Article
Do something sweet for yourself this Valentine’s Day: Schedule your annual well-woman checkup
The time is near for chocolates and flowers, but we suggest you do something sweet for yourself in honor of Valentine’s Day this year.Women often put caring for themselves on the back burner as they strive to care for those around them. That’s why we encourage you to do something for yourself this February and take time to schedule any health appointments you may be due for.While most women don’t require a Pap smear every year, annual well-woman checkups are an important way for you to stay on top of your health.What to ExpectDuring this appointment, we’ll review any changes to your health over the past year. We’ll talk about changes in your medical or family history, your menstrual cycle and sexual health, as well as any risk factors you have. In addition, we’ll discuss your concerns and questions about issues that impact your health, ranging from family planning and birth control to your relationships, safety and mental well-being.The appointment will include a physical exam, measuring height and weight, blood pressure and temperature, as well as a clinical breast exam and pelvic exam.We’ll also perform or recommend additional screenings or tests that are indicated, such as a Pap smear, bone density screening, mammogram or blood tests for things such as sexually transmitted diseases, diabetes, and iron and vitamin D levels.Regular exams and screenings can help us detect problems when they’re developing or in their earliest stages, when they are easiest to treat. We will discuss your risk factors and history and develop a customized screening schedule or care plan for you.If you need to schedule your annual well-woman checkup, call us for an appointment today.
Related posts
Looking for more women's health insights?
Prenatal screening and diagnostic tests provide information about whether a fetus has certain genetic conditions or birth abnormalities and are offered to all women during pregnancy. But these tests are optional, so when making your decision, it’s important to understand what prenatal testing can tell you and what it can’t.
A woman’s fertility ebbs and flows across both her lifetime and her cycle, and can be impacted by a range of internal and external factors. Whether you are trying to become pregnant, or looking to avoid it, understanding what affects your fertility is important. When is your fertility the highest? We break down some highlights below.
You’ve likely either had a urinary tract infection (UTI) or know someone who has. In fact, a woman’s lifetime risk of developing a UTI is as high as one in two according to some estimates, and repeat infections are quite common.