OB/GYN, not PCP, for annual exam?

LGar

The question below about OB/GYNs got me thinking. We aren't planning for kids yet but might start trying in the next year or two, but my question isn't really about pregnancy. 

I've always just had my annual gyno exam done by my PCP. I actually don't like my pcp anymore so was thinking of switching anyway, but I'm wondering-  do most women go to an ob/gyn each year, or have their pcp do it like I do? What do/did you do before ever getting pregnant, and what do you do now if you're now a mom? Thoughts?

nrkloveswrk

I've always gone to an OB/GYN for my annual....I figure they are the "experts" on that area....

ChefSarah22

I've always gone to my OB-GYN for annuals. ?PCPs are kind of useless in my opinion. ?I almost always go to specialists.

Victoria808

I went to my pcp till the last couple years. I got an appt with the obgyn that i wanted for pregnancy about 6 mos before pg- figuring, I'd have my foot in if they weren't accepting patients when I got pg. I'm not a fan of my pcp... anyone like theirs?

mrs.magoo

I used to just go to my PCP as well, because my firs OB/GYN's practice dissolved and mr Dr. decided to stay home with her kids...so I just started going to my PCP....before getting pregnant, I just continued to go to my PCP....now I'll probably go to my OB/GYN once a year for that exam...

carryl

i used to go to pcp, but switched doctors when starting ttc so went to ob/gyn and will have annual with her from now on.

cnj050607

I absolutely LOVE my PCP, but that being said, i go to an OB for my annual. 

NYCNHEmily

I might be a little late to this discussion, but I never even thought you could go to a PCP for your annual gyn appt.  And I won't think even think about. 

Ob-gyn are very specialized & go through a ton of training because it's complicated down there.  Also, there are so many female cancers & concerns, that I would wonder if a PCP would be in tune with everything. 

My mom had breast cancer in her 30s, & prior to her official diagnosis, she felt that many doctors didn't check her as thoroughly as they should have--they were thinking "Cancer happens to old people; you're 35, you're healthy, you have nothing to worry about." 

So my mom has me very indoctrinated that you go to a doctor who takes things seriously (no matter your age or health)  & one who specializes.   

JustCallMeMrs.P

I have always gone to an OB/GYN for my annual exams. Never even thought about going to my PCP

MrsA2Be

I've always gone to my PCP, but from now on will go to my OB/GYN.  I always worried about having to get a referral, but you actually (for most plans) don't need a referral for an annual.

I agree with those who said to go to the person who specializes.

This isn't GYN related, but it's a good example.  I went to my PCP for a rash that started on 9/4.  First, they thought it was poison ivy, then a reaction to an antibiotic I had started taking on 9/1, then a week later when it was still there, a milk allergy.  Finally, I put my foot down and went to see a dermatologist (they had to do a referral, but it was worth it).  Upon first glance, the dermatologist looked at the rash and said, "I think you have lupus."  And lo and behold - I do.  But, she's USED to seeing things like that - how often does a PCP?  (That's my long-winded point...) 

1A

ob/gyn. I have actually been with my ob longer then my pcp.

LGar

Thanks for all the great responses! I'm going to find a good OB for my next visit (not due for one til the winter/spring- not that you all cared to know that, lol). I'm sure I'll ask for advice on who to go to then- Thanks again!

It was something I just never really thought about before. I started getting that exam during college with campus health services. It's not something I've ever talked to my mom about either actually so I guess I thought having the pcp do it was good enough. But a specialist sounds better to me!

naflmj

I have gone to my OB/GYN for my exams because I feel like that is their specialty and if/when you do decide its time, you will be comfortablke with the person.