As OB-GYNs we see and hear everything. There is nothing that you are going to reveal to us that will surprise or upset us. Most women feel very comfortable with their OB-GYNs, so they will confide in them like no other person. For your health's sake there are important things you should let your OB-GYN know so we can make sure to check for specific problems or diseases.
1. Your sexual history. Are you with one partner or are you with more than one partner at one time? The OB will not judge you based on the number of sexual partners you have but wants to know to be sure to check you for sexually-transmitted diseases.
2. Your medication history. All medications, even supplements, are important to give in your history because some medications cannot be taken together. Also, if you are planning for pregnancy or even if you have an unintended pregnancy some medications can be potentially damaging to the developing fetus.
3. Your pregnancy plans. If you are contemplating pregnancy your doctor should know so they can prepare and advise you on the best possible outcome. Some diseases require very tight control before pregnancy to help prevent miscarriages and birth defects. Also, many medications are safe to take when pregnant, so we want you to be on the right medication for your disease when you are pregnant.
4. If you have had Human Papilloma Virus or HPV, or a treatment for cervical dysplasia or abnormal cells on your cervix with a procedure called a LEEP. It is important for your OB to know this. Your OB may see you more frequently if you have had an abnormal pap in the past, or they may want do specific screening for HPV. Also, if you are pregnant and have had a LEEP in the past the OB will watch to make sure you do not have a problem with cervical insufficiency or a weakening of the cervix, which can cause pregnancy loss at 20 to 22 weeks.
5. Any abnormal symptoms in the vagina or pelvis such as itching or burning, vaginal discharge that is not clear or white, or discharge that has an odor. Any of these could be the signs of a vaginitis such as bacteria or yeast or could signify a more serious infection such a chlamydia or gonorrhea, which if left untreated can cause infertility. If you feel itching or burning, or notice a difference in your discharge and think it may be a yeast infection, talk to your doctor to confirm diagnosis. You can easily treat a yeast infection with an over-the-counter like Monistat.
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Dr. Yvonne Bohn, Dr. Allison Hill, and Dr. Alane Park just celebrated the 10th anniversary of their OB-GYN practice in Los Angeles. They personally welcomed more than 15,000 babies into the world. They are featured doctors in the popular TV series Deliver Me, currently in its third season on OWN: The Oprah Winfrey Network. They know the pregnancy and birthing process intimately...from both sides. In addition to obstetric care they also provide guidance and treatment for various women's health concerns including: contraceptive health, breast cancer screening, STD screening, menopausal care, infertility and preventive health.
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