Well-Woman Exam

A well-woman exam is your yearly check-up with your gynecologist. It is the visit where problems are found early, when they are easiest to treat, and where you can talk through anything on your mind without feeling rushed.

What the visit covers

Your physician tailors the visit to your age, your history and your concerns. It usually includes:

• A review of your medical, family and menstrual history and any new symptoms
• Blood pressure, weight and a general physical examination
• A breast examination
• A pelvic examination when it is indicated
• Cervical cancer screening with a Pap test, an HPV test or both when you are due
• Testing for sexually transmitted infections when appropriate
• A review of vaccinations, including the HPV vaccine

What you can talk about

This visit is also the right time to discuss:

• Birth control and plans for pregnancy
• Heavy, painful or irregular periods
• Sexual health and discomfort
• Perimenopause and menopause
• Bladder symptoms
• Bone health and mammogram timing
• Mood, sleep and stress

How often you need one

Most women benefit from a well-woman visit once a year, even in years when a Pap test is not due. Screening tests follow their own schedules: how often you need a Pap or HPV test depends on your age and previous results, and your physician will tell you when the next one is due.

How to prepare

Bring a list of your medications and any questions. If possible, schedule the visit for a time when you are not on your period. You do not need to do anything else to prepare.

Visiting Lenox OBGYN

Our office is at 203 East 62nd Street, New York, NY 10065, on Manhattan's Upper East Side. Most of our patients come to us from across the tri-state area, and many travel from other states and from abroad for their care. To make an appointment, use the booking button on this page or call 917-688-2624.

This page offers general information and is not medical advice. Your physician will advise you about your own situation.