Do you know when it’s time to see your gynecologist? With cervical and vaginal cancers on the rise, it’s now more vital than ever that women understand the signs and symptoms associated with gynecological disorders.
Do you know when it’s time to see your gynecologist? With cervical and vaginal cancers on the rise, it’s now more vital than ever that women understand the signs and symptoms associated with gynecological disorders. While most symptoms aren’t synonymous with cancer, they can lead to discomfort and other issues. To ensure that you’re the healthiest you can be, pay attention to your body. If you experience any of these common gynecological signs and symptoms, it’s important that you schedule a gyn check up in The Woodlands.
Irregular Bleeding
As with any other injury, bleeding is a sign that something is wrong. If you’re bleeding outside of your regular menstrual cycle, it’s time to see your gynecologist. While bleeding could just be due to a hormonal irregularity or a benign cyst, it could also be an indicator of more serious issues. In fact, it’s estimated that over 90 percent of those diagnosed with uterine cancers experienced some sort of irregular vaginal bleeding. Even though the chances of cancer are slim, it’s still important to have things checked out.
Abnormal Discharge
Discharge is completely normal, but it’s important to understand what kind of discharge is normal and what isn’t. For example, green-tinged discharge is typically an indicator that an STD is present. Yellow discharge is commonly a sign of cervicitis, which is an infection in the cervix. If your discharge is slightly brown or foul-smelling, it could be an indication of something serious, like cervical cancer. No matter what issue you’re experiencing, it’s important to visit with your gynecologist to rule out any dangerous issues.
Abdominal Swelling
If you have a “pregnant belly” but aren’t pregnant, it’s time to seek help immediately. This is typically a sign of ovarian cancer. A swelling abdomen typically occurs due to the large amounts of cancer developing around the ovaries. In the event that ovarian cancer runs in your family, it’s particularly important to pay attention to your stomach. The minute that you notice an abnormality in the size of your abdomen, call your OB-GYN.
Pelvic Pain
It’s normal to experience cramping and pelvic pain from time to time. However, if you are experiencing pain that doesn’t go away with heat, acupuncture, or ibuprofen, it could mean that there’s a problem within your reproductive symptom. There are many different issues that could be causing your pain, such as STDs, fibroids, uterine tract infections, or cancers. Visiting your OB-GYN is the best way to have your pelvis examined and your pain diagnosed.
Irregular Cycles
Every woman’s menstrual cycle is different. Some women may have heavier cycles while others are light. Some women may have a shorter period while others may last for a week. It’s important to know and track your cycles. If they become irregular or sporadic, it’s a sign that something’s out of whack with your system. Whether your hormones are imbalanced or there’s a more serious issue, it’s best to speak with your OB-GYN to determine what’s causing the irregularity.
There are many different symptoms that are indicators of reproductive issues. No matter which signs you’re noticing, it’s important to discuss your gynecological conditions in The Woodlands with your chosen OB-GYN as soon as possible.