Annual Exam Specialist

The foundation of gynecologic care is the annual exam. The focus of this exam is breast health and pelvic and reproductive health but is not limited to these areas. As the primary care provider for many women, our physicians explore all health concerns for women of all ages and coordinate care as needed with primary care providers or other specialists.

http://www.acog.org/Patients/FAQs/Making-the-Most-of-Your-Health-Care-Visit

What is a routine exam?

Routine exams are the foundation of good gynecologic care. Although the focus of the exam is breast, pelvic, and reproductive health, a routine annual exam isn’t limited to these areas.

As the primary care provider for many women, the doctors at The Women's Specialists of Fayette explore all health concerns for women of all ages. They also coordinate care with primary care providers or other specialists, as needed.

What happens during a routine exam?

Your exam includes a physical examination and a complete review of your health history. Your physician at The Women's Specialists of Fayette asks you about:

• Illnesses
• Immunizations
• Allergies or reactions to foods or substances
• Injuries
• Hospitalizations
• Surgeries
• Medications you’re taking or have taken
• Your family history of diseases or health problems

Your doctor also inquires about your lifestyle, because your habits and life circumstances affect your well-being. You can expect questions, such as:

• Do you get regular exercise?

• Do you drink alcohol, smoke, or use recreational drugs?
• Are you going through a significant life event, such as getting married or divorce?
• Are you experiencing stress, anxiety, or depression?

This is a good time to tell your doctor about any issues you’ve been experiencing, or changes you’ve noticed in your body or with your menstrual cycle.

If you’re interested in having children sometime soon, your doctor sometimes recommends pre-pregnancy counseling or an infertility assessment. On the other hand, if you’d like to avoid getting pregnant, your doctor discusses a full range of contraceptive options.

Will I have a physical exam?

A physical exam is a routine part of your exam. Your provider at The Women's Specialists of Fayette typically asks you to undress from the waist down or to remove all of your clothing. You are offered a gown to wear. Then, your doctor performs preventive screenings to check for cervical cancer and other issues. You may have a:

• Pap smear
• Breast exam
• Pelvic exam

Depending on your age, and whether breast cancer runs in your family, your doctor may recommend a mammogram.

If it’s been a while since you’ve had a routine exam, contact The Women's Specialists of Fayette today or book a consultation online.