Gynecologists are doctors who specialize in women’s health, while having a major focus on the female reproductive system. These medical experts deal with an expansive range of issues , including sexually transmitted infections (STIs), hormone disorders, menstruation and fertility issues, pregnancy and childbirth, and so on. Dr Matthew Boente says that most women start visiting a gynecologist from their early teens and continue to do till their old age. It is prudent that all women visit a gynecologist annually for a checkup to ensure their well being. Dr Boente himself is a gynecologist, and used to be the division director of Gynecologic Oncology at the Fox Chase Cancer Center.
A gynecologist helps women in several ways, right from aiding them to manage their menstruation cycle to even preventing certain cancers. Health experts like Matthew Boente MD especially point out that girls between the ages of 13 to 15 should start visiting a gynecologist. Puberty can be a difficult time for all, especially girls, and becoming familiar with a gynecologist and their services can prove to be quite beneficial during this period. Dr Matthew Boente is an experienced and reputed gynecologist, which makes him an ideal candidate to shed light on this topic. He mentions that women visiting a gynecologist on a regular basis would stand a better chance to have issues related to their reproductive system diagnosed at an early stage, which can be quite effective in ensuring the prompt treatment of the conditions.
Matthew Boente MD points out that there especially are a few symptoms that indicate that women must visit a gynecologist at once. Here are a few of them:
- Itchiness or burning: Uncomfortable sensations such as itching or burning in the vaginal area can be an indication of an infection or STI. One of the most common infections that might occur in this situation is urinary tract infection (UTI). While in the early stages UTI can be helped by drinking lots of water and cranberry juice, if not properly controlled, it can lead to a severe kidney infection. A gynecologist can help women to determine the root cause of their discomfort, and subsequently, formulate preventive or treatment plans for them.
- Pelvic pain and abdominal discomfort: Sharp pelvic pain can be an indication of an infection, a ruptured ovarian cyst, or even a dangerous ectopic pregnancy. Constant feeling of fullness in the abdomen along with persistent pain can also occur due to uterine fibroids, which are non-cancerous tumors. Women must visit their gynecologist and describe the type of pain they are facing. This shall help them to make a proper diagnosis.
- Problems with urination or bowel movements: Difficulty moving the bowels or urinary can be symptoms of pelvic floor problems. This condition takes place when the tissues supporting the pelvic organs become damaged or weakened, ideally due to childbirth.
More details on the symptoms that may indicate that there is some issues with the reproductive system of women can be found on the web.