Why are annual well-woman exams important?
A comprehensive well-woman exam does more than provide your yearly gynecological examination; annual exams focus on preventive health care.
When your doctor detects subtle changes hinting at a problem at an early stage, you can prevent or treat them long before they turn into a significant condition. Your doctor can identify these changes when you go in for routine health care.
Here’s one more good reason to schedule an annual physical: This is dedicated time to talk with your doctor -- whether you have concerns about your sex life, weight loss, or dealing with anxiety.
What should you expect during a well-woman exam?
Your annual exam includes all of the basics of preventive health care.
Your doctor measures your weight, blood pressure, and heart rate and checks your heart and lungs. Your doctor may also order lab tests to check for chronic conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, and thyroid conditions.
During a well-woman exam, you also receive some or all of the following services:
- Breast exam
- Pelvic exam with Pap smear
- Blood tests, as required
- Screening for chronic diseases, such as diabetes and high blood pressure
- Family planning, including preconception counseling and birth control
- Testing for sexually transmitted diseases
- Risk assessment for osteoporosis
Depending on your age and overall health, we may recommend immunizations or specialized screenings, such as a mammogram to look for breast cancer.
What specialized services are available?
While they’re not routinely part of an annual well-woman exam,we can provide many other services that you may want to include during your checkup:
Menopause management
Your levels of estrogen can begin to drop any time during your 40s or 50s, causing symptoms long before you reach menopause. Talk to your doctor during your annual exam if you experience:
- Hot flashes and night sweats
- Mood changes
- Vaginal dryness
- Painful intercourse
- Low sex drive
Urinary incontinence
Urinary incontinence is a common problem that develops as women age. Medical solutions are available and can be discussed during your well-woman exam.
Weight-loss support
Weare dedicated to providing weight-loss support, nutritional counseling, and help with diets.
Please stay in charge of your health and wellness -- call or book a well-woman exam at Elite Medical Clinic
