The first part of the exam involves obtaining your interval medical history. What has happened to you medically since you were last seen? Have you had any illnesses? Have you developed any allergies to foods or medications? Have you undergone any surgeries or medical procedures? Do you have specific questions that you would like answered? These are some of the things that will be explored to better understand your current medical condition.

Blood pressure and weight are measured and a pelvic exam and breast exam are performed. With the pelvic exam a pap smear is taken from your cervix to help detect and prevent cervical cancer. Your pelvic organs are palpated to detect any changes in your uterus or ovaries. In many patients a rectal exam is performed to detect and prevent colon and rectal cancer. The stool is tested for microscopic evidence of blood which can also help us detect colon cancer. This test is called a hemoccult test. Other organ systems are examined depending on individual circumstances. If you have an area of concern, just let the doctor know.

For many patients a bone scan is performed if indicated in an effort to detect and prevent osteoporosis (thinning of the bones) which is very common in women and increases in prevalence with age. A pelvic ultrasound can also be used to image the organs in the pelvis and abdomen and detect abnormalities with greater accuracy such as fibroid changes in the uterus (which can cause bleeding and pain) or ovarian cysts or ovarian cancer. If you have a family history of cancer be sure to tell the doctor so appropriate testing can be performed while you are here for your annual exam. Mammograms are recommended to all women depending on their age and family history as the best means of preventing breast cancer. If indicated blood testing, such as blood cholesterol levels, hormone levels or metabolic screening can be done if indicated at the time of your annual exam.

After all of this information is obtained areas of concern or improvement are discussed with the doctor in detail and all questions are answered. Prescriptions are given if needed and referrals to other healthcare professionals can be made to address specific problems which have come up in your case.

We are committed to keeping you healthy for the long haul. We look forward to seeing you for your next annual women's health exam. Call today for your appointment. Your health is your most valuable possession.