Understanding Prenatal Care

So many women assume you don't need an OB/GYN unless you become pregnant or are trying to conceive. However, even women who want nothing to do with babies can benefit from having their own personal OB/GYN. Check out these three benefits to having a doctor who specializes in obstetrician and gynecology.

Helps Get Teens Through Puberty  

It may seem surprising, but young teens should start seeing an OB/GYN. In fact, it is urged by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists that woman should start seeing their OB/GYN annually by the time they are about 13 years old. This is an important time in a young woman's development, making it an important time to ensure everything is developing correctly. A woman this young, however, will likely not have to undergo many intrusive tests, such as a pelvic exam unless she is already sexually active. Depending on the parents and the teen, the OB/GYN can also prescribe birth control to prevent teen pregnancy.  

Breast and Uterine Cancer Preventative Care

Every woman should be aware of breast and uterine cancer, and an OB/GYN is the best doctor to help offer preventative care. For starters, your doctor will provide regular breast examines to check for lumps in the breast or adjacent lymph nodes. Pelvic exams are the best way to check for cancers like uterine and cervical. Typically, depending on your age and family, you shouldn't need your first pelvic exam until you have become or are planning to become sexually active.

Treats Vaginal Abnormalities

Most general doctors can provide basic gynecological treatments, such as performing a pelvic exam. However, when something is abnormal, they will likely direct you to an OB/GYN because they are the best suited to identify and treat vaginal disorders. Common problems OB/GYN's treat include irregular menstruation, abnormal pap smears, unusual vaginal discharge and blood in the urine. If your vagina seems healthy, but you often experience pain during intercourse, your OB/GYN can offer assistance for that too. If you have any of these, you should contact an OB/GYN or ask your general doctor about a referral.

While general doctors can perform many preventative care services for women's reproductive systems, an OB/GYN is your best ally in preventing and treating problems. Even if you never plan on having children, you should consider an obstetrician/gynecologist. For more information, talk to your doctor today about finding a good OB/GYN in your area.

For more information, contact a doctor like Zeng, Xiao-Mei MD.