Gynecology Care and Annual Exams
Annual Exam
An annual well-woman exam is the best way to stay proactive about your health and catch any issues as early as possible. We recommend annual exams where you can discuss important health behaviors, routine health screenings, recommended vaccines, and more. For women in the Atlanta area, call the office to set up your appointment or use the online scheduler to book now!
What Can I Expect at my Annual Exam?
Your exam begins with a thorough look at your health history, genetics, and reproductive goals. You and your provider discuss any risk factors you have for possible diseases like breast, ovarian, or cervical cancer. The exam includes a check of your weight, blood pressure, and heart rate. After that, you’ll recline on the table for a pelvic exam and Pap smear.
You’ll also receive a breast exam and learn how to do a self-check of your breasts each month. At the end of your annual exam your clinician may provide a referral to Breast Care Specialists for your yearly mammogram.
What is a Pap Smear?
A Papanicolaou test is a smear taken from the cervix to aid in the identification of precancerous cells that have the potential to develop into cervical cancer. It is recommended that women ages 21-65 should have a pap smear at least every three years. Women ages 30-65 may choose to prolong this interval and have a pap smear and human papillomavirus (HPV) screening every five years. Both of these recommendations are based on evidence showing that this time interval between screenings substantially reduces cervical cancer incidence and mortality.
(These recommendations differ in women who are immunocompromised, have a history of cervical cancer or have had a previous diagnosis of a high-grade precancerous cervical lesion. These guidelines also do not apply to women who have had a hysterectomy with removal of the cervix.)
Additional Topics that may be Covered During Your Annual Exam
Contraception, Prevention of sexually transmitted infections, High-risk behaviors, Alcohol and tobacco use, Menstrual patterns, problems, or concerns, Reproductive health, Important vitamins and minerals, Blood pressure and cholesterol maintenance, Menopause, Hormone replacement, Fitness and nutrition, Personal and family relationships, Intimate partner violence, Lifestyle and stress, Depression screening, and Immunizations (like the Influenza, HPV, & Hepatitis B vaccines).
What Happens if a Problem is Detected?
If one of the experienced providers at Arbor OBGYN discovers a health problem during your routine annual exam, she’ll likely suggest additional tests to confirm or rule out certain conditions. If a problem is detected that requires specialty care, you’ll be referred to a doctor that we know and trust.