At Puls.bg we are starting a new series “Women’s Health with Prof. Dr. Ivan Kostov”. In a week with us you can find his advice on various topics related to the health of a woman’s reproductive organs, answers to frequently worrisome questions related to specific conditions and diseases in her, surgical interventions and research in gynecology. Expect his thematic highlights on the period of pregnancy, as well as in the field of midwifery in general. For those of you who do not know Prof. Dr. Kostov, we can briefly introduce in the following lines… Prof. Dr. Ivan Kostov completed his higher medical education at MU-Sofia in 1997. He specializes in obstetrics and gynecology in UAGB “Machin Dom”. In 2014, he became an associate professor of obstetrics and gynecology. He has extensive postgraduate qualifications in: ultrasound in obstetrics and gynecology, colposcopy, gynecological endocrinology, operative gynecology, pediatric-adolescent gynecology, laparoscopy in gynecology, robotic surgery in gynecology using the Da Vinci robot, as well as numerous specializations. He specializes in gynecological surgery in Germany, operative obstetrics in Israel, laparoscopy in gynecology in Germany and France, endoscopic surgery in France, urological gynecology in Slovenia, robotic surgery in gynecology in Italy and Turkey. His career began at “Mother’s Home” as a specialist in obstetrics and gynecology and the surgical gynecology clinic of “Pirogov” already as a specialist doctor. In 2006 – 2008, he became the head of the department in the general and oncological gynecology clinic at the Academy of Medical Sciences. In 2008, he was appointed executive director of the Second General Hospital “Sheynovo”. He held the position until 2010, after which he became the chairman of the board of directors of the same hospital for the period 2011-2012. He is the executive director of the First General Hospital “St. Sofia” from 2012 until now. From 2014 to the present, he is a member of the expert council at the State Fund for Assisted Reproduction at the Ministry of Health. You can find more about it using the active link attached below the title. *** *** *** A visit to the gynecologist is often postponed or completely avoided by a surprising number of women. I hope you are not one of them, because an examination helps to detect many problems early and treat them. Here are a few main reasons why it is imperative to see a specialist. 1. Irregular Menstruation A woman’s menstrual cycle is a major indicator of her reproductive health. If your menstrual cycle has become irregular, and even more so, if it has stopped, it is directly related to a health problem. If neglected, you may face even more serious reproductive problems over time. It is important to visit your gynecologist immediately in such a situation. 2. Abnormal vaginal discharge You should know that vaginal discharge is a natural phenomenon that every woman faces. This flow is considered normal,when white or pale odorless. However, if you notice that it has a greenish or yellowish color with a bad smell, you should see your gynecologist immediately because it could be a sign of a vaginal infection. NEWS_MORE_BOX 3. Contraceptives When a woman is sexually active, she should visit her gynecologist and discuss birth control methods with him, unless she is aiming for conception. Barrier methods are not only a way to protect yourself from unwanted pregnancy, but they are also a good way to protect yourself from sexually transmitted diseases. If you are not comfortable with synthetic forms of birth control (pills) there are many hormone-free options. But it is best to discuss this with your personal gynecologist and find the best solution for you. 4. Breast examination Every woman is at risk of developing breast cancer, as there are no specific reasons for the development of this condition. Early detection and treatment is the best way to beat it. Regular visits to a mammologist will ensure that the breasts are examined for lumps and other abnormal growths that could also be dangerous. 5. Pap smear Pap smear is important to make sure your reproductive organs are healthy. Ideally, every woman over the age of 21 should have one pap smear a year, as a preventative measure for cancer and other conditions. So, if you’re 21 or older and haven’t seen a gynecologist in a year, pick up the phone and make an appointment today. It is important for your health. While a Pap smear in most cases isn’t vital after age 30, women should still get an annual exam to watch for other changes or infections. You should also see a gynecologist if: You have unusual or constant vaginal discharge; You have bleeding between periods; You have bleeding after intercourse.that your reproductive organs are healthy. Ideally, every woman over the age of 21 should have one pap smear a year, as a preventative measure for cancer and other conditions. So, if you’re 21 or older and haven’t seen a gynecologist in a year, pick up the phone and make an appointment today. It is important for your health. While a Pap smear in most cases isn’t vital after age 30, women should still get an annual exam to watch for other changes or infections. You should also see a gynecologist if: You have unusual or constant vaginal discharge; You have bleeding between periods; You have bleeding after intercourse.that your reproductive organs are healthy. Ideally, every woman over the age of 21 should have one pap smear a year, as a preventative measure for cancer and other conditions. So, if you’re 21 or older and haven’t seen a gynecologist in a year, pick up the phone and make an appointment today. It is important for your health. While a Pap smear in most cases isn’t vital after age 30, women should still get an annual exam to watch for other changes or infections. You should also see a gynecologist if: You have unusual or constant vaginal discharge; You have bleeding between periods; You have bleeding after intercourse.