annual well woman visit :: Article CreatorWell-Woman Exam
What Is a Well-Woman Exam?
A well-woman exam—also known as a women's wellness exam—is a routine checkup with a women's health provider. It's an opportunity to check your overall health and discuss your health risks, especially risks related to being a woman.
Your provider gives you personalized guidance on how to improve your wellness. They also perform a pelvic exam, breast exam, and Pap smear and may recommend vaccinations or preventive screenings.
Is a Well-Woman Exam the Same as an Annual Physical?
Well-woman exams and annual physicals are similar, but they aren't the same. Your annual physical is usually with a primary care provider. This visit includes a checkup of your overall health and counseling on health improvements, just like a well-woman exam. But many primary care providers don't include pelvic exams, breast exams, or Pap smears in annual physicals.
What to Expect at a Women's Wellness Exam
During your appointment, a nurse or a medical assistant will take your vital signs:
They'll also record your height and weight and ask if you have any specific concerns you'd like to discuss with your provider. When your provider comes into the room, they'll review your health chart and ask questions related to your well-being, health risks, and age:
Do you smoke or drink alcohol? How often?
Do you take birth control? Would you like to discuss birth control options?
Have you experienced any menopausal symptoms? Do these symptoms bother you?
What are your diet and exercise habits?
When was your last menstrual period? Do you have regular menstrual cycles?
When was your last Pap smear, colonoscopy, or mammogram?
Would you like any screenings for sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?
Based on your answers, your provider will discuss your health risks and their recommendations with you. They may order blood work, recommend preventive screenings, or advise getting certain vaccines, based on your individual needs.
Well-Woman Exam vs. Pap Smear
A Pap smear, the test that screens for signs of cervical cancer, may be part of your well-woman exam. But it's not the only reason to get a well-woman exam. The well-woman visit is also an opportunity to check and discuss your overall health and risks.
Most women need Pap smears every 3-5 years, depending on their health risks. Your provider will let you know whether you need a Pap smear during your well-woman visit.
What Happens During a Pelvic and Breast Exam?
Your provider will also offer a breast and pelvic exam during your well-woman visit. Your provider will explain the benefits of both exams and talk you through what happens during each.
You'll lie flat on your back while your provider feels your breast tissue and lymph nodes with the pads of their fingers. They'll check for symptoms that warrant a closer look:
They'll also explain how to perform a self-exam at home to notice any signs of changes in your breasts.
You'll lie on an exam table and place your feet in footrests at the end of the table. Your provider will wear gloves and use their finger to feel the inside of your vagina up to your cervix. They'll press gently on your abdomen with the other hand so that they can feel your internal reproductive organs, including your ovaries and uterus. If you have a Pap smear, your provider will insert an instrument called a speculum into your vagina, then take a small cell sample from your cervix.
Be honest with your provider if you've had uncomfortable or frustrating experiences at past medical visits. Your provider may be able to offer other approaches that make the experience more comfortable for you, such as helping you with breathing exercises or showing you how to insert the speculum yourself.
Conscious Sedation for Gynecologic Procedure Pain Management
The Gynecology Conscious Sedation Clinic is an outpatient clinic that offers pain control for patients during common gynecological procedures. Conscious sedation means you remain awake during the procedure unlike general anesthesia which puts you to sleep. You will receive medications through an intravenous (IV) in your arm to help you relax and relieve any pain or discomfort.
How to Prepare for a Women's Health Exam Women's Wellness Exam Checklist
Take some time to consider what questions you have for your provider and what you hope to get out of the visit. Noting your health goals and questions ahead of time sets you up for a more successful appointment.
Your provider's office may ask you to fill out your family and personal health history online before your appointment. Or you may fill it out at your appointment. On the day of your visit, make sure you bring your photo identification and insurance card.
Compiling your family health history is one of the most important ways to prepare for your women's health exam. Knowing your family history helps your provider give you a more accurate estimate of your risk of certain diseases. You'll want to find out the following:
If you have relatives who have had chronic diseases such as heart disease or diabetes
If you have relatives who have had cancer
The age when those relatives received the diagnosis
It's also important to share your personal health history with your provider:
Any surgeries or major injuries
Past and current diagnoses
Medications you take regularly, including over-the-counter medicines and supplements
Date of your last blood tests and the results
Who Needs a Well-Woman Exam?
