Question 1

What is a gynecologist?

Accepted Answer

Gynecologists are doctors who specialize in women’s health and the female reproductive system, which includes the vagina, uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. Most gynecologists are also doctors of obstetrics (practices associated with childbirth, pregnancy, and postpartum care), which is why gynecologists are often called OB/GYNs. Gynecologists can treat issues related to menstruation, fertility, STIs, menopause, and hormones.

Question 2

What is the difference between an obstetrician and a gynecologist?

Accepted Answer

Obstetricians and gynecologists are very similar - but there are some differences between the two. ## Obstetrics: Obstetrics deals specifically with all aspects of pregnancy, including prenatal and postnatal care. Obstetricians are responsible for delivering babies and treating pregnancy-related issues, such as fetal distress and ectopic pregnancies (the fetus grows outside of the uterus). Obstetricians, along with endocrinologists, can also provide therapy to help with fertility and pregnancy issues. ## Gynecology: Gynecologists specialize in the female reproductive system and treat a broad array of women's health conditions. Gynecologists help women with reproductive issues from their first period through menopause. Gynecologists will also perform a number of regular tests and exams, such as:
- Pap smear (to screen for cervical cancer)
- Breast exams (screening for breast cancer)
- Pelvic exams (screening for ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, STIs, and cancer)

Gynecologists can also be consulted for:
- Contraceptive/ birth control counseling
- Endometriosis treatment
- Abnormal/ irregular menstruation
- Polyps in the reproductive system (usually in the cervix or vagina)
- Infection (such as UTIs or STIs)

Most doctors will undergo training to specialize in both obstetrics and gynecology. This allows the provider to offer more complete and comprehensive care to patients. Providers who specialize in both obstetrics and gynecology are known as OB/GYNs.

Question 3

When should I see an OB/GYN?

Accepted Answer

Gynecological visits can help address concerns you may have about your reproductive system. Some conditions or concerns an OB/GYN can help with are:
- Questions or concerns about the female reproductive system, including breasts, uterus, vulva, ovaries, and urological symptoms.
- Issues or concerns regarding fertility, pregnancy, menstrual health, and contraception.
- Issues regarding incontinence.
- Questions about sexual health, libido, and sexually transmitted diseases.
- Concerns about urinary tract infections (UTIs), and yeast infections.

Connect with a real, licensed gynecologist near you to get your questions answered and conditions addressed - all for one affordable, cash price. Sesame works directly with doctors - not insurance companies - to get you the care you need without surprise bills or confusing copays.

Question 4

What questions should I ask an OB/GYN?

Accepted Answer

Seeing an obstetrician-gynecologist (OB/GYN) is your opportunity to get any questions or concerns you have about your reproductive health answered and addressed. If you have any health concerns, or just want more information, it's a good idea to go to your appointment with a list of questions you may want to ask. Specific questions may vary depending on your age, sexual activity, and health history. Some common questions are:
- Do I need any vaccinations?
- Am I at high risk for any developing cancers or infections?
- How do I reduce the risk of breast cancer or cervical cancer?
- How often should I get cancer screenings and breast exams?
- How heavy should my menstrual flow be?
- What should I expect while going through menopause?
- What type of contraception is best for me?
- How often should I get tested for an STI?

Some women feel more comfortable seeing a female gynecologist. When you book a visit on Sesame, you get to pick the doctor you want to see - not the one your insurance company makes you see.

Question 5

What services can OB/GYNs provide?

Accepted Answer

OB/GYNs have special training to be able to diagnose and treat conditions related to women's health and the female reproductive system. Visits to an OB/GYN clinic play a key role in maintaining your health and wellness and in staying one step ahead of chronic conditions. Some common health services provided by an OB/GYN include:
- Pap smears
- Pelvic exams
- Breast exams/ breast cancer screening
- STI tests
- Ultrasounds
- Fertility/ Contraceptive counseling

If you are dealing with a health concern or medical condition, an OB/GYN has the training to perform a number of surgeries and procedures such as:
- Removal of cysts on ovaries (ovarian cysts)
- Uterine fibroid removal
- Cesarean sections
- Hysterectomy
- Reconstructive surgery
- Endometriosis therapy

Depending on your health history or health concerns, an OB/GYN may provide a referral for a specialist such as an endocrinologist or a doctor of urogynecology. Save up to 60% when you book your OB/GYN visit through Sesame.

Question 6

What are pelvic exams and pap smears?

