Loving everything about yourself – even the ‘unacceptable’ – is an act of personal power. It is the beginning of healing.” – Christiane Northrup (Renowned Obstetrician)
There could be tons of reasons to avoid your OB/GYN (obstetrics and gynecology) doctor. However, all those reasons, whether baseless or logical, can be disproved by the statement above. We owe it to our own self to keep our body clean and healthy – most particularly if you are a woman.
According to Patricia Nevils, M.D., a Lafayette LA OBGYN, taking good care of yourself as a woman is also taking care of your current or future children. Below are some of the best reasons to say “Yes” to go to your OB/GYN every year.
1. Annual Breast Exam
Perhaps there are hundreds of Youtube video tutorials or even blogs online that can give you recommendations on how to do personal breast examinations every month – and it’s probably safe to say that you know how to do it by now. However, it would still be best to have an expert check your breasts to be very certain on your health and avoid any lapses.
Keep in mind that some issues, the worst being cancer, display no outward signs or symptoms during its early stages. It is likely to be diagnosed during regular check-ups.
2. Probable Onset of Infection
As mentioned earlier, even a forthcoming infection cannot be figured out early on unless you undergo a urinalysis. You can only prevent the onset of any infection if you make a conscious effort to go to your doctor regularly, at least once a year.
3. Maternity and Family Planning
Who else would know best about your health than your trusted OB/GYN. It is always best to consult a specialist to help with your pregnancy – both physically and emotionally. This is to prepare you for all aspects as to what you and your partner should expect, including changes to your body.
4. The PAP Test
A PAP smear (also known as a PAP test) is a procedure to test for cervical cancer in women. It is recommended that testing starts at age 21 (or sooner if you are sexually active) and be performed every 3 years between the ages of 21 and 65.
Detecting cervical cancer early with a Pap smear gives you a greater chance at a cure. A Pap smear can also detect changes in your cervical cells that suggest cancer may develop in the future. Detecting these abnormal cells early with a Pap smear is your first step in halting the possible development of cervical cancer.
5. Possible Hormonal Imbalance
There are a lot of factors for hormonal imbalances. That is why it is important to go to your ob-gyn for assistance on how to properly treat these imbalances.
6. Pelvic Checkup and HPV Vaccination
Cancer of the pelvis is one of the worst nightmares for a woman. That is why getting a vaccine against HPV from your doctor is the best prevention.
Aside from these above-mentioned necessities, consult your ob-gyn at once should there be any irregularities that you notice on your body. Always remember: health is wealth, and as a woman – health is your future.
