Well Woman Exam Specialist

What is a well-woman exam?

A well-woman exam is a specialized assessment of your health beginning at puberty. As a woman, your health needs change dramatically throughout your lifetime. A well-woman exam allows your provider to develop a health care plan that fits your most current needs. It also ensures you're as healthy as possible in every stage of reproductive health. 

The purpose of a well-woman exam is to: 

• Assess your overall health
• Assess for early signs of illness or disease
• Determine your risk factors for breast and other cancers
• Assess your breast, vaginal, and uterine health
• Offer an opportunity to ask your provider questions 
• Evaluate your hormone health
• Build trust with your provider
• Educate about every season of development 

Your well-woman exam could be the basis for a lifetime of health and wellness and provide an excellent opportunity to take charge of your health in every season. 

When do I need a well-woman exam?

Ideally, well-woman exams should begin around 13-15 years old. These early visits are not as in-depth as visits later in life but are essential for establishing a baseline and for building trust with your provider. Once you are either sexually active or 21 years old, you should begin getting well-woman exams yearly. 

During these visits, you can share any concerns you have or ask questions related to:

• Irregular periods
• Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
• Infertility or pregnancy 
• Postpartum changes  
• Premenopausal or perimenopausal symptoms 
• Hormone imbalance or replacement
• Sexual health concerns 
• Birth control or contraception
• Health risks for breast or other cancers
• Weight gain or weight loss

If you have concerning symptoms, such as irregular bleeding, breast changes, or pelvic pain, don't wait for a well-woman exam. Call to schedule an appointment with your provider as soon as possible for early detection of conditions such as breast cancer, endometriosis, or other health concerns. 

What does a well-woman exam entail?

During your well-woman exam, your provider completes a physical examination and takes time to ask questions to get an accurate picture of your feminine health. 

The Family Health Center of Bastrop team:

• Measures your height and weight 
• Checks your vital signs, including blood pressure and oxygen level
• Performs a breast exam
• Completes a pelvic exam
• Collects a pap smear

Your provider may also collect blood or urine and recommend a mammogram. The team has strong relationships with trusted OB/GYN providers in the area who may offer more focused care if needed.

For a comprehensive well-woman exam, call or schedule an appointment online with the Family Health Center of Bastrop today.