LBQ Women Gynecologist Visit? Yes Please!

Do LBQ women need regular gynecological visits? Yes, but LBQ women have a tendency to consult their gynecologists less often than heterosexual women, as gynecological visits are associated with contraception and pregnancy. The medical test allows the detection of STIs and certain cancers like breast cancer and cervical cancer. That is why gynecological tests are essential for all women, of all ages, whatever their sexual orientation. LBQ women need to see their doctor with the same frequency as heterosexual women. The Pap smear, breast and pelvic exams, and mammogram screenings are done at the same interval regardless of your sexual orientation

A gynecologist (gyn) is a doctor who specializes in women’s reproductive health

One of the primary concerns related to the sexual health of lesbian, bisexual, and queer women is caused by few and irregular gynecological visits. Because mainstream reproductive rights discourse and policies are usually framed as heteronormative, therefore they avoid gynecological check-ups. The following is the importance of a gyn visit if you identify as a woman;

• For Overall Health

There are no known physiologic differences between lesbians and heterosexual women. There may, however, be health behaviors or health risk factors that are more common among lesbians and bisexual women that have health consequences. Overall health checkup is important for every woman regardless of sexual orientation as a woman can find out what is going on in their body a check-up with a gyn could be the difference-maker.

• If you are having irregular menstruation

If any woman has a concern about her menstrual cycle, it’s important to make an appointment with the gyn ASAP. If the problem is ignored, it could cause reproductive problems later on.

• Pap smear

To stay clear of cancer and other health concerns, a pap smear is necessary every few years. Women 21 years and older should make their regular visits for this simple, quick procedure that is just as important as breast exams. Most of the time there are no symptoms of cervical cancer, which is why it is so important to be checked regularly.

• Experiencing a change in vaginal discharge

Vaginal discharge is something to keep an eye on if you’re a woman, A bad odor or discharge from the vagina is a sign that something is wrong, usually an infection. If left untreated, or if a woman attempts to treat the problem without the help of a gyn, the problem can quickly get worse, so it’s important to quickly make an appointment.

• Having painful sex or painful cramps

Everyone has a different pain tolerance, but when a woman is always on painkillers for cramps, or when sex is super painful, the gyn can help. It is not healthy to live off of ibuprofen each month; it could hurt your liver, and there could be a problem why sex is hurting.