Accepted Answer

Gynecologists use pelvic exams and pap smears to examine your genitals and reproductive system for abnormalities and screen for cancers, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and cysts. The ACOG recommends that women begin getting pelvic exams and pap tests at age of 21. Pelvic exams generally include: - A visual examination of the vulva
- An examination of the vagina and cervix using a speculum, an instrument that holds open the walls of the vagina to allow the gynecologist to visually examine the cervix
- An internal exam to check for abnormalities, as well as the size and position of the uterus and ovaries

The pap test consists of: - Collection of cells from the cervix taken with a small brush

Pap tests are used to screen for cervical cancer and are usually conducted at the same time as a pelvic exam. The ACOG recommends that women receive pap tests every 3 years starting at the age of 21. Sesame offers convenient and affordable visits with quality doctors so you can get the care you need without any surprise bills or hidden fees. Just real, quality care at upfront prices. Book a visit today.

Question 7

What questions should I ask an OB/GYN?

Accepted Answer

Seeing an obstetrician-gynecologist (OB/GYN) is your opportunity to get any questions or concerns you have about your reproductive health answered and addressed. If you have any health concerns, or just want more information, it's a good idea to go to your appointment with a list of questions you may want to ask. Specific questions may vary depending on your age, sexual activity, and health history. Some common questions are:
- Do I need any vaccinations?
- Am I at high risk for any developing cancers or infections?
- How do I reduce the risk of breast cancer or cervical cancer?
- How often should I get cancer screenings and breast exams?
- How heavy should my menstrual flow be?
- What should I expect while going through menopause?
- What type of contraception is best for me?
- How often should I get tested for an STI?

Some women feel more comfortable seeing a female gynecologist. When you book a visit on Sesame, you get to pick the doctor you want to see - not the one your insurance company makes you see.

Question 8

Can an OB/GYN perform a hysterectomy?

Accepted Answer

It depends. Some gynecologists are trained to perform hysterectomies, surgeries that remove the uterus. Gynecological oncologists also perform these procedures. Your gynecologist may recommend a hysterectomy to treat:
- Endometriosis (abnormal tissue cells growing outside the uterus, causing menstrual and pelvic pain)
- Cancers of the reproductive organs (cervical cancer, endometrial cancer, and ovarian cancer)
- Fibroids (tumors in the uterus)
- Uterine prolapse (when the uterus drops or slides into the vagina)

If you are experiencing any of these conditions or have any questions about whether or not you may need a hysterectomy, book a visit with a real, licensed gynecologist on Sesame. Our providers can help you decide what treatment is right for you for a simple, upfront price.

Question 9

At what age should a woman start seeing an OB/GYN?

Accepted Answer

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that women first see an OB/GYN between the ages of 13-15. Many issues and concerns before the age of 13 can be handled by a primary care physician. A patient's first OB/GYN visit will often cover development. There may be personal questions about puberty, menstrual periods, and sexual activity. Most girls will not need a pap smear or pelvic exam on their first visit unless they are experiencing abnormal pain or bleeding. Often, the OB/GYN conducts a general health exam and an external genital exam. __A general health exam includes:__
- Measurement of height
- Measurement of weight
- Blood pressure check

__An external genital exam includes:__
- An examination of the vulva

The external genital exam can help girls learn about pregnancy prevention, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and understand more generally the anatomy of the female reproductive system. Save up to 60% on your next OB/GYN visit when you book through Sesame.

Question 10

How much does an OB/GYN visit cost?

Accepted Answer

An OB/GYN appointment can often cost up to $300 with insurance.

Save 60% on your next OB/GYN appointment when you book with Sesame. On Sesame, you can connect directly with real, qualified gynecologists in Grand Rapids, MI who can treat a wide range of women's health conditions for one affordable, upfront price. No copays. No surprise bills. Just the care you need.

Question 11

Can OB/GYNs help with fertility issues?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Reproductive endocrinologists (REs) are OB/GYNs who specialize in diagnosing and treating issues related to infertility, pregnancy issues, and hormone functions. Women or couples see REs for a number of reasons, including:
- Inability to conceive after a full year of trying
- Medical history of infertility or pregnancy loss
- Irregular or absent menstrual cycles
- Attempting to conceive when a woman is over the age of 35
- Medical history of reproductive conditions like endometriosis, fibroids, or gynecological cancer
- Trying to conceive with a medical history of sexually transmitted infections such as HIV/AIDS, and human papillomavirus (HPV); or complications from STDs like pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

REs may conduct additional tests to assess reproductive health, including:
- Cervical mucus exams
- Hormone testing, including luteinizing hormone (LH tests)
- Blood tests to screen for human papillomavirus (HPV), hepatitis, and HIV/ AIDS
- Uterine and fallopian tube X-rays

In some cases, reproductive endocrinologists can help with assisted reproductive techniques like in vitro fertilization and reproductive counseling. Connect with a doctor on Sesame today to learn which options are right for you. {{numberOfResults}} real, qualified gynecologists are available for consults in Grand Rapids, MI today.

