Gynecological follow-up

In all women, even if they are asymptomatic, it is considered necessary to wear a gynecological follow-up periodical for the prevention and detection of alterations of the reproductive system and for the early detection of gynecological and breast cancer. In addition, doubts are clarified and advice is given on care and hygienic habits of the reproductive system.

What is gynecological follow-up?

The review consists of an anamnesis or medical history, a physical examination and the necessary complementary tests.

In the interrogation or anamnesis, a personal history, diseases suffered, gynecological or not, surgical interventions, allergies, toxic habits and family history of important diseases or cancers should be asked. They also ask about gynecological antecedents, age of the first period, its periodicity, menstrual pathology, and the date of the last period. It is also questioned about previous pregnancies, the result of the same and breastfeeding.

The physical examination consists of a general examination, observing the external genitalia and the vagina and cervix by means of speculoscopy and the Vaginal examination palpates the vagina, the cervix and the bimanual examination palpates the size and uterine consistency and ovarian as well as the presence of gynecological masses.

One is also performed to detect possible nodules and the axillary area if necessary.

The basic complementary examination to be performed is cytology, consisting of taking a sample of cells from the vagina and cervix for further study, as well as the study of possible infections. Colposcopy is the visualization of the cervix to identify lesions that need to be biopsied.

At the doctor's discretion, a vaginal or abdominal ultrasound will be performed depending on the circumstances. For an abdominal gynecological ultrasound, it is necessary to have a well-filled bladder in order to visualize the uterus and ovaries.

Depending on the family and personal history and the age of the patient, one will be requested for breast cancer screening and if necessary an ultrasound as well, more sensitive for benign pathology.

blood and urine tests are also frequently requested at the annual gynecological check-up.

Conclusion:

Therefore thegynecological follow-up allows to detect asymptomatic pathology, advise on hygiene and family planning and make an early diagnosis of genital cancer. Depending on the age group of the patient, the consultations will be oriented in a different way, despite the exploration with a speculum and cytology being performed on all the women who have initiated sexual intercourse.