When to See the Doctor

You should have a routine gynecological examination every year if you are sexually active or over age 18.

You may need to have more frequent checkups if you have:

• a history of sexual health problems
• a history of abnormal Pap test results
• a mother or sister who had breast cancer before menopause
• a breast lump
• a sex-related illness (STD)

If you plan to become pregnant you may also need to see a doctor more frequently.

Warning Signs

If you have any of these warning signs, schedule a gynecological exam right away:

• unusual vaginal or pelvic pain
• abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge
• severe pelvic or lower abdominal pain
• pain, swelling, or tenderness of the vulva or vagina
• sores, lumps, or itching of the vulva or vagina
• growths or thickening of the breast or armpit
• puckering, dimpling, or other changes in the skin of the breast
• newly retracted nipples or bleeding or discharge from the nipple
• changes in size or shape of the breast
• increased pain or discomfort before your period