Annual Well-Woman Exam Specialist

What is a Well-Woman Exam?

The annual well-woman exam provides the foundation of preventive care in gynecological medicine. During a well-woman exam, your gynecologist at Women’s Healthcare of Princeton covers many important aspects of your health, including:

• Cancer Screenings: Annual well-woman exams are when you’ll undergo routine screenings for breast and cervical cancer; you may also have a colon cancer screening.
• General Health: Depending on your age and health history, your well-woman exam also may include screenings for high blood pressure, diabetes, bone density, or osteoporosis, among other things.
• Vaccinations: If applicable, you may receive your annual flu shot or a vaccination to protect you from human papillomavirus (HPV).
• Menstrual Cycle Issues: Your well-woman exam is an ideal time to discuss menstrual cycle abnormalities, including heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, or irregular periods.
• Concerns About Sex: If you have any concerns about sex, including questions about painful intercourse, libido problems, or hormonal changes, you can address them during your annual exam.
• Sexual Infection Screening: During your annual exam, you can request sexually transmitted infection (STI) screenings, including tests for chlamydia, gonorrhea, genital herpes, or any other infection that’s spread through sexual contact.
• Weight Control: Your gynecologist can also help you understand how to better manage your weight through regular physical activity and optimal nutrition.

When Should I Get A Pap Test?

A pap test, or pap smear, is an essential tool in cervical cancer prevention that detects abnormal cells in your cervix, which is located where the lower part of your uterus opens into your vagina.

A pap test is usually part of a routine pelvic exam, and it’s generally recommended every three years for women between the ages of 21 and 65. Starting at the age of 30, your doctor may recommend that you either continue having a pap test every three years, or have a pap test along with an HPV screening test every five years.

If you’re at risk for cervical cancer, you’ll probably require more frequent pap smears.

When Should I Start Having Mammograms?

A mammogram is a special type of X-ray used to detect breast cancer in women who don’t otherwise have any signs or symptoms of the disease; it’s also used to help assess any lumps found during a routine breast exam. Most women should start having annual mammograms at the age of 40.