Why is a wellness visit important?
Austin Springs Women's Health recommends you have a well-woman exam at least once a year. This visit helps monitor your overall health and identify any changes or developing conditions early, while they’re most treatable.
Annual exams are also the ideal time to share your concerns or ask questions about your family planning goals, physical symptoms, or concerns about your emotional or sexual health.
With regular visits with your Austin Springs Women's Health provider, you have the opportunity to build a trusting relationship with your physician.
It is also important that you take proper care of your overall health and well-being through yearly checkups at a place you feel comfortable. At Austin Springs Women's Health, South Austin OB/GYN, the team strives to make the office a relaxed environment that helps put you at ease during your appointments.
What can I expect during a wellness visit?
During your well woman appointment, your provider performs a pelvic exam to identify any abnormalities in your internal reproductive organs. Pelvic exams are typically fast and painless. You also undergo a breast exam to check for lumps or other irregularities.
Your provider often performs a Pap smear as part of your annual exam. Austin Springs Women's Health provides the most up to date Pap smears to ensure accurate testing and results.
This test checks for abnormal cervical cells that indicate changes that may lead to cancer. Early detection of precancerous cells is important for the most effective treatment.
Other screenings are available, including testing for sexually-transmitted diseases. You may also receive certain immunizations, depending on your specific health needs.
The team also offers birth control options, such as IUDs and Nexplanon®, as well as family planning services. Other tests they offer include breast cancer screening, ultrasounds, genetic testing using Invitae, as well as tobacco and alcohol counseling.
Do I still need a well woman exam after menopause?
When you reach menopause and your periods stop for good, it’s still important that you come in for an annual wellness checkup.
Postmenopausal women are at increased risk for developing serious health conditions, including osteoporosis and heart disease. With early detection, these conditions can be successfully treated.
As part of your well woman exam after menopause, you have the opportunity to ask your provider questions about changes in your body as you age.
Issues including lack of sexual desire, painful sex, and vaginal dryness can be a challenge and she is available to address these important issues personally.
To learn more about the benefits of a wellness visit, schedule an appointment online or by phone.
