Women’s health can seem complicated at times—and it certainly is a complex corner of the medical field. But our team at Women’s Health Specialists is here to help you stay healthy at every stage of your life. Let’s discuss the importance of scheduling your annual well-woman exam at our office.
How Often Should I Schedule An Exam?
We say “annual,” but this frequency can depend on your age, health history, and other needs you might have. Remember that the schedule of your mother, sisters, or friends can vary from your own based on this criteria.
Teens and Young Adults (13-20)
- First visits are recommended between ages 13-15 for education and monitoring, though this is voluntary.
- Annual visits become more important for those who are sexually active.
Adults in Their 20s and 30s
- Yearly exams are recommended to maintain reproductive health, discuss family planning, and screen for cervical cancer. We also use this opportunity to monitor breast health.
Women in Their 40s
- Annual visits remain necessary, with an added focus on breast cancer screening and perimenopause management.
Post-Menopausal Women
- We suggest routine exams to monitor bone health, vaginal health, and overall well-being. Screenings for osteoporosis and other age-related conditions are also recommended.
Special Considerations
- If you have a chronic condition, such as diabetes or autoimmune disorders, you may need more frequent visits.
- Family history of breast or ovarian cancer may also require earlier or additional screenings.
The risk of missing these appointments is missing signs and symptoms early—and it’s always our goal to prevent and/or intercept conditions as early as possible to prevent them from worsening.
How To Prepare
There are a few very simple steps you can take ahead of your annual exam that can help your visit move along more easily:
- Write down any symptoms, questions, or concerns you have.
- Have your insurance information ready. We are in-network with most major insurance providers.
- Bring a list of your medications and supplements.
- Track your menstrual cycle, including start dates and symptoms—and note any irregularities you observe.
- Inform us over the phone if you prefer a specific provider or practitioner.
What Happens During a Well-Woman Exam?
This annual visit is used to assess your overall wellness and reproductive health. You’ll meet with your gynecologist and discuss any concerns that you might have, as well. Typically, this is what your appointment will entail:
1. Medical History Review
Your provider will ask about your:
- Past medical history, surgeries, and pregnancies.
- Current medications, allergies, and contraceptive use.
- Menstrual cycle patterns and symptoms.
- Family history of medical conditions.
- Any new or persisting concerns or symptoms you’d like to discuss.
2. Physical Examination
Our physical exams are used to give us a clearer picture of your health, using the following:
- Breast Exam: Checking for lumps, changes, or abnormalities.
- External Exam: Assessing for signs of irritation, infection, or other concerns.
- Pelvic Exam: Using a speculum to examine the cervix and vaginal walls, often including a Pap smear to screen for cervical cancer.
3. Screenings and Tests
The tests that we conduct will depend on your individual medical history, sexual activity, and age—but we will likely recommend at least one of these during your visit.
- STI Testing: Blood, urine, or swab tests are used to check for sexually transmitted infections.
- HPV Testing: Especially for women over 30, HPV is a leading cause of cervical cancer—so monitor for it closely.
- Breast Cancer Screening: Mammograms or ultrasounds may be recommended based on our findings during your physical exam.
- Fertility Assessments: These assessments are extremely important if you’re planning a family or experiencing difficulties conceiving.
Common Questions
If you’re planning for your first visit to Women’s Health Specialists, it’s expected that you’ll have some questions for us!
What if an issue is detected?
If your exam reveals a concern, your provider will explain the findings in detail and discuss the next steps. This might include follow-up tests, such as ultrasounds, blood work, or biopsies. We might also opt for treatments like pelvic health physical therapy or suggest more focused areas of examination like urogynecology.
Are physical exams uncomfortable?
While certain aspects of a well-woman exam, like a pelvic exam or Pap smear, may cause mild discomfort, they should never be acutely painful. Our providers at Women’s Health Specialists use gentle techniques to minimize discomfort and are attentive to your needs. If you experience significant pain at any point, let your provider know immediately.
Are annual exams covered by insurance?
They usually are, yes. However, coverage may vary depending on your specific plan. Preventive services like Pap smears, breast exams, and STI testing are often included, but it’s always a good idea to confirm with your insurance provider before scheduling your appointment (we can help you with this process).
Your Wellness Comes First
Our Germantown practice is here for you throughout your life—regardless of what that looks like for you. We provide a safe environment for your treatment and education to ensure your life is being lived well. New patients are always welcome!