When to see a midwife? When to go to the gynecologist?

A recent study conducted by Qare and Ifop reveals that "60% of women have already given up on gynecological care", "1 out of 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 to go to the gynecologist? When to see a gynecologist?

According to the figures of the study, many women do not go to the gynecologist often enough. The main reasons are the long delays in making an appointment and the long distance to go to a practitioner in some places. A brake to the consultation which can be the fear of the judgment and the modesty...

There is no specific age to consult a gynecologist for the first time. Some people make an appointment for the first time with the gynecologist at their first period. Others go for their first sexual intercourse. The main reasons for consulting a gynecologist are when women want to take or have information about contraception.

In any case it is necessary to consult a gynecologist in case of pain during sexual intercourse, external intimate pain, unexplained vaginal discharge or bleeding, painful or heavy periods.

What is the difference between a gynecologist and a midwife? Who to consult?

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

It is perfectly possible to consult a midwife, whether you are pregnant or not, from puberty to menopause, at any age. They can prescribe and insert contraception such as an IUD, and advise you. In the event that you wish to proceed with a permanent contraception such as sterilization, they provide the first information appointment.

They are also able to screen and administer the cervical cancer vaccine. Midwives provide breast cancer screening.

They also play a role in the prevention of STDs and STIs.

The functions of midwives are broad. Indeed, midwives can perform voluntary termination of pregnancy with medication. Some midwives perform pelvic and intrauterine ultrasounds.

So you can totally be followed by a midwife if you are in good health! Waiting times for an appointment may be shorter!

Midwives play an essential role in the gynecological follow-up of women, accompanying them during pregnancy, in the first weeks of their baby and in all stages of their life.

The difference between a gynecologist and a midwife is already in the level of studies. To work as a gynecologist, a total of 10 years of study is required. Midwifery studies are shorter, lasting 5 years.

Gynecologists will be able to follow women with pathologies or complicated pregnancies, who are at risk etc. 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 to change quickly and be in total comfort!