What can you expect at a
Well Woman Exam?

The well woman exam is scheduled once a year and it includes a complete examination which includes a pap smear (screen for cervical cancer) and if you are over 40 years of age, it will also include a test for blood in the stool (screen for colon cancer). Gynecological problems that are usually not addressed at the time of your annual well woman's visit, will require a separate appointment for appropriate diagnosis and treatment. Issues beyond our scope of practice will require consultative services with the appropriate specialist and we will be happy to assist in the referral process.

The physical exam includes height, weight, and blood pressure, examination of the thyroid gland, your heart and lungs, kidneys, abdomen, breasts, examination of your extremities and a pelvic exam, which includes the pap smear and a rectal exam for occult blood if 40 years old or over. Areas that can be addressed at that time include contraception, menopause and hormone replacement therapy. Screening for, and treatment of sexually transmitted infections, bladder dysfunction, osteoporosis, pelvic pain, atypical vaginal bleeding and other gynecological issues can be addressed at an appropriate subsequent visit.

For patients aged 40 and above, a referral for yearly mammograms is suggested. A baseline dexascan, which measures bone mineral density centrally, of the lumbar spine and non-dominant hip, is recommended for women in their mid-40's, or earlier if at risk for osteopenia or osteoporosis. Normal scans need to be repeated at 3-5 year intervals. In most circumstances, the bone density study can be done in our office.

For those who are 50 years and older, we strongly recommend a baseline colonoscopy with a gastroenterologist (gastrointestinal physician). They will then recommend the interval necessary for repeating this test.

Our providers are here to assist you during your well women visit, and we encourage questions and a proactive approach in your health.