Most adult females need to see a gynecologist regularly, but how often depends on many factors. Dr. Miriam Torres at Serenity Gynecology & Functional Medicine is a gynecologist in Grapevine, TX, who can help determine your best plan of care based on your needs.
How Often Should I See a Gynecologist?
There are some guidelines one should follow when determining how often she should see a gynecologist.
First Visit
You should first see a gynecologist:
- By the age of 21
- When you become sexually active
- Within 2-3 years of becoming sexually active; or
- When you have any issues or concerns
Return Visits
For many women, seeing their gynecologist once a year is good enough. However, if you experience any problems or want to have a baby, it is recommended to see them more frequently.
Other problems may warrant a repeat visit and include:
- Abnormal pap smear
- Menstrual cycle changes
- Urinary tract or yeast infection
- Pain or irritation in the vaginal area
Last Visit
Even if you are over the age of 50 and not interested in having children, it is still recommended to continue monitoring the health of your reproductive organs even after menopause.
Other Times I Should See a Gynecologist
When in doubt, it is always a good idea to call gynecologist Dr. Torres, Grapevine, TX, to see if your symptoms or concerns warrant a visit to her. Other situations may occur that require a visit with your doctor more than once a year, and they include:
- Vagina or vaginal area pain or discomfort
- Changes in the menstrual cycle: If your periods become more heavy or painful, or if you stop having your period.
- Menopause: Your menstrual cycle is likely to change in menopause. You may experience lighter periods or a heavier flow. If your period stops and you suspect menopause, it is best to see your gynecologist to ensure you are not pregnant, and they can also offer support during this transition.
- Irregular bleeding: Any bleeding that is not associated with your period is cause for concern. If you are bleeding with or after sexual intercourse or bleeding with pregnancy, you should see your doctor right away. Vaginal bleeding can be a sign of a severe condition such as cervical or uterine cancer.
- Pain or discomfort: Vaginal itching, excessive discharge, and pain without a known source should prompt you to see your gynecologist. Usually, these conditions are signs of infection or a sexually transmitted disease that require treatment or medical management.
It is essential to your health and well-being to see a gynecologist you can trust regularly. You can trust gynecologist, Dr. Torres, at Serenity Gynecology & Functional Medicine, and she is available for consultation at her office in Grapevine, TX, by calling (817) 280-9616 to make an appointment.