Well-woman exams are annual exams centered around the health of your vagina, cervix, uterus and breasts. Your overall health will be considered during your exam, but the primary focus will be your reproductive health. The exam includes a pap test, pelvic exam and a breast exam, all essential in catching early signs of cancer or other health problems. During your appointment, you may also speak with your provider about other health concerns you have.
Why do I need a well-woman exam?
A well-woman exam detects early stages of cervical cancer, detects lumps in the breasts that could be cancerous, and is the first line of defense against diseases of your reproductive system. It is recommended that women have their first pap test to detect cervical cancer at age 21. Still, we recommend scheduling your first well-woman exam sooner if you are sexually active before age 21 or if you experience any menstrual irregularities or pelvic pain.
Additional cancer screening recommendations
What will I talk about with my provider during a well-woman exam?
Your provider will ask about you and your family’s medical history. Try to answer as honestly and thoroughly as possible, as this information will help them give you the right care. They will also ask you about your period, sexual activity, lifestyle, and birth control. Your provider can also help you with family planning and managing menopausal symptoms depending on your stage of life.
What can I expect during a well-woman exam?
The appointment will begin with routine vitals which include your weight and blood pressure. You may be asked for a urine sample. The medical assistant will then bring you into the exam room where you will be asked some basic health history including your menstrual history, medical history, surgical history, family history, and medications. After this initial portion, you will be asked to undress completely and put on a paper gown. Your provider will then enter the exam room to review your history and your current health concerns. They will them perform a breast exam, abdominal exam, pelvic exam, and pap smear (if indicated).
- Pelvic exam: Checks for any abnormalities of the vulva, vagina, cervix, uterus, and ovaries.
- Pap test: Checks for risk of cervical cancer. Pap tests are performed every 3 to 5 years and stopped at the age of 65 depending on health history. Pap tests may be done more frequently based of health history or previous pap results.
- Breast exam: Checks for lumps, skin changes or abnormal discharge.