Most women will only need to see their ob-gyn on an annual basis, but there are going to be a few reasons why you would want to see him or her on a more frequent basis. Two reasons to see and ob-gyn more frequently are to deal with birth control issues and if you are experiencing bleeding or discomfort in the vaginal area.

Birth Control Issues

One of the most common reasons to see an ob-gyn is to deal with issues relating to pregnancy. For example, you will want to see your ob-gyn if you believe that you might be pregnant as a result of having had unprotected sex or if you were using a condom and it broke. In that situation, an ob-gyn will be able to administer a pregnancy test that can accurately determine if you are pregnant much sooner than if you used a home pregnancy kit.

In addition, the ob-gyn will be able to provide you with a morning after pill, or a prescription for one if you are under the age of 18. The ob-gyn will also be able to help you determine what kind of birth control would be best if you want to take extra precautions. In that situation, the ob-gyn will be able to prescribe a birth control method that he or she believes is most appropriate based on your medical history.

The ob-gyn will also monitor you while you are on any new birth control. The reason for this is to make sure that you are not reacting badly to the birth control, and also to make sure that you are not gaining weight or experiencing increased blood pressure. 

Vaginal Discomfort

Another reason to see your ob-gyn is if you are experiencing vaginal discomfort and bleeding. In many cases, vaginal bleeding can show up after sex. In addition, if you have heavy or prolonged periods, you will want to see your ob-gyn in order to get tested so that you can rule out any serious conditions. 

For example, a possible cause for both vaginal bleeding and discomfort are polyps. In most cases, polyps are simply going to be uncomfortable, but in rare cases they can become infected, which can lead to increased pain or complications.

Speak to your ob-gyn today if you are experiencing abdominal or vaginal discomfort in order to schedule an examination. In addition, visit your ob-gyn if you are on a new type of birth control, or if you are interested in trying a new type of birth control and would like some assistance in finding one that is appropriate for your specific situation and condition.

For more information, contact Women's Healthcare of Illinois or a similar location.