As a woman, it’s important to prioritize your health. Annual exams from a gynecologist help keep you healthy and allow you to make smart decisions about your care. A board-certified gynecologist and obstetrician, Samuel Van Kirk, M.D. OBGYN provides top-quality care for women of all ages at his office in Redding, California. For expert care from a gynecologist who truly listens to what you say, schedule an appointment with Dr. Van Kirk online or by phone today.

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What is a gynecologist?

A gynecologist specializes in female reproductive health. Gynecologists train for four years as a doctor, then spend another four years in their specialty, the female reproductive organs.

The term obstetrics refers to health care during pregnancy and childbirth. Dr. Van Kirk is a board-certified gynecologist and obstetrician. That means he provides care for women of all ages, whether they’re pregnant or not.

Well-woman visits with a gynecologist often include:

  • Pelvic exam
  • Pap test
  • Breast exam
  • Physical exam
  • STD screening
  • Mammogram

Gynecology is an essential part of well-woman care. As a woman, you should have an annual exam that includes an evaluation of your reproductive health.

What conditions does a gynecologist treat?

A gynecologist diagnoses and treats conditions of the female reproductive organs. Along with well-woman exams, Dr. Van Kirk helps women facing a variety of conditions. If you experience pain with sex, an exam can help identify the cause, and Dr. Van Kirk and his team can work with you to find relief.

Dr. Van Kirk offers complete prenatal care as well, including high-risk obstetrics. He and his team care for women throughout their pregnancy journeys, through labor and delivery, and after childbirth. He also offers abdominal scar revisions.

Understanding that every patient and their health concerns are unique, Dr. Van Kirk provides many nonsurgical treatments for common conditions such as pelvic organ prolapse and urinary incontinence. If something isn’t right, he can help you find the best treatment.

How often should I visit the gynecologist?

Many women begin visiting a gynecologist in their teens and continue throughout their lives. Whether you’re sexually active or not, a well-woman exam is important for preventive health. You should schedule a visit with Dr. Van Kirk annually or whenever you suspect something isn’t right.

If you’re pregnant or trying to become pregnant, you can expect to visit the office more regularly for Dr. Van Kirk to monitor your fertility or your baby’s growth.

Through menopause and beyond, it’s still important to have regular exams. Dr. Van Kirk offers bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) to help manage symptoms of menopause and vaginal revitalization to address pain or discomfort with sex. Vaginal rejuvenation is generally a minimally invasive procedure that strengthens the muscles of your pelvic floor.

Well-woman exams and gynecological care are important parts of your overall wellness. To establish a relationship with Dr. Van Kirk and his team, call Samuel Van Kirk, M.D. OBGYN or book an appointment online today.