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Published on November 14, 2022

5 Nonpregnancy Reasons to See Your OB/GYN

Image of OBGYN with Patient What do obstetrician-gynecologists (OB/GYNs) actually do? If you said that they provide pregnancy care and treat menstrual disorders, that’s true—but it’s only part of the answer.

“OB/GYNs are the experts in women’s health and well-being at every age,” says John Sanchez MD, PIH Health OB/GYN. “That includes not only reproductive health concerns, but also menopause issues and overall health maintenance.”

If yo think this sounds a lot like what your primary care provider (PCP) does, you’re not wrong. According to Dr. Sanchez, there is some overlap in the services that PCPs and OB/GYNs provide. However, there are also key differences, so many women have both an OB/GYN and a separate PCP who practices family medicine or internal medicine. Family medicine focuses on overall health for the entire family. Internal medicine focuses on health conditions that affect adults.

What your OB/GYN can do for you

Well-woman visits are full checkups scheduled every year. This type of visit promotes health and wellness through preventive care. Among other things, you may:

  • Answer questions about your health history
  • Receive a physical exam, vaccines and/or screenings
  • Discuss your lifestyle habits, such as your diet and physical activity
  • Learn about ways to improve your health

Screening tests are designed to catch diseases early, when they may be easier to treat. Talk with your OB/GYN about how often you should be screened for cervical and breast cancer. Plus, your OB/GYN can advise you on screening for high blood pressure, diabetes and osteoporosis.

Menopause care includes learning how to manage the symptoms of menopause and discussing whether hormone therapy is right for you. “Women can turn to their OB/GYN for advice on handling vaginal dryness or sexual changes. Also, the OB/GYN can recommend steps for protecting heart and bone health,” says Dr. Sanchez

Urinary incontinence care provides help for bladder control problems. Make sure you ask your OB/GYN about exercises to help strengthen your pelvic floor muscles.

Sexual healthcare includes the management of issues such as painful sex or loss of sex drive. Your OB/GYN is also your go-to expert on birth control, safe sex practices, and testing for sexually transmitted infections and HIV.

If you’re interested in the services listed above and to find a doctor, go to PIHHealth.org/Doctors

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