Seasoned gynecologists understand that women can have very different health needs depending on their age. While older patients may be focused on menopausal symptoms and abnormal uterine bleeding, women of reproductive age are likely to bring other concerns to your office. Knowing what those needs are and how to best address them can improve patient satisfaction and help your practice thrive.
According to a report published in the Journal of Women's Health, 81 percent of gynecologic services will be for patients of reproductive age (between 18 and 44) by 2020. Women of prime fertility age — those in the reproductive stage of life who haven't yet entered menopause — have a number of health concerns. By catering to these needs early on, gynecologists can establish a strong physician-patient bond that lasts throughout a woman's life.
Below are some common gynecologic concerns specific to women of fertility age.
Contraception
Access to birth control is a top concern for many women of during their reproductive years. Providers can prescribe and assess many types of contraception at an annual gynecologic visit, but some forms of birth control require more technical expertise than others. When implanting an IUD, for example, precision is key. Tools such as on-site 3D ultrasound allow physicians to see the entire IUD while keeping exam times short. Ultrasound has also been shown to help improve the detection rate of IUDs that have embedded into the uterine tissue — a significant source of pain and abnormal bleeding in some patients.
Malplaced IUD
Endometriosis
This painful condition occurs in up to 50 percent of premenopausal women, according to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), and is a common cause of heavy periods and fertility problems. Endometriosis can present a significant source of discomfort and distress for women of reproductive age, so managing it well is key to maintaining a strong patient relationship.
Pelvic Pain
The ACOG report also noted that chronic pelvic pain affects up to one-fifth of women under age 50. But because it doesn't always have a clear cause, treatment can be challenging. Offering reassurance and performing imaging tests where appropriate can help patients feel confident that you are an active partner in their health and well-being.
Uterine Fibroids
Uterine fibroids, the most common type of noncancerous tumors in women of reproductive age, can cause problems such as pain, heavy periods and infertility. Because some women have no symptoms of fibroids, routine exams are important to help identify and treat these growths. Imaging tests such as 3D ultrasound can help pinpoint the location of fibroids in patients.
Uterine fibroid
Building Strong Relationships With Patients of Fertility Age
As the reproductive-aged patient population rises, gynecologists have a distinct opportunity to build lasting relationships that can continue well past menopause. By addressing the needs of women of fertility age and expanding your repertoire of on-site clinical tools, you can feel confident making decisions and increase patient satisfaction for years to come.
