Well Woman Exam Specialist

What is a well-woman exam?

A well-woman exam is a regular consultation with your OB/GYN or midwife at Obstetricians & Gynecologists, PC.

The exam is an opportunity for you to undergo various screenings and health checks to detect any early signs of disease so you can get prompt treatment. This preventive medicine approach to your health helps you avoid the pain and suffering of being sick with potentially life-threatening health conditions.

Your well-woman exam is also an important way of building up a good relationship with your provider at Obstetricians & Gynecologists, PC, and discussing any issues or concerns you have relating to your physical and mental health.

What happens at my well-woman exam?

At the start of your well-woman exam, your provider looks through your medical history and asks you about any problems you're currently having. They carry out a physical examination very similar to a regular annual physical but also do a pelvic exam to look at your vulva, vagina, and cervix.

Depending on your needs and history, your provider may do a Pap smear to screen for cervical cancer and HPV (human papillomavirus) infection, a breast exam, STD (sexually transmitted disease) testing, and provide any immunizations you might need.

Your provider at Obstetricians & Gynecologists, PC, can also help you with issues such as:

• Painful, heavy, or irregular periods
• Vaginal dryness
• Family planning (birth control)
• Menopause and perimenopause
• Painful intercourse
• Weight loss
• Urinary incontinence
  
  

Your diet and lifestyle – for example, how much you exercise, whether you smoke or drink excessive amounts of alcohol, and how well you manage stress – also have a significant impact on your health. Your provider can offer advice and information to help you make any necessary changes and give your overall health a welcome boost.

If anything comes up during your well-woman exam that needs further investigation, your provider refers you for the appropriate tests.

How often should I have well-woman exams?

You should start having well-woman exams at 13 to15 years old when puberty is typically well underway. Your first visit to Obstetricians & Gynecologists, PC, might consist mainly of discussing issues like your periods and whether you're sexually active, plus a physical exam.

If you're generally healthy, your provider is likely to recommend returning once a year for your well-woman exam. Should you have any issues like an abnormal Pap smear, you may need to go more often, but your provider can advise you.

Well-woman exams are a simple, effective way of preventing medical problems and keeping you in optimal health. To schedule your well-woman exam, call Obstetricians & Gynecologists, PC, today or book an appointment online.