Gynecological Health
Gynecology is health care for women. It focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of disorders related to the female reproductive system.
Gynecological exams typically include a pelvic exam, pap smear, and testing for many vaginal infections and STIs.
Routine gynecological care:
- prevents illness and discomfort
- allows for early detection of cancers of the breast and cervix-when they are more curable
- detects sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and other conditions before they cause serious damage
- prevents sterility
Staying healthy is important. Whether you're young or old, married or single, sexually active or not, or whether you're lesbian, straight, bisexual--good gynecological care is the key.
Take control of your health. It takes teamwork to have good health. Learn what is normal for your body and what is not. Watch for changes in your body and its rhythms that may signal problems.
Your clinician will help you identify problems before they become serious and will provide care if you become ill. Team up with your clinician for routine GYN exams. Learn how the GYN exam can work for you. You should have a routine GYN exam every year if you are sexually active or over age 18.
You may need to have checkups even more often if you have:
- plans to become pregnant
- an STI or a sex partner with an STI
- a history of sexual health problems
- a sexually-related illness
- a mother or sister who developed breast cancer before menopause
- a history of abnormal Pap test results
- a breast lump
You should visit your clinician, no matter how old you are, if you have:
- unusual vaginal or pelvic pain
- abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge
- severe pelvic or lower abdominal pain
- pain, swelling, or tenderness of the vulva or vagina
- sores, lumps, or itching of the vulva or vagina
- growths or thickening of the breast or armpit
Many women worry about having a GYN exam--especially if it's the first time. You will be more comfortable if you know what to expect.
Regular GYN exams include:
- talking about your personal, family, sexual, and medical history
- laboratory tests and screening for STIs and other conditions (at your or your clinician's request)
- counseling
- a pelvic exam
- a breast exam
Need to make an appointment today? You can find the Planned Parenthood of Alaska clinic nearest you by using the 'Find a Health Center' toolbar at the top of this page, or by calling: 1-800-230-PLAN.
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