How Often Should I See My Gynecologist?

Knowing how often you should see your gynecologist can be confusing. Do you go every year? Or only when you have questions or concerns? When do you start going and can you ever stop going?

These are all common questions women ask themselves. The answers differ somewhat based on your age and health. Generally, you should go at least once a year for a checkup.

When Should You Start Seeing a Gynecologist?

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) suggest you should go to the gynecologist for the first time between the ages of 13 and 15. There are some exceptions, but this is typical.

On this first visit, you will discuss periods and puberty. There is usually not a pelvic exam. Pap smears don't start until age 21. The first visit is a time to ask questions and get to know your OBGYN.

How Often Should You Go Based on Your Age?

How often you go to the gynecologist is often based on your age.

Here is a list of when you should:

Ages 13-20. At this age, you will see your gynecologist once a year. General wellness is the focus.

Ages 21-29. During this age range, you will usually see your gynecologist one time a year. Every three years, you will get a Pap smear.

Ages 30-65. At this age, you will continue to see your gynecologist one time per year. These are general checkups called "well-woman" visits. You will still get a Pap smear every three years.

After 65. You still see your OBGYN one time every year. You may stop getting Pap smears if your tests have been normal for several years. These visits may focus more on breast and bone health.

Your OBGYN might want to see you more often if you have other health issues. Examples are endometriosis or fibroids. You might go to the gynecologist more often if your test results show issues.

Do You Still Need to Go After Menopause?

There is a myth that you can stop going to your gynecologist after menopause, but this is not true. Yes, you may not have periods anymore. Yet, you should still go to check the health of your body. Your OBGYN will check for signs of cancer, vaginal dryness, bladder problems, or bleeding.

If you have questions about how often you should see a gynecologist, reach out to your Baptist Health OBGYN. If you don't have one, you can find a provider using our provider directory.