The Importance of Gynecological Care

If you’re relying on your primary care physician for all your health care needs, you may be doing yourself a disservice. Family practice and internal medical doctors are a valuable part of your overall health care, but they should never replace a gynecologist, who specializes in the female anatomy.

Dr. Khashayar Shakiba at Women’s Pelvic Surgery provides expert care that goes above and beyond the scope of general practitioners. His extensive training and experience give you a health care advantage at every stage of your life.

The difference between a gynecologist and a general practitioner

There are plenty of women who view their gynecologist as their primary care doctor, and those who consider their primary care doctor as their gynecologist, but the fields are quite different. Although there’s some overlap in the services they provide, their training and education are unique. 

General practitioners care for the whole person, and have a broad skill set that makes them invaluable to your overall health care. Cardiovascular issues, head pain, digestive problems, injuries, and chronic illnesses can all benefit from your primary doctor’s care. But specialists step in when a specific condition or body part warrants extra attention.

Gynecologists specialize in women’s health care and have trained extensively to understand the unique needs of the female reproductive system. They specialize in disease prevention, menstrual disorders, fertility issues, contraception, pregnancy, menopause, sexual dysfunction, and pelvic pain. 

Gynecology prioritizes prevention

One of our primary purposes here at Women’s Pelvic Surgery of North Jersey is to empower women to take a proactive approach to their own health care. A big part of that is educating our patients about their general and specific risks for certain diseases and conditions and helping them avoid unnecessary pain and suffering.

As a woman, your best defense against disease is a strategic offense, which is why we offer screenings for the main culprits in women’s health care:

• Breast cancer
• Cervical cancer
• Osteoporosis
• Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
• Bladder disease

Regular breast and pelvic exams help us establish a baseline of what’s normal for you, and allows us to both compare results and detect any abnormalities should they occur. These preliminary screens alert us to the possible need for more specific tests that may indicate the need for treatment. 

Gynecological healthcare throughout your life

Women of all ages can benefit from quality gynecological care. Each stage of your life brings bodily changes and varying needs, and Dr. Shakiba is well-versed in all of them. 

As young girls transition into womanhood, it’s a good idea to schedule a first gynecological visit. The typical age range is 13-15 years old — an age at which they may feel apprehensive about what to expect. Relax. Unless warranted, this first appointment won’t involve a pelvic exam, but rather, it’s an educational experience where Dr. Shakiba discusses menstruation, growth and development, sexual activity and safety, vaccinations, hygiene, and lifestyle choices. This begins the lifelong relationship with her gynecologist and the unique health issues women face.

Dr. Shakiba’s expertise also serves you well during your childbearing years, especially if you have a high-risk pregnancy. And when you enter menopause, he guides you through the process and helps you manage the symptoms.

When to see a gynecologist

Just as cardiologists specialize in heart problems and oncologists specialize in cancer, gynecologists understand the female body better than other doctors. Women face specific conditions that men don’t, and these diseases and illnesses can be complicated, painful, and even life-threatening. 

Dr. Shakiba expertly diagnoses and treats women’s unique healthcare challenges, including:

• Endometriosis
• Fibroids
• Ovarian cysts
• Interstitial cystitis
• Prolapsed uterus
• Pelvic floor dysfunction
• Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)

He also treats incontinence, sexual dysfunction, and much more. These female-specific conditions are where gynecology shines. 

If you don’t have a trusted gynecologist, Dr. Shakiba would love to meet with you and discuss your unique health care needs. To learn more about our services and practice, call us or request an appointment online today.