Preventative healthcare is one of the best ways to invest in your future wellness. However, when you only see your doctor once a year, they may not address all of your concerns in your short time together. Being an active participant in your yearly gynecologist appointment can give you a better understanding of your wellness and options for your care. Here are a few ways to make the most of your annual with a gynecologist in McKinney, TX.

Make a list of your concerns.

It can be hard to remember your concerns once you’re sitting in the exam room in a medical gown. To make the most of the doctor’s time, start writing down a list of things you want to talk about a few weeks before your appointment.

If it’s your first appointment with a new doctor, bring your medical history and relevant family history. For repeat visits with the same doctor, let them know about any changes in your health since your last appointment.

Bring along your prescription medicine and supplements.

Instead of writing down complex medication names, bring along the medications you’re currently taking. The bottles will have the drug name and dosage, all of which are important for your gynecologist to know.

If you take herbal supplements for any aspect of your health, bring them to discuss with your doctor. While many alternative and over-the-counter treatments are safe, it’s crucial for your doctor to know what you’re taking, especially if you’re planning on becoming pregnant or starting HRT.

Arrive early for the appointment.

If you’re switching doctors, arrive 15 to 20 minutes before the appointment to fill out paperwork. Even if you’ve been seeing the same gynecologist for years, it’s good to come a few minutes early. There may be new paperwork, or you may need to update your existing information.

In some cases, the PA may be able to take you back early for taking your vitals and relevant information to avoid cutting into your time with the doctor.

Have a list of your questions.

There are no stupid questions when it comes to your health. Whatever comes to your mind before or during the appointment is fair game to ask. Studies show that up to 30 percent of women lie to their doctors. It’s understandable; some conversations about women’s health can be awkward.

Remember that there’s nothing your doctor hasn’t heard before. You can only benefit by asking all your lingering questions about your health, from help to get pregnant, STI testing, or wondering if you’re entering menopause.

Understand the next steps you need to take.

Before the appointment is over, review the next steps you need to take, whether meeting with a specialist, scheduling testing or calling the office to get your results. As the patient, it’s your job to make sure you feel confident at the end of your appointment.

If you forgot to ask something during the appointment, don’t hesitate to call the office back to follow up with your doctor. Since you only see your gynecologist once a year, it’s typical to forget a few things during the appointment. Find an OB/GYN that’s invested in your health all year, and you’ll always feel comfortable calling with a question.

Comprehensive OB/GYN in McKinney, TX is a team of board-certified gynecologists providing industry-leading care.

We provide women’s health services to our patients, from low- and high-risk obstetrical care to advanced gynecological and laparoscopic surgery. Our team of dedicated doctors takes the time to get to know our patients so that we can provide exceptional care. When you’re a patient at Comprehensive OB/GYN, you get expert partners in your health, dedicated to providing you with healthcare that exceeds your expectations. If you want women’s healthcare that goes further, reach out to Comprehensive OB/GYN.

Experience the difference in care our team delivers to our patients by scheduling an annual exam with a gynecologist appointment in McKinney, TX.