A recent study by Qare and Ifop reveals that "60% of women have already foregone gynecological care", "1 in 3 has not been to see a gynecologist in the last 2 years" and that "31% of 18-25 year-olds say they have never been to a gynecologist".
When should you see a gynecologist? When should you see a gynecologist?
According to the survey figures, 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's no specific age at which you should see a gynecologist for the first time. Some people make their first appointment with a gynecologist as soon as they start menstruating. 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, it is necessary to consult a gynecologist in the event of pain during intercourse, external intimate pain, unexplained vaginal discharge or bleeding, or painful or heavy periods.
What's the difference between a gynecologist and a midwife? Who should you 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 provide screening and administer the cervical cancer vaccine. Midwives carry out breast cancer screening.
They also play a role in the prevention of STDs and STIs.
Midwives have a wide range of functions. Midwives can perform voluntary termination of pregnancy with medication. Some midwives also perform pelvic and intrauterine ultrasounds.
So, if you're in good health, you can be monitored by a midwife! Waiting times for appointments may be shorter!
Midwives play an essential role in women's gynecological care, accompanying them through pregnancy, the first few weeks of their baby's life and every stage of their lives.
The difference between gynecologists and midwives lies in the level of their training. To work as a gynaecologist, you need a total of around 10 years' study. Midwifery studies are shorter, lasting 5 years.
Gynecologists are able to treat women with pathologies, complicated pregnancies, high-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 period during a consultation, don't panic: your health professional will still be able to check you if necessary. Don't hesitate to wear Elia organic cotton menstrual panties for a quick change and total comfort!
