This is when a woman should call her doctor

As the pandemic continues, the health risks of putting off medical care continue to pile up. This is especially true for women, who need to speak up when you’re not feeling quite right.

The bottom line: If something about your body is different or unusual, it’s time to call the doctor.

If you have an annual exam that was put off because of the pandemic, and now you’re having new or different symptoms (like irregular bleeding or abdominal bloating), then it is time to call and be seen for an exam.

It’s always better to talk to your primary care physician or OB-GYN than to be concerned about your symptoms.  Your physician can answer your questions and help figure out an action plan.

Truly, any irregular bleeding at all should be evaluated, whether you are finished having periods or not. I think a lot of women don’t know that it is not “normal” to stop having periods and then have some spotting or bleeding.  It is also not “normal” to have bleeding after intercourse or irregular periods when your periods have always been consistent.

If you had a mammogram or other screening scheduled that was put off because of COVID-19, now is a good time to have the test rescheduled. Experts suggest we could see even higher numbers of COVID19 cases in the fall, so it doesn’t make sense to wait. Your doctor can tell you what screenings are right for you.

You shouldn’t let COVID-19 keep you from seeking the health care you need, especially in an emergency.  Advocate Aurora Health has made a Safe Care Promise to take additional steps to keep you safe. You can read more here. It includes virtual check-ins to limit your exposure to others, screenings outside the office, masking requirements, social distancing, enhanced cleaning and more.

Dr. Elizabeth Dickson is a double board certified Gynecologic Oncologist based at Advocate Aurora West Allis Medical Center.  She focuses on the overall health of women with cancer, not just during their cancer journey, but globally.