Preventative & Wellness

Well Woman Exam

If you are looking for trusted physicians to perform your next well-woman exam, Moran & Haag-Rickert OBGYN, in Springfield has compassionate professionals who are experienced in women's health . 

A well-woman exam is a thorough health examination that every woman should get on a regular basis, typically once a year. It is an opportunity to get a checkup and important health screenings, like screening for breast and cervical cancer, without the risk of surgery and other invasive procedures. A well-woman exam usually includes a physical exam and tests for things like hormone levels and, in some cases, pregnancy. It often involves checking blood pressure and other vital signs, as well as a breast examination.

What is included in a well-woman exam?

A well-woman exam involves a series of tests and examinations, including a physical exam, Pap test, blood work, and STD screening. The exact components of the exam vary from woman to woman and are decided upon by her doctor; women can also request certain tests, such as a specific STD test or a pregnancy test. In general, well-woman exams include:

• Physical Screening: The physical screening includes measuring height and weight, checking blood pressure, recording the patient’s age, when their most recent menstrual period occurred, and discussing family history.

• Vaginal Exam & Pap Test: In certain situations, a Pap smear is performed to check for precancerous changes in the cells of the cervix. The vagina is held open using a speculum, allowing the physician to see the cervix.

• Breast Exam: Breast cancer is a common disease and can be detected early by receiving regular breast exams; the breasts are inspected for changes in skin texture and shape, as well as for lumps and nipple discharge.

• STD Screening: Typically offered only upon request, or based on the physician’s judgment after assessing the individual’s sexual activity, a well-woman exam can check for signs of common STDs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, HPV and herpes.

How often should you have a well-woman exam?

Most women have their first well-woman exam around the age of 18; patients over the age of 21 should receive a well-woman exam annually. These exams are recommended every year to detect any changes in the body that could indicate the development of disease, including cervical cancer and breast cancer. If a woman waits longer than a year between exams, early warning signs could avoid detection and develop from a small, easily treatable problem into a serious condition that requires more interventional treatments.