All women should get a well-woman exam every year starting at age 21. It's important to get regular Pap smears to screen for cervical cancer, even if you're not sexually active. Women who have had hysterectomies still need well-woman exams to discuss health risks and preventive screenings.
Most insurance plans cover one routine checkup per year. Your well-woman exam counts as this routine checkup. However, if you've already had an annual physical with a primary care provider, you may need to pay a copay for a well-woman exam. Our team can help you understand your insurance coverage and costs before your appointment.
Why Choose University of Utah Health?
You don't need a referral for a well-woman exam. Call 801-213-2995 to schedule an appointment. Hear From Our Specialists 5 Breastfeeding Tips for New Moms
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Taking Charge Of Your Sexual Health: Safe Sex, Birth Control, And Annual Preventative Visits
Access to clear and accurate information about safe sex, birth control, and reproductive health is essential for maintaining overall well-being. A great starting point for discussing these topics with your provider is your annual Preventative Visit—a key opportunity to take charge of your sexual health.
What Is an Annual Preventative Visit?
An Annual Preventative Visit, often called a Well-Woman Visit, is a routine check-up focused on preventative care, reproductive health, and overall wellness. During this visit, your healthcare provider may:
Perform a physical exam, including breast and pelvic exams when needed. Discuss your menstrual health, sexual activity, and any concerns you may have. Screen for conditions such as cervical cancer (Pap smear, HPV screen), sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and other health issues. Provide guidance on contraception, safe sex practices, and family planning. This visit is a perfect time to ask questions about birth control options and discuss ways to protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Your provider can help you choose the best contraception based on your lifestyle, health needs, and future pregnancy plans.
Understanding Safe Sex
Safe sex practices help reduce the risk of STIs and unintended pregnancies. While abstinence is the only method that eliminates these risks entirely, there are several ways to make sexual activity safer:
Use Condoms Correctly and Consistently: Male and female condoms provide strong protection against STIs and pregnancy when used properly.
Get Regular STI Testing: Both you and your partner should consider routine screenings, especially before starting a new sexual relationship.
Limit the Number of Sexual Partners: Having fewer partners can reduce your risk of exposure to infections.
Communicate Openly: Discuss sexual history, STI status, and birth control methods with your partner to ensure safety and mutual understanding.
Exploring Birth Control Options
Choosing the right birth control method depends on factors like health, convenience, and long-term reproductive goals. Here are some common options:
Hormonal Methods
Birth Control Pills – Taken daily, these prevent ovulation and regulate menstrual cycles. Patches & Vaginal Rings – Deliver hormones through the skin or vaginal lining; replaced weekly or monthly. Injections – Administered every three months for ongoing pregnancy prevention. Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARCs)
Intrauterine Devices (IUDs) – Small T-shaped devices inserted into the uterus that can last between 3 and 10 years. Implants – Tiny rods placed under the skin of the arm, preventing pregnancy for up to 5 years. Barrier Methods
Condoms – The only method that protects against both STIs and pregnancy. Diaphragms & Cervical Caps – Inserted into the vagina to block sperm from reaching the egg. Permanent Methods
Tubal Ligation – A surgical procedure that blocks the fallopian tubes. Vasectomy – A procedure for men that prevents sperm from entering semen. Emergency Contraception
Morning-After Pill – Can be taken within 72 hours after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy. Copper IUD – Inserted up to five days after unprotected sex as emergency contraception. Your sexual health is a vital part of your overall well-being. Annual Preventative Visits help you stay informed, protected, and empowered to make the best choices for your health and future.
Dana Field, WHNP is a women's health nurse practitioner with Barton Obstetrics & Gynecology, providing a wide range of gynecological, obstetrical and family planning services at offices in South Lake Tahoe, CA and Minden, NV. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 530.543.5711 or visit BartonHealth.Org.
