Most women begin going to the gynecologist when they’re in their teens. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, as you get older, you should continue to visit your gynecologist annually for a well-woman exam. But if you experience certain gynecological symptoms, it’s important to make an appointment and discuss your concerns with your doctor.
While some symptoms may not be cause for concern, others may signal an underlying problem and require medical attention. Knowing what symptoms to be aware of can help you determine when to see your gynecologist if you notice anything different or unusual.
Your Partner in Health
A gynecologist specializes in conditions that affect the female reproductive system, which includes the vagina, ovaries, uterus and fallopian tubes. Common conditions that a gynecologist can diagnose include:
- Cancers of the reproductive tract: cervical, ovarian, uterine, vaginal and vulvar cancers
- Endometriosis: a condition in which tissue similar to that of the uterine lining grows in other areas, such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes or outside wall of the uterus
- Uterine fibroids: benign tumors that grow in the wall of the uterus
- Menorrhagia: abnormally heavy vaginal bleeding
- Pelvic organ prolapse: a condition that occurs when pelvic organs are no longer supported by connective tissue, causing them to drop
- Vaginitis: infection or inflammation of the vagina, such as yeast infections or bacterial infections
During your annual well-woman visit or an appointment to discuss concerns, your gynecologist will talk about any symptoms you’re having and may also perform a physical exam. If you’re not having symptoms, your well-woman exam helps your gynecologist look for any concerning signs, so that any health issues are detected as early as possible.
Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore
Sometimes, it may be difficult to tell whether a symptom is something to be concerned about or just a normal symptom. But certain signs are always worthy of a visit to the gynecologist, as they may signal a serious problem. Pelvic and vaginal symptoms you should never ignore include:
- Itching, burning, swelling, redness or soreness in the vaginal area. These can be signs of different types of infections, which require medication to clear the infection and can lead to additional problems if left untreated.
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding. Vaginal bleeding between periods or extremely heavy periods are signs of abnormal uterine bleeding. This symptom can be caused by conditions such as endometriosis, cancer or uterine fibroids.
- Unusual vaginal discharge. Clear or white discharge that doesn’t have a foul odor is normal. If discharge is an unusual color, has a foul smell or you notice you have a lot more than you used to, talk to your gynecologist, as these can be signs of an infection or other problems.
- Pain or pressure in the pelvis. Pelvic organ prolapse can cause pain and discomfort, as can other conditions.
- Urgent need to urinate or a burning sensation during urination. These can be symptoms of many different conditions, including an infection. Talk to your gynecologist if they occur along with symptoms such as itching and soreness in the vagina.
If you experience any of these symptoms, don’t wait to make an appointment. The earlier any gynecological condition is diagnosed, the easier it could be to treat.
More to Read
- The Surprising Cause of Period Pain
- Get Treatment for Painful Endometriosis Symptoms
- Change Is Coming: Recognizing the Signs of Menopause
- What Every Woman Should Know About Pelvic Organ Prolapse
- 5 Warning Signs of Cervical Cancer
Medically reviewed by Andrea Collerius Fitzgerald, MD.
