7 Essential Things You Need to Tell Your Gynecologist |
Posted: November 24, 2022 |
At your annual gynecological exam, your gynecologist wants to use their best diagnostic tool, their ears. It is critical that you provide your healthcare provider with complete information about yourself at each visit. Unfortunately, many women leave out crucial information that could assist their healthcare provider in giving the best healthcare recommendations. If you've been seeing the same doctor for years, make sure to inform them of any changes that have occurred in the last year. If you are seeing a new healthcare provider, you may want to write down pertinent health information so that you do not forget to bring it up during your appointment. Here are some details about you that your gynecologist should be aware of. You endanger your health if you leave out details that appear minor or embarrassing. They can indicate conditions that, if detected early, can be prevented or treated but, if not, can become major problems. 1. Personal health historyTell your healthcare provider everything you know about your personal health history. You may believe that these are already in your medical chart and that the gynecologist is aware of them after reviewing your chart. However, they may not be documented, so it is important to review them at each visit. Your healthcare provider should be aware of the following: - diseases or conditions you have or had (both mental and physical), including STDs. - the date of your last Pap smear and the results - if you have ever had an abnormal Pap smear - any meds you are now taking (including contraceptives, vitamins, and alternative medications such as herbs and other supplements) - allergies to medications or to latex 2. Family historyInform your healthcare provider about your immediate family's medical history of diseases and conditions such as thyroid disorders, heart conditions, cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, and others. Before your appointment with your healthcare provider, gather as much family medical history as possible. 3. SymptomsInform your healthcare provider if you are experiencing any unusual symptoms. Your healthcare provider may want to know how long you've had the symptoms, how much pain you're in, whether the symptom is constant or intermittent, and what causes or worsens the symptom. Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking any medications for symptoms, whether over-the-counter, prescription, herbal, or homeopathic. 4. You’re pregnant or trying to conceiveYour healthcare provider should always be informed if you are pregnant or planning to conceive. Your practitioner can give you the most personalized advice on your planned pregnancy and conception. 5. Menstrual cycleInform your healthcare provider if you have noticed any changes in your menstrual cycle. This can include spotting, a heavier or lighter flow than usual, cramping, clotting, irregular periods, or anything else you are concerned about. 6. Birth control useYour gynecologist is your best source of birth control information. Always tell them if you are currently using birth control and if you are not. 7. LifestyleIt is beneficial for your healthcare provider to be aware of your lifestyle. This includes information such as your exercise habits and whether you smoke, drink, or use drugs. Remember, your healthcare provider should be aware of these things (both good and bad) so that he or she can provide you with the best healthcare possible. Prepare for your gynecologist appointmentEven if you want to provide detailed information to your gynecologist, it can be difficult to remember everything. Making notes and bringing them to the exam is the best way to prepare. For this purpose, keep a small notebook or update an electronic note. You can keep it in your purse or on your cell phone and read it to your healthcare provider to avoid missing important information. Review your electronic medical record and test results if you have access to them before your visit. If you have any questions about anything in your record, take notes or print them out to bring with you to your gynecologist appointment.
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