Every woman should visit their gynecologist at least once a year, and if they have certain problems with their periods, the frequency of the visit should be more. According to Laurel physician assistant, visiting a gynecologist once a year ensures that your reproductive system is regularly checked and development of any major disease is avoided. However, it should also be noted that the frequency of your visit may depend on your overall health, age, medical history, and other specific concerns.
How often should you go to the gynecologist?
It is generally advised that once you attain puberty, you should see your gynecologist at least once a year till the age of 29. After the age of 30, if you feel healthy and comfortable with yourself, you can start going every alternate year.
Women in their late 50s and 60s may not have too many issues with their reproductive system, and hence, they may require lesser visits to their gynecologist. However, it should be kept in mind that even after menopause, few women may develop certain health conditions, such as infections in their reproductive parts, and therefore, it is always a wise idea to get in touch with your gynecologist once in two years.
The frequency of visits also depends on the following factors:
- Annual checkups: It is generally advised that every woman should have an annual gynecological checkup so that their overall reproductive health stays normal. Furthermore, annual checkups ensure that the development of any health condition in your reproductive parts is avoided.
- Pap Smears: Pap smears are used to screen for cervical cancer, and this type of screening is advised for women every three years.
- Family planning: This factor also plays an important role in your visit to a gynecologist. People who are sexually active may require family planning, and for that, various contraceptive methods are recommended by the gynecologists.
- Age: Usually, women begin to have periods at the age of 13, and that is the first time, a girl needs to see a gynecologist to get her periods checked and monitored. Until she attends the age of 29, visiting a gynecologist once a year is recommended. However, women who go through menopause may need to visit gynecologists for certain specific concerns and to address changes in hormones. At this age, bone health and other health-related issues may erupt, which can be addressed by a gynecologist.