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Well Woman Exam services offered in Lanham, MD and Washington, DC
All women deserve access to compassionate and thorough women’s health services, which is why the team at Chivic Healthcare Services offers comprehensive well-woman exams to individuals living in and around Lanham, Maryland, and Washington, DC. If you’re overdue for a well-woman exam, book your next visit today through a quick phone call or visit the online booking page.
Well Woman Exam Q&A
Why are well-woman exams so important?
Well-woman exams are the foundation of women’s health. Far too many women place their own needs at the end of a lengthy to-do list, handling the needs of others long before they focus on themselves.
You can receive the screenings that are correct for your age and overall health through routine well-woman exams, which allow your practitioner to detect areas of concern in the earliest possible stages. Most health problems respond best to treatment when caught early.
Cervical cancer is a great example. A sexually transmitted infection called human papillomavirus causes most cases. Well-woman exams allow for Pap smear testing to check for changes in your cervical cells, as well as HPV testing. Early detection and treatment are why cervical cancer is no longer a leading cause of death for women.
What should I expect during my well-woman exams?
The initial portion of the visit focuses on gathering routine health data, just like your annual physical exams. Expect a quick check of your temperature, weight, height, blood pressure, and heart rate.
A pelvic exam is usually part of the process, although teens who are not yet sexually active may not need a pelvic exam during their first few visits. You lie back on the exam table or chair and rest your feet in stirrups as your practitioner uses a device called a speculum to gently separate your vaginal walls.
This process allows a visual inspection of your external genitalia as well as your vaginal and cervical tissues. If needed, your practitioner uses a small brush or spatula to gather cervical cells for Pap smear testing. You may feel a brief cramping sensation during this part of the exam.
There is always time built into well-woman exams for you to ask questions or express concerns. Common topics include birth control, STD testing and prevention, fertility planning, menopause symptoms, and more.
How frequently do I need to come in for well-woman exams?
Most women benefit from annual well-woman exams. If you need treatment for a gynecologic issue, you may need to come in more often for some time.
During your next well-woman exam, your practitioner can discuss the best timing for you. When you’re ready to book an appointment, contact Chivic Healthcare Services online or over the phone to get started.