Well Woman Exam Specialist

Why do I need a well-woman exam?

Women tend to have busy lives with multiple responsibilities. It’s easy to put your health needs behind the needs of your family, demands of your job, and rigors of daily life.

It’s just because of your busy lifestyle that you should make time for a well-woman visit. You need to stay healthy to keep up with your multiple roles. A well-woman exam evaluates your current health and well-being, and it also involves preventive health screenings that could save your life.

Many issues with a woman’s health, including cervical and breast cancer, do not cause issues early on in their development. Health screenings such as Pap smears and breast exams are critical to early diagnosis. Early intervention gives you the best chance of overcoming health problems and preventing them from causing serious complications.

What age should I begin well-woman exams?

A girl benefits from having her first well-woman exam between the ages of 13 and 15. This visit usually doesn’t involve a pelvic exam or Pap smear, but gives the patient a chance to build a relationship with Dr. Magsino. A young woman can ask questions about her body’s development, her menstrual cycle, and sexuality.

If she does have any unusual symptoms, such as an irregular vaginal discharge or pelvic pain, these issues can be addressed, too.

What happens during a well-woman exam?

A well-woman exam begins as do most doctor’s visits, with a temperature and blood pressure check and a collection of other vitals such as height, weight, and blood oxygen saturation.

You then meet with Dr. Magsino to update your medical history and review any symptoms you may be experiencing. If you have questions about birth control, family planning, unusual symptoms, or menopause, this is the time to raise them.

You’re then asked to undress from the waist down, don a medical gown, and lay on an exam table with your feet in stirrups. The doctor performs a pelvic exam and Pap smear, when necessary, to check for irregular cells on your cervix that could indicate cervical cancer risk. You’ll also undergo a clinical breast exam and a referral for a mammogram if you’re 40 or older or have an increased risk of breast cancer. 

At the end of your appointment, Dr. Magsino can provide recommendations to enhance your health or discuss treatment plans for any health issues. 

If you’re due for a well-woman exam, call the office of Optimum Women’s Care, PLLC to schedule or use this website to make an appointment.