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What To Expect at an Annual Gynecological Appointment
Written by certified nurse midwife Amanda Ezekiel, CNM, Bronson Obstetrics, Gynecology & Midwifery Specialists - Kalamazoo
Regular doctor visits are critical to maintaining your health and wellness. An annual exam helps establish a baseline for your health. This helps your provider detect any changes in your health that can indicate the progression of a disease or potential issue. An annual exam may reveal something that requires you to seek further testing or treatment.
An annual gynecological exam is a full checkup that focuses on preventative care of the female reproductive system. Sometimes called a well-woman or annual exam, it checks the health of the vulva and uterus, as well as the breasts.
What happens during an annual gynecological exam?
A gynecologist, certified nurse midwife or primary care provider can perform this annual exam. After they ask you questions about your medical history, you will receive:
- A physical exam.
- Screening tests
- Education and counseling.
- Vaccines if needed.
The types of exams, tests or counseling you get depend on your age and medical history. Reviewing your medical history involves going over your health and family history. This includes:
- Reproductive history
- Mental health.
- Sexual preferences.
- Diet.
- Physical activity habits.
- Use of alcohol, tobacco or other drugs.
- Use of over the counter or prescription medications.
- Home life and relationships.
A physical exam may include:
- Measuring your height and weight.
- Calculating your body mass index (BMI).
- Checking your blood pressure.
- Taking your temperature.
- Doing a clinical breast exam.
- Doing a pelvic exam.
What are some questions that might be asked?
Questions that the provider may ask you include:
- When was your last period?
- How often do you have periods?
- How long does your period last?
- Do you ever bleed or spot between periods?
- Do you have unusual pain, itching or discharge from your vagina or vulva?
- Do you have any other medical conditions?
- What medical problems do other members of your family have?
- Are you sexually active? In other words, have you ever had vaginal, anal or oral sex?
- What gender(s) of people do you have sex with and what kind of sex do you have?
- Is sex ever painful?
- Do you bleed during or after sex?
- Are you using birth control?
- Do you think you might be pregnant?
- Do you want to get pregnant?
- What do you do to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?
An open conversation about sexual function, family planning, fertility and breast awareness is key to a successful gynecological appointment. If you are experiencing changes in your body that you are unsure about, talk to your provider. You can discuss any symptoms or issues you are experiencing. If an issue is expressed or identified that will need extra time or evaluation, an additional appointment may be necessary.
Whether you need an annual exam or more specialized care, Bronson’s experienced team of providers can work with you to create a personalized treatment plan based on your needs and concerns. To learn more about gynecological services, visit bronsonhealth.com/gynecology. To schedule an appointment, contact one of the offices below:
