it can identify changes in the cervix that may foreshadow cancer. Your gynecologist may also use gloved fingers to manually examine your vagina and anus.
What is the difference between a gynecologist and an obstetrician?
Though there are certain differences between a gynecologist and an obstetrician, their fields often overlap. Gynecologists are focused on a broad range of women's health issues, while obstetricians are more narrowly focused on pregnancy and childbirth. Most gynecologists are also trained in obstetrics, which means they're qualified to care for pregnant women.
Menopause refers to a set of health changes that women experience as they age, and it's perfectly normal. With the advent of menopause, a woman's menstruation cycle ceases, and she is no longer able to conceive a child. Menopause typically happens after the age of 40, but it can sometimes occur earlier due to hysterectomy or damage to the ovaries.
What is estrogen replacement therapy?
Estrogen replacement therapy is used to help women boost their estrogen levels. This hormone replacement therapy is often used treat unpleasant symptoms associated with menopause, and it's also used to support the health of patients who have had a hysterectomy. Estrogen replacement therapy is also used by gynecologists to treat female patients who are at risk of heart disease and osteoporosis.
How much does a gynecological visit cost?
The cost of your gynecological visit will depend on the services provided. Annual wellness exams can cost $200-$300. A visit for a problem such as painful urination or vaginal discharge can cost $75-$100, and a visit to treat a sexually transmitted disease can cost roughly $100. IUD insertion can cost $450-$1,200, and it can cost $250 to have an IUD removed. Most gynecologists accept insurance and credit cards.
What type of education do gynecologists receive?
It takes 12 to 16 years of education and training to become a gynecologist. The path to becoming a gynecologist begins with an undergraduate pre-medical degree and four years in medical school. Next, a four-year residency at a hospital is required. Upon completion of a residency, a gynecologist may opt to obtain additional training via a fellowship, and this can take three to four years.
What conditions does a gynecologist treat?
Gynecologists treat general female issues such as chronic pelvic pain, fibroids, ovarian cysts, sexually transmitted diseases, urinary tract infections, vaginal yeast infections, vulvodynia, warts and premalignant lesions of the lower reproductive tract, and fistulas. Gynecologists provide care for pregnancy-related issues such as ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, and cervical cerclage, and they also assist with menstruation issues like endometriosis, premenstrual syndrome, and abnormal bleeding. Gynecologists also care for women who are experiencing menopause, gynecological cancers, and pelvic floor issues such as rectocele, urine leakage, and vaginal vault prolapse.
Can a gynecologist prescribe birth control pills?
Since gynecologists are focused on issues that concern the reproductive organs and pregnancy, they are the physicians who are most qualified to prescribe birth control for women. A woman may be prescribed birth control as part of a yearly gynecological checkup that includes a pelvic exam, a Pap test, and a breast exam.
A gynecologist is a physician who specializes in the treatment of conditions that affect women and their reproductive organs. Gynecologists often provide care and treatment for breast and hormonal issues, cervical cancer, urinary tract problems, and pelvic disorders. Most gynecologists also have a background in obstetrics, which means they're qualified to care for women who are experiencing pregnancy and childbirth.
