The process of seeking advice for any health condition can be confusing. With specialists available focusing on a variety of disciplines, you may be overwhelmed trying to decide which treatment may be right for you in any given circumstance.
When it comes to reproductive health, things can get even more difficult. The intimate nature of reproductive health compounds the challenge of finding a doctor you trust and feel comfortable with. A gynecologist can give you the expert reproductive health information and treatment you need in a setting that is personalized and comfortable.
Specialize in women’s reproductive health
A gynecologist is a medical health professional who specializes in women’s reproductive health. After completing a bachelor’s degree, a gynecologist must obtain a medical degree and complete a four-year residency specializing in gynecology to become board-certified.
Gynecologists commonly advise on and treat conditions such as:
- Issues relating to pregnancy, fertility, menstruation, and menopause
- Family planning, including contraception, sterilization, and pregnancy termination
- Problems with tissues that support the pelvic organs, including ligaments and muscles
- Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
- Polycystic ovary syndrome
- Urinary and fecal incontinence
- Benign conditions of the reproductive tract, for example, ovarian cysts, fibroids, breast disorders, vulvar and vaginal ulcers, and other non-cancerous changes
- Premalignant conditions, such as endometrial hyperplasia and cervical dysplasia
- Cancers of the reproductive tract and the breasts, and pregnancy-related tumors
- Congenital abnormalities of the female reproductive tract
- Emergency care relating to gynecology
- Endometriosis, a chronic condition that affects the reproductive system
- Pelvic inflammatory diseases, including abscesses
- Sexuality, including health issues relating to same-sex and bisexual relationships
- Sexual dysfunction
Fertility Issues
If you are experiencing or suspect you may have fertility issues, a gynecologist can help. Fertility concerns can be addressed actively or be avoided proactively with the guidance of a gynecologist.
Common factors in fertility include:
- Tubal Factor, which occurs when sperm cannot travel through the fallopian tube to the ovary
- Male Factor, which occurs when the male partner has a low sperm count
- Age Factor, which decreases chance of conception in both males and females
- Uterine Factor, which occurs when a condition in the uterus prevents conception or carrying a pregnancy to full term
- Peritoneal Factor, which occurs with scar tissues inside the peritoneum or endometriosis
While these are common examples, diet, hormones, genetics, and mental health all have the potential to impact fertility. Monitoring these can help for those trying to conceive, but a gynecologist can use technical equipment and years of professional experience to help you plan for your family on your own terms.
Hormone Disorders
When your body’s endocrine system is not functioning at full health, you can experience hormone imbalances which can lead to disorders. Some hormone disorders can cause temporary changes in physical appearance while others have potential to lead to permanent harm like diabetes. Many hormone disorders are tied to reproductive health and gynecologists can provide insight. Gynecologists can treat hormone disorders such as excessive hair growth, menstrual irregularities, and polycystic ovary syndrome.
Sexually Transmitted Illness
For sexually active women, a gynecologist can lend peace of mind as a resource for best practices. In addition to having expertise in preventing transmission, gynecologists can diagnose sexually transmitted illnesses. Routine procedures and annual screenings can reveal STIs and start treatment.
Many practices also offer support counselling to women recovering from or living with sexually transmitted illness. This provides a safe environment for patients to discuss concerns with a medical professional.
Schedule an Appointment with RGW today
At Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness, we understand and respect the intimate nature of your health. We provide a safe and comfortable environment for you to find answers. If you are experiencing pelvic or vaginal pain or concerns, scheduling a gynecology appointment is the first step in getting treatment.
In addition to scheduling appointments for treatment of pain or discomfort, a yearly gynecologist visit provides critical screening for disease and illness. Health is more successfully managed when we take a proactive approach. Annual screenings allow medical professionals to identify and get ahead of harmful disease or health trends.
Want to learn more about what a gynecologist does? Reach out to Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness today to schedule a wellness screening and become more involved in the management of your health.