Do you ever feel a bit guilty when you read statistics – in case they’re pointing a finger at you? At Stella Mattina, we never point fingers. We’re on your side! But recent statistics show that only around 70% of women aged 18-44 in the United States scheduled their crucial annual well-woman exam in the past year.
Yet, this well-woman exam is an important part of maintaining your overall health and wellness. So – why do so many women miss?
It probably goes something like this: “I know I’ve missed a few annual well-woman appointments, and it’s been nagging at me. But between juggling the kids’ schedules and keeping up with work, finding time for myself has just slipped through the cracks. Besides, I feel fine.”
We get it! But let’s take a closer look at these exams, whether you’re gearing up for your first visit or if you’ve been one of those who skipped a few. Then you’ll be comfortable attending and can develop a good, ongoing relationship with your Ob/Gyn and healthcare provider.
What is a Well-Woman Visit?
The annual well-woman exam is a key preventive measure to maintain your health, focusing on reproductive and general wellness to catch any potential issues early. This proactive visit is not just about checking for problems; it’s also a platform for building a dialogue with your healthcare provider about your health goals, concerns, and lifestyle adjustments.
Your annual physical is valuable because it helps detect early signs of disease and provides a benchmark for monitoring changes in your health over time.
What Happens During a Well-Women’s Visit?
The well-women’s visit is more than a routine examination; it’s a tailored experience that addresses the unique health needs of women at different stages of life. The duration can vary, but most well-woman exams take between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the discussions and tests required.
These might include:
- Personal and family medical history review.
- Lifestyle discussion about your diet, exercise habits, sexual health, menstruation, and other lifestyle factors impacting your health.
- Physical examination (vital signs, body mass index – BMI, and overall physical health).
- Breast examination (checking for unusual lumps or changes in breast tissue).
- Pelvic examination (assessing the health of your reproductive organs).
- Screenings depend on age, health history, and risk factors (Pap smears, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) screenings, mammograms).
- Future planning for pregnancy, managing menopause symptoms, or preventing disease.
How to Prepare for Your Annual Physical for a Woman
Preparing for your visit can make the experience more effective and less stressful. Here are a few tips:
- Note down any major changes in your health since your last visit.
- Prepare a list of all your medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
- Wear comfortable clothing that you can easily remove, as you may need to change into a medical gown for part of the examination.
- Bring your menstrual cycle details.
- Make a list of any questions about specific symptoms or health concerns you want to discuss.
- Bring your insurance card and know what your plan covers.
Age-Specific Recommendations for Well-Woman Visits
The needs and concerns of women’s health change significantly through different stages of life. Well-woman visits are tailored according to age group to address this. They will therefore focus on the most relevant screenings, discussions, and preventive measures for each life stage.
The ages are approximate, of course. You are unique, and your healthcare provider will work with you to meet your needs.
- Adolescents (ages 13-18): The focus is more on education, menstrual health, and preventing STIs. Vaccinations such as the HPV vaccine are often discussed.
- Reproductive age (ages 19-39): In addition to routine screenings, discussions may include contraceptive options, pre-pregnancy planning, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle for disease prevention.
- Perimenopausal and postmenopausal women (ages 40+): Screenings might be adjusted to include mammograms, bone density scans, and discussions about hormone replacement therapy.
What Happens If I Skip My Annual Well-Woman Exam?
It’s completely understandable that life gets busy, or that anxiety about medical visits can deter you from scheduling your exam. That’s what happened with our hypothetical patient up top!
However, although skipping your annual well-woman exam might seem inconsequential – especially if you feel healthy and are not experiencing any symptoms – it’s not a good idea in the long run. Even if all seems well, it’s important to consider the longer-term health implications of missing these appointments.
Longer-Term Implications of Missing a Well-Woman Visit
Delayed detection of conditions
Many health conditions, such as cervical cancer and breast cancer, do not show symptoms in their early stages. Regular exams can detect them early and allow for more effective treatment.
Missed opportunities for prevention
The annual well-woman exam also serves as a preventive measure against potential health issues. By skipping your exam, you miss the opportunity to receive critical vaccinations, screenings, and advice that could prevent diseases.
Lack of health baseline
Subtle changes indicating underlying health issues may be noticed with regular check-ups.
Potential for increased healthcare costs
Early detection and prevention strategies can reduce healthcare costs over time. Skipping exams can lead to the need for more complex and expensive treatments for conditions that could have been identified and managed early.
Follow-Up Care and Understanding Your Results
After your annual well-woman exam, your healthcare provider will inform you when and how you will receive your test results.
Typically, results are available within a few weeks, and many clinics now use online portals where you can access your information securely.
If there are any abnormal findings, your provider will explain what they mean and may suggest further diagnostic tests or treatments.
Remember, follow-up care is crucial, whether it’s scheduling another exam or following through with recommended treatments.
Secure Your Future with Annual Well-Woman Exams at Stella Mattina
An annual well-woman exam is a fundamental part of your healthcare routine. Instead of quickly searching online for a “physical checkup near me,” it makes sense to ensure you find a specialist women’s preventive care provider.
At Stella Mattina, our women’s care specialists understand the fears and worries that can accompany these visits. They’re committed to providing a supportive and compassionate environment, ensuring that every aspect of your care is handled with sensitivity and respect.
We understand, too, about busy lifestyles and home commitments. You can make an appointment as early as today or schedule at your convenience – and also be confident that we accept a comprehensive list of insurances. Let’s talk!
Dr. Krum is currently in practice in Arlington, TX. He received his undergraduate degree at Texas A&M University, then attended UTMB Galveston for medical school, finishing in 1986, completing his residency there in 1990. Providing a full range of obstetrical and gynecological care, he specializes in the treatment of endometriosis and robotic surgery. He arranges his schedule so that same-day appointments are usually available.