Gynecology Specialist

What is gynecology?

Gynecology is a specialized field of medicine that focuses on the unique needs of a woman’s reproductive system. Areas of care that a gynecologist provides include:

• Pregnancy and childbirth
• Fertility issues and menstruation
• Birth control and family planning
• Hormone imbalances or disorders
• Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)

The area of gynecology also addresses urinary incontinence (involuntary leakage) associated with menopause or childbirth.

During your gynecological examination, Dr. Khalil performs preventive healthcare screenings. These may include risk assessments for heart disease and osteoporosis, birth control consultations or intrauterine device (IUD) placements, menopause management, and treatments for premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or abnormal uterine bleeding.

Dr. Khalil also performs cancer assessments like Pap smears and sexually transmitted disease (STD) testing if you’re sexually active.

What is a Pap smear?

Pap smears, or Pap tests, are cervical cancer screenings.

Your cervix is the lower end of your uterus and connects the vagina to your uterus. Cervical cancer is the most common cancer for women, the easiest to prevent through regular Pap smears, and it responds well to treatment with early detection.

During your Pap smear, Dr. Khalil uses a speculum to hold your vagina open to take tissue samples from your cervix. These cells are analyzed for problematic cells that may be present or might emerge in the future. Pap smears aren’t painful procedures, but they can be uncomfortable.

There are typically few signs or symptoms of cervical cancer in the early stages, so preventive screenings through Pap smears are vital for early detection. Regular Pap smears usually begin at age 21, but Dr. Khalil provides recommendations based on your age and individual needs.

What is sexually transmitted disease testing?

Many of the most common STDs don’t have symptoms, so if you’re sexually active, testing is essential to good reproductive health.

During your gynecological exam, Dr. Khalil checks the general health of your genital area for signs of sores, irritation, rashes, discharge, or warts. She also swabs the area for samples to test for specific diseases or infections. Depending on your assessment, she might also recommend urine tests, cheek swabs, or blood tests to make a diagnosis.

Signs of an STD might include:

• Flu-like symptoms
• Unusual vaginal discharge
• Burning or pain while urinating
• Sores or bumps on your genitals, thighs, or buttocks
• Swelling, pain, irritation, or itching in your vagina, vulva, or anus

For comprehensive gynecology care at all stages of your life, call Women’s Medical Connection or schedule an appointment online today.