A woman’s health exam, also called a well-woman exam, focuses on reproductive health. There are two components always included: the pelvic exam and the breast exam. 

Pelvic exam

• During a pelvic exam, your care provider performs a visual check as well as gently palpating the area to check for potential issues. If you need cervical cancer screening, your care provider performs a Pap test or an HPV test by collecting a small cell sample from your cervix (opening to the uterus) during this exam. You might not need a Pap or HPV test every year. Your Concierge Medicine and Wellness provider recommends a screening frequency based on your health, risk level, and age.

Breast exam

• In your breast exam, your care provider gently palpates your breast tissue to check for lumps or other tissue irregularities. A breast exam doesn’t replace a mammogram, because the mammogram captures images the tissue deep within your breasts. If you need a mammogram (usually starting at around age 45-50, depending on circumstances), your provider arranges the test for you.

• All women need both breast and pelvic exams, regardless of age. But, at some point, you might be able to discontinue certain tests like Pap tests after age 65-70 if your doctor recommends it. In some cases, your women’s health exam might be combined with your comprehensive annual physical.

What kinds of tests will I have during my women’s health exam?

• Your women’s health exam also includes blood, urine, or other tests as needed based on your health, lifestyle, and risk factors. Some of the many tests that you might have during a women's health exam can include:

  • Bone density testing

  • Colorectal cancer screening

  • Diabetes screening

  • Blood pressure screening

  • Cholesterol testing

  • Sexually transmitted disease testing

• You might not need some of these exams if you’ve recently had a comprehensive physical exam. As your primary care physician, your Concierge Medicine and Wellness care provider knows your history well and can determine exactly which tests you need. 

Can I get new birth control during my women’s health exam?

• Absolutely. Just discuss your family planning needs with your Concierge Medicine and Wellness care provider to determine the best option. If you want to make a change, whether it’s the pill, an intrauterine device (IUD), a birth control implant, or some other option, the team is here to support you at all times.

• Like all other exams at Concierge Medicine and Wellness, women’s health exams are personalized for each patient. Use online booking, or call the office to get the best in personalized concierge care now.