7 Signs You Need to See a Gynaecologist

As women, we deal with a lot of different bodily functions. So, how do you know when it’s time to see a gynaecologist?

 
First what exactly is the role of a gynaecologist?
A gynaecologist is a doctor who specializes in women issues such as sexuality, infertility, prenatal care, menstrual issues and contraception.

Gynaecologists serve an important role in a woman’s life, as they are the ones who are able to accurately discuss and diagnose female issues, that are otherwise hard to diagnose or uncomfortable to talk about.

So, how do you know if you are in need of a gynaecologist consultation?

Breast Lump
One of the most common areas where lumps can occur in a woman, is in her breast. Such masses can be misunderstood for breast cancer, when in reality, most lumps are non-cancerous and are in-fact caused by a mixed fibrous and glandular tissues, commonly known as fibroadenoma.

While the idea that most lumps are benign tumours, anyone experiencing lumps in their breast or any part of their body should be going for a consultation and physical examination, along with x-rays, ultrasounds, mammograms and a biopsy, to assess the mass.

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You might also be interested in: 

• Heavy menstrual bleeding: What can be done?
• Cervical ccreening: The power of a pap test
• What are UTIs?

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Abnormal Bleeding
Women are used to regular monthly menstruation cycles, therefore, any sight of abnormal bleeding can be particularly obvious for us ladies. Abnormal bleeding can include prolonged periods, heavier than normal periods and bleeding in between periods, or after menopause.

Vaginitis
This is just a fancy way of saying vaginal discharge. The bad news is that vaginitis is very common and most women will experience it at least once in their life.

The good news is that vaginitis is easily treatable once a gynaecologist has asked you the very uncomfortable personal questions of your sexual habits and history, and examine you accordingly. Viginitis can come in many forms, the most common of which are bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis and yeast.

Urination Pain
Urination pain often comes from a urinary tract infection (UTI). UTIs are frequent and most women will be affected by UTIs at least once in their life.

Though it is easily treatable, a gynaecologist will have to assess the extent of the infection, in order to prescribe the correct course of treatment. Symptoms of UTI can include frequent urination, dark or unclear urine, occasional blood in the urine and lower back pain. 

Menstruation irregularities 
If your periods are irregular or recurrent within the span of 21 days of less, then this is a sign that you need to consult your gynaecologist.

Other indicators can be if a period lasts more than 7 days, missing your period or having an overwhelmingly heavy period flow.

SEE ALSO: Breast cancer? Freeze your eggs!
 
Urine Troubles
If you’ve noticed an increase in the frequency of your toilet visits, or blood in your urine, this is a key indicators that you need to have a chat with your gynaecologist.
 
Pain
Lower abdominal pain and discomfort, occasionally in your pelvic area are indicators of a UTI or other infections that would require a gynaecologist consultation. Such pain can also be considered as severe menstrual cramps that are felt in the abdomen and lower back.
 
Additionally, any pain after sexual intercourse or abdominal or pelvic pain during your menstruation cycle also calls for a visit to your gynaecologist.
 
Abdominal pain can lead to a number of different causes for concern which can include tumour, fibroids, ovarian cysts,  and more, so make sure to be mindful of your body and know when it’s time to make the visit to your doctor or gynaecologist.