What are annual exams?
Annual exams are an important part of keeping up on your health as you age. Even if you have no symptoms and seem perfectly healthy, an annual exam is an opportunity for you to ask Susan any questions that have come up regarding your health and to make sure that your body is functioning properly.
For women, getting an annual gynecology exam is important starting at age 21. As a woman, you’re prone to many unique diseases and conditions. Susan screens you for certain conditions like breast cancer as well as ovarian cancer and discusses topics like pregnancy and menopause that affect your sexual health.
Why is it important to get annual exams?
Having an annual exam allows you to become more aware of what’s going on in your body. There are many benefits of getting both regular annual exams and gynecology exams, including:
- Forming a relationship with your provider
- Diagnosing diseases early and beginning treatment for them
- Getting advice about your lifestyle
- Asking health-related questions
Many patients who live with chronic conditions may have no idea that anything is wrong for a long time. Diagnosing conditions before symptoms occur during an annual exam gives you a better chance of recovery or easier management of your disease/condition.
What happens during female annual exams?
Susan starts by asking questions about your medical history and any big changes that have occurred in your life since your last exam. Then, she takes your vitals (e.g. heart rate, blood pressure) and examines you physically.
Women’s exams include these components as necessary:
- Pelvic exam
- Pap smear
- Breast exam
- HPV and STD screening
- Screenings for breast cancer, cervical cancer, and ovarian cancer
- Menopause management
- Family planning and contraception
If you’re experiencing any symptoms at the time of your exam or if Susan detects abnormalities in your vitals or other tests, she may recommend having other more specific tests and screenings.
Annual exams are an essential part of staying healthy and keeping in touch with your provider. To book your annual exam at Rejuvenicity, simply call the office during business hours or book an appointment online at any time.
