College Life
The OB/GYN is Your Friend
by Shannon Mallahy, SUNY Cortland, May 3, 2008
Cervical cancer, breast cancer, HPV, STD’s…what do all of these things have in common? They are all serious conditions which can be detected by routine visits to the gynecologist. A gynecologist is one of the most important people in a woman’s life, regardless of her age. They help protect a woman’s sexual and reproductive health while also being an educator and a confidante.
Gynecologists can provide testing, monitoring and a safe and comforting environment for women to go to with questions or concerns about sexual or reproductive issues. All of the information discussed with your doctor is confidential, so there is no need to be scared or embarrassed about anything. Being completely honest about any sexual encounters is pertinent to maintaining your health, so be sure not to leave out any information! The physical exams can be a little awkward and uncomfortable for some people, but they are well worth it because they can potentially be saving your life. The doctor may perform a breast exam to check for any abnormal lumps; a pelvic exam which is described by WebMD.com as a complete examination of all of the female organs including the vagina, cervix, uterus and ovaries. A pap smear, which is when cells of the cervix are collected and observed under a microscope (also found on WebMD.com), may be done during the pelvic exam. A gynecologist can also provide HIV and STD testing. None of these tests should be feared; they are generally quick and painless.
The average age in the United States in which people lose their virginity is about seventeen, according to Durex.com. Since most undergraduate college students are between the ages of seventeen and twenty two, it is safe to say that many of us may be sexually active. For any women who fall into this category, it is in your best interest to see a gynecologist; it is also a good idea for those who are not sexually active to consider going as well. PlannedParenthood.com suggests that by the age of twenty one, all women should set up an appointment, sexually active or not. If you have younger sisters, cousins, or friends who have not seen a gynecologist, make a suggestion to them (or their parents) to think about it.
Some women tend to worry about seeing a gynecologist. They may fear the results of testing, the opinion of the doctor in response to personal choices, or even just being in a position that may not be the most comfortable. With all of the potential health risks that women face, we need to put aside our fears and do what is in our best interest. Think of seeing a gynecologist like going to the dentist…it is something we have to do even though we may dread it, but most of the time we feel a lot better afterwards; as if a weight has been lifted off of our shoulders. Do the responsible thing, ladies…make an appointment to see a gynecologist!
References
Durex, (2005). The Global Sex Survey 2005. Retrieved April 25, 2008, from Durex.com Web site: http://www.durex.com/cm/gss2005Content.asp?intQid=941
Healthwise, (2007, June 6). Pelvic Examination. Retrieved April 25, 2008, from WebMD Web site: http://women.webmd.com/pelvic-examination
Healthwise, (2007, June 6). Pap Test. Retrieved April 25, 2008, from WebMD Web site: http://www.webmd.com/hw-popup/pap-test-papanicolaou-test-or-pap-smear
Johnsen, J. (2005). GYN Exams Can Save Your Life!. Retrieved April 28, 2008, from Planned Parenthood Web site: http://plannedparenthoodosbc.org/education/gynExams.asp
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