Most young women begin to see a gynecologist in their teens and by the time they are in their 20s or 30s know the routine, know their bodies, and schedule annual visits. There are times, however, when abnormalities present themselves, and you wonder if you should see your doctor in between your normal visit. The answer is usually yes, and in case you’re in doubt, here are 11 signs you need to call your gynecologist.
Changes To Your Menstrual Flow
If your menstrual cycle has stopped, become irregular, the flow lasts too long, or if you have any changes in the flow, see your gynecologist. Be specific about what has changed.
Blood In Your Urine
If your urine looks pink or brown or if you have pain when urinating, make an appointment. It could be something harmless or short lived, but it is always better to have it checked out.
Bad Smelling Discharge
This symptom is usually sign of an infection. Do not think you can handle this at home, because most likely it will only get worse. Make an appointment and get a clinical diagnosis and proper treatment from All About Women OB/GYN.
It could be something easily handled with antibiotics, but if not treated, could increase the risk of HIV.
Any New Lesion
Sometimes women experience ingrown pubic hair and it’s nothing serious, but it’s always best to be evaluated. A new sore or lesion could be a wart, herpes, or the beginning of a sexually transmitted disease. It is not something to ignore, so call your gynecologist immediately.
Painful Urination
If it hurts or burns when you urinate, call All About Women OB/GYN. In addition, other symptoms of concern include difficulty urinating, frequent urges, lower abdominal pain or no urination. These can all be signs of a UTI or urinary tract infection. Without proper treatment, it can quickly turn into a kidney infection with chills, nausea, vomiting and severe back pain.
Don’t delay in calling your gynecologist for proper treatment.
Painful Sex
Occasionally, women can have pain during sexual intercourse. It may be due to vaginal dryness, a tear in the vagina, or an infection. Low estrogen can cause lack of lubrication, and this can occur during breastfeeding, while on a low dose birth control pill, or during perimenopause.
Unfortunately, painful sex might signify the development of uterine fibroids or endometriosis. See All About Women OB/GYN to rule out these issues.
Long Lasting Pelvic Pain, Cramps, And Bloating
If it lasts longer than 2 weeks, you can rule out something you ate or from getting your period. Colitis, irritable bowel, large fibroids, and rarely cancer could be the culprit. Find out as soon as possible by scheduling an appointment.
Other reasons to see your gynecologist before your next routine visit include the following:
- Bleeding after menopause
- Consistent spotting after sex
- You lost a tampon
- Sharp pains in your pelvic area
If you are in doubt whether you need to go into the office for an unscheduled visit, you can always call All About Women OB/GYN at (703) 437-0001.