A woman’s health in its complexity cannot be handled by any other doctor other than someone who has specialized in women-related issues. From well-woman visits to pregnancy, your Decatur gynecology specialists at Dekalb Women’s Specialists ensure they offer their patients caring gynecological care. For her gynecological health care, every woman is advised to consult an expert she will feel at ease sharing sensitive issues such as menopause, birth control plans, pregnancy, and sex. The doctor should also be honest and open to suggestions without prejudice.   

Common Q&A about gynecological care include:

What is gynecology care?

Gynecology care is a medical practice that focuses on the well-being of a woman’s reproductive system. Thus, a gynecologist deals with pregnancy and childbirth, obstetrics, menstruation and fertility problems, hormone disorders, and sexually transmitted diseases.  

What is entailed in gynecology care?

Mainly concerned with the pelvis and a woman’s reproductive organs, gynecological health services for:

·         Diagnosis and treatment of yeast infection and urinary tract infection

·         Screening and treatment for sexually transmitted diseases 

·         Menopause management

·         Ovarian, breast, and cervical cancer screening

·         Fitness and dietary evaluations and recommendations

·         Diagnosis and management of polycystic ovary syndrome

·         Urogynecological evaluation

·         PMS screening and management

What is birth control and what options are there?

Also called fertility control, birth control plans prevent women from getting pregnant. These plans vary from pills to devices containing human-made hormones that inhibit a woman’s natural hormones. Though birth control pills are safe, gynecologists advise against taking a combination of either method as it may expose you to potentially risky health problems.

What types of birth controls are available?

·         Barrier methods. Barriers prevent the sperm from reaching the egg. They include condoms, the sponge, and the diaphragm.

·         Sterilization. Sterilization should be chosen when the woman is sure she does not want to have more children because it is a permanent procedure. The options here include tubal ligation for a woman and vasectomy for a man.

·         Short-acting hormonal methods. These include the pill or Depo-Provera® shot taken daily or monthly to prevent conception.

·         Long-acting reversible contraceptives. Intrauterine devices (IUDs). IUDs change a woman’s cervical mucus quality using hormones or copper, discouraging conception.

·         Natural rhythms. Natural rhythms do not prompt you to use a device or pill. It entails keeping track of a woman’s cycle and avoiding intercourse on your most fertile days.    

What are the considerations for choosing a contraceptive method?

Before using a contraceptive method, you should book an appointment with your gynecologist to decide on your options. Each method has its pros and cons and it is important to choose one that will work for you. Your doctor will first discuss with you:

·         Are you sexually active?

·         Are you in a mutually monogamous relationship?

·         Do you wish to have a family?

·         Do you have any existing health problems?

·         What are the side effects associated with each method?

Get all your gynecological health needs met today by visiting Dekalb Women’s Specialists. Book an appointment online or call the facility for more information on how to maintain proper health.