At an OB/GYN, preventive care services are critical for patients’ overall health and well-being. From routine visits to screenings and vaccinations, these services can detect potential issues early and ensure your reproductive health is in good shape.
Routine Visits
When you visit your OB/GYN for a routine visit, they will do a physical exam to check for abnormalities or changes in your reproductive system. This includes checking your blood pressure, breasts, and pelvic area and performing a pap smear if necessary. Your doctor may also discuss any lifestyle changes you have made recently or ask about any concerns regarding your reproductive health. This is a critical step in identifying potential problems before they become serious.
Screenings and Tests
In addition to routine visits, your OB/GYN may recommend screenings and tests depending on risk factors such as age and family history. These tests can detect any issues that may be present before symptoms arise. This could include mammograms for breast cancer screening, HPV testing to detect human papillomavirus (HPV), or endometrial biopsy to look for precancerous cells in the uterus lining.
Vaccinations
Your OB/GYN will also provide vaccinations to protect you from certain conditions, such as cervical cancer or sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The HPV vaccine is one of the most commonly recommended vaccines by OB/GYNs today as it protects against four types of HPV that cause cervical cancer and genital warts. Other vaccinations, such as hepatitis B vaccination, can also be administered during an OB/GYN visit.
Preventive care services maintain optimal reproductive health throughout all stages of life. From routine visits to screenings and vaccinations, these services allow you to stay up-to-date with the latest treatments and techniques while ensuring that potential issues are addressed early before they become more serious. If you have questions about which type of preventive care would be right for you, talk to your doctor today!
