A few years ago, people only visited their reproductive health doctors when something was wrong. However, things have changed, and more people understand the benefits of regular reproductive health checkups. Most people are now empowered and willing to take control of their health. The following are a few reasons why you should schedule regular checkups.
- Reproduction Planning
While some people want few or no children, others may be interested in large families. Regular reproductive health checkups are essential regardless of your interests. Your doctor may suggest the best birth control options for you and help you plan for pregnancy. They may suggest ways to improve both men’s and women’s fertility. When necessary, they may recommend supplements or lifestyle changes. Your regular reproductive health checkups give your doctor the chance to understand your needs and help you prepare for the future.
- Fertility Testing
During your fertility test, the doctor will assess specific hormones in your body. They will test the quality and quantity of eggs in your ovaries as well. Some of the most important hormones that they may check include estradiol (E2), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH). Male fertility tests include hormone blood testing, semen, analysis, and a physical exam. The doctor will test for general health and sperm quality. If you have fertility problems, consider getting online STD testing. STDs like syphilis, gonorrhea, and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) may affect your fertility.
Fertility testing may not be the most exciting thing, but it gives you more control over your fertility journey. It is critical if you are 35 or younger and have been trying to conceive for 12months. You also need it if you are over 35 and have had trouble conceiving for six months. Your doctor will identify the cause of the problem and administer the appropriate treatment.
- Preventative Care
One of the primary purposes of regular reproductive health checkups is preventing certain diseases. Your doctor will assess your health and use it as a basis to prevent diseases in the future. During your visit, they may perform a physical exam and pelvic exam. If there are any abnormalities, they can treat them before they get out of hand. They will make recommendations based on your age, medical history, and personal needs.
- Lifestyle Counseling
During your regular checkups, your reproductive doctor may offer lifestyle advice to improve your reproductive health. Specific recommendations may include:
- Moderate exercise to lower the risk of infertility
- Increasing your intake of full-fat dairy to promote healthy ovulation
- Eating green leafy vegetable to improve sperm health
- Quit smoking to improve your fertility
- Avoid lubricants that may contain spermicide
- Get sufficient sleep to maintain healthy testosterone levels in men
- Avoid wearing tight-fitting underwear for men
In conclusion, a reproductive health test helps you know what to expect in the future. It gives you control and may be great for preventative care. Reproductive health is often ignored, and unfortunately, it may take its toll on your general health. Taking care of your health involves more than exercise and a healthy diet. Get reproductive health checkups to keep your body in its best shape.