Many women tend to skip gynecological check-ups especially if they don’t experience any symptoms. But you should understand that there are a lot of conditions that can develop asymptomatically.
When these conditions progress, they can damage the female reproductive system and cause symptoms in the later stages. In this article, we have gathered seven weighty reasons to visit a gynecologist you shouldn't neglect.
1. You experience pelvic pain
Pelvic pain (especially during periods) is a quite common issue that affects many women. However, many women tend to take painkillers or use home remedies to ease the pain instead of visiting a gynecologist. The point is that pelvic pain can occur because of various conditions. The most common of them are:
- Endometriosis
- Adenomyosis
- Sexually transmitted infections
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Urinary tract infection
- Ovarian cyst
- Ovarian torsion
- Uterine fibroids
- Ectopic pregnancy
It is essential to understand that untreated conditions can progress and lead to negative or even life-threatening complications. That’s why it is better to make an appointment with your gynecologist right after the onset of pelvic pain. A gynecologist can define the exact cause of your pain and perform effective treatment.
2. You have severe periods
Many women of childbearing age experience pain, cramping, and discomfort during periods. In most cases, this pain doesn’t interfere with daily activities and can be easily reduced with the help of painkillers. But there are a lot of women who have to deal with unbearable pain and severe cramps during periods that make them stay in bed for a few days.
The point is that severe pain drawing periods are often caused by certain underlying conditions like endometriosis, adenomyosis, uterine fibroids, etc. They can affect your menstrual cycle and cause other negative complications.
3. You have abnormal vaginal discharge
The female reproductive system produces a certain amount of discharge that can change a bit throughout the menstrual cycle. But if you have noticed that your vaginal discharge had significantly changed its odor, texture, or color, it can be a sign of vaginal infection.
The most common vaginal infections are sexually transmitted infections, bacterial vaginosis, and yeast infection. Due to the fact that they can have similar symptoms, only a gynecologist can prescribe a proper treatment plan.
4. You experience spotting after sex
Spotting is light vaginal bleeding that occurs between periods. Some women can experience spotting during ovulation or implantation of the fertilized egg. However, there are a lot of medical conditions (like uterine fibroids, vaginal dryness, endometriosis, cervical cancer) that can also cause vaginal bleeding after sex.
For example, uterine fibroids are benign tumors that grow on the uterus. They can develop asymptomatically, or cause pelvic pain, spotting, lower back pain, severe periods, etc. If you experience these symptoms, it is better to contact a gynecologist to remove uterine fibroids.
5. You have skipped a few periods
There are a lot of factors that can make your periods late. The most common of them are:
- Pregnancy
- Prolonged exposure to stress
- Excessive exercising
- Sudden weight gain or loss
- Thyroid disorders
- Polycystic ovary syndrome
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Hormonal birth control
If you have skipped only one menstrual period, there is no reason for concern. But if you have skipped a few periods in a row, it is better to visit a gynecologist since this issue can be caused by certain medical conditions. You should also understand that missed periods can manifest fertility issues.
6. You have had unprotected sex
It is important to understand that unprotected sex can result not only in an unwanted pregnancy. There are a lot of sexually transmitted diseases that can be passed through sexual intercourse. The point is that these infections and viruses can develop asymptomatically and damage your reproductive system at the same time.
If you recently have had unprotected sex, it is better to make an appointment with your gynecologist for a thorough examination. The doctor will evaluate your condition. You may also need to undergo STD testing.
7. You experience pain during sex
Many women all over the world experience pain and discomfort during sex. Unfortunately, not all of them try to define the exact cause of this pain and simply suffer every intercourse. Even though painful sensations during sex can be caused by the uncomfortable position or insufficient foreplay and arousal, there are certain gynecological disorders that can also make your sex hurt.
For example, women with endometriosis often experience pain and spotting during sex. The point is that endometriosis is a condition that occurs when the endometrium grows on pelvic organs. This means that pelvic organs are attached to each other and sex can cause discomfort and pain in the pelvic area.
The bottom line
It is essential to understand that you are the only person who is responsible for your reproductive health and well-being in general. If you experience any unpleasant symptoms, you need to visit your gynecologist as soon as possible. Regular gynecological check-ups are also important since they can help diagnose many conditions in the initial stages.
