For women in need of gynecology exams, confidentiality and discretion are key.
All women should have a gynecological examination done at least once a year. South Avenue Women’s Services specializes in providing gynecological exams in Rochester for women of all ages, and we provide a safe environment with a trained and reliable staff. We are a full-service counseling and private-practice abortion clinic that has proudly served the surrounding area for more than 30 years. Here is what you can expect when you come to South Avenue Women’s Services for a gynecological exam.
What is a gynecology exam?
A gynecology exam is an examination of a woman’s vulva, breasts, uterus, and pelvic area. It is recommended women have regular gynecological exams in their teen years, and they should continue having them annually thereafter.
What happens during a gynecology exam?
During a gynecology exam, a doctor or nurse will typically begin checking your height, your weight, and your blood pressure. After, they will speak with you about your period and any issues you might be having with it, especially if your periods are heavy, irregular, or painful. Your medical practitioner may also offer you certain vaccines, like the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, if you are under the age of 18. Those who are sexually active will get the chance to speak with a gynecologist about things like STD testing and birth control..
Once women turn 21, their gynecological exams include a series of tests. A gynecologist from will conduct a pelvic exam, a Pap test, and a breast examination. As women get older, a doctor will also begin doing regular mammograms to check for signs of any problems in the breasts.
Throughout a gynecology exam, it is important for women to build up a relationship with their doctors and nurses and to speak openly about any issues they might be having. Your gynecologist will often ask you questions about everything from your sexual history to your medical history, and you should try and be as open and honest as you can.
Common questions asked during a gynecology exam?
At this point, you might be wondering what kinds of questions a doctor will ask you when you are having gynecological exam. You should not be worried about these questions as you will usually be able to answer them without giving much thought to your answers.
Your doctor will ask you when your last period was as well as how often you are experiencing them. The doctor might ask you how long your periods last, and if you ever experience any spotting or bleeding in between periods. Additionally, your doctor will ask if you ever deal with any unusual pain in or around your vagina and pelvic area. Here are several other questions a gynecologist might ask:
- Have you ever had vaginal, anal, or oral sex?
- Is sex ever painful for you?
- Have you ever experienced bleeding either during or after sex?
- Are you using any birth control methods at the moment?
- Are you currently dealing with any other medical conditions?
Again, you should do your best to answer these questions as openly as you can. Your answers will help those administering gynecological exams to provide you with the best care possible. Additionally, you should ask as many questions as you want about the exam or any issues you might be dealing with at the time.
Tests performed during gynecology exam?
There are a series of tests you will usually undergo during a gynecological exam. If you are sexually active, a doctor will typically ask you to get tested for STDs. Those over 21 will also have regular Pap tests in order to check for any signs of cervical cancer. You also undergo breast exams during a gynecology exam, and once women turn 40, doctors will often ask to start having regular mammograms as well.
As you can see, having a gynecological exam is important, and you should make sure you have one every year. If you would like to book one at South Avenue Women’s Services, call 585-271-3850.