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When it comes to women’s health, preventive care offers the chance to avoid adverse outcomes and address issues in the earliest possible stages. It is also the preferred approach of the skilled and practiced team of doctors, nurses, and physicians at South Valley Women's Health Care, an OB/GYN practice in Bluffdale, Utah. If you’re overdue for a well woman’s exam or want to learn more about the other vast array of OB/GYN and women’s health services available, call the office to schedule a visit. Or request an appointment online today.
Well Woman Exam Q & A
What happens during a well woman’s exam?
A well woman’s exam focuses on delivering the screenings you need to remain as healthy as possible. This exam often includes:
Pelvic exam
A pelvic exam is usually part of the process during a well woman’s visit. During this exam, your provider uses a speculum device to gently separate your vaginal walls, facilitating visual inspection of your vaginal and cervical tissues and external genitalia.
Pap smears
Pap smears, sometimes called Pap tests, involve your provider taking a small sample of cells from the cervix to screen for cervical cancer. Your provider may combine HPV testing with the Pap smear. You might not need Pap testing during this visit, especially if previous results were negative.
During your well woman’s exam, you can also ask questions and receive guidance on any women’s health topic of concern. This is your time, and you’re encouraged to explore any issue. Sexual health, family planning, contraception (birth control), sexually transmitted infections (STI) prevention, and STI testing are just a few examples.
Why are well woman’s exams necessary?
Far too many women only come in to see a health professional once they are dealing with serious symptoms. This approach leaves you with fewer treatment options than you may have had if you chose to come in for routine care.
Not long ago, cervical cancer was a leading cause of death among American women. Once Pap smears became available, statistics quickly changed, and today, very few women die of cervical cancer because testing enables treatment in the earliest possible stages.
Well woman’s exams also help you to anticipate changes brought on by pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, and other experiences.
How often do I need to come in for a well woman’s exam?
Most women benefit from annual well woman’s exams. If you’re currently receiving gynecological services, you might need frequent visits until your condition improves. You'll also need more visits if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
If you are overdue for a well woman’s exam or are searching for a new provider who offers a caring and compassionate bedside manner paired with over 30 years of experience serving Utah, look no further than South Valley Women's Health Care.
Call the office to learn more about well woman's exams and explore all they have to offer. Or request an appointment online, which is quick and convenient.