Gynecologists complain that women only come to see themselves when they notice that something is wrong. And yet - for our own peace of mind and safety - we should check our appendages regularly to make sure everything is fine.
We are used to the fact that the uterus is the source of ailments. Bleeding and pain are our bread and butter, so it is not difficult to overlook the first symptoms of lower abdominal disease. The more that the most dangerous of them - cervical, endometrial and ovarian cancers - are asymptomatic at first. Therefore, in the case of diseases of the reproductive organ, prophylaxis is extremely important - it allows you to recognize abnormalities in the initial, completely curable stage.
Even when you feel well, it is worth visiting a gynecologist once a year. The doctor will conduct an interview and gynecological examination: with the help of a speculum, he will visually assess the condition of the vagina and cervix, as well as the discharge present in the genital tract. two-handed examination by palpating the condition of the vagina, uterus and appendages. Already at this stage, he may notice abnormalities, e.g. vaginal inflammation resulting from infection, cervical erosion, fibroids, ovarian cysts.
The gynecologist should explain to you the nature of the abnormalities, the existing risks and present treatment options. It is necessary because neglected inflammation or erosions, even if they are not cancerous, may develop into cancer over time. Often, fibroids and cysts also require further diagnosis. However, not every change is visible to the naked eye, so regularly, preferably every year, the doctor should perform or order two complementary tests: cytology and transvaginal ultrasound. Cytology gives a diagnosis at the cellular level within the cervix, while transvaginal ultrasound allows you to assess the reproductive organ at the anatomical level, as well as observe changes within the uterine body and ovaries.
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