Question 12

How do I find an OB/GYN near me?

Accepted Answer

Right here! Sesame offers convenient, affordable OB/GYN visits in cities across the country! Simply type "gynecologist" or "OB/GYN" in our search bar to find a real, quality women's health care provider near you. From infections to discomfort, doctors on Sesame can help diagnose and treat gynecological conditions for women of all ages.

Have questions or concerns about your reproductive health? Book a consult on Sesame with a licensed OB/GYN to discuss any health concerns you may have.

Save 60% on your next OB/GYN visit when you book with Sesame.

Question 13

Can I see an OB/GYN over video?

Accepted Answer

Yep! Doctors on Sesame can diagnose, treat, manage, and screen for a variety of questions and conditions related to women's health. Common things addressed over video with patients include contraceptives and birth control, menopause, questions regarding prenatal conditions or pregnancy, urinary incontinence, UTIs and other vaginal infections, and more. While some services generally cannot be performed over video, like cancer screenings, Sesame offers in-person visits in select cities for any conditions you may not be able to address over video.

Question 14

When should I see an OB/GYN over video?

Accepted Answer

Video appointments offer you a convenient, affordable way to get care without leaving the house. Video OB/GYN consults can help address several questions and concerns about women’s health, and the health of the female reproductive system, including:
- Questions or concerns about the female reproductive system, including breasts, uterus, vulva, ovaries, and urological symptoms.
- Issues or concerns regarding fertility, pregnancy, menstrual health, and contraception.
- Issues regarding urinary incontinence.
- Questions about sexual health, libido, and sexually transmitted diseases.
- Concerns about urinary tract infections (UTIs), and yeast infections.

Note that in some cases, your doctor may recommend in-person follow-up care, if appropriate.

Question 15

How can I get birth control?

Accepted Answer

Birth control describes a wide range of contraceptive methods used to prevent unplanned pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs/ STDs). When someone says "birth control", they often mean hormonal birth control pills, but it's helpful to know that this term describes a larger set of options. Some other types of birth control methods include:
- Condoms
- Vaginal rings (like NuvaRing)
- IUDs (intrauterine devices such as Paragard)
- Birth control shot (Depo-Provera)

Not sure which birth control option is right for you? Good news! Sesame offers convenient reproductive health services including:
- Birth control consultations
- Birth control prescriptions
- Women's health services
- IUD removal
- Specialist referrals

Birth control subscriptions are commonly available through primary care providers or women's health centers (like OB/GYN clinics). Don't let your insurance plan tell you which doctor you have to see. Pick a provider you want to see and book your appointment on your schedule. It's that simple. Health care providers on Sesame offer both in-person and telehealth family planning services at clear and affordable prices. Whether you need a new prescription or a refill of an existing prescription, you can save up to 60% when you book birth control services through Sesame- no health insurance needed.

Question 16

Can I get a birth control prescription on Sesame?

Accepted Answer

Sesame believes all women deserve access to birth control. Doctors on Sesame can speak to you about what birth control is right for you. Services offered by providers on Sesame include birth control prescription consults, IUD insertions, IUD removal procedures, and more with top-rated doctors treating patients in Grand Rapids, MI. Not all birth control is the same - and doctors on Sesame can help you find the option that works best for you.

Question 17

Can I get a birth control prescription without an exam?

Accepted Answer

Depending on the state you live in, you may be able to get a prescription for birth control directly from a pharmacist. Call your local pharmacy to check if your state allows for access to birth control without a prescription from a health care provider.

If you do live in a state that allows pharmacists to prescribe birth control, you will be screened via a questionnaire and be asked to take a blood pressure test to make sure that you do not have any health conditions that might make taking birth control dangerous. High blood pressure, medical history of cancer, or poor cardiovascular health are all risk factors that make birth control potentially dangerous.

Question 18

Can I get a prescription for birth control online?

Accepted Answer

Yep! With convenient and affordable in-person and video birth control consultations, Sesame makes it easier than ever to speak to a doctor about birth control options from the comfort of your home. Get in touch with a primary care or women's health care provider on Sesame to discuss your medical history and lifestyle factors that will help determine what type of birth control is right for you. Doctors on Sesame can write prescriptions for new patients, or refill birth control prescriptions for those with existing prescriptions.

Save up to 60% on family planning services in Grand Rapids, MI when you book through Sesame and get quality care at your convenience- no insurance needed.

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