Many people think of their doctor’s visits as terrifying, awkward, highly unwanted. Sometimes, they can be even embarrassing occasions, though everyone knows that they are also vital.

Commonly, personal impressions (usually, the negative ones) weigh over all possible benefits of check-ups. Often, when it comes to attending their gynaecologists, many women prefer just to skip those meetings.

The process of making this decision leaves typically many with an important question to consider – is unwillingness worth the risk?

Unsurprisingly, the answer is ‘No’ – it’s not worth the risk. But to independently come to that conclusion, many factors have to be taken into account. The good one to start with would be questioning why check-ups are so essential?  

We’ve all previously heard of STIs.

The number of newly diagnosed sexually transmitted infections (STIs) has stabilized over the last 2 years. Still, trends such as an increase in antimicrobial-resistant infections are concerning.

In 2017 there were approximately 420,000 new diagnoses (STIs) in England, with the same number reported in 2016. But that’s enough of the statistics…

Nowadays, since most teens are sexually active from a relatively young age (sometimes, even earlier than 16), diagnosis of STIs are also more common in younger people. Parents should prioritize encouraging their daughters and sons to develop a habit of scheduling and attending regular check-ups.

The undeniable necessity for check-ups outlines itself right there – one doctor’s visit can quickly uncover and prevent the development of STIs.  They can also find potential problems and eradicate them before they make themselves known.

Moreover, check-ups are essential for general hygiene. Treatment at sexual health clinics is free and confidential. Women feel safer, more confident, and encouraged to take up the opportunity to ensure their wellbeing.

The next central question is, what can women expect from their check-up, especially if they’ve never been to a sexual health clinic before?

Many women may be relieved to find out that all tests and treatments offered by NHS health clinics are free of charge. Skip the bills, choices of payment methods, and marginal costs – everything is much simpler and more straight-forward than that!

Most clinics work on a walk-in basis – even more good news! Skip the slot-booking and explaining concerns over the phone – that can be very daunting, and many women will find it so, which is why everything is much more thought-through!

Just walk-in instead – a check-up is just about the right occasion when you can show up unannounced, without it being considered bad manners!

Unfortunately, it’s common that such clinics require a lengthy wait, but at least, that’s a non-appointment approach!

Personally, I found it quite comforting discovering that clinics wouldn’t request your real name. Normally, they ask for an address, but of course, that would remain strictly confidential.

Some test results will be available immediately, but sometimes they’d ask to come back or state the preferred ways of results’ receipt – how convenient is that!

Finally, women usually get given a few leaflets with information about safe sex and sexual health protection (their own, as well as their partner’s).

Though their contents might seem obvious, it’s worth going over them, especially since it doesn’t take much time to read through them, but their usefulness is unquestionable!

Finally, remember, it’s recommended that women have a checkup at least once a year, but of course, that’s not the limit! There’s no need to be shy about it – women should feel safe and positive talking about female sexual health!

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Written by Lisa Levytska

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