9 things to expect from your well-woman exam

Have you ever wondered what exactly happens at a “well-woman exam”? While every patient’s annual visit will vary slightly, you can expect at least some of the same procedures and discussions to take place, says a Piedmont obstetrician and gynecologist. 

Here are nine things you can expect at your next well-woman exam: 

1. Overall wellness checkup

Your healthcare team will ask about your family history, check your vital signs, and perform other medical screenings. Although well-woman exams are important, women still need regular physical exams from their primary care doctor because not every gynecologist will do the same tests.

2. Pelvic exam

Many patients are confused about what a pelvic exam entails. But there are many reasons to have one, and they have nothing to do with pap smears, which check for abnormal cells in the cervix. 

A physician can do a pelvic exam to check for signs of illness of the:

• Vulva

• Cervix

• Uterus

• Ovaries

• Fallopian tubes

• Bladder

• Rectum

3. Pap smear

Recent guidelines recommend women have their first pap smear at age 21. After that, they should get one every three years, but this interval depends on each woman’s unique risk factors.

4. Contraception and family planning

A well-woman exam is a good opportunity to talk to your physician about your birth control needs or plans to become pregnant. They can recommend prenatal vitamins and address concerns you may have.

5. Hormone changes

No matter what age women are, it's recommended they share any issues that may be related to hormones. That includes emotional and psychological concerns for women of all ages.

Patients who face hormonal changes, he adds, do not necessarily need supplementary hormones. 

6. Tests for sexually transmitted infections

You should be tested for sexually transmitted infections if you are sexually active and you and your partner are not monogamous. Regular testing for HIV is particularly important for everyone. 

7. Breast health

Your doctor will perform a clinical breast exam during your appointment to check for lumps or changes in your breasts. If you are over the age of 40, they will talk to you about scheduling a mammogram.

8. Cancer screenings

There are certain cancers your gynecologist can screen for, such as cervical cancer and breast cancer. They can also recommend a colon cancer screening for appropriate patients, as well as vaccinations like the HPV vaccine to prevent cervical cancer.

9. Q&A with your physician

These exams may be uncomfortable and inconvenient. But they help prevent far more serious complications later. 

It's recommended that patients be vocal during appointments and address any concerns they have, even if they seem minor. 

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