The Importance of Gynecological Care for Senior Women
As women age, their gynecological needs evolve. Gynecology for seniors is specialized to address post-menopausal changes that significantly affect your health.
Here’s a quick summary of why gynecological care remains important for senior women:
- Vaginal Health: Estrogen levels drop, leading to dryness and discomfort.
- Urinary Function: Increased risk of urinary leakage and infections.
- Cancer Screenings: Continued vigilance for cervical, ovarian, uterine, and breast cancers.
- Sexual Health: Addressing STIs and maintaining a satisfying sexual life.
- General Health: Regular check-ups to monitor overall health and catch potential issues early.
Menopause marks the beginning of a new phase, bringing unique challenges that require specialized care. Our team at Lona Sasser Obstetrics & Gynecology provides compassionate, comprehensive support that adapts to these changing needs. We strive to ensure that every woman feels informed, comfortable, and confident about her health.
Book an appointment online or call us at 954-340-1050.
Take charge of your well-being with regular gynecological visits tailored to your stage in life.
Why Senior Women Should Continue Gynecological Visits
Vaginal and Urinary Health
Post-menopause brings significant changes to vaginal health, which is why senior women need to see a gynecologist. The vulva, vagina, and clitoris can change drastically after menopause. A common treatment, vaginal estrogen therapy, can help alleviate discomfort and improve sexual function.
Frequent UTIs, urinary urgency, and incontinence are not uncommon. These issues can severely impact quality of life. What’s more, UTIs can lead to severe complications like urosepsis, or even ICU visits. Regular gynecological care can help manage these conditions and may include a pelvic floor assessment to develop a plan for improving bowel and bladder function.
Cancer Screenings
Regular gynecological visits are crucial for cancer screenings. Your gynecologist can screen for several types of cancer, including cervical, ovarian, uterine, vulvar, and breast cancer. Early detection is key to effective treatment.
Sexual Health and STIs
Sexual health remains important at any age. For senior women, changes post-menopause can make sex uncomfortable. Gynecologists can recommend personal lubricants and other treatments to make sex more enjoyable.
Also, STIs have doubled in adults aged 65 and up over the last decade. Regular screening is essential, especially for those with new partners.
Most family doctors do not perform detailed pelvic exams, making gynecologists essential for complete care.
Continue your gynecological visits to stay on top of your health.
Frequency and Types of Exams for Senior Women
Recommended Exam Frequency
As women age, the type and frequency of gynecological exams should adjust to their changing health needs. Annual visits remain crucial for maintaining overall health and monitoring any new symptoms. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), women over age 65 should continue to see their gynecologist at least once a year, even if they don’t need a Pap test every year.
The guidelines for Pap tests shift after age 65. If a woman has had regular screenings with normal results, she may no longer need Pap tests. However, if there is a history of precancerous cells or cervical cancer, the gynecologist may recommend continued screening.
Pelvic exams should still be performed at least once every three years for sexually active women over 65. These exams help detect issues such as pelvic organ prolapse and vaginal atrophy.
Types of Exams and Screenings
Pelvic Exams: These exams are vital for detecting abnormalities in the uterus, ovaries, and other pelvic organs. They include an external and internal examination to check for signs of infection, abnormal growths, or other concerns.
Pap Tests: While the frequency of Pap tests decreases with age, they are still important for those with a history of cervical issues. This test screens for cervical cancer and can be combined with an HPV test every five years for women over 30.
Mammograms: Breast cancer screenings are essential for early detection. Women should continue to have mammograms every 1-2 years until at least age 75, depending on their health and life expectancy.
Bone Density Scans: As women age, the risk of osteoporosis increases. Bone density scans help assess the strength of bones and the risk of fractures. These are typically recommended every two years for women over 65.
Blood Pressure Checks: High blood pressure can lead to serious health issues. Regular blood pressure checks during gynecological visits help monitor cardiovascular health and manage risks.
Personalized Care: Every woman is unique, and so are her health needs. At Lona Sasser Obstetrics & Gynecology, we emphasize personalized care. Dr. Lona Sasser and her team ensure that each patient receives tailored advice and treatments based on their health history and current needs.
Regular gynecological visits help senior women stay proactive about their health.
Questions Senior Women Should Ask Their Gynecologist
Addressing Common Concerns
Many senior women experience urinary incontinence but often accept it as a normal part of aging. However, it’s important to discuss this with your gynecologist. There might be treatable causes or effective management options. Incontinence can be embarrassing, but addressing it can improve your quality of life significantly.
How can I make sex more comfortable?
Post-menopause, many women find sex less enjoyable due to vaginal dryness or discomfort. Personal lubricants can help ease dryness, and your gynecologist might recommend vaginal estrogen therapy to restore natural moisture and elasticity. Don’t hesitate to ask for solutions to make sex more comfortable and enjoyable.
Are there new treatments available for my condition?
Medical research is always advancing. Whether it’s for menopausal symptoms, herpes outbreaks, or other conditions, there might be new treatments that are more effective than what you’re currently using. Asking your gynecologist about the latest options ensures you don’t miss out on better solutions.
Am I taking the right preventive measures?
Preventive care is essential for long-term health. This includes everything from self-exams for breast cancer to managing your diet and exercise. Your gynecologist can guide you on the best preventive measures tailored to your needs. They can also observe how you perform self-exams to ensure you’re doing them correctly.
Are there new treatments for menopausal symptoms?
Menopausal symptoms can vary widely, from hot flashes to sleep disturbances. New treatments are continually being developed, so ask your gynecologist about the latest options. This can include lifestyle changes, medications, or even alternative therapies.
How can I stay informed about my treatment schedule?
Keeping track of your treatment schedule, especially when new treatments are introduced, can be challenging. Your gynecologist can help you stay organized and ensure you’re following the best plan for your health. Regular check-ins can make a big difference in managing your overall well-being.
Regular check-ups and open communication with your gynecologist can help you maintain your health and well-being as you age.
Compassionate, comprehensive care
As we age, our bodies change, and so do our healthcare needs. This is especially true for women who experience significant changes post-menopause. Continuing gynecological care is essential for maintaining vaginal health, screening for cancers, managing urinary function, and ensuring overall well-being.
At Lona Sasser Obstetrics & Gynecology, we believe in a personalized approach to healthcare. Dr. Lona Sasser and her team are dedicated to providing exceptional care tailored to the unique needs of senior women. We understand that every phase of life requires different care, and we are here to support you through all of them.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit our Women’s Health Center. You can book an appointment online or call us at 954-340-1050.
Your health is a lifelong journey, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
Photo by Brett Sayles