Women's health exams are a great way to ensure you are healthy so you have peace of mind each day. If there are any concerns, then a women’s health exam allows you to detect them as early as possible to allow for the most successful and least extensive treatment.
Reviewing what you can expect during a women’s health exam
Every women’s health exam may look different depending on the length of time between a woman's exams and her medical history. However, there are certain expectations you can have to help you prepare physically and mentally. This review discusses the types of tests that may be involved and how the process typically works.
What is included in a women’s health exam?
There are more than a dozen possible tests a practitioner may perform during a routine women’s health exam based on the patient’s specific medical conditions, risks, etc. However, four common tests that most patients can expect are:
- General health assessment
- Pelvic examination
- Breast examination
- Pap smear
Additional testing may include HIV testing for women who are sexually active as well as testing for other STDs such as chlamydia and gonorrhea. A mammogram may also be ordered. The practitioner may also recommend certain vaccinations such as for HPV if necessary.
What can I expect during my visit?
A women’s health exam is a non-invasive process. The exam should take less than an hour in most cases. However, certain tests may take longer. The visit may begin with a quick question and answer session so the practitioner can gather relevant health details and provide answers to the patient’s questions. Any tests are then performed after a quick discussion. Generally, the practitioner can reveal the testing results on the same day and make any preventative or treatment recommendations according to the results.
How often is a women’s health exam recommended?
Women who are over the age of 21 are encouraged to receive a women’s health exam once every year. Women under the age of 21 who are sexually active should also see their practitioner on a regular basis to ensure optimal health and detect any concerns as early as possible.
How can I prepare for my women’s health exam?
There are not typically any special preparation requirements. Patients are able to drive themselves home after the visit. However, it may be helpful to prepare a list of questions that you may want to ask your practitioner during the visit. It can also help to document any concerns that you may have as well.
Schedule a women’s health exam with our medical team
We encourage you to give our team a call or send us a message if you are sexually active or over the age of 21 and have not received a women’s health exam in over a year. We can answer any remaining questions you have during the visit and help you ensure optimal health so you can live each day with peace of mind.
Request an appointment here: https://hoadly.millenniummedicalcare.com or call Millennium Medical Care Manassas at (703) 673-1558 for an appointment in our Manassas office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Womens Health Exam in Manassas, VA.
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