Dr. John Monk, a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist at Franciscan Physician Network Crown Point Health Center, emphasizes the importance of maintaining a consistent relationship with an OBGYN throughout a woman’s life. “Whether it’s menstrual cycle issues, vaginal problems or breast health issues, there’s a whole spectrum of women’s health problems that are sometimes difficult to talk about or that drastically affect people’s daily lives,” Dr. Monk explains. “It’s very important, not only during pregnancy, to get regular obstetric care, but seeing a gynecologist once a year for well-woman breast and pelvic examinations is really important.”
The Trust Factor: A Continuum of Care
One of the most reassuring aspects of this journey is having continuity of care by staying with the same healthcare provider. This ongoing relationship builds trust, creating a safe space to discuss sensitive topics. For example, a woman who continues regular check-ups after childbirth may benefit from early detection of potential issues like thyroid problems, hormonal imbalances or even pre-cancerous conditions.
Dr. Monk highlights this aspect: “Women’s health issues are a sensitive topic and can be emotionally challenging. Fostering privacy, trust and safety in a clinical environment to express sometimes sensitive topics are really important.”
OGBYNs: Not Just for Pregnancy
While obstetric care is vital, an OBGYN’s expertise extends far beyond pregnancy and childbirth. Women often find themselves returning to their OBGYN for help with irregular menstrual cycles, fertility planning or managing symptoms like pelvic pain. In middle age, issues such as breast irregularities, cardiovascular risk and colon cancer screening often become more relevant.
“Having established care throughout a woman’s health span in general is important, not just when they’re young and having children,” Dr. Monk says. “Things tend to change in women’s 30s, 40s and 50s, with issues like menstrual health, breast cancer, cardiovascular risk and lab evaluations.”
Routine Gynecologic Care: A Lifelong Necessity
Routine gynecologic care is essential, starting as early as the teenage years. For instance, a young woman experiencing irregular periods or painful cycles can benefit greatly from early intervention. As women age, annual check-ups continue to play a vital role in identifying changes and addressing concerns like pelvic pain or abnormal bleeding.
“The recommendation for pelvic examinations, Pap smears and cervical cancer screening starts at 21 years of age,” Dr. Monk explains. “Seeing an OBGYN every year in a woman’s life is important. Most insurance coverages cover yearly women’s health examinations.”
Addressing Changing Health Needs: Problem-Based Gynecology
Women’s health concerns evolve over time, and proactive care ensures these needs are met. For example, in their 20s and 30s, women often seek help with family planning, menstrual health and managing infections. In their 40s and 50s, the focus may shift to managing perimenopausal symptoms, addressing heavy menstrual bleeding or seeking treatment for urinary incontinence.
“Menopausal issues, perimenopausal symptoms and postmenopausal concerns, such as urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse, also arise due to declining estrogen levels,” Dr. Monk explains. He emphasizes that even throughout all these life stages, “breast health remains a critical concern, with routine mammogram screenings and breast examinations being essential.”
Menopause Management: Navigating the Transition
Menopause brings unique challenges, and the symptoms vary widely from woman to woman. Some women may experience manageable hot flashes that resolve on their own, while others find symptoms like sleep disturbances or mood changes significantly affect their quality of life. Many treatment options, from lifestyle changes to prescription medications, can help.
“About 50% of women have significant, debilitating menopause symptoms that don’t resolve over time,” Dr. Monk notes. “There’s a wide range of treatments available to help women through this transition.”
Wellness Exams: Prioritizing Self-Care
In the hustle of daily life, it is easy to find yourself putting your personal health at the bottom of your priority list. However, wellness exams are a simple yet essential way to ensure long-term well-being. Routine visits often lead to early detection of issues, whether it’s a breast lump, signs of osteoporosis or cardiovascular risk factors.
Dr. Monk reminds women, “In general, mothers and women tend to be the center and the rocks of a lot of families. And women tend to forget about self-care and preventative healthcare. I think it’s important that we remember to make ourselves a priority in our lives.”
A Faithful Approach to Health
For women of faith, maintaining health is not just a physical necessity but also a spiritual responsibility. Our bodies are temples, and caring for them is an act of stewardship. Regular OBGYN visits, embracing the continuum of care and staying informed about health changes are all ways to honor the bodies God has given us.
By prioritizing their health, women can flourish as the heart of their families and communities—living with purpose, guided by faith and strengthened by the confidence that comes from being informed and empowered.
