Well Woman Exam Specialist

What is a well woman exam?

Women’s health needs can differ substantially from those of men, and those needs can change dramatically as we get older. Plus, women can experience serious medical issues like heart disease in different ways, which means it’s much easier for a doctor who doesn’t have training in women’s health issues to miss a diagnosis or provide an incorrect diagnosis, delaying critical treatment. Well woman exams are focused on the unique needs of women at every stage of their lives, from puberty all the way through the menopause years and beyond. A doctor trained in women’s health issues is skilled at identifying diseases and other conditions in their early stages and in providing the most appropriate treatment to help ensure superior outcomes. Well woman exams are also important in helping prevent health issues that arise in women and teaching stress management skills since stress affects all of us and plays a large role in our health and quality of life. Prevention ranges from dietary counseling, planning obtainable exercise plans, ensuring good sleep habits and learning stress management. Dr. Karen Taylor’s individualized practice allows you the one on one time with the doctor to go over these very important issues that busier practices do not have the time to discuss.

What happens during a well woman exam?

Well woman visits begin with a complete medical history and a review of any current symptoms or concerns. This includes a review of lifestyle habits and emphasis on prevention followed by measurements of height, weight and blood pressure. Dr. Taylor will do a complete exam encompassing all body systems, with special attention paid to the unique symptoms women can experience as a result of underlying diseases. Additional “women-centric” evaluations are also generally performed, including a clinical breast exam to look for early signs of breast cancer as well as a pelvic exam with a PAP test and/or HPV screening. Personalized guidance regarding fertility, birth control, STD testing and prevention, menopausal management, screening for osteoporosis and other issues will also be provided based on the patient’s age, lifestyle factors, risks, and concerns. Finally, additional medical screenings or lab tests may be prescribed to help women stay as healthy as possible.

How often should I have a well woman exam?

Ideally, patients should have well woman exams once each year to help them get the care they need for medical issues in their earliest stages. Annual well woman visits also help ensure women receive the health screenings they need so they can prevent serious medical issues as they get older.