Well-Woman Exams
A wellness visit is a once-a-year exam for a general health check, including a breast exam and pap smear. A yearly exam visit does not include discussion of new problems or detailed review of chronic conditions. Yearly pelvic exams and pap smears are important in monitoring your gynecologic health and screening for infection, inflammation or other abnormal cells that may indicate disease. Early detection is important in treating any disease and especially important for cervical cancer and other potentially life-threatening diseases. Maintaining wellness involves collaboration between you and your health care provider.
Annual well-woman exams are important to maintaining a happy, healthy life and preventing infection, disease or other abnormalities. Since early detection is important in treating nearly every condition, especially diseases like cancer, regular exams can help spot any abnormalities right away.
A gynecological exam, breast exam and Pap smear are recommended each year for women who are sexually active or over the age of 18. During these exams, your doctor will check for signs of breast cancer, cervical cancer, STDs, infections or other abnormalities. Well woman care is one of the most important steps you can take in preventing disease.
What to expect on your visit
Annual exams are recommended for women who are sexually active or over the age of 18. During the exam, the doctor will examine your breasts and pelvic organs for any abnormalities or changes. They will update your medications and order refills, update personal and family health history and order Lab test including a complete blood count (CBC), lipid panel (cholesterol), fasting glucose (blood sugar) and a urinalysis (UA). During a Pap smear, he or she will remove some tissue from the cervix to carefully examine as well. An annual exam is one of the most important steps you can take in preventing disorders of the pelvic organs. Our doctors will also evaluate and order health screening tests based on age and personal and family history such as a mammogram, bone density and colon cancer screening. If it has been more than 12 months since your last exam, call today for an appointment.
Exercise & Fitness
Regular exercise has many benefits that may help you live a longer, healthier life. People who engage in moderately intense physical activity may reduce their risks of developing heart disease and other serious illnesses. Regular physical activity can improve health and lengthen life expectancy by:
- Lowering the risk of developing coronary heart disease
- Reducing the risk of stroke and heart attack
- Lowering cholesterol and increasing HDL or “good” cholesterol
- Strengthening the heart and cardiovascular system and improving circulation to use oxygen better
- Lowering blood pressure
- Lowering the risk of developing type 2 diabetes
- Reducing the risk of colon cancer
- Helping to maintain a healthy weight
- Reducing feelings of anxiety, depression, and stress
- Helping to build and maintain healthy bones, muscles, and joints
- Boosting self-image and self-esteem