Another day, another reason to put off making that appointment.
After all, the more time that lapses between visits, the morechanges in your lifeoccur.
That all depends on a few things.
Allure / Bella Geraci
How often should I go to the ob-gyn?
However,you may not needa Pap test every year.
You may not get a Pap smear at your annual; it depends on your history.
What can I expect during a visit?
Your doctor may discuss STI- or STD-testing with you, as well as your current methods of birth control.
Some practitioners may also include a rectal exam, depending on certain risk factors.
Some people don’t.
But colon cancer is something we’re paying more attention to.
What do I need to know about hormonal birth control?
Hormonal birth control is one of the topics Dr. Shirazian gets asked about the most.
What if I havent been for a while and Im anxious about booking an appointment?
Its understandable to be anxious about booking any doctors appointment, especially if you havent been for a while.
However, your health is important, and getting a checkup is too.
Dr. Shirazian emphasizes the importance of screening and preventive care.
During the pandemic, shes had a few patients who missed visits and later found irregularities during mammograms.
She says its a missed opportunity not to come in for a yearly exam.
Dr. Nathan distills it down to this: Find a doctor you trust and feel comfortable with.
Ask your friends for recommendations.
The right doctor will make all the difference in your experience, she says.
Come in to see another provider, but don’t sacrifice your health.
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