When should you see a midwife? When should I see a gynaecologist?

A recent study by Qare and Ifop reveals that "60% of women have already refused gynecological care", "1 in 3 has not been to see a gynecologist for 2 years" and that "31% of 18-25 year olds say they have never been to a gynecologist".

When to see a gynaecologist When should I see a gynaecologist?

According to the study, many women don't visit their gynecologist often enough. The main reasons are that it takes too long to book an appointment, and in some places it's too far to get to a practitioner. Fear of judgment and modesty can also be a barrier to consultation... 

There is no specific age at which a woman should see a gynecologist for the first time. Some people make their first appointment with a gynecologist at their first periods. Others go for their first sexual encounter. The main reasons for consulting a gynecologist are when women wish to take or obtain information on contraception. 

In all cases, you should consult a gynecologist in the event of pain during intercourse, external intimate pain, unexplained vaginal discharge or bleeding, painful or excessive periods .

What's the difference between a gynecologist and a midwife? Who should I see? 

Midwives play an essential role in women's intimate lives. Like gynecologists, they can provide gynecological consultations and follow-ups.

It's perfectly possible to consult a midwife, whether you're pregnant or not, from puberty to menopause, at any age. They can prescribe and fit contraception, such as IUDs, and advise you. If you wish to undergo permanent contraception, such as sterilization, they can provide the first information appointment.

They can also screen for and administer vaccinations against cervical cancer l. Midwives also carry out breast cancer screening. 

They also play a role in preventing STDs and STIs.

Midwives have a wide range of functions. Midwives can perform voluntary termination of pregnancy with medication. Some midwives perform pelvic and intra-uterine ultrasounds.

If you're in good health, you can still be followed by a midwife! Waiting times for an appointment may be shorter!

Midwives play an essential role in women's gynecological care, accompanying them through pregnancy, the first weeks of their baby's life and every stage of their lives. 

The difference between a gynecologist and a midwife lies in the level of training. To work as a gynecologist, you need a total of around 10 years' study. Midwifery studies are shorter, lasting 5 years. 

Gynaecologists will be able to monitor women with pathologies, complicated pregnancies, at-risk pregnancies and so on. If a pathology is detected, it is recommended, and even necessary, to turn to a gynecologist. 

The gynecologist also assists in procreation. 

If you have your periods during a consultation, don't panic: your healthcare professional will still be able to check you if necessary. Don't hesitate to wear a period pants in Elia organic cotton for a quick change and total comfort!