What is a well-woman exam?
A well-woman exam is a health visit focused on the unique health needs women face. It’s an opportunity to get the routine screenings you need to thrive and to discuss any areas of concern.
A breast exam and pelvic exam are usually part of the process. A Pap smear can use a small sample of cells from your cervix to search for signs of cancer or precancerous changes.
This simple screening has made cervical cancer a much more treatable condition whereas it was once a primary cause of death in women.
Your well-woman exam is also an opportunity to discuss any changes or areas of concern you have. Some of the topics you might discuss include:
- Prepregnancy planning
- Birth control options
- Screening for sexually transmitted diseases
- Sexual health
- Hot flashes, mood swings, and other signs of menopause
- Basic diet and exercise questions
Don’t let your busy life keep you from needed medical care. It’s important to visit your provider to discuss your health.
What are well-man exams?
A well-man exam is a visit with a focus on the health issues that men face. As you move through the aging process, your well-man exams will shift focus.
During your visit, you’ll receive the screenings appropriate to your age and lifestyle. For example, a young man might need screenings for sexually transmitted diseases and advice on how to prepare for optimal fertility. An older man might be concerned with weight gain and loss of muscle mass that comes with hormonal imbalance.
Some of the topics that can come up include:
- Screening for prostate cancer
- Changes in sex drive
- Erectile dysfunction
- Urinary health changes
- Lifestyle improvements
- Smoking cessation
- Heart disease prevention
These subjects can change as you move through the phases of life.
How can I prepare for my well-woman/well-man exam?
Preparation can make your visit more effective. A great place to begin is to compile a list of all medications and supplements you’re taking.
You might also consider writing down your family and personal health history. Be prepared to share the details of the deaths of close relatives, including their age at the time of death and the cause.
If you have issues you’d like to broach during your exam, it can help to write them down and bring them with you. It’s easy to get distracted during a well-woman/well-man exam, and having everything written down in one place can help you rest assured that all of your questions will be addressed.
The process begins by calling or booking an appointment online, so don’t delay.
