When sexually active or experiencing any issues, women near Ashburn VA may be wondering, “How often should I see my gyn?” and if it’s really necessary.

While most women in know to see the gynecologist if a troubling symptom arises, there are other times when visiting the gynecologist is warranted. Take a look at our recommendations for when to see your gynecologist.

Routine Needs

Your particular gynecologist can tell you the most accurate answer to “How often should I see my gyn,” Ashburn, VA, but these are the generally recognized times for regular visits.

• When you become sexually active or by age 21. If you have never been sexually active, a pelvic exam may not be necessary. Your gynecologist can advise you how to maintain the health of your reproductive organs, any troubling signs to look for, and when screenings should be done given your circumstances or family history.
• Then, annual check-ups. Most women should visit the gynecologist once a year for a routine exam. However, some women may even visit every three years after a demonstrated history of normal lab results and low risk factors. Some problems, like irregular pap smears, may warrant more frequent check-ups.
• Your Last Trip to the Gyn. After age 65, women may be able to stop regular visits to the gynecologist if they don’t have any significant risk factors or new sex partners. However, just because you’ve reached the end of your reproductive years doesn’t mean you can skip on regular visits. Women entering and experiencing menopause do need regular gynecological care.

Acute Needs

Sometimes issues arise that can be best managed by a gynecologist. Some of the most common reasons to visit your gynecologist outside of routine visits include:

• When your period changes. If your period changes significantly or stops altogether, it’s a good idea to visit your gynecologist. In her reproductive years, the most common cause of a period stopping is pregnancy, which requires specialized care.
• During menopause. Women who experience bothersome symptoms or those whose period has ceased should visit the gynecologist. Though it is relatively uncommon, some women can become pregnant and mistake this as menopause.
• If your bleeding is irregular. Bleeding during or after intercourse, bleeding in between periods, or bleeding during pregnancy needs to be evaluated by a gynecologist. Sometimes the cervix can be injured, or worse, uterine fibroids or cancers of your reproductive organs can cause bleeding. Your gynecologist can rule this out.
• Pain and discomfort. Vaginal discomfort should not be a normal occurrence. A gynecologist can treat conditions such as urinary tract infections (UTI), bacterial infections, or yeast infections that can cause discomfort, itching, and burning during urination. Sexually Transmitted infections (STIs) can also cause discomfort or pain and should be treated immediately.

How Often Should I Visit My Gyn? | Ashburn, VA

Beyond your regular visit, you should feel comfortable enough to visit your gynecologist whenever you experience a troubling or bothersome symptom.

Call our office today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Hall to experience thorough and compassionate care.