What can a gynecologist help me with?
Gynecologists are doctors specially trained to treat problems associated with the female reproductive system. At A Healthy You, you can get access to the all the basic services provided by a gynecologist, including Pap smears, ultrasound scans sexually transmitted disease (STD) screenings and treatments, and a variety of other diagnostic procedures.
What is a Pap smear?
A Pap smear is a test that Dr. Gray can perform in just a few minutes to detect signs of cervical cancer. Cervical cancer can become quite advanced before you see any noticeable symptoms, and the prognosis is immensely improved when the cancer is caught early. Regular Pap smears are the first line of defense against the disease.
In a Pap smear, Dr. Gray will need to collect a few cells from the cervix. You’ll be asked to sit on an exam table with your legs in the stirrups, and Dr. Gray will use a device called a speculum to hold the vaginal walls apart. This allows her to use a soft brush and scraping device to gather a sample of cervical cells. While the speculum can be an uncomfortable sensation, this typically doesn’t hurt at all and is over in minutes.
After the procedure, you’ll be able to return to your day as normal, and Dr. Gray will have your results in a matter of days.
What are the most common sexually transmitted diseases found in women?
Anyone sexually active should get regular screenings for STDs, especially for the following:
- Human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Gonorrhea
- Chlamydia
- Genital herpes
HPV is by far the most common STD in women, as nearly all women contract some strain of it at some point. HPV can cause cervical cancer, so it’s important to get regular screenings for it as most people with HPV experience no symptoms. A vaccination is available to protect against HPV.
How do I know if I have a sexually transmitted disease?
Some of the most common symptoms of STDs in women include:
- Vaginal itching
- A white, yellow, or green discharge from the vagina
- Blisters on or around the genitals
- A visible genital rash
- Painful or burning urination
- Painful intercourse
- Bleeding or spotting between menstrual cycles
If you experience any of these symptoms, seek help from Dr. Gray as soon as possible, and schedule an STD screening.
If you’re interested in the gynecology services available or in being screened or treated for an STD, call the helpful staff at A Healthy You today or make an appointment online.
