Routine women's or "gynecologic" exams are a very important part of health care for women. The annual exam provides an opportunity for me, as your clinician, to detect and test for abnormalities of the breast, vulva, vagina, cervix, ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus and colon. Listed are the basic things that may be included in your exam.
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Screening for Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI's) STI testing will be done upon your request or your clinician may recommend testing.
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Abnormal growths: Infection with HPV (human papilloma virus) is a known precursor to dysplasia and cervical cancer. Most often HPV is not visible but when it is present your provider may see growths that are characteristic of HPV. Abnormal growths, including cancer of the breast, ovaries, and uterus are commonly found by palpation (examination by touch and/or pressure).
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Pap smears Pap smears detect cervical dysplasia (abnormal cervical cells) and cervical cancer. Routine Pap smears provide an opportunity for early detection and treatment of dyplasia and prevention of cervical cancer.
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Cancers Breast, uterine, ovarian and colon cancers are more common in women over age 50 but can occur in younger women.
Warning signs or indications to seek medical care include:
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After taking your history and doing a physical exam, I will discuss results with you and answer any questions you may have. In my practice, I’ve found that educating women about their lab results right away allows them to track their own progress and gives them more power and incentive to make positive changes in their lives — before needing a prescription or a procedure.
Based on your body and your needs I can provide you with resources and information to assist you in your personal health care.
Preffered labs used for your annual exams include Sonora Quest and West Coast Labs.
Annual Exams
