Annual Exams Q & A
What are annual exams?
Annual exams at Heartfelt Obstetrics And Gynecology focus on your reproductive health. Anyone with female reproductive organs should have annual exams starting from age 13-15.
An annual exam lays the foundation for good reproductive health now and in every stage of your life.
What do women’s annual exams include?
Annual exams at Heartfelt Obstetrics And Gynecology usually include:
Pelvic exam
A pelvic exam is a gentle vaginal exam to screen for women's health problems. Very young patients don't typically have a pelvic exam, but adult women generally do.
Breast exam
A clinical breast exam may be part of your annual exam. This exam generally includes light palpation of your breast tissue to check for lumps or other irregularities. Depending on your age and breast cancer risk, the team may recommend a mammogram as well.
Screenings
A Pap smear is a screening test to check a small sample of cervical cells. Pap smears are the best way to identify the abnormal cell changes that human papillomavirus (HPV) may cause and diagnose cancer very early. That allows for immediate treatment or preventive tactics, which is why cervical cancer is usually preventable.
Depending on your specific lifestyle, concerns, and medical needs, you may also need other kinds of screenings, including blood and urine tests to check for sexually transmitted diseases and other issues.
What kind of women's health issues do annual exams cover?
Your annual exam is a chance to discuss your concerns and needs regarding your health. If you need to change or update treatments for a chronic condition or start treatment for a new condition, you can do that during your annual exam.
Some of the many things you can discuss during an annual exam include:
- Birth control
- Urinary incontinence
- Menopause
- Sexually transmitted diseases
- Pregnancy planning and prenatal care
- Vaginal revitalization
- Abnormal bleeding
- Endometriosis
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Infertility
- Fibroids
- Ovarian cysts
- Hormone replacement therapy
The Heartfelt Obstetrics And Gynecology team offers exceptional all-encompassing women's health care in a welcoming atmosphere, so you can feel comfortable discussing any questions or concerns with them.
Click on the request appointment tab or call the Heartfelt Obstetrics And Gynecology office to book your appointment.