An annual gynecological (GYN) exam, also known as a well-woman exam or a pelvic exam, is a routine medical check-up performed by a healthcare provider to assess a woman's reproductive health and overall well-being.
Here's what typically happens during an annual GYN exam:
Medical History Review: The healthcare provider will start by reviewing the woman's medical history, including any past or current medical conditions, surgeries, medications, and family history of gynecological or reproductive health issues.
Discussion of Concerns: The woman may have the opportunity to discuss any specific concerns or symptoms she may be experiencing related to her reproductive health, menstrual cycle, contraception, sexual activity, or other issues.
Physical Examination:
Breast Exam: The healthcare provider will perform a clinical breast exam, checking for any lumps, changes, or abnormalities in the breasts and underarm areas.
Pelvic Exam: The healthcare provider will perform a pelvic exam to assess the health of the reproductive organs, including the vagina, cervix, uterus, and ovaries. This may involve visual inspection of the external genitalia (vulva), as well as insertion of a speculum into the vagina to visualize the cervix. During the speculum exam, the healthcare provider may collect samples for cervical cancer screening (Pap smear) and, if indicated, for testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs). They may also perform a manual examination of the uterus and ovaries by gently pressing on the lower abdomen.
Cervical Cancer Screening: As part of the pelvic exam, cervical cancer screening (Pap smear) may be performed to detect abnormal changes in the cells of the cervix that may indicate precancerous or cancerous conditions. The frequency of Pap smears depends on age, risk factors, and prior screening results.
Contraceptive Counseling: The healthcare provider may discuss contraceptive options with the woman, including birth control pills, intrauterine devices (IUDs), contraceptive implants, patches, rings, or barrier methods. They will consider factors such as the woman's health status, reproductive goals, lifestyle, and preferences in recommending the most appropriate method.
Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) Testing: Depending on the woman's age, sexual history, and risk factors, the healthcare provider may recommend testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, or HIV.
Health Promotion and Counseling: The healthcare provider may provide counseling and education on various aspects of women's health, including menstrual health, sexual health, reproductive anatomy and physiology, breast self-exams, safe sex practices, pregnancy planning, and menopausal symptoms.
Follow-Up Recommendations: Based on the findings of the exam and any screening tests performed, the healthcare provider may make recommendations for follow-up care, further testing, vaccinations, or referrals to specialists if needed.
Overall, an annual GYN exam is an important opportunity for women to receive preventive care, screening, and counseling to maintain their reproductive health and overall well-being. It provides an opportunity to detect potential health issues early and to address any concerns or questions the woman may have about her reproductive health.
Here at RescueMD, our women’s health providers are able to handle annual gynecological exams, pap smears and gynecological consultation for patients in Allen, Frisco, Mckinney, Plano, Dallas and the surrounding areas.