An obstetrician/gynecologist (OB-GYN) specializes not only in delivering babies or pregnancy-related concerns, but also health issues unique to women. This includes maintaining a healthy reproductive system.Women are advised to visit their gynecologist at least once a year or when they need to discuss family planning. However, there are times when you need to visit a gynecologist immediately to ensure that you get proper medical treatment.
As a woman, your health is crucial because an unhealthy reproductive system may be associated with greater risks for future complications. Please see your gynecologist immediately if you experience these symptoms:
1) Lumps on the breasts
These can be discovered incidentally, or through self-examination in front of a mirror. Also, if your nipple secretes liquid mixed with blood, or you notice changes in the color or the contour of the skin around your breasts, you should also ask your gynecologist to investigate. If you discover any of these changes, visit your gynecologist right away. Your doctor may use a mammogram to determine the initial signs of breast cancer. Breast cancer is a leading cause of death among women, so see your gynecologist as soon as possible for an examination.
2) Post-menopausal bleeding
Women who reach the age of 40 will start going through menopause. The Gynecologist knows that this is a sign of impending infertility because the ovaries start losing their functionality. If you have already undergone menopause, but still experience bleeding, visit your obstetrician immediately. This may be a sign of endometrial hyperplasia (the tissues in your uterus are growing excessively), benign polyps, or even cancer. Make sure you visit your gynecologist and have this condition investigated as soon as possible.
3) Tremendous and rapid pain in the abdomen
See your gynecologist immediately if you experience an abrupt lower abdominal pain because you may have a ruptured ectopic pregnancy. When this happens, the Fallopian tube bleeds which may cause your abdomen to swell. Treatment of this involves immediate surgery, so consult your gynecologist right away.
4) Serious Dysmenorrhea
Dysmenorrhea is a medical ailment where a female patient experiences episodes of excruciating pain during her menstrual period. Check up with your gynecologist right away if you are bleeding a lot more than usual and are quickly replacing your sanitary napkins. Some conditions may point to anemia, but extreme cases may prompt the gynecologist to order blood transfusion if blood loss is significant.
5) Rectal and vaginal blisters that hurt
Immediately inform your Gynecologist about these because they may indicate the onset of herpes. If this is not treated, blisters may appear around the hands, genitals, torso, mouth, or face. If left untreated, the disease progresses, leading to complications in the brain, spinal cord, or eyes. See your gynecologist regularly to avoid these symptoms.