When and why to seek general gynecological care in Katy TX

Medical care can be confusing, particularly when you aren’t even sure what kind of doctor you need. If you already had a yearly physical exam, do you still need a well-woman exam? Can your OBGYN serve as your general physician? What is the difference between gynecological and obstetric care? These are just a few of the questions that we frequently receive here at Jenkins Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Medicine in Katy, TX.

What is an OBGYN?

Many women do not feel comfortable discussing feminine health concerns with their family doctors. Additionally, general practitioners lack specialized training in the complexities of the female reproductive system.

A gynecologist is a doctor who treats women’s health concerns, specifically those involving the reproductive system. An obstetrician cares for women during pregnancy and childbirth. Our physicians are OBGYNs, a designation meaning that we are obstetricians as well as gynecologists, caring for women through every phase of life.

The importance of annual well-woman exams

Like most aspects of medical care, a pro-active approach is best. That means the best time to visit is before you have a problem. Yearly well-woman exams should begin around the age of thirteen and continue for life. During your annual appointment, your doctor will perform an examination, as well as applicable routine tests, such as pap smears, as indicated by your age and medical history.

We encourage patients to ask questions and raise any concerns that they may have. Very often, a woman feels like what she is experiencing must be unusual, when it is actually perfectly normal or a common medical problem. Our doctors are highly skilled and experienced in all aspects of women’s health care. Equally important, we care about your wellbeing and your privacy. No matter what the topic, from sexual activity to questionable odors, you can feel comfortable discussing it in a compassionate and confidential environment.

When you shouldn’t wait for a routine visit

Your annual well-woman exam is a great time to discuss any issues you may have, but sometimes it isn’t advisable to wait.

• Pregnancy – Prenatal care is essential to your health, and that of your unborn child. Never postpone beginning obstetric care, call as soon as you suspect or know that you are pregnant.
• Planning to conceive – If you have decided to have a baby, don’t wait until you are pregnant to schedule a visit. We can provide guidance about fertility, as well as improving your health for a lower risk pregnancy.
• Contraception – Women today have many options. If your current method of contraception is inconvenient, uncomfortable, or has unwanted side effects, ask us about alternatives.
• Exposure to STI – If you have any reason to think you may have contacted an STI (sexually transmitted infection), schedule an evaluation right away. As with most medical conditions, early detection and treatment are important for the best possible outcome.
• Abnormal bleeding – Sudden changes in menstrual flow, or any bleeding in between periods, may be a sign of a medical problem.
• Severe menstrual cramps – Virtually every woman experiences cramping, which can generally be managed with over the counter medication. However, if your cramps are intolerable there may be an underlying medical cause.
• Pain (other than PMS cramps) – Pelvic pain that is severe or recurring may be a symptom of infection, fibroids, cysts, cancers, and many other serious health problems. This includes pain during sexual intercourse, when urinating, or with no apparent trigger.
• Strong odor or unusual discharge – Slight changes in the appearance or odor of vaginal discharge are normal. However, strong odors, changes in color of discharge, or any sudden and significant changes may signal trouble. This is especially true if it is accompanied by other symptoms.
• Other symptoms – Every woman’s body is different, and every woman has her own “normal.” Any unusual symptoms or changes in your menstrual cycle, particularly sudden and dramatic changes, may be a sign of trouble. Don’t hesitate to call us if you feel that there is reason for concern.

We are committed to helping Katy area women enjoy optimal health and wellness, with quality care at every stage of life from the first menstrual cycle through post-menopause. Call our office at 855-346-8610 if you have any questions, or if you are ready to schedule an appointment.

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