Legacy Women's Health

Gynecology FAQs

Ask the Gynecologist: Common Gynecology FAQs

How often should I go to the gynecologist?

Regular GYN visits are an important part of staying healthy. For women of all ages, our San Antonio OBGYNs recommend a well-woman gynecology checkup once every year. At this visit, we can address any concerns you may have, answer your questions, perform any necessary physical exams, and talk about contraception and family planning. We can also take care of any testing you may need, such as a Pap test, mammogram or bone density scan. If you are experiencing any unusual symptoms, need birth control, or want to get pregnant, we encourage you to make an appointment whenever you need us. We are here to assist you with all of your women’s health needs, at your annual well-woman visit and all year long.

What happens at an annual well-woman gynecology visit?

At your annual well-woman appointment, we focus not just on your reproductive health, but also on your overall health and mental well-being. We want to talk with you about any health concerns you may have, from stress management to weight loss to any unusual symptoms you may be experiencing. We’ll ask you about your menstrual cycles, and may perform a pelvic exam or PAP test to check for cervical cancer, depending on your age and medical history. We’ll perform a breast exam, and may order a mammogram or bone density scan, if needed. We can also talk with you about birth control and family planning, and are happy to address any concerns you may have about fertility or menopause.

What is a Pap test?

A Pap test, often called a Pap smear, is a simple test that screens for cervical cancer. A regular annual GYN test for many women, this test involves taking a tiny sample of cells from the cervix, which are sent to a specialized lab to be checked for changes. If abnormal cells are found early, they can be removed before they cause cancer. It typically takes several years for changes in cervical cells to become cancer. This is why it’s very important to stay on schedule with your gynecologist’s recommendations for getting the Pap test.

How often should I get a mammogram?

For women with an average risk of breast cancer, our San Antonio OBGYNs recommend starting mammograms no later than age 50, and you should have one at least every other year unless otherwise recommended by your doctor. Between ages 50 and 54, we recommend annual mammograms. Some women can switch to every other year after age 55, and some can go longer between tests once they reach 75. However, any woman with a family history of breast cancer, or who feels a lump or notices other breast changes, should contact us for an appointment, as more frequent or urgent mammograms may be needed.

What symptoms mean I need to make an appointment with a GYN?

Anytime you have concerns about your reproductive or breast health, we encourage you contact us for a gynecology visit. Some symptoms that warrant an appointment include:

  • Unusual vaginal or vulvar bleeding, itching, odor or discharge
  • Known exposure to a sexually transmitted infection (STI)
  • Bumps, lumps or sores in the vulva or genital area
  • Painful sex
  • Pelvic pain
  • Menstrual irregularities, including very long, very short or missed periods
  • Heavy or painful periods
  • Painful urination or incontinence
  • Lump in the breast or armpit area, or any visible breast changes

At what age does a girl need to start seeing a gynecologist?

We recommend that girls have their first gynecology visit between the ages of 13 and 15. At this first visit, we will talk about how to stay healthy as a young woman, and answer any questions about puberty, periods, sex, safety, and anything else you want to talk about. Most girls don’t need a pelvic exam at this appointment, unless they are experiencing unusual symptoms. For girls who are sexually active, we can discuss birth control, as well as prevention and screening for sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

How do I get birth control?

Women today have many options to prevent pregnancy, including pills, implants, injections and IUDs. To find out which type of contraceptive is right for you, and to get a prescription for birth control, make an appointment with your gynecologist.

Do I need to see a GYN before I get pregnant?

Preconception planning is the best way to prepare for a healthy pregnancy. If you are planning to get pregnant, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with your OBGYN in advance. At this visit, we can answer any questions, ensure that you have any testing or vaccinations that you may need, and talk about ways to improve your overall health prior to pregnancy. If you have any fertility concerns or are struggling to conceive after a few months of trying, a visit with your gynecologist is a great place to start.

Should I reschedule my GYN appointment if I’m having my period?

For most gynecology appointments, there is no need to reschedule if you start your period. It’s especially important to keep your appointment if you are experiencing any concerns or urgent symptoms. However, if your visit involves a Pap test or biopsy, call the office and ask if it’s best to reschedule.

Make an appointment

Our San Antonio OBGYNs are here to support you in every aspect of health and womanhood. Contact us today to schedule a gynecology appointment.