Our services
Annual well-woman exam
Overview
Your yearly check-up for reproductive health and overall wellbeing. Knowing what is going on inside your body is nearly impossible without regular visits to your doctor. At Minerva Women's Healthcare, our gynaecology team offers annual well-woman exams to assess your health with a physical exam and wellness lab testing. If you are due for your annual well-woman exam, call us or request your appointment online today.
At a glance
- An annual well-woman exam is a routine, comprehensive check-up focused on your reproductive health.
- It includes basic measurements, a breast exam, a pelvic exam and, when due, a Pap smear.
- It is also your chance to ask questions and learn how to look after your health at home.
- Finding problems early gives you the best chance of successful treatment.
- Little preparation is needed, but a few simple steps help you get the most from your visit.
What happens during the exam?
Your exam starts with the basics. We check your weight and blood pressure and ask about your general health, so your gynaecologist gets a complete picture of how your body is working. You then change into a loose-fitting gown, and your gynaecologist begins the physical exam.
Breast exam
Your gynaecologist manually checks your breasts for lumps and irregular tissue. If you are uncomfortable at any time, please tell us. When the exam is finished, we will teach you how to check your own breasts between annual visits. From age 40, you will also start having annual screening mammograms, or earlier if your doctor advises.
Pelvic exam
Your gynaecologist examines your reproductive organs, both outside and inside. You will be encouraged to relax your muscles. A speculum is used to gently open the vaginal canal while you lie on the exam table with your legs apart. Your gynaecologist views the cervix and, when it is due, collects a sample for your Pap smear. They then press gently on your abdomen to feel your organs and check for tenderness.
If your gynaecologist finds pelvic organ prolapse, they may check an existing pessary or fit one for you. A pessary is a device placed in the vagina to support the nearby organs.
Why is the annual exam important?
Attending your annual well-woman exam gives you an up-to-date picture of your health. You can ask your gynaecologist questions and learn skills to take care of yourself at home. If a problem is found, you can begin treatment as early as possible, which gives you the highest chance of recovery.
How to prepare
A well-woman exam is routine and needs little preparation. To help your appointment go smoothly, we recommend that you:
- Book your appointment between periods
- Avoid sexual intercourse for 24 hours before
- Avoid putting anything into your vagina for 24 hours before
- Write down any questions about your sexual health
- Bring a list of your current medications
- Remember the date of your last period
Taking these steps helps make your test results as accurate as possible, and your appointment quick and efficient.
Common questions
How often should I have a well-woman exam?
Once a year is the usual recommendation. Your gynaecologist may advise a different schedule for some tests, such as the Pap smear, based on your age and history.
Will the exam hurt?
Most women feel some pressure or mild discomfort, but it should not be painful. Tell us at any point if you are uncomfortable, and we will adjust or pause.
Do I still need an exam if I feel well?
Yes. Many conditions have no early symptoms, so regular exams are the best way to catch them early.
Can I raise other concerns during my visit?
Absolutely. Bring up anything on your mind, including periods, pain, contraception, menopause or sexual health.
Ready to book your annual well-woman exam?
Reserve your next visit with Minerva Women's Healthcare online or by calling our office. It takes about a minute, and no account is needed.
