When to see a gynecologist in Fes: the signs not to ignore

Many women wait until they are in pain or worried before booking a gynecology appointment. Yet regular check-ups help prevent problems, detect them early and answer questions that are not always easy to ask. Some signs, however, should never be set aside.

Here is a simple guide to know when to see a gynecologist in Fes, how often to have a check-up and when you should seek care quickly.

A check-up, even when everything is fine

A gynecologist is not only the doctor you see when something is wrong. A routine visit, with no particular complaint, is a chance to review your intimate health, contraception, cycles and pregnancy plans. It is also the time for recommended screening, such as the cervical smear, which helps detect changes in the cervix early.

How often you need a check-up depends on your age, your history and your previous results. Your doctor will tell you which schedule suits you. What matters is not to go several years without any check-up.

A first visit is especially useful at the start of your sexual life, before choosing contraception, or as soon as you are thinking about pregnancy.

Bleeding that is out of the ordinary

Periods vary from one woman to another, but some types of bleeding always deserve medical advice:

• bleeding between periods;
• bleeding after intercourse;
• periods that have become much heavier or much longer than before, especially with tiredness or breathlessness;
• any bleeding after menopause, even light and even once.

In most cases the cause is benign: a hormonal imbalance, a polyp, a fibroid or an effect of contraception. But only an examination, often with a pelvic ultrasound, can confirm it.

Pelvic pain or very painful periods

Slightly uncomfortable periods are common. However, pain that makes you miss school or work, that is not relieved by usual painkillers or that gets worse year after year is not “normal”. It may point to endometriosis or adenomyosis, conditions that are easier to manage when recognised early.

You should also see a doctor for pain during or after intercourse, lower abdominal pain outside your periods, or a feeling of heaviness in the pelvis.

Irregular or absent cycles

A cycle that suddenly changes, periods that become far apart or stop for several months (outside pregnancy) should be investigated. These changes may be linked to stress, weight changes, a thyroid disorder or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Late-onset acne, increasing body hair or unexplained weight gain together with irregular cycles are other reasons to book an appointment. Hormone tests and an ultrasound often make things clear.

Discharge, itching and urinary symptoms

Vaginal discharge that changes in appearance, colour or smell, itching or burning are most often due to an infection that is easy to treat. It is better to avoid repeated self-medication: an examination allows the right treatment and, if needed, treatment of the partner too.

Recurrent urinary infections, urinary leakage or discomfort after childbirth are also reasons to consult.

Breasts, contraception, planning a pregnancy

A lump in the breast, nipple discharge, or a change in the skin or shape of the breast should be shown to a doctor quickly. Most of these changes are benign, but an examination and, if needed, imaging are essential.

Your gynecologist also helps you choose or change contraception, prepare for pregnancy, or review the situation if pregnancy is slow to come. If you have been trying to conceive for a while without success, our page on assisted reproduction in Fes presents the options available.

When should you seek urgent care?

Some situations should not wait for a scheduled appointment. Go to the emergency department or call a doctor without delay in case of:

• sudden, severe lower abdominal pain, especially with fever, vomiting or fainting;
• very heavy bleeding;
• pain or bleeding in early pregnancy, or if you think you may be pregnant;
• high fever after childbirth, a miscarriage or a gynecological procedure.

Seeing a doctor at Boudra Fertility Center

In Fes, Dr Najib Boudra and his team see patients for gynecological follow-up, ultrasound, pregnancy and difficulties conceiving. With more than 30 years of experience, Dr Boudra takes the time to listen and explain each step. Discover all our gynecology consultations in Fes.

Feel free to write down your questions before the appointment: no question is out of place when it comes to your health.

Frequently asked questions

This article is for information only and does not replace a consultation. For any question about your situation, talk to your doctor.