Well Woman Exams Specialist
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Daniel Esteves, MD
Obstetrician & Gynecologist located in Lawrenceville, GA
You can maintain optimal gynecological health by establishing a relationship with an expert like OB/GYN Daniel Esteves, MD. Annual well-woman exams can prevent serious reproductive and pelvic organ issues and keep you feeling as healthy as possible. If you’re a woman in Lawrenceville, Georgia, or the surrounding area, call his office or schedule online to make your appointment to maintain your health.
Well-Woman Exams Q&A
What is a well-woman exam?
A well-woman exam is an annual health checkup that includes:
- Pelvic exam
- Breast exam
- Pap smear
- HPV (human papillomavirus) screening
- Physical
The appointment gives Dr. Esteves a chance to update your health and social history, too.
Well-woman exams are an integral part of preventive care for women. Your visit gives Dr. Esteves a chance to identify possible abnormalities, such as fibroids or ovarian cysts, before they become symptomatic.
The exam is also a time for the doctor to ensure you’re up to date on important screenings, such as mammograms.
Who should have a well-woman exam?
Girls benefit from having their first well-woman exam around age 13-15. This first visit doesn’t usually involve a pelvic exam, but does give a girl the opportunity to ask questions about her sexuality, menstrual cycle, or irregular periods.
A general physical is usually part of this exam. Women should continue to have annual well-woman exams throughout their lifetimes, including up through and after menopause.
What types of issues are covered at a well-woman exam?
Dr. Esteves reviews your overall health history, discusses your menstrual cycle, and asks about irregular symptoms, such as pelvic pain or uncomfortable intercourse. If you have any worrisome or unusual symptoms, he may order specific screening tests or blood work.
If you’re sexually active, you can also bring up concerns about birth control and sexually transmitted diseases. Request testing for STDs, as this is not standard at well-woman exams. Testing is recommended if you’re not in a mutually monogamous relationship.
What is a Pap smear?
A Pap smear is a simple test administered to check your cervix for suspicious cells that may turn into cancer. A “positive” Pap smear is not a diagnosis of cancer, but means there are abnormal cells that may warrant further evaluation.
The Pap test is a regular part of your well-woman exam. The doctor uses a swab to collect a small sample of cells from your cervix. The procedure causes a little pressure, but isn’t painful.
The cells are then sent to a laboratory for evaluation. Women should have their first Pap smear by age 21 and then get on a regular schedule afterward.
To schedule your well-woman exam and proactively care for your health, call the office or book online today.
