Gynecological examinations are of vital importance. Dr. José Luis Troncoso, Obstetrician Obstetrician of Las Condes Clinic tells us why it is important to go to the gynecologist and what are the rigor tests that we must do.
"The reasons why we usually visit the gynecologist for the first time are : when the first signs of maturation of our sexual organs are presented, that is, the arrival of the first rule (menarche); when we start our first sexual relations or want contraception; when we detect any anomaly in our genital organs or alterations in the vaginal discharge, "says Dr. Troncoso.
The first time a consultation is made with the gynecologist, what he usually does is a clinical history with all the history of the patient, ask about the periodicity of your rule (menstrual cycle), the date of the last rule, if you use any contraceptive method, ... among other things. Later a physical examination, which includes a palpation of the breasts, if you have sexual intercourse will make an observation of the cervix, an inspection of the external genitalia and of the vagina, it will also check your cervix, taking a sample to determine in what state is found, this is called cytology.
"There is no fixed time estimate for the frequency with which women depend on the gynecologist, it depends on each woman, lifestyle, medical history, etc. However, the most advisable thing is to undergo revisions once a year, "says the professional.
However, says Dr. Troncoso," you should not wait for your annual review if you notice any anomaly or signal that alarms you: go as soon as possible Going to the gynecologist is vital to detect diseases such as cervical cancer or breast cancer, to answer questions about sexuality and contraception. In addition, whether or not you have sex, any alteration or irregularity of your menstrual cycle should be consulted with your gynecologist. "
Strict gynecological controls
Gynecological examination : Se recommended once a year. It consists of the general review of the specialist doctor. It allows detecting possible tumors in the uterus and in the ovaries and vaginal alterations.
Cervical cytology, known as papanicolau or pap: The Chilean Ministry of Health recommends doing it from the 25 years This test consists of the analysis of a sample of cells that detach from the cervix. It is a painless test to prevent cervical cancer, because before appearing, there are premalignant lesions, that is, alterations that if left untreated, with the course of the years they will give as evolution a cancer.
In Chile they die to the day two women of cervical cancer, hence the importance of keeping their controls up to date.
Mammography: It is recommended to start doing it after age 40, there being no family history, risk factors or suspicious symptoms. It consists of an x-ray of the breast and must be done at least once every two years.
Regular medical checkup to prevent other diseases: As cardiovascular pathologies (hypertension), alterations of the lipids (cholesterol), alterations of the function of the thyroid and obesity.
Laboratory tests to detect sexually transmitted infections: Today, both men and women, begin their sexual life early, increasing thus the possibility of acquiring sexual infections. The most important tests that should not be missed: HIV, Hepatitis B, Chlamydia, Gonorrhea and Syphilis.