Well Women’s Exam
A well-woman visit is a yearly preventive check-up with your doctor, separate from any other visit for sickness or injury. Well-woman care focuses on prevention – taking care of your health now to avoid illness later – and is key to your long-term health and wellness. This annual visit gives you a chance to focus on yourself and what you can do to reach your health goals. During a well-woman visit, Dr. Gonzalez will likely perform a physical exam, which may include a breast exam, pelvic exam, and Pap smear. She will also order blood tests or other screenings, depending on your age, medical history, and family history. The visit is also an opportunity to discuss any concerns you have about your health, such as birth control, sexual health, or menopause. Well-woman visits are an essential part of maintaining your health and well-being. By making time for these annual checkups, you’re taking a proactive approach to your health and investing in your future.
Pap smears Frequently Asked Questions?
What is a pap smear?
A pap smear is a test used to look for cervical cancer. Screening starts at the age of 21 years old. The pap smear can also be used to detect HPV which can remain dormant for a long time before becoming active. Thus a pap smear is vital to track HPV.
What is the Pap smear procedure like?
After you get up on the exam table and place your feet in the stirrups, a speculum is gently inserted into your vagina to open the vagina walls. This allows visual access to the cervix. Then, a swab is used to take a sample of your cervical cells and sends them off to a lab for testing.
The procedure is quick and not painful. Keep in mind, that because the speculum opens your vaginal walls, you might feel some pressure and discomfort during the procedure.
Dr Gonzalez and the team at Anna Health Family Medicine are dedicated to providing a holistic approach to woman’s care.
