Girls should make their visit to a gynecologist between ages 13 and 15 to establish a relationship and discuss issues regarding puberty, menstruation, and more. Pap smears and other routine tests should begin when they’re in their 20s.
Dedicated OB/GYN Dr. Dean Hildahl understands the value of annual gynecological exams, which he performs at North Naples Gynecology and Obstetrics in Naples, Florida.
Your pelvic organs, including the ovaries, uterus, cervix, vagina, and fallopian tubes, can’t be seen by the naked eye, so Dr. Hildahl first feels your pelvic area and stomach.
He then presses your lower belly while touching your uterus and ovaries internally, checking for tender areas or unusual growths. In addition, the doctor:
While every female over 20 should schedule a gynecological exam, it’s crucial when you experience symptoms such as pelvic pain, discharge, or abnormal bleeding.
Dr. Hildahl also performs an exam before inserting an intrauterine device (IUD) or during your initial prenatal care appointment.
An annual gynecological exam reveals your current state of health and can help predict future issues with fertility and pregnancy. Regular exams also help detect:
The doctor also examines your breasts for lumps or abnormalities and offers preventive screenings for bone density, cholesterol, and more. Yearly exams also enable Dr. Hildahl to discuss preventive care, such as vaccinations to help avert HPV.
Routine exams allow you to discuss such issues as contraception, family planning, and handling the hormonal challenges of perimenopause and menopause. We approach your reproductive health proactively to help you live your best life.
Dr. Hildahl examines your pelvic area to detect anything suspicious, such as:
The doctor also checks for pelvic floor disorders, such as prolapse. That occurs when one or more organs, such as your bladder, womb (uterus), or bowel, bulge into your vagina. You may experience symptoms, including heaviness or urinary problems.
We often only discover prolapse during a pelvic exam. Dr. Hildahl may recommend pelvic exercises or medical treatment to rectify the issue.
One of the most challenging diagnoses for women is ovarian cancer. Unfortunately, there’s no test for this disease. However, 9 in 10 women experience multiple symptoms before diagnosis.
Dr. Hildahl makes patients aware of common symptoms, including:
These symptoms may be due to issues other than ovarian cancer, but it’s best to discuss any of these problems with the doctor during your routine exam. Like other cancers, it’s much easier to treat ovarian cancer during the early stages before it spreads.
Whatever your stage of life, a yearly gynecological exam provides a window into your ongoing gynecological health, allowing for early detection and treatment.
If you’d like to schedule a gynecological exam or discuss any issues regarding menopause, infertility, obstetric care, and more, book a consultation with Dr. Hildahl by phone or online today.
