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Annual Well-Woman Exam
Regularly scheduled well-woman exams can save your life. The team of expert providers at Reston Women’s Center offer comprehensive well-woman exams that include preventive screenings and address any areas of concern you may have about your gynecological health. Call the office in Reston, Virginia, or book an appointment online today.
Annual Well-Woman Exam Q & A
What is a Well-Woman Exam?
A well-woman exam is the same as a pelvic exam, gynecological exam, or annual exam. A well-woman exam usually involves a pelvic exam, where your doctor exams your vagina, uterus, ovaries, and other reproductive organs, as well as a breast exam and a Pap test.
The team at Reston Women’s Center also performs onsite lab tests and blood draws, if necessary. Depending on your age, sexual history, and medical health, you’ll receive information about family planning and may also receive bone density screenings and mammograms.
When Should You Have Your First Well-Woman Exam?
Many girls have their first exam in their early teens, around ages 13-15. At this visit, the team at Reston Women’s Center provides a physical exam and answers any questions you have, including issues involving your period or sexual activity.
Once you’re 21, you’ll start having regular Pap tests to check for HPV and the early signs of cervical cancer. Clinical breast exams also begin around age 21 to check for breast cancer, but regular mammograms aren’t recommended for most women until around age 40-45.
Which Specific Medical Issues Can Be Addressed at a Well-Woman Exam?
The doctors at Reston Women’s Center screen for and offer treatment for a variety of issues, including:
- Endometriosis
- Breast or pelvic masses
- Fibroid tumors
- Abnormal uterine bleeding
- Cancer of the breast or ovaries
- Perimenopause and premenopause
- Ovarian cysts
- Osteopenia and osteoporosis
Besides offering screening tests and treatment, your doctor is a trusted source with whom you can discuss birth control, painful sexual intercourse, and sexually transmitted diseases. Ask questions if you experience bleeding or pain after sex, are concerned about pregnancy, or have an unusual vaginal discharge or smell.
You may also discuss nutrition, weight, exercise, substance use, and pre-pregnancy planning during a well-woman exam.
Are Pelvic Exams Painful?
A pelvic exam can be slightly uncomfortable, but it shouldn’t cause pain. If you do experience pain, alert your doctor right away.
Take control of your gynecological health: Schedule a well-woman exam at Reston Women’s Center by calling the office or booking online today.