Why Are Annual Visits Important?
Well-woman visits allow you to meet and connect with your provider on a yearly basis. You can take this time to discuss your health, any life changes that may impact your health, and ask questions about your gynecological healthcare.
They will also use the time during an annual well-woman visit to suggest and conduct preventative testing. While you may not have every preventative test at every yearly wellness appointment, these tests help personalize your care and catch potential signs of illness or cancer early.
Your healthcare needs are unique, and our providers will give you the resources you need to feel heard and comfortable at your appointments.
What Happens During My Annual Well-Woman Visit?
During an annual well-woman visit, you’ll have a chance to discuss your health as well as any concerns or questions about your gynecological health, including pregnancy, birth control, or menopausal care. Your provider will also take some time to complete preventative testing and exams.
Clinical Breast Exam
Depending on your age, a clinical breast exam may be recommended during your wellness visit. These exams help identify any lumps, marks, or other abnormalities around your breasts. If an exam finds something that warrants further testing, your provider may recommend a mammogram.
Your provider can show you how to perform a self-breast exam, so you can monitor yourself for changes when you’re at home between appointments.
Pelvic Exam
Pelvic exams are a common part of annual well-woman appointments. A pelvic exam monitors the health of your internal reproductive organs. Your provider will check for bumps or abnormalities and examine any points of irritation they find during the exam. Some cancers and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have symptoms that can be spotted during a pelvic exam.
We’ll walk you through every step of the process and keep you as comfortable as possible.
Pap Smear
During your early 20s, it is time to start receiving a pap smear every couple of years during your annual appointment. While giving you a pelvic exam, a provider will take a swab and collect cells from your cervix. Those cells are analyzed in a lab to look for early signs of cervical cancer.
Your provider will do their best to make the process as comfortable as possible.
Schedule Your Annual Well-Woman Exam Today
The team at Florida Woman Care recommends that every patient schedule an annual wellness visit with their provider. This helps us build a better relationship with you, monitor any potential health conditions, and meet your changing needs throughout your life. If the time for your annual wellness visit is approaching, contact us to request an appointment today.