The well-woman exam is designed to address the unique health needs of the female anatomy at different stages of life. Its primary focus is preventive care, that is, it seeks to prevent diseases from developing before they reach a critical stage.
This exam is vital to taking care of your health and it is important to have it done every year. However, we know that you may be nervous if you are going to have it for the first time. That’s why we’ll explain what happens during the well-woman exam and how to prepare for it.
What Is a Well-Woman Exam?
The well-woman exam is performed by a female anatomy health specialist. Their primary concern is to analyze the health of the uterus, ovaries, and breasts. But it can also be personalized to your particular needs. The exam may include questions regarding birth control methods, your mental health, fertility issues, your sexual well-being, and concerns about your menstruation, or sexually transmitted diseases and infections.
When Should You Start Getting the Well-Woman Exam?
There are different factors that can determine at what age to start the well-woman exam.
Normally, it is recommended to start having this exam every year from the age of 21 or from the moment you start your sexual life. However, it’s a good idea to get the exam done any time you have pelvic pain, abnormal vaginal discharge, or any alteration in your menstrual cycle.
Specialists also recommend having your first well-woman exam between the ages of 13-15 to address any questions about sexuality, the menstrual cycle, and the changes that occur at that age. It is important to have a place where you can comfortably talk about these issues and be informed about different methods to prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases.
What to Expect at a Well-Woman Exam
The well-woman exam includes several steps: a questionnaire about your medical history, a physical exam, and several more specialized tests. These will vary according to your age, your medical history, and your health status.
If you are under 21 and not sexually active, the exam will probably only include a physical exam to check your blood pressure, height, and weight, as well as some questions about your menstrual cycle. You may also get the HPV vaccine.
If you have any questions about sexual health or are thinking about starting your sex life, you will be able to discuss birth control and prevention methods for STDs.
For women over 21 or who are sexually active, the well-woman exam will include the routine physical exam, a more detailed questionnaire, and some more in-depth exams: pelvic exam, breast exam, and pap smear.
It is also normal to be asked about your sex life, aside from questions about your menstrual cycle and family medical history. Here are some of the questions you are likely to be asked:
- Do you experience pain during intercourse?
- Do you have any spotting between periods?
- Do you bleed during or after sex?
- Have you ever been pregnant?
You will be asked to put on a medical gown that has a slit in the front to perform the following tests:
Pelvic Exam
The pelvic exam will help detect any signs of infection, inflammation, or early signs of cancer. Your doctor will examine your vaginal area, ovaries, uterus, and cervix. To do the exam, your doctor will use lubricated gloves or a speculum. You will be lying on your back with your knees bent and your feet elevated.
When checking your vaginal area, they will look for irritation, warts, or any unusual discharge. They will then check your vaginal canal and apply pressure to the abdominal area. They will examine the size and location of your ovaries, uterus, and cervix, and look for any pain or tenderness.
It is very important that you remain calm during this exam. It is key that you communicate if you feel any discomfort. You can ask for the exam to stop for a moment if you are uncomfortable. You can also request that your doctor explain the procedure step by step and notify you if any type of pressure or action that may cause discomfort is about to be performed.
Breast Exam
The breast exam serves to detect any early signs of cancer. Normally, you will be lying on your back and will be asked to place your hands behind your head. Your doctor will examine your breasts by gently pressing them in a circular motion. They will look for any swelling or lumps. If any lumps are identified, you will likely be sent for an ultrasound or biopsy.
They will also teach you how to do a breast self-exam and how to identify warning signs.
Pap Smear
Pap smears are used to detect any signs of human papillomavirus or cervical cancer. For this exam, you will also be lying on your back with your feet elevated. The doctor will insert a speculum into your vaginal canal to take a sample of cells from your cervix. It is not a painful procedure, but you may feel discomfort and perhaps a little cramping afterward.
How to Prepare for a Well-Woman Exam
There is no special preparation that you should follow, although there are some recommendations that you will probably be given when you schedule your exam. It is recommended that you wear comfortable clothing to make it easier to perform the exams. You are also encouraged to bring a list of questions you have and to keep in mind any medical conditions in your family history and any medications you are taking. Remember that you can get this test done even if you are on your period, although doctors prefer it to be done on a day when you are not menstruating because the fluids can alter the test results.
Getting preventive exams will help you know if you’re healthy and get early treatment if necessary. We know that these tests can cause discomfort, so it is important that you have them done in a clinic where you feel calm and comfortable, not only to perform the tests but also to talk and ask questions about your sex life or symptoms that you may feel uncomfortable discussing.
At DFW Family Clinic, we have doctors experienced in female anatomy who are professional, respectful, and empathetic. Schedule your well-woman exam as soon as possible to take care of your health and solve any questions you may have.