The Well Woman Show
August 13, 2024
August 13, 2024 • Hello Well Women! On the show today, I interview Genevieve Chavez Mitchell, local activist, global citizen, conscious investor, spiritual seeker and author of Sacred Money: The Power of Heart-Centered Finance. Genevieve's background includes business and non-profit consulting, natural health care, and portfolio management. She is a proud mother and grandmother to her four sons and her four grandchildren. She co-authored the book Prayers to the Goddess: A Moon Cycle Devotion, with Anne Key. Genevieve is committed to a just, thriving, kind, regenerative Earth community. She lives in Albuquerque, New Mexico. We discuss: Changing Your Money Story A Paradigm Shift From Me More Mine to Us We and the Earth Practical Tips to use your Money for a Better World Conscious consumerism And much more And happening next month, 100 Women Albuquerque will be meeting August 21st at 5:30pm in Albuquerque to amplify our impact and assist under-supported organizations. Come be inspired by the collective power of women. Join us to meet like-minded women committed to making a difference. Members can nominate local nonprofits and, promote a business or event during our meeting – I'll be there facilitating the community sharing portion of the event and I'd love to see you there! Head over to 100WomenABQ.Org for all the info and links. I recently had the privilege of attending the White House Southwest Regional Business Briefing, where we heard directly from Biden-Harris Administration officials about the ongoing efforts to bolster our local economies through entrepreneurship and small business ownership. The discussions were rich with insights and resources aimed at supporting businesses, especially those committed to creating family-friendly workplaces. At Family Friendly NM, our mission is to support businesses in thriving by fostering environments where families can flourish. We believe that when businesses adopt family-friendly policies, they not only enhance the well-being of their employees but also drive productivity, loyalty, and overall success. The White House briefing reaffirmed the importance of our mission and provided valuable resources to help us continue this crucial work. At Family Friendly NM, we recognize that implementing family-friendly policies is a key driver of business success. Policies such as flexible working hours, paid family leave, and on-site or near site childcare not only support employees in balancing work and family life but also enhance employee satisfaction and retention. During the briefing, I had the opportunity to ask two critical questions that are close to our hearts at Family Friendly NM: Childcare for Small Business Owners and Entrepreneurs: I inquired about the availability and support for childcare solutions tailored to the unique needs of small business owners and entrepreneurs. The response was encouraging, highlighting that the SBA recognizes the importance of accessible childcare and is working to include this in their support programs. They emphasized that integrating childcare support is crucial for enabling entrepreneurs to focus on growing their businesses without sacrificing their families' needs. Family-Friendly Workplaces as a Strategy for Business Development: I also asked how the SBA is positioning family-friendly workplaces as a key strategy for supporting business development. While the SBA is doing incredible work in supporting small businesses, they have not yet fully integrated the messaging about the critical role family-friendly workplaces play in business development. This is where Family Friendly NM steps in. We will continue to be the voice advocating for the integration of family-friendly policies as a core business strategy, ensuring that the needs of both businesses and families are met.The White House briefing highlighted several policy priorities and resources that align perfectly with our goals at Family Friendly NM. Here are some of the key takeaways: Investing in America Agenda: This initiative focuses on strengthening local economies through investments in infrastructure, clean energy, and small business support. For businesses in New Mexico, there are specific state fact sheets available that outline opportunities for local entrepreneurs and small business owners. Small Business Administration (SBA) Resources: The SBA offers a wealth of resources designed to support small businesses. These include: Digital Investing in America Small Business Hub: This hub provides detailed information on accessing grants, contracts, and other opportunities. It also includes free guides and examples of small businesses that have successfully secured funding. Capital Access: SBA's lending resources are invaluable for businesses looking to grow. Programs like the Lender Match Program can help businesses find competitive funding opportunities. Government Contracting and Business Development: SBA programs aim to help small businesses win federal contracts, which can be a significant boost for growth and stability. Entrepreneurial Development: Access to training and counseling is crucial for business success. The SBA's network includes Small Business Development Centers, SCORE, and the Association of Women's Business Centers, all offering support tailored to the needs of small businesses. Disaster Recovery & Resilience: The SBA's Office of Disaster Recovery & Resilience provides essential support to businesses affected by disasters, helping them recover and build resilience against future challenges.I'm grateful for the continued partnership with the White House and the SBA as we work towards creating more family-friendly workplaces across New Mexico and beyond. I encourage all business owners and leaders to explore the resources available and to consider how family-friendly policies can contribute to a thriving, resilient business environment. Read more at https://nmfamilyfriendlybusiness.Org/building-a-thriving-family-friendly-workplace/ The Well Woman Show is thankful for support from Collective Action Strategies – a consulting firm that supports systemic change so that women and families thrive, and by the Well Woman Life Movement Challenge Quiz at These two questions could change your life! – Well Woman Life
336: Heal the Divide Between Your Money and Your Sacred Self, While Creating a Just and Su...
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