Why should you have a yearly Well-Woman visit?

What to expect during your well-woman visit 
 

Your visit will start will you discussing your overall health with your women's health specialist.During this part of the visit your provider will ask you questions regarding your:
 

• Medical history 
   
• Family history
• Sexual activity 
   
• Mental health history 
   
• Nutrition and physical activity habits 
   
• History with medications

The second part of this visit includes a physical exam where your provider will examine your body including: 
 

• Recording your height , weight and body mass index (BMI)
• Taking your temperature and recording your blood pressure 
   
• Performing a clinical breast exam to check for any abnormalities 
   
• Performing a pelvic exam ( feeling around your pelvis and looking inside your vagina)

If you’re not comfortable being alone with the doctor or nurse during the physical exam, you can ask to have another nurse also be present with you during this time. 
 

At the end of the physical exam you will discuss any screenings or additional tests that are right for you as well as any health goals that you would like to establish. 
 

What is the difference between a well-woman exam and a physical? 
 

A well-woman visit is similar to a physical in the sense that both visits are to give an overall look at your current health and decide on preventative measures to continue to keep you well. However, there are different things that a women's health specialist will be checking during a well woman visit that do not happen with your primary care provider, such as the pelvic exam. A women' health specialist will be more focused on your reproductive health, such as concerns with your menstrual cycle.
 

It is still important to also schedule yearly appointments with your primary care provider to maintain your overall health as well. 
 

RELATED: Have you established a primary care provider?
 

Establishing a yearly well-woman visit is important to your health and well being. If you notice any concerns with your body, make sure to reach to your provider to schedule an appointment.