Women sometimes believe they only need to see their OB-GYN when they’re due for a Pap smear or trying to conceive. However, routine visits are essential for your well-being, since reproductive health is part of your overall physical condition. Below are some of the most critical reasons these checkups should be annual events.

Why You Need to Visit Your OB-GYN Every Year

1. Check for Diseases

If you’re sexually active and not in a monogamous relationship, it’s important that you get a yearly STD test. OB-GYNs typically screen for chlamydia and gonorrhea because they rarely cause symptoms in women and can result in infertility if untreated. It’s important to know about STDs so you can receive treatment and avoid giving them to other people. Your doctor will also do breast and pelvic exams to check for possible early signs of cancer.

2. Re-Evaluate Your Birth Control Method

If you’re currently taking birth control, your yearly visit to the OB-GYN is a good time to talk about how you feel about the method you’re using. If you’re experiencing side effects or simply don’t like a particular medication, your doctor can recommend something different. There are new innovations in the field every year, so you may have more options now than you did during your last visit. You can also discuss getting an IUD for long-term birth control or remove the implant if you’re ready to have a child.

3. Discuss Health Concerns 

When you lead a busy life, it’s common to have a health concern that is bothersome but doesn’t feel like a big enough deal to make a separate appointment. You can talk about these issues at your yearly appointment with your OB-GYN. Changes that seem small, such as painful periods or a strange bump, could be indicative of a larger issue. Your gynecologist will even jog your memory to see if there are any issues you’ve been disregarding.

South Baldwin Obstetrics & Gynecology, PC in Foley, AL, offers compassionate and caring OB-GYN services. They screen for sexually transmitted diseases, offer a variety of birth control methods, and treat women’s health issues, including endometriosis and painful periods. They’ve served Baldwin County for over 30 years, and are committed to their patients’ physical and emotional health. Visit them online to see a list of the services they provide or call (251) 943-2141 to schedule your appointment.