A well woman exam is a vital part of caring for your reproductive health. At Midwest Women Obstetrician/Gynecologist Ltd in Downers Grove, Illinois, the expert team of gynecologists provides comprehensive well woman exams that include breast and pelvic exams as well as Pap smears. A well woman exam can help you and the team identify concerning changes to your health. Call the office today or schedule an appointment online to learn more.

What is a well woman exam?

A well woman exam is a complete health screening that monitors your reproductive health. Women experience many unique physical, emotional, and mental health changes as they age, such as menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause. An annual well woman exam can help you navigate those changes and identify early signs of disease.

What happens during a well woman exam?

A well woman exam typically includes four parts:

Physical exam

A physical exam is a head-to-toe health screening. After recording your height, weight, and vitals (temperature, blood pressure, respiration rate), the team reviews your medical history. Next, your doctor checks inside your eyes, ears, nose, and throat. They listen to your heart and lungs, measure your thyroid, and palpate your abdomen. The team also tests your reflexes. 

Breast exam

A manual breast exam can help detect early signs of breast cancer. During this exam, the team checks your breasts for lumps and abnormal tissue. Most women under 40 should undergo a breast exam every one to three years, with self-exams in between. After 40, women should have a breast exam and mammogram every year.

Pelvic exam

A pelvic exam allows the team to detect changes to your vagina, vulva, cervix, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus. These exams can identify early signs of cancer, cysts, infections, and inflammation. After age 21, every woman should have a pelvic exam at least once a year.

Pap smear

During a pelvic exam, your doctor may perform a Pap smear to identify signs of cervical cancer. The team collects cervical cells for testing. If the test finds abnormal cervical cells, the team may recommend returning for a colposcopy to investigate your symptoms further.

How often do I need a well woman exam?

Most women can benefit from a yearly well woman exam. Like your annual physical, regular well woman exams can help you track and monitor your health. The team can identify early signs of disease and changes to your health while your symptoms are still treatable. Women with underlying health concerns may need more frequent exams.

Call Midwest Women OB/GYN Ltd today or schedule an appointment online to learn more.