Can a general practitioner do a vaginal exam?

If you have no pressing health concerns or specific gynecologic complaints, then seeing your primary care provider — an internist or family doctor — for routine gynecologic examinations could make sense for you. “Some internists and family medicine specialists can do general gynecology,” Dr. Albright said.

Should I go to a GP or gyno?

Generally, adolescent girls and young women should visit their family practice doctor for any gynecology concerns between the ages of 11 and 21. An adolescent or young woman who is sexually active should see a physician regularly for pelvic exams or screening tests as soon as she becomes sexually active.

Can your primary care doctor do a Pap smear?

“General well-woman exams, including Pap and HPV testing, can be done by your primary care doctor,” says Sharon E.

What kind of doctor should a woman see?

The most important doctors a woman should see every year should be her primary care physician and her gynecologist. However, there are a few other doctors, like dentists and dermatologists, that women should also see regularly.

Is a gynecologist the same as an OB GYN?

Many people think OB/GYN and gynecology are the same thing. This is not true! An OB/GYN encompasses two specialties – obstetrics and gynecology – while gynecologists specialize in gynecology only.

Is a gynecologist a physician?

Gynecologists are physicians who have completed specialized training in the female reproductive system. Like any medical doctor, a gynecologist must complete medical school followed by a residency.

Is a gynecologist considered a specialist?

OB/GYNs are often considered “specialists” by insurance plans and require patients to pay a specialist copay to see them, which is often a more expensive copay than required for a primary care physician.

What do you see an Obgyn for?

Your ob-gyn will deal with some of the most important health issues in your life, including birth control, childbirth, and menopause. An ob-gyn can also screen for cancer, treat infections, and perform surgery for pelvic organ or urinary tract problems.

How often should you do a gynecological exam?

When do you need a pelvic exam? You need it for that Pap every three to five years. You need it if you have symptoms of abnormal bleeding, pain, vaginal discharge, vulvar problems, pelvic discomfort, and infertility. You need it if you have problems down there.

Does your gynecologist deliver your baby?

But it’s important to note that while your OB-GYN will deliver your baby, they usually rely on their care team to monitor your labor and let them know when the big moment is getting close. Your OB-GYN will also explain your options for using common birth interventions that aid delivery.

Do family medicine doctors do gynecological exams?

Family medicine doctors, internists, and pediatricians are all primary care doctors. Some primary care doctors provide routine gynecological care like breast and pelvic exams, but others don’t. It all depends on the doctor.

Should I see a gynecologist or a primary care doctor?

It all depends on the doctor. Primary care doctors who do provide gynecological care may still refer patients to gynecologists for more specific care if they think it’s needed. Ask your primary care doctor if she or he does routine gynecological exams. If not, ask for the name of a gynecologist.

Why do women need a yearly gynecologic exam?

Why women need a yearly gynecologic exam. While full-body exams are important, Dr. Dekle encourages patients to take advantage of the knowledge of specialists like OB/GYNs. Gynecologists can address health concerns such as: Fertility issues. Birth control. Cancer prevention. Sexually transmitted infections.

What is the difference between a gynecologic examination and a physical?

The gynecologic examination refers specifically to examination of a woman’s reproductive system, but the doctor (or other health care practitioner) may provide more general medical care and do a more general physical examination during the gynecologic visit. If a woman has any questions or fears about…