For many women, visiting a gynecologist in Pune might be a source of anxiety or confusion. However, gynecologists in Pune are essential partners in women’s health, guiding them through every stage of life from puberty through menopause. This comprehensive guide will explain who gynecologists are, what they do, and why regular visits are important for maintaining reproductive and overall health.

Who is a Gynecologist?

  • A medical doctor specialized in women’s reproductive system health.
  • Trained to manage menstrual health, sexual health, fertility, pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause.
  • Often also trained as obstetricians (OB-GYNs), handling pregnancy and delivery.

Services Provided by a Gynecologist

Preventive Care and Screenings

  • Routine pelvic exams
  • Pap smear and HPV testing for cervical cancer
  • Breast examinations and mammography referrals
  • STI screenings
  • Contraceptive counseling and prescriptions
  • Vaccinations including HPV, rubella

Diagnosis and Treatment

  • Menstrual irregularities (heavy, painful, or absent periods)
  • Infections (vaginal, pelvic)
  • Hormonal disorders like PCOS or thyroid problems
  • Uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts, endometriosis
  • Cancers of the reproductive organs
  • Infertility assessment and management

Pregnancy and Childbirth Care

  • Preconception counseling
  • Antenatal visits and monitoring
  • Pregnancy complications management
  • Delivery and postpartum care

Surgical Procedures

  • Minor: Pap smears, biopsies, IUD insertions
  • Major: Laparoscopy, hysterectomy, cesarean sections

What to Expect During a Gynecological Visit?

  • Medical and menstrual history discussion
  • Physical exam including breast and pelvic exam
  • Possible diagnostic tests: ultrasound, Pap smear, blood tests
  • Personalized health advice and treatment plans

When Should You Visit a Gynecologist?

  • Onset of menstruation or puberty
  • Painful, irregular, or heavy periods
  • Unusual vaginal discharge or odor
  • Pelvic pain or pain during intercourse
  • Planning for pregnancy or fertility issues
  • Menopause symptoms
  • Routine annual check-ups

Common Myths About Gynecologists

Myth Fact
Pap smear is painful Usually causes mild discomfort, never extreme pain
HPV vaccine means no more Pap smears Screening is still needed as vaccine doesn’t cover all HPV types
Menopausal women don’t need checkups Postmenopausal screening is essential for continued cancer risk
Gynecological visits in Pune are only for sexual health They cover comprehensive women’s health at all life stages

FAQs

  • At what age should girls see a gynecologist?
    Typically between ages 13-15 or soon after menstruation starts. Early visits focus on education and menstrual health.
  • How often should women get a gynecological check-up?
    Most women should be seen annually or as recommended based on age, risk, and symptoms.
  • Is an internal exam always needed during the first gynecologic visit?
    Not necessarily. For young or asymptomatic patients, the first visit may involve education and discussion without an internal exam.