Gynecology

What is gynecology?

Gynecology is an area of medical expertise that focuses on women’s reproductive systems and health. The doctors who specialize in gynecology, gynecologists, provide comprehensive care for women from adolescence through menopause.

Gynecologists offer annual wellness checks and critical health screenings, including Pap smears, mammograms, and sexually transmitted disease testing, as well as diagnosis and treatment for reproductive health issues such as:

• Birth control
• Fertility advice
• Endometriosis
• Uterine fibroids
• Polycystic ovarian syndrome
• Breast disorders
• Vulvar and vaginal ulcers
• Vaginal infections
• Urinary tract infections
• Pelvic inflammatory disease
• Menopause management
• Sexual dysfunction

Dr. Hanson offers gentle and effective medical care and a wide range of gynecological procedures to improve your overall health, including colposcopies, hysteroscopies, and more.

At what age should I start to see a gynecologist?

You should start seeing a gynecologist around the time you reach puberty and begin having menstrual periods. While you don’t need to start having Pap smears until you’re 21 or become sexually active, Dr. Hanson can provide valuable information about what to expect from your body as you mature, as well as sexual health advice and information on how to take care of your body.

How often should I see a gynecologist?

You should have yearly checkups with Dr. Hanson to monitor your overall health and wellness.

If you’re in good health and don’t have an increased risk of cervical cancer or other abnormalities, you should have a Pap smear every three years. If Dr. Hanson believes you have a higher risk of cervical abnormalities, human papillomavirus (HPV), or other reproductive health issues, she recommends more frequent testing.

What should I expect during a gynecology appointment?

Your annual appointment with Dr. Hanson begins like most other doctor appointments. Dr. Hanson or a member of her clinical staff check your height, weight, and blood pressure. Then Dr. Hanson reviews your personal and family medical history and asks questions about your current health and well-being.

Dr. Hanson performs a physical exam, listening to your heart and lungs and feeling your abdomen for any abnormalities. She looks into your eyes, throat, and ears and checks your temperature and oxygenation levels.

Then, Dr. Hanson begins your pelvic exam. She feels the inside of your vagina to check your ovaries and uterus. If you’re due for a Pap smear, she takes the small sample of cells.

Finally, you and Dr. Hanson have a conversation about your health needs and steps you can take to improve your health. She can answer questions about birth control and provide the prescription or device that best suits your needs. This is your opportunity to ask questions and get health advice. Dr. Hanson wants to help you lead your best, healthiest life and takes time to answer your questions fully.

If you’re due for a wellness check or Pap smear, call Hanson Clinic, PLC in Minneapolis or book an appointment online today.