Significance of Annual Well-Woman Exam

A well woman exam Tempe will start like any other doctor’s appointment. You will be asked to fill out paperwork with questions about your medical history, any medications you are taking, general demographic information, your menstrual cycle, whether or not you are sexually active, and if you have been pregnant before. Having a routine gynecological exam  Tempe is an important aspect of responsible preventive health care and ensuring physical and reproductive wellbeing. Many women think they do not need a physician unless they have a problem, but problems are often discovered through an annual exam. Every woman should be aware that cancers such as breast, cervical, and ovarian have few obvious symptoms, and earlier detection improves chances of survival. It is important for women to get an exam done because it is the time when we not only perform a complete history and physical exam, but also when screening tests are ordered, immunizations are given, and lifestyle habits are discussed. There are four parts of the well woman exam: physical exam, breast exam, pelvic exam, and pap smear. 

Physical Exam 

          The physical exam Tempe is much like what your general practitioner would do during an annual physical, but it can be more convenient to get your physical done at the same time as your well woman exam. Your gynecologist will review your medical history and ask about any current issues. They will check your vital signs, heartbeat, lungs, head, neck, abdomen and reflexes. Sometimes they will ask for blood work or a urine sample.

Breast Exam

          Breast exams Tempe help detect early signs of breast cancer. During the breast exam, your gynecologist will assess for lumps or irregularities in your breasts. They will also educate you on how to perform a self-examination, which you should do once every month.

Pelvic Exam

            The dreaded pelvic exam Tempe helps detect early stages of cancer, sexually transmitted diseases, and any causes of inflammation. Your gynecologist will examine the outside of your vagina for redness, irritation, discharge, and any signs of other conditions. Then, they will examine the size and position of your ovaries, uterus, cervix, and vagina by inserting the fingers of one hand into the vagina while the other hand presses down on your abdomen from the outside. Women 21 years and older should get a pelvic exam once per year. If you are under the age of 21, you should get a pelvic exam if you experience menstrual irregularities, vaginal discharge, or pelvic pain.

Pap Smear

          A pap smear Tempe helps to detect early forms of cervical cancer. A pap smear shouldn’t be painful, but you will likely feel a brief pinching sensation. The provider utilizes a small brush to collect a sample of cells from your cervix.  If you are 21 years or older, or are sexually active, you should have a pap smear test done once every 3 years.