What Happens During a Well-Woman Visit?
An annual well-woman visit is your time to connect with your provider. In addition to discussing your health and answering any related questions you have, your provider may recommend and perform some preventative testing:
Pelvic Exam
A pelvic exam is a physical examination performed to determine the health of your internal reproductive organs. This allows your provider to examine you for any irritations, bumps, abnormalities, or any signs of certain cancers or STIs. Your provider will make you feel as comfortable as possible and walk you through the entire process.
Pap Smear
Pap smears are recommended for most women starting in their early 20s. This can be performed during your pelvic exam, using a swab to collect cells from your cervix. These cells are then screened for abnormalities that indicate early signs of cervical cancer. Preventative testing, such as Pap smears, allows us to offer comprehensive women’s healthcare services that evolve alongside you.
Clinical Breast Exam
Your provider may recommend a clinical breast exam during your well-woman visit. This quick exam helps us identify any lumps, marks, or abnormalities around your breasts. Although most women will not need a mammogram until age 40—depending on their health risks—clinical breast exams are an important routine test. Your provider will show you how to examine your breasts at home, so you can keep an eye out for any changes.
Menopause Counseling
As you age or begin to experience early symptoms of perimenopause, you can ask your provider about menopause counseling. Menopause can cause many changes to your body, and your provider is here to help you know what to expect. During your well-woman visit, your provider can recommend different therapies or lifestyle changes to help you best manage menopausal symptoms.
Annual Visits Put Your Health First
While some of the tests performed during a well-woman visit are recommended less frequently, meeting with your healthcare provider annually is an essential part of your care. Every woman is different, and your provider is dedicated to ensuring you receive the most personalized care.
Your health needs may also change throughout your life. Your annual well-woman visit allows us to collaborate on the best plan to achieve optimal health. For example, if you have questions about your reproductive health or the current birth control method you’re using, we can provide answers and direct you to the resources you need to feel confident about your health.
Schedule Your Annual Well-Woman Exam Today
We recommend that all our patients schedule annual wellness visits with your UWH of Michigan provider, so we can build a trusting healthcare relationship that meets your health needs throughout your life.
If it’s time for your annual well-woman visit, you can request an appointment with your provider today.