Gynecology Care

Gynecology Care Q & A

What is gynecological care?

Gynecological care addresses a wide variety of issues dealing with your pelvic and reproductive organs. Dr. Hernandez addresses issues such as:

• Yearly wellness exams
• Yeast infection
• STDs, such as chlamydia and herpes
• Endometriosis
• Vaginitis
• Pelvic inflammatory disease
• Polycystic ovary syndrome

Dr. Hernandez offers evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment along with preventive gynecology care.

What does routine gynecology care entail?

Your annual exam is an important part of your gynecological health. At this well-woman visit, Dr. Hernandez evaluates your health and wellness, with an emphasis on your reproductive health, pelvic organs, and breast health. You should pursue an annual exam starting in your teens and continue them through menopause.

At a well-woman exam, you’ll have a clinical breast exam, a pelvic exam, and testing as needed. Take the opportunity to discuss your period, birth control, sexually transmitted diseases such as chlamydia, and any uncomfortable symptoms you may be experiencing. When you raise these issues, Dr. Hernandez can then help you with any screenings, treatments, or necessary preventive care.

What screening tests does regular gynecology care involve?

Some screening tests are routine, such as the Pap smear to test for abnormal cells in your cervix that can suggest cervical cancer. You may also need an HPV test to check for human papillomavirus, a common sexually transmitted disease. He recommends you undergo a Pap smear at least every three years from age 21-65, or every five years if it is performed in conjunction with HPV testing. Dr. Hernandez can put you on a schedule that makes sense given your medical history and age.

If you have concerns about other STDs, such as gonorrhea or chlamydia, you need to request testing. STD testing is not included in a routine exam. Symptoms such as irregular bleeding, pain during intercourse, and bloating in the abdomen may call for screening tests, such as ultrasound, to check for fibroids, ovarian cysts, and polycystic ovary syndrome, or endometriosis. Pain in the vagina, unusual vaginal discharge, and cramping may call for a urine test to look for a UTI or vaginitis.

Discuss your symptoms and concerns with Dr. Hernandez so he can customize an evaluation plan to ensure your optimal health.

When do I need a mammogram?

Dr. Hernandez usually recommends yearly mammograms starting at age 40. But, if you have a high risk of breast cancer because of a family history of the disease, you may need to start mammograms earlier or have them more frequently.

To take advantage of Dr. Hernandez’s expertise in routine gynecology care, call the office or schedule an appointment using the online tool.