Why Schedule a Gynecology Visit in Houston

What a Gynecologist Does

A gynecologist specializes in women’s reproductive and sexual health, which encompasses issues and conditions affecting the following:

• Vagina
• Cervix
• Uterus
• Ovaries
• Fallopian tubes
• Breasts

Why See a Gynecologist

Gynecology visits are an integral part of a woman’s healthy life. They can be preventive or to seek treatment; and within this umbrella, there are many reasons to schedule a consultation with a gynecologist, which include:

• Well-woman checkups
• Birth control and sexual health
• Breast examinations
• STIs
• Menstrual issues
• Menopause
• UTIs

What Happens During a Gynecology Consultation

Whether it is your first time at the gynecologist or you are not a fan of wellness exams, it is completely normal to feel a bit nervous before going to your appointment. However, you should already feel excited about the prospect of taking the reins of your health—you are being proactive and engaged.

At Riviera, we focus on you—your concerns will set the tone and guide the consultation, and depending on your specific needs, your doctor will perform a physical checkup or recommend certain tests.

Our experts at Riviera are breaking down what to expect from your visit.

A Close Up on Your Health

Your sexual and reproductive health is arguably the most intimate information you will share; you should know that at Riviera, you are in the hands of the utmost professional and discrete team. Your consultation will begin with a talk about your experiences and subsequent concerns. You might need to share your medical history, family medical history and current list of medications, if you are taking any. 

Other topics that might come up during your consultation include your overall state of well-being, your menstrual cycle, past gynecological history, pelvic pain, birth control, your sexual activity, and your bowel or bladder (dis)function. 

☝ Indeed, this information is highly personal, and is protected by doctor-patient confidentiality and different Medical Ethics Codes like the American Medical Association (AMA), the World Medical Association (WMA), and various national medical bodies. For those under 18, be sure to talk to your doctor about confidentiality. 

Gynecologic Testing

As a result of your talk, your clinician may recommend some tests, which include:

• PAP smear: A routine examination which should take place annually.
• Breast exam: A simple visual and physical inspection of your breasts and the surrounding areas, including the collarbone and armpits.
• Pelvic exam: A tactile inspection of your pelvis and cervix.
• Ultrasound: For more detail, your clinician may order an ultrasound.
• Mammogram: Starting at the age of 30, it is recommended that women get x-ray screenings of the breast tissue to detect any abnormalities which could lead to cancer.

☝ You might feel slight discomfort during these examinations, which is normal, please let your gynecologist know how you are feeling—you should be in control of your experience.