Annual Gynecological Exams in Birmingham, AL
Everything You Need to Know About Your Annual Well Woman Exams
An important part of staying healthy is to have regular gynecological exams beginning at age 21, or within three years of becoming sexually active. The physicians at Birmingham Obstetrics & Gynecology provide a full range of gynecological and obstetrical services including your annual well-woman visit. Our board-certified gynecologists will take the time to address your healthcare concerns and answer any questions you may have. Contact us today to schedule an appointment in Birmingham, Trussville, or Hoover. Request an appointment online using our secure form.
Preventive care includes:
- Discussion of health topics based on your age and risk factors
- Exams and screening tests
- Immunizations
What to Expect for Your Annual Gynecology Exams
In addition to checking your height, weight, and blood pressure, your doctor will ask you questions about your general health, menstrual period and sexual activities. During your exam, your doctor will perform the following exams and tests. If the doctor is male, a female nurse remains in the room during your exam.
Breast Exam
During your breast exam, your doctor will check your breasts for signs of any potential problems, such as a lump. He or she will examine each breast by moving his or her fingers around your breast in a pattern. You may also be shown how to perform monthly self-examinations.
Pelvic Exam
During your pelvic exam, your doctor will examine your vagina, cervix and reproductive organs. Once you place your feet against footrests at the end of the examining table and slide forward, your doctor will then insert an instrument called a speculum into your vagina to gently spread the walls apart to examine the area. Your doctor then places one or two gloved, lubricated fingers into your vagina and the other hand presses on your abdomen from the outside to check the size, position, and shape of your internal pelvic organs. The pelvic exam may feel a bit uncomfortable, but should not hurt.
Pap Smear
A Pap smear checks for abnormal cells in the cervix that could lead to cancer. The doctor will insert a small cotton-tipped swab through the vagina into the cervix. Cells are removed from the cervix and sent to a laboratory to be checked for any abnormalities. The Pap smear is painless.
Well Woman Visits
These assessments should include screening, evaluation and counseling, and immunizations based on age and risk factors.
At 20 Years old
You should have your first pap test if you haven’t already and have a sexually transmitted infection screening if necessary.
At 30 Years old
Be sure to talk with your OB/GYN if you are planning on getting pregnant. Continue to get an annual well-woman visit during your 30s.
At 40 Years old
Decide with your OB/GYN when you should have a mammogram, especially if you have certain risk factors. If you’re having perimenopause symptoms, there may be ways to manage these symptoms.
At 50 Years old
During your 50s, it is good to get a lung cancer screening if you are a current or past smoker. It is also time to have a preventative screening for colorectal cancer.
At 60 Years old
Continue to get regular mammograms and osteoporosis screenings during your 60s.
At 70 Years old
Be sure to get a seasonal flu shot, a shingles shot, and a pneumonia shot, as well as others your doctor may recommend.
At 80 Years old
Discuss with your doctor ways to prevent falls, and if you have any problems with your visions or hearing.
Schedule Your Annual Gynecological Exams in Birmingham, AL
Schedule your annual gynecology exam in Birmingham, AL with Birmingham Obstetrics & Gynecology. Trust our board-certified obstetricians for comprehensive and compassionate care. Conveniently located in Birmingham, our office is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities to ensure the highest quality healthcare. Call (205) 933-8334 or book online. Your health is our priority.