Demystifying Gynecology Through Technology
Discomfort, embarrassment, fear of finding a problem, and feelings of intrusion are some of the factors that make many women anxious to visit a gynecologist. The mystery and unwarranted discomfort surrounding gynecology-related subjects such as sexually-transmitted diseases make the situation worse. But if recent gynecology technological innovations are anything to go by, things could get simpler. Below are a few examples.
Cervical Cancer Self-Screening
Screening cervical cancer has until now been an uncomfortable procedure requiring sophisticated equipment. High costs also mean most women stay away from this crucial test. But scientists at Duke University have invented a mobile pocket colposcope that can allow anyone anywhere to test for cervical cancer. Medical personnel, midwives or the women themselves will attach the device, which is just a little wider than a tampon, to a laptop or smartphone and can view images of the cervix. If the invention is successful, cervical cancer self-screening will be a reality, and the procedure will be less mysterious for more women.
Bluetooth Pregnancy Tests
Millennial women are increasingly turning to their smartphones for answers to gynecology-related issues such as conception. And US-based Company just launched a Bluetooth pregnancy testing kit, a urine testing stick that one syncs with their smartphone. After a three minutes wait, the user can view their results on their phone. The product also comes with an app access which instantly gives women all the information they need during their pregnancy journey on the one device that is most with them: the phone. The innovation, among other pregnancy-related apps, makes accessing information easy. It also makes the journey less mysterious compared to days when women had to rely on their gynecologists for every bit of information in their conception, pregnancy and birthing journey.
Premature Birth Risk App
Any pregnant woman will appreciate less complex gynecological procedures and tests to determine if everything is okay. And researchers at Kings College are working towards that. They're working on making an app that can detect the risk of a premature birth for second-time mothers. A satisfactory clinical evaluation and launch will further make pregnancy-related gynecological procedures less complicated and scary for women.
Whether it is a breast examination, Pap smear or talking about your sex life, seeing a gynecologist is a terrifying affair for most women. Scientists are, however, working day and night to invent less invasive, friendlier gynecology kits, methods, and approaches, which will help demystify what gynecology really entails.
Also, talking to your gynecologist, someone like George L Stankevych, MD, can help make you more comfortable during your visits.