According to a survey by analytics firm Gallup, approximately 72 million U.S. women (42%) have skipped or postponed their recommended annual health exams.
Whether you’re looking for the right type of birth control, struggling with menopausal symptoms, or simply want to prevent chronic illness, it’s crucial to have regular wellness exams to detect and treat any health problems early .
This article explores what wellness visits are, why they are so important, and what to expect during your appointment.
What is a good women’s exam?
A wellness exam is a comprehensive health check for women, typically scheduled annually. It focuses on preventive care, which involves screenings to detect potential diseases.
These visits also address any current medical issues and are personalized based on your unique health history and needs. Typically they include discussions about:
- Family planning
- Stress management
- Lifestyle factors
Why is it important to take a wellness exam every year?
Annual wellness exams can help you identify potential health problems early, allowing for effective intervention and treatment. This is especially critical in progressive diseases such as cancer.
Research shows that regular pelvic exams (Pap smears) for wellness screenings can actually reduce the incidence and lethality of cervical cancer by more than 80%.
Well, annual exam for women
These visits also give you the opportunity to address any mental health concerns you may have. Whether you are among the 36.7% of American women diagnosed with depression or are dealing with situational stress or anxiety, these exams provide a safe space to discuss your symptoms and get support from a healthcare provider .
What does a Well Woman exam entail?
Women’s health history
The first part of a wellness exam is to review your medical history to identify any problems. This includes discussing any health problems you may have had in the past, as well as any conditions that run in your family.
This conversation will help your healthcare provider decide whether you should have tests or preventive treatments for hereditary diseases.
You’ll also talk about your sexual health and habits, which is a great opportunity to address concerns or discuss alternative birth control options.
You’ll also talk about lifestyle habits, such as:
- Diet
- Physical activity level
- Use of alcohol, tobacco or drugs
- Any medications or supplements you take
Your healthcare provider may also screen you for depression during the appointment.
Annual physical examination checklist for women
Next, your doctor will perform a physical examination. He or she will assess your body and record vital signs, including:
This step also includes a clinical breast examination, where your provider will feel for any lumps. Next, he or she will perform a pelvic exam to assess your uterus and ovaries for any abnormalities, as well as a Pap smear to collect cervical cells.
Pap smears are essential for the early detection of potentially serious problems, such as:
- Cysts
- Infections
- Growths
- Early signs of cancer
The pelvic exam also extends to checking the overall health of the vaginal area and pelvis, and can be an integral part of prenatal care.
Setting wellness goals
At the end of your appointment, your healthcare provider should help you identify and establish any specific goals related to your health, such as weight loss or smoking cessation. He or she can help you develop a plan to achieve these milestones.
He or she may also recommend further testing or follow-up appointments based on your health status. If necessary, your healthcare provider may refer you to a specialist to address any specific problems or symptoms.
How to prepare for a good women’s exam
You can get the most out of your appointment by preparing in advance. Here are some tips:
- Make a note of any questions or concerns you would like to discuss during your visit.
- Collect medical information. Take all relevant medical records of you or your family members with you. Knowing your family’s medical history – especially if it involves breast, ovarian, or cervical cancer – is especially important. You will also want to list any medications, vitamins, and/or supplements you are taking.
- Pay attention to any changes in your body. Be prepared to discuss aspects of your health such as changes in your periods, sexual activity, pregnancy status, use of tobacco or birth control, or any discomfort during sex, if applicable.
- Be willing to communicate openly. Be prepared to answer questions about your health honestly. Your service provider is there to support you and not to judge you.
Annual wellness exams are essential for optimal health. These visits can help you address any troubling symptoms, detect serious conditions early, and otherwise support your overall well-being.
If you have not yet scheduled your annual appointment, consider doing so today. It’s a simple yet powerful way to invest in a healthier, happier future.
References:
Screening for cervical cancer – PMC.
Depression – National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).
Depression rates in the US are reaching new highs.
Medical History – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
Papanicolaou Smear – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
A study of cervical cancer screening using a Pap smear and clinical correlation – PMC