What to Expect During Your Annual Exam
In addition to checking your height, weight, and blood pressure, your provider will discuss your general health, menstrual cycle, and any changes you have noticed. A routine annual visit typically includes the following components:
- Health History Review: We talk about your current medications, lifestyle habits, and any family medical history that may impact your risk for certain conditions.
- Clinical Breast Exam: Your provider gently examines each breast for signs of concern, such as lumps or tissue changes. We also provide guidance on how to perform monthly self-exams at home.
- Pelvic Exam: This exam allows your provider to check the health of your reproductive organs, including the vagina, cervix, uterus, and ovaries.
- Pap Smear: If you are due for a screening, we collect a small sample of cells from the cervix to test for abnormalities or signs of cervical cancer.
Why an Annual Exam Matters
A well-woman exam is more than just a check-up; it is a proactive approach to your long-term health. Regular visits allow for:
- Early Detection: Identifying potential issues like cervical or breast cancer in their earliest, most treatable stages.
- Reproductive Health Guidance: Discussing contraception, family planning, or managing symptoms related to menstruation or menopause.
- Vaccinations and Screenings: Ensuring you are up to date on essential preventive services, such as the HPV vaccine or STD screenings.
- Open Dialogue: Providing a safe, confidential space to ask questions about your body and sexual health.
Comprehensive Care for the Concerns That Matter Most
Our providers offer a full range of gynecologic services — from routine preventive care to evaluation and treatment of specific health concerns. Click any item below to learn more.
- Annual or “well-woman” exams
- Adolescent gynecology
- Breast exams & breast pain
- Pap smears
- Colposcopy
- Contraception (hormonal and non-hormonal)
- IUD consultations, insertion, removal & management (Mirena, Paragard, Nexplanon)
- HPV vaccination (Gardasil)
- Management of abnormal Pap tests
- STD testing, information, and treatment
How to Prepare for Your Visit
To ensure the most comfortable and accurate exam, we recommend the following:
Timing Your Visit:
- Try to schedule your exam for a time when you are not on your menstrual period. If you have your period on the day of the visit, we may still be able to see you, but a Pap smear is often more accurate when performed between cycles.
Health Tracking:
- It is helpful to know the date your last menstrual period began and to bring a list of any medications or supplements you are currently taking.
48 Hours Before Your Test:
- If you are due for a Pap smear, avoid douching, using tampons, or having sexual intercourse for two days prior to your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Meet the Providers Who Care for You
Our entire OB/GYN team is here for your gynecologic care, at every location.
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