Diagnostic Procedures You Could Request From A Gynecologist
It could not be stressed enough that women should have a trusty gynecologist to care for their overall female reproductive system. Once you have a gynecologist that you are comfortable with, there are some diagnostic procedures you could request to be done to ensure that everything is well. Some of the common procedures include a pap smear test, pelvic ultrasound
Diagnostic Procedure: Pap Smear Test
Also called a Pap test, this is done to check if the patient is at risk of cervical cancer. The test is done to detect if there are any cancerous cells within the cervix or the opening of the uterus. The procedure is done by getting sample cells and checking if there are any other abnormalities. The procedure is not painful although uncomfortable for others.
It is recommended that regular Pap smear test starting at age 21 is done every three years. Although there are those who are at high risk and should be getting the test more frequently. This includes those that are HIV positive and have a weak immune system. Before getting a Pap smear test, schedule it when you are not on your period to ensure accurate results and avoid having sex before or douching.
Diagnostic Procedure: Pelvic Ultrasound
In order to ensure that all the organs of your female reproductive system are healthy, ask the best gynecologist melbourne for a pelvic ultrasound. The ultrasound would inform your gynecologist with regards to the condition of your ovaries, uterus, vagina, cervix, bladder and fallopian tubes. This is also the same procedure pregnant women have to check their baby’s well-being while still inside the womb.
Pelvic ultrasound is also necessary to evaluate the cause of fertility problems and how best to treat them. Before the ultrasound, you would be requested to have a full bladder. Do this by drinking water or any clear liquid one hour before the procedure. Don’t pee before since a full bladder would make the pictures clearer since your organs are more prominent.
Diagnostic Procedure: Clinical Breast Exam
Gynecologists also do breast exams and even if you are doing self-examinations, it is still recommended to get the expert opinion of a specialist, especially if there is a history of breast cancer in your family. If you are in your 20s or 30s, it is recommended that you get your clinical breast exam the same as your Pap smear test, every three years. But when you reach your 40’s it should be as frequent as every year.
During the clinical breast exam, your gynecologist would press their fingers around both of your breasts. This action would extend until your armpits to check for any lumps, rashes or any skin discoloration. They may also squeeze your nipples to see if there would be any discharge. Discharges that are foul-smelling and yellow in color is a cause of concern.
Undergoing these diagnostic procedures should not raise warning bells. Instead, these procedures are part of preventive care that you should religiously follow to avoid graver and severe conditions in the future that would not only affect your overall health, but also your fertility.
