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How Often Should A Woman Have A Well-Woman Exam?

How Often Should A Woman Have A Well-Woman Exam?

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Vida Medical Clinic believes that every woman deserves quality health care from a knowledgeable and compassionate provider.

It’s generally recommended for women to have a well-woman exam annually to monitor their health. Contact us to schedule your no-cost Well Woman Exam today.

 

What is a Well Woman Exam?

At Vida Medical Clinic, a well-woman exam includes:

  • Pap Testing if needed
  • A Pelvic Exam
  • A Breast Exam
  • Discussion/education on STD prevention
  • Family planning counseling

 

What is a Pap Test?

A pap test or a pap smear provides screening for cervical cancer and HPV (Human Papillomavirus), both of which can be deadly. A small sample is taken from the cervix and sent to the lad for testing.

 

What Makes up a Pelvic Exam?

A pelvic exam is a screening of the female organs–including the uterus, cervix, vagina, ovaries, urethra, and rectum. The uterus and ovaries are felt externally and are not visualized during the exam. 

Women should begin getting pap exams by the age of 21. Individuals may need one earlier in case of a family history of cancer, if they are sexually active, if they have an STI, or if they are pregnant.

 

How About A Breast Exam?

Breast Exams can take three forms:

  1. Health providers can teach women how to do a self-exam, which can be carried out on a regular basis.
  2. Clinical breast exams are usually part of a yearly physical and are performed by medical professionals.
  3. Mammograms are x-rays of the breast that are usually done in specialized clinics or at the hospital radiology department.

  

How Often Should These Tests Be Done On Women With No Health Issues?

It is recommended that women have Pap tests based on current guidelines. Most women will have a pap screening starting at the age of 21 occurring every 3 years until the age of 29. Once the patient turns 30, cervical cancer screening will also include HPV testing and will occur every 5 years. Timing may be changed based on results of the pap tests and will be discussed with each patient. Pelvic and breast exams should be performed yearly.

 

Vida Medical Clinic Provides Well-Women Exams at No Cost!

Vida cares about providing quality exams for women while they are still healthy, so they can stay healthy.

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