Well Woman Exams Specialist

What are well-woman exams?

Well-woman exams are an important way to safeguard your health by identifying the early signs of disease. Miami Women's Health Associates customizes your well-woman exam to suit your individual needs, but there are some standard components. These include:

Pelvic exam

An internal exam where your OB/GYN can check the health of your vagina and cervix.

Pap smear

During your pelvic exam, your OB/GYN takes a sample of cells from your cervix. These go for lab testing to identify any cell changes that could be a sign of cervical cancer.

Breast exam

Your OB/GYN examines your breasts to look for any lumps or other abnormalities.

Blood pressure check

High blood pressure can cause severe health problems and lead to potentially life-threatening heart attacks and strokes but causes no obvious symptoms.

Body mass index (BMI) calculation

BMI is a guide to whether you’re at a healthy weight.

Family planning solutions

Birth control gives you the ability to choose if and when to have children.

STD (sexually transmitted disease) testing

Many STDs cause few or no symptoms but cause long-term health problems such as infertility.

Most importantly, your well-woman exam is one-on-one time with your OB/GYN, where you can discuss any health concerns you have, including sexual dysfunction and menstrual problems.

How often should I have a well-woman exam?

Miami Women's Health Associates encourages an annual well-woman exam schedule.

Diseases like cervical cancer can develop gradually over several years, so it's critical to undergo preventive screenings on a regular basis. Having an annual well-woman exam gives your OB/GYN the opportunity to take action early on if they find any abnormalities.

Adolescents should start having well-woman exams every year from their first period. However, teens don't usually need a pelvic exam or Pap test until they're over 18.

How do I prepare for my well-woman exam?

There are some simple ways you can prepare for your well-woman exam to ensure you get the most out of it. One important consideration is to make sure you don't book a Pap smear when your period is due.

Miami Women's Health Associates also recommends that you make a list of your current prescriptions, any supplements you take, and over-the-counter drugs you use. For the two days before your well-woman exam, avoid having sex, douching, or wearing tampons.

If you have any concerns, questions, or symptoms you want to discuss with your OB/GYN, write these down, as it's easy to forget them during your appointment.

Book your well-woman exam at Miami Women's Health Associates by phone or use the online form today to schedule a consultation.