When is a follow-up appointment needed?
A repeat appointment is scheduled within 1–2 months after the initial one: with examination results, after a course of treatment (control smears), after procedures (insertion of an IUD, biopsy, cauterization of erosion), when selecting hormonal therapy or contraception, during observation of fibroids, cysts, endometriosis. The doctor repeats the examination and ultrasound if necessary. If more than 2-3 months have passed or a new problem has appeared, the appointment is considered primary.
When to see a gynecologist
- preventively - once a year for each woman from the beginning of sexual activity, including PAP test and HPV screening;
- cycle disorders, delay, heavy or painful menstruation, intermenstrual bleeding;
- discharge, itching, burning, unpleasant odor, pain during sexual intercourse;
- lower abdominal pain, pregnancy planning, infertility, selection of contraception;
- pregnancy - registration; menopausal symptoms;
- fibroids, cysts, polyps, endometriosis detected by ultrasound - observation and treatment.
How is the appointment going?
The appointment begins with a conversation: the doctor clarifies complaints, features of the cycle, pregnancy and childbirth, previous diseases, contraception. Then an examination on a chair: external organs, the cervix in a speculum (smears are taken for flora and cytology), two-handed examination of the uterus and appendages - assessment of size, mobility, pain. If necessary, ultrasound, colposcopy, and palpation of the mammary glands are performed. Based on the results, the doctor makes a preliminary diagnosis, prescribes tests and treatment, or selects contraception. The examination is not carried out during menstruation (except in urgent cases); for girls who are not sexually active - rectally or only ultrasound.
