The Importance of Regular OB/GYN Checkups: What to Expect

Visiting a gynecologist for a routine appointment is necessary to prevent certain complications and diagnose potentially serious issues early. While it's beneficial, you may question when it's the right time to start seeing an OBGYN like Dr. Anu Kothari of Comprehensive OB/GYN Healthcare, serving Hicksville, NY, and the nearby region, for checkups and why and what you can expect.

When to Start 

 In general, you should start seeing an OBGYN if you're sexually active or are at least 21 years of age. You can book an appointment sooner if you have heavy, painful, or irregular periods or have acne or unwanted hair growth. This probably pertains more to your child, but someone who hasn't started their period by the time they reach 15 should seek out the assistance of a gynecologist. 

Why Visit an OBGYN Regularly?

 If you're sexually active, routine visits at our Hicksville, NY, office are an ideal time to receive STD testing. Early detection of an STD can prevent possible long-term effects, such as infertility, which can happen when an infection goes untreated. Remember that even if you don't have symptoms of one, you could still have one because, in some cases, they don't cause any symptoms.

Also, for those who are sexually active, these appointments allow you to discuss your birth control options. And if you're currently taking one that causes side effects or need a renewal for your prescription, our gynecologist can address these.

Checkups are excellent times to learn more about your reproductive health and how to maintain it.

Testing to look for precancerous or cancerous cells can also be done during this time, depending on your age. If abnormalities are detected, you can receive treatment as early as possible. 

What to Expect 

Fortunately, an OBGYN visit is a relatively straightforward process consisting of discussing any problems you're having or examining your birth control options. STD testing can be done now, as can Pap smears or breast exams.

Ideally, you'll want to dress comfortably in clothing that's easy to remove, as some tests require you to remove your top or bottoms.

If you have any issues, our specialist can provide treatment, whether prescribing an antibiotic or birth control or talking to you about lifestyle changes.

Generally speaking, scheduling visits to Comprehensive OB/GYN Healthcare, serving Hicksville, NY, and the neighboring communities to see Dr. Kothari for regular checkups can lead to the best prognoses, and preventative care can ward off potentially dangerous issues in the future. Yearly or bi-yearly visits, depending on your age, can also help you retain your fertility.

Call us at 516-822-4602.