Well Woman Exams

What is involved in well-woman exams?

Well-woman exams at Sarasota OB/GYN Associates are an important part of your overall health maintenance. The appointments include much more than just a pelvic exam. You may also undergo screenings and tests that take care of your reproductive and pelvic health.

Well-woman exams offer a comprehensive review of your health and can help maximize your quality of life.

Who should get well-woman exams?

Well-woman exams shouldn’t begin when you have concerns or symptoms. Sarasota OB/GYN Associates welcomes girls to start well-woman exams around age 13-15. 

These early exams don’t usually involve a pelvic exam but do give you the chance to ask questions about sexuality and build a relationship with your gynecologist. 

Yearly well-woman exams start around age 21 and continue through your child-bearing years, perimenopause, and menopause. Exactly what happens at your well-woman visit depends on your stage of life, symptoms, and wellness goals. 

What is involved in well-woman exams?

During well-woman exams, Sarasota OB/GYN Associates reviews any changes to your health history. They’ll evaluate your weight, oxygen levels, and blood pressure. 

You’ll lie down for a pelvic exam, during which your provider examines your external vaginal tissue and internal reproductive organs. At some appointments, you’ll have screenings, such as blood tests, urine checks, and Pap smears. You’ll also undergo a clinical breast exam. 

Depending on your age and sexual habits, you may be asked about exposure to STDs and whether you want to be tested. These tests are not a routine part of well-woman care but can be performed at your request.

Women older than 40 may be prescribed a mammogram to screen for breast cancer. 

Do I really need well-woman exams?

Preventive care like well-woman exams is often not prioritized when you face day-to-day concerns about your family, job, or home. But keeping your body healthy is critical and can impact your everyday experiences. 

Getting regular well-woman exams gives you peace of mind. If you do have a problem, your provider can catch it early when it’s easiest to treat. If you need to make changes to improve your health, Sarasota OB/GYN Associates can help. 

If you’re due for a well-woman exam, don’t delay. Call Sarasota OB/GYN Associates to schedule or book online today.