What does an OBGYN do on the first visit?
An adolescent or woman’s first OBGYN visit can be a stressful occasion. First of all, it is helpful to realize that it is totally normal to be nervous. Your OBGYN will expect it, and should talk you through the visit, every step of the way.
The first step will be a confidential talk with your OBGYN, reviewing your menstrual and sexual history. This helps him/her to decide if you need any tests or screenings, and how to best promote your health. After this, the doctor will give you a general physical assessment, such as listening to your heart and lungs, feeling your abdomen for any pain or swelling, and looking in your mouth and ears.
Examinations of your genitalia or breasts may come next, depending on your risk factors and age. This might also be scheduled for a second visit. A breast exam will consist of the physician palpating your breast tissue with fingertips, feeling for density or any lumps. This exam extends into the underarm area, where your lymph nodes are located. The OBGYN will take time to teach you how to do a breast self-exam for yourself and discuss the importance of it.
If you receive a pelvic exam, it might just be external – as in your vulva and visible parts of your external genitals. Typically this looks for any discharges, rashes, swelling, or other problems patients might experience. If you have an internal pelvic exam, you will likely get a PAP smear, which is a swab screening of your cervix for cancer. The OBGYN should explain the procedure step-by-step and answer your questions.
What conditions do OBGYNs treat?
OBGYNs treat any condition that affects the reproductive system, including pregnancy and birth. Common reasons women visit the OBGYN is for painful periods associated with conditions like endometriosis, uterine fibroids, or ovarian cysts. OBGYNs screen for cervical, uterine, ovarian, and other cancers that affect women’s reproductive system. They also do pregnancy tests, prenatal care, basic fertility treatment, and deliver babies.
Women will need to see an OBGYN regularly throughout their reproductive years and beyond. It is a good idea to establish a relationship with one with which you are comfortable. This puts you at ease and makes asking questions easier as you progress through the stages of a woman’s life.
Do OBGYNS treat breast issues?
Your OBGYN will play a key role in your breast health by conducting exams, teaching you to do self-exams, and sending you for mammograms at the appropriate intervals. He/she may also discuss your family history and risk of breast cancer. If you are high-risk, you may be referred to a specialist for genetic testing to further determine your risk.
If you were to develop a breast tumor or need a biopsy, your OBGYN will engage an oncologist to direct your care as part of your care team.
What age should a girl see an OBGYN?
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommend that a girl should see an OBGYN for the first time between the ages of 13 and 15. Individuals who have problems related to menstruating or are sexually active may need to see the OBGYN sooner.
This first visit is to establish a patient relationship and to schedule preventative screenings, such as annual PAP smears. The OBGYN can also offer a safe and confidential place for young girls to ask questions about sex and reproductive health.
What is the difference between a gynecologist and an OBGYN?
A gynecologist focuses on the health of the female reproductive system only and does not deliver babies. Obstetricians deliver babies and handle pregnancy health. When you visit an OBGYN, you are seeing a doctor that specializes in both areas.
Does your OBGYN deliver your baby?
Your OBGYN will be the person to deliver your baby unless special circumstances occur. OBGYNs are trained in vaginal births, as well as Cesarean section (C-section) deliveries. If you have a high-risk pregnancy with complications, you may also see a fetal medicine specialist to provide testing and monitoring of the baby.
Your OBGYN will also care for you during the post-partum period by monitoring your pain, blood loss, and overall recovery. The baby will move to a pediatrician at this time, rather than the OBGYN.
