ACOG revamps women's health recommendations

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) has updated its guidelines for annual ob-gyn checkups. According to the new suggestions, all females who are over the age of 13 should visit their gynecologist at least once annually, regardless of whether or not they require a Pap test.

"There's this misconception that if you don't need a Pap then you can skip the ob-gyn visit altogether," said Dr. Hal C. Lawrence, III, Vice President for Practice Activities at ACOG.

Members of the college also recommend that all sexually active women receive annual testing for gonorrhea and chlamydia until they reach the age of 25, along with regular HIV screenings for those who are between the ages of 19 and 64.

Some sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) may have serious health consequences for women.

Advanced chlamydia infections can cause irreversible damage to a woman's reproductive organs, which may result in infertility, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Furthermore, the organization notes that women who have gonorrhea may develop pelvic inflammatory disease. Pregnant women can also spread the STD to their babies, who may subsequently suffer from blindness or blood infection.

Online testing services are available to anyone who would like to be screened for STDs.