Naturopathic doctors are trained in the same physical examination skills and laboratory testing as are conventionally trained physicians. Thus, the gynecological exam itself would not differ from one you would receive from an allopathic doctor. There are, however, some aspects of naturopathic gynecological care that are unique, and lead many women to choose a naturopathic doctor for their gynecological care.
As in other aspects of naturopathic primary care, the naturopathic doctor will choose natural therapeutics as opposed to drugs and surgery whenever possible. Naturopathic doctors have a broad spectrum of homeopathic, botanical and nutritional medicines to draw from when dealing with gynecological concerns. This, vaginitis, PMS, menstrual cramps, abnormal pap smears, endometriosis, ovarian cysts, and many other complaints can be approached without medications.
Often, healthy processes of women such as menstruation, pregnancy and menopause are approached by doctors as disease states in need of treatment. Naturopathic doctors recognize that these are normal aspects of woman-hood, and strive to bring into balance only what is out of balance or of concern to an individual woman. There are also naturopathic doctors who specialize in home births, avoiding intervention whenever possible.
One area of interest deserving special mention is that of hormonal replacement therapy. Many peri-menopausal women are seeking alternatives to synthetic HRT. Naturopathic doctors have a variety of options for women seeking to control their menopausal symptoms and/or prevent osteoporosis and heart disease without synthetic hormones.
Lastly, sharing information is an important part of naturopathic gynecological care. It is very important that women feel well informed about their bodies and concerns so that they can make good health care choices. Naturopathic doctors strive to share information with women so that they can take more control over their bodies and their lives.