“Well-woman” is an umbrella term for multiple preventative exams conducted annually. These exams are related to a patient’s gynecological health, i.e. the health of their reproductive system, and they screen for things like breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and cervical cancer. The two primary parts of the well-woman exam are the Pap exam and the pelvic exam. Additionally, height and weight will be taken and education on disease prevention may be given.
A Pap exam, also called a Pap smear, is a method of cervical screening used to detect precancerous and cancerous cells in the cervix. It is recommended that screening begins at age 21 and continues through approximately age 65 dependent on medical history.
The cervix, which is the entrance to the uterus, is visualized during this procedure. A lighted device called a speculum is carefully inserted into the vaginal canal. A small brush is used to gently remove cells from the surface of the cervix and the area around it so they can be checked under a microscope for cervical cancer or cell changes that may lead to cervical cancer.
Human Papillomavirus, or HPV, is common, and many strains of it resolve on their own; however, some strains cause cervical cancer. Pap smears are critical in detecting cell changes early to ensure sexual and reproductive health.
Typically, screening is done every 3-5 years, but your results each time guide recommendations for when to have your next Pap. Because of this, you may not need a Pap exam at every well-woman visit.
Often a pelvic examination is done at the same time as the Pap. Your healthcare provider will use a gloved finger to examine vaginal anatomy and check for abnormalities. A wet mount is a test that may also accompany the procedure, which may help find other conditions, such as infections or inflammation. Your provider simply takes a Q-tip to swab the vaginal area and then makes a microscope slide to look at organisms such as yeast, bacterial vaginosis, and trichomonas.
A breast exam is a part of your annual well woman exam wherein the provider feels for lumps, swelling, or other abnormalities in both breasts. Your provider may also teach you how to feel for breast changes yourself. In a breast exam, you will likely be asked to lay down on a table and hold one arm above your head while the provider
Dove Medical is able to provide various free of charge Bridge Care Services at the discretion of our Family Nurse Practitioner while working with patients to establish ongoing care in the community. We cannot serve as your primary care provider or your OB/GYN, but we are able to provide some services, such as well-woman exams, to serve as a “bridge” for you while helping you establish long-term care. All services are preceded by an Intake Appointment, which includes a medical intake and pregnancy testing when appropriate.
