Do You Still Need a Gynecologist Appointment? Addressing Post-Menopausal Care

A gynecologic exam.

Gynecological care focuses heavily on reproductive wellness, so it’s a common misconception that you no longer need to see a gynecologist after your reproductive years have ended. In reality, the opposite is true: Starting with her teenage years, all stages of a woman’s life call for routine gynecological exams.

Here, we take a closer look at why your well-woman exams continue to be important beyond menopause.

Why See a Gynecologist After Menopause?

Although you may not have medical needs specifically related to reproduction at this stage in your life, there are still many areas of your reproductive health that still call for specialty care. Here are some of the components of postmenopausal gynecology.

Cancer Screenings

Most women should continue receiving cervical cancer screenings until the age of 65. Because the average age for menopause is 51, you’ll likely continue receiving Pap tests or HPV testing for several years after menstruation has ended.

Aside from cervical cancer, your doctor will also advise you to continue receiving routine mammograms for as long as you remain in good health. And while screenings aren’t yet available for other reproductive cancers — including ovarian cancer and endometrial cancer — your gynecologist can discuss your risk factors and make recommendations based on these risks, such as genetic counseling.

Physical Exams

Just as they did during your premenopausal years, your gynecologist will continue to perform pelvic and breast exams during your postmenopausal annual wellness appointments. Pelvic exams allow doctors to look and feel for abnormalities in your vagina, cervix, ovaries, bladder, and other nearby structures.

Similarly, breast exams allow your doctor to feel for lumps or other breast changes that may call for further testing. Your risk for some types of cancer increases with age, and going for these exams could help your doctor uncover abnormalities sooner.

Discussion of Postmenopausal Changes

Menopause can bring on a number of physical and emotional changes, and postmenopausal gynecology can help you work through these new developments. For example, during your annual exams, you may discuss the following topics with your gynecologist:

  • Hot flashes and night sweats
  • Mood swings
  • Irregular periods
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Weight gain
  • Urinary incontinence

Depending on your specific symptoms, your doctor may suggest lifestyle changes, or you could be a good candidate for hormone therapy. But because hormone imbalances aren’t exclusive to menopause, your gynecologist can investigate the root causes of your symptoms to ensure you pursue the best possible treatment options.

Bone Wellness

Postmenopausal women are at an elevated risk for conditions outside your reproductive system, including bone loss and osteoporosis. Half of adults over the age of 50 are at risk of breaking a bone, and women’s risk is double that of men. Your gynecologist can act as a partner for navigating bone disorders and other conditions you may encounter. For instance, you may be advised to receive a bone density study, which could lead to recommendations for supplementation, lifestyle changes, or medication.

Schedule a Post-Menopausal Appointment with Avant Gynecology

As your partner in lifelong women’s wellness, Avant Gynecology is here to support you through menopause and the years that follow. Whether you have a concern to address or you’re simply due for an annual exam, we look forward to seeing you at your next visit. Schedule an appointment by sending us a message online or by calling (404) 352-2850.