It’s important to prioritize a yearly women’s health exam, which a gynecologist can do. This visit covers more than just reproductive health, offering a chance to address overall wellness, preventive screenings, and any concerns you may have. While some women also see a primary care provider for general health, others prefer to rely on their OB/GYN for comprehensive women’s care. Either way, this yearly checkup is vital to staying on top of your health.

What to Expect During a Yearly Women’s Wellness Exam

Your yearly women’s health exam is customized based on age, medical history, and personal health needs. Here’s what may be included:

• Breast Health Exam: Your provider will check for any lumps or changes in the breast tissue and discuss when to begin mammogram screenings.
• Cervical Health Screening: A pelvic exam may include a Pap smear to screen for cervical cancer, especially if it’s been a few years since your last test.
• Menstrual Health and Symptoms: Your OB/GYN will ask about your menstrual cycle and any symptoms, such as heavy bleeding or severe pain. Tracking these can help detect issues like endometriosis or fibroids.
• Family Planning and Contraception: If you have questions about birth control or are planning a pregnancy, this is a good time to explore options and discuss your needs.
• Screenings for STIs and Vaccinations: Depending on your age and lifestyle, your provider may recommend tests for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and offer vaccinations like the HPV vaccine for added protection.

Age-Specific Health Focus

Your health needs change throughout life, and your OB/GYN can help guide you through each stage with tailored care:

• In Your 20s and Early 30s:
  • Pap smears are recommended every 3 years, depending on your health history.
  • Your OB/GYN can help with family planning, contraception, and managing menstrual symptoms.
  • HPV vaccination is recommended if you haven’t received it yet.
• In Your 30s and 40s:
  • Clinical breast exams and discussions about when to start mammograms.
  • Combined Pap smear and HPV testing may be done every 5 years.
  • Conversations about preconception health if you plan to start or grow your family.
• In Your 40s and 50s:
  • Annual mammograms often begin around age 40-50, depending on your risk factors.
  • Guidance on managing symptoms of perimenopause, such as changes in your menstrual cycle, hot flashes, or sleep disturbances.
• In Your 60s and Beyond:
  • Continued screenings for breast and cervical cancer as recommended.
  • Assessments for osteoporosis and bone health.
  • Postmenopausal care, including discussions about vaginal health and hormone therapy options.

Why These Exams Matter

Even if you feel healthy and don’t have ongoing medical concerns, a yearly women’s wellness exam can help catch potential issues early. Some of the conditions your OB/GYN screens for include:

• Cervical Cancer: Regular Pap smears and HPV tests can detect precancerous changes before they become more serious.
• Breast Cancer: Clinical breast exams and mammograms help identify changes early when treatment is most effective.
• Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Early detection and treatment can prevent complications and protect your reproductive health.
• Menstrual Disorders: Irregular, heavy, or painful periods can be signs of underlying conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), fibroids, or hormonal imbalances.

Taking Charge of Your Health

Whether you see your OB/GYN for primary care or in addition to a primary care provider, making time for a yearly women’s health exam is an essential step in preventive care. It’s a chance to get personalized advice, address new symptoms, and stay on top of recommended screenings.

About OB/GYN at Boulder Medical Center – Louisville

Our OB-GYN team in Louisville offers the full scope of women’s health services, from annual exams and preventive care to family planning and pregnancy support, including high-risk cases. We provide comprehensive care for issues like abnormal Pap smears and pelvic pain and offer minimally invasive procedures when needed. Whether you need routine women’s health maintenance, contraceptive counseling, or advanced gynecologic surgery, our experienced providers are here to help.

Call (303) 938-4710 to schedule an appointment—new patients are welcome!