WELLNESS EXAMS
​​
Wellness visits, also referred to as gynecological exams or well-woman exams, are essential for anyone with breasts, a uterus, a cervix, or a vulva. The wellness exam focuses on every aspect of you and your reproductive wellness. A well-woman exam typically includes three components: a pelvic exam, a pap smear, and a breast exam. These exams are crucial for detecting early signs of cancer or other health issues before they become more serious.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT DURING THE EXAM?
When you arrive for your wellness exam, the process will begin with a standard physical exam, which includes measuring your height and weight, checking your pulse, and taking your blood pressure. Next, you’ll be given a gown and asked to undress and put it on in the exam room.
​The clinician will enter the room and ask some questions about your history and concerns and will perform the pelvic exam, pap smear, and breast exam.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING A WELLNESS EXAM?
During a wellness exam, you will get some specific cancer-related examinations. The tests are performed depending on your age and medical history, but screening starts at age 21 for everyone, regardless of sexual history.​
-
Ages 21-29: Pap test
-
Ages 30-65: Pap test with HPV co-testing
-
Ages 25-39: Clinical breast exam every 1-3 years
-
Ages 40-75: Annual breast exam & biennial mammography
WHAT HAPPENS DURING A PAP TEST?
During the pap smear, the clinician will gently insert a lubricated speculum into your vaginal canal to examine the vagina and cervix. A swab will then be used to collect a sample from your cervix, which will be sent to a lab to check for signs of cervical cancer and to ensure your cervix is healthy.