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The Gift of Health: Why a Well-Woman Exam Should Be on Your Holiday To-Do List
A yearly well-woman exam helps ensure you remain in tiptop shape. It’s recommended for women of all ages, from their teens to menopause, giving you the chance to discuss any female health concerns in a safe and confidential environment.
OB/GYN Dr. Dean Hildahl and our compassionate team provide well-woman exams and more at North Naples Gynecology and Obstetrics in Naples, Florida.
What happens during your well-woman exam?
Dr. Hildahl first takes a thorough medical and gynecologic history. He also discusses your reproductive plans and contraceptive methods, as needed.
The doctor then performs an exam based on your age group and needs. It may include:
General physical
Our team checks your height, weight, and blood pressure. The doctor feels your abdomen for any unusual changes to your uterus, liver, or spleen, and examines your heart and lungs. He also reviews your immunizations and any medications and supplements you take.
Dr. Hildahl discusses any current symptoms, such as:
- Sleep issues
- Ongoing fatigue
- Painful periods
- Unusual weight gain or loss
- PMS symptoms
- Hot flashes
Pap smear
We sample cells from your cervix to check for pre-cancer or cancer.
Pelvic exam
The doctor inserts a speculum gently into your vagina to view your cervix and other reproductive organs and perform a Pap test, as needed.
Breast exam
This check includes a visual inspection to look for dimpling, discharge, redness, or changes in size and shape, plus gentle palpation to feel for lumps or thickening.
HPV test
Planned Parenthood recommends testing for human papillomavirus (HPV) every five years for patients ages 25-65. HPV is generally harmless, but it can lead to cancer if untreated.
We also test for other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) as needed.
Different tests for different stages
As women age, different issues take precedence. For those in their 20s and 30s, it may be reproductive concerns, while menopausal women might focus on osteoporosis and/or hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
In general, it’s considered optimal to begin screening for:
- Cervical cancer at age 21
- Breast cancer during your 40s or 50s
- Colon cancer in your 50s
For women nearing menopause, we may also suggest bone density screening for osteoporosis, which could increase the likelihood of breaking a hip or another bone.
HRT can protect against osteoporosis and relieve certain menopausal symptoms, such as night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood swings, and hot flashes.
During perimenopause, which occurs about a decade before menopause, your ovaries make less estrogen. Once you reach menopause, they virtually cease creating the reproductive hormones estrogen and progesterone.
Dr. Hildahl discusses the risks and benefits of HRT to help you make an informed decision.
Contraception questions
Your well-woman exam provides an opportunity to discuss any contraception concerns, such as the risks and benefits of oral contraceptives that rely upon hormones to prevent pregnancy.
We help you weigh the pros and cons of birth control pills versus barrier methods, such as condoms and diaphragms.
Healthy lifestyle recommendations
Dr. Hildahl also weighs in with lifestyle suggestions, including:
- The best diet for weight management or other health issues
- Benefits of regular exercise
- Solutions to sleep problems
- Stress management through meditation and other means
We also show you how to perform a breast exam at home to check for lumps or swelling. If anything feels out of the ordinary, contact us for further instructions.
The gift that keeps on giving
There’s nothing more important than looking after your health. A yearly well-woman exam establishes a baseline to help us recognize problems earlier, when they’re more easily resolved.
To schedule a well-woman exam or other consultation, contact North Naples Gynecology and Obstetrics by phone or online today.
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