What is a well-woman exam?
A well-woman exam is an annual physical, but for women’s specific health needs. This appointment gives Dr. Kennedy an opportunity to identify any health problems and ensure you’re on the track to wellness.
During this exam, Dr. Kennedy will update your health history and you give you an opportunity to review any questions you have about your health, including symptoms or concerns.
What happens during a well-woman exam?
A well-woman exam includes a review of your health history, a pelvic exam, and a clinical breast exam. Dr. Kennedy may also have you undergo a:
- Pap smear
- Blood work
- Urinalysis
- Contraception counseling
- Menopause management
This annual exam is also a time for you to have honest conversations with Dr. Kennedy about issues such as:
- Sexual activity and STDs
- Nutrition
- Physical activity
- Tobacco, alcohol, and other drug use
- Relationship and family issues
- Vaccination
A well-woman exam is appropriate for women of all ages, starting in their mid-teenage years. In the first exams, when you’re younger than 21, a well-woman exam doesn’t usually include a pelvic exam.
How often should I have a well-woman exam?
A yearly well-woman exam is recommended for most women. This helps Dr. Kennedy stay on top of your health and identify any problems before they escalate.
An important part of your well-woman exam is a Pap smear. Women between the ages of 21 and 65 should have a Pap smear every three years. If you have a family history of gynecologic health conditions or you have had an abnormal Pap test, your provider may recommend more frequent exams.
Which conditions can be detected during a well-woman visit?
In addition to evaluating your over gynecological health, a well-woman exam can check for:
- Uterine fibroids or polyps
- Ovarian cysts
- Urinary tract issues
- Human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
- Perimenopause or menopause
- Cervical and other reproductive system cancers
If symptoms or signs of an additional gynecological problems are evident, Dr. Kennedy will likely recommend additional diagnostics, such as blood work, an ultrasound, or a tissue biopsy, are needed to confirm a diagnosis. You must request testing for STDs; this testing is not usually a part of a routine exam.
A well-woman exam is essential for your reproductive and sexual health. Schedule your next well-woman visit by calling the office of Karen Kennedy, MD, or use the online scheduler to make an appointment at the clinic nearest you today.
