Don’t Put Your Well Woman Exam Off
Annual gynecologic exams are among the most important ways for women to receive preventive health screening and education that is specific to women. The Birth Center providers are trained to care for women from adolescence through menopause and beyond. We understand a woman’s changing health care needs such as:
- birth control
- sexually transmitted infection (STI) screening and prevention
- vaginal infections
- menstrual problems
- pelvic pain
- sexual function
- preconception counseling
- fertility
- menopausal symptoms
- bone health
- urinary leakage
- breast changes
Many of the conditions that affect women’s health, including the human papilloma virus (HPV), cervical cancer, and breast cancer, can exist without any signs or symptoms. Regular screening with GYN exams and tests can detect these conditions at earlier stages when they can be treated most effectively.
Additionally, our providers give direction on ways to stay healthy including diet, exercise, smoking cessation, mental health, and vaccinations.
What to Expect During Your Wellness Visit
If you haven’t filled out a medical history for 2 years we will ask you to fill one out. This is a comprehensive look at your medical history including your family history. Vital signs like your blood pressure, heart rate, height, and weight are measured. You will also be asked about your periods, pregnancy history, sexual activity, contraception needs, history of GYN problems, history of GYN surgeries, and any current symptoms you may be having.
The pelvic exam focuses on evaluating any symptoms you may be experiencing. If you find the pelvic exam extremely uncomfortable or anxiety-provoking, tell us. Relaxation strategies, repositioning, and using a smaller size speculum may improve your experience.
Finally, you and your provider will discuss ways to improve your health including lifestyle changes, screening tests, or vaccinations based on your age or other risk factors.
You are Important
What sets The Birth Center, Holistic Women’s Health Care apart from other practices is that we listen to you. Bring your questions and concerns about your health to your appointment. Half hour appointments are rare in the world of medicine and we set that time aside to make sure we focus on you and your needs, so don’t be afraid or embarrassed to ask a question or discuss a concern with your provider. Sexual activity and function, vaginal health, body changes, STI testing, and bowel or bladder problems are all sensitive issues we deal with regularly. We provide a caring and compassionate environment that is strictly confidential.
Call Today
If you haven’t been here for more than a year call the office at 302-658-2229 and make your appointment. We now send the paperwork to be filled out to you via email. Just click the link and submit your information, that way you are not sitting in the lobby filling out forms.
Effective health care is a partnership and having an annual gynecologic check-up before you have a problem is a great way to build a collaborative and life long relationship.