Gynecology Specialist
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ThriveOB and Women's Wellness
Private Medical Practices & Anti-Aging & Hormone Specialists located in Barrington, IL
Whether you’re due for your annual well-woman exam and Pap smear or have abnormal pelvic pain, you need gynecology services. At ThriveOB and Women’s Wellness in Barrington, Illinois, board-certified OB/GYN Jennifer Moreira, MD, FACOG, and her team provide personalized gynecological care to protect your health and diagnose and treat women’s health issues. Call the practice to schedule a consultation today.
Gynecology Q & A
What is gynecology?
Gynecology is the medical specialty area that focuses on women’s reproductive health needs. It includes preventive care such as well-woman exams, pelvic exams, Pap smears, and breast exams, as well as the diagnosis and treatment of reproductive health issues.
What are common gynecological issues?
Women’s health issues are far more prevalent than you might think. Many women ignore or discount symptoms such as pelvic pain and abnormal periods, both of which can indicate:
- Endometriosis
- Polycystic ovary syndrome
- Uterine fibroids and polyps
- STDs
- Cervical, uterine, or ovarian cancer
- Menopause
While these conditions can cause symptoms, in many cases, they’re asymptomatic in their early stages. The best way to monitor your health is to have routine well-woman visits and be honest with your provider about your symptoms.
If you have symptoms, the team uses comprehensive testing, physical exams, blood tests, and imaging to identify the condition causing your discomfort.
How often should I have gynecology appointments?
If you’re in good health, have no symptoms, and a low risk of reproductive health problems, you should check in with your gynecologist once a year. However, if you have abnormal Pap smear results or other reproductive health issues, your provider might recommend more frequent appointments.
If you’re healthy and low risk, the good news is that you might not need to have a Pap smear every year. Talk to your provider about your risk for customized advice on how often you should have a Pap smear.
When should I start to see a gynecologist?
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that young women start to see a gynecologist between the ages of 13-15. While you don’t need to start having pelvic exams or Pap smears until later, beginning to see your gynecologist early allows you to build a relationship.
Most women begin to have pelvic exams and Pap smears when they become sexually active or turn 21. Additionally, your provider might begin to recommend having an annual mammogram around your 40th birthday.
The team at ThriveOB and Women’s Wellness can provide information and advice on safe sex, contraception, and what a young woman can expect from her developing body.
If you need gynecology services, call ThriveOB and Women’s Wellness to make an appointment today.
