Gynecologic care can be given by a doctor or by an advanced practice provider who specializes in women’s health. They diagnose, treat, and prevent health issues related to the female reproductive organs.

These include:

• Cervix: The cervix is the narrow bottom of your uterus.
• Uterus: The uterus is also called your womb. It holds the placenta and baby during pregnancy.
• Ovaries: Your ovaries make eggs that can become babies. Your fallopian tubes transport those eggs to the uterus.
• Vagina: Your vagina connects the cervix to the outside of your body.
• Vulva: Your vulva is the outer genitals around the opening of your vagina.

Common treatments these clinicians provide include:

• Annual exams: Regular care includes a pelvic exam, breast exam, and cancer screenings. These check-ups are key to catching issues early.
• Sexually transmitted infection (STI) care: Testing for STIs as well as counseling and treatment.
• Birth control: Advice and prescriptions for birth control of all types. They can discuss the best options for your needs, health, and preferences.
• Period issues: Care for irregular, painful, or heavy periods and other health issues like premenstrual syndrome.
• Fertility care: They often work with obstetricians to evaluate and address fertility issues and provide pregnancy care.
• Reproductive care: Treatment for many common diseases of the reproductive organs.
• Menopause care: Treatment for symptoms and health issues of menopause.
• Cancer screening: Pap smears to screen for cervical cancer and other screens for breast, ovarian, and uterine cancers.

Talking to your gynecologist openly and honestly is key to quality care. A good gynecologist will be judgment-free and make it easier to share.

Gynecologists regularly see people of all ages, including:

• Teens: People should start reproductive care around age 13. First visits often focus on education, menstrual health, and puberty or body changes.
• Adults: People of reproductive age need routine care. This includes annual exams, birth control, pregnancy planning, and menstrual concerns.
• Older adults: Menopause care, including hot flash care and hormonal treatments. Later in life, they can care for health issues like osteoporosis.

Gynecology clinicians deliver care for all stages of life. At Carilion, our gynecologists provide everyone with a respectful, supportive environment.

Common diseases of the reproductive organs

Gynecologists treat a wide variety of health issues related to the reproductive organs. Some of the most common are:

• Uterine fibroids: Growths in the uterus that cause pain and heavy periods
• STIs: Chlamydia, gonorrhea, genital herpes, and HIV
• Endometriosis: Uterine tissue that grows outside the uterus
• Pelvic floor disease: Incontinence and organ prolapse, among others
• Uterine differences: Variations in the shape of the uterus can sometimes make it more challenging to carry a pregnancy to term
• Sexual dysfunction: Problems with desire, arousal, orgasm, or pain that make sex difficult or less enjoyable
• Ovarian cysts: Growths in the ovaries that can cause pain when they twist and rupture
• Fertility problems: Blocked fallopian tubes and endometriosis, for example
• Polycystic ovary syndrome: A hormonal imbalance that can lead to infertility
• Menopause: Hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings
• Cancers: Cervical, ovarian, and other less common cancers

Knowing what happens during a gynecological visit can help you feel more at ease and prepared. Here's a breakdown of what occurs before, during, and after the visit.

Before the visit

Before you see a gynecologist, take some time to prepare. It's ok to feel nervous. Asking questions and talking openly with your care team is vital to good care.

Be ready to discuss your health history, the medicines you take, and any allergies you have. Note whether your period is regular, when your last period was, and your sex life.

Write down any questions or issues you want to address. A shower or freshening up is sufficient. Don't douche or use any special cleaning products, as this can interfere with test results.

Avoid scheduling your visit during your period if you need a cervical cancer screening. For routine exams or visits specifically about period pain and symptoms, it's ok to be on your period.

During the visit

During the visit, you'll have your vitals, such as blood pressure and weight, checked. You'll speak with your doctor about your health, periods, pelvic floor symptoms (such as urinary leakage or vaginal bulging), menopausal symptoms, your sex life, or any worries you have.

Then, the doctor will do a physical exam. The exam may include a pelvic exam of the vulva and may use a speculum to view the cervix and vagina. You may also get a cervical cancer screening or STI test at this time.

The care team should explain every step of the process. Don't hold back when asking questions. Tell them if you feel pain.

After the visit

If you have a Pap smear or STI test, your doctor will explain how and when you’ll receive your results. They may offer guidance, prescribe medication, or recommend follow-up visits.

Mild discomfort after a pelvic exam or pap smear is normal. You may even have a little bleeding. It should subside quickly. If you have prolonged pain, bleeding, or other unexpected symptoms, contact your doctor.

Schedule your follow-ups as needed. You should have an annual gynecological exam once a year. These routine visits help catch issues early, which is a proactive step to staying healthy.