Importance Of An Annual Visit To The Gynaecologist For Pelvic & Pap Tests
What is the need of an annual pelvic check up?
Parents should take their daughters to a gynaecologist or obstetrician right from the age of 13. Although, during this phase there is rarely any need of such exams, but this visit helps establish a good relationship with the particular doctor you choose. The doctor will go through your medical and sexual history (even if you not had any sexual intercourse). This is the most adequate time to discuss about the sexually transmitted diseases (STD) and the use of contraceptives.
Is there any need for STD (Sexually Transmitted Diseases) tests?
You must visit a gynaecologist if you notice the following problems:
1. Persistent vaginal discharge
2. Bleeding between periods
3. Bleeding after sexual intercourse
In most cases an annual check up for Pap smear is not necessary after the age of 30. However to stay on the safer side, every women (even after 30 years) should go for an annual pelvic examination. This allows to check with whether there is any other changes or infections. Suppose you had a HPV (Human papillomavirus) test where the result showed negative, that doesn't mean you don't need to undergo an annual pelvic exam. According to the ACOG HPV causes cervical cancer.
Based on the researches and established guidelines of ACOG, it is said that having multiple sexual partners increases the risk of getting HPV by 15 percent. During a Pap test if a women if diagnosed with HIV or other ailments that reduces immunity, she should continue a Pap test even after the age of 30.
Note: The biggest single reason for the occurrence of cervical cancer is due to not having Pap smears according to suggested guidelines.
It is seen that most of the women diagnosed with cervical cancer has not had a Pap test in five or more years. Unfortunately, these women are generally found already reaching a crucial phase of the cancer when they receive diagnosis from a Gynaecologist.
Ref. By: http://www.articlesbase.com/womens-health-articles/importance-of-an-annual-visit-to-the-gynaecologist-for-pelvic-pap-tests-6980449.html