Why Do I Need a Women’s Health Exam?

There’s no denying it: Women’s bodies are more complex than men’s bodies. That’s in large part because of women’s reproductive systems. Women can develop several conditions that men cannot, such as cervical cancer. Additionally, women are at a greater risk for numerous conditions like autoimmune conditions, hormonal issues, and several others.

At Capital City Primary and Immediate Care, our Dr. Fernando Porter and his staff know that your women’s health exam is probably at the bottom of the list of things you want to do. But, we also know how important it is and want you to know, too! Sometimes knowing why something uncomfortable is necessary makes it easier to do.

The name doesn’t matter: the goal is the same

You may have heard it called a pelvic exam, or a well-woman exam, or some other name, but a women’s health exam is the same, regardless of what it’s called.

One of the important aspects of a women’s health exam is that it happens when you aren’t seeking treatment for some other illness. It gives Dr. Porter a baseline view of your health.

Most women have their first women’s health exam around the beginning of puberty, then annual visits thereafter. As you become sexually active, have symptoms, decide to start a family, or enter the various stages of life, the focus of your visits may change.

What to expect during your exam

No matter your age or stage of life, you can expect about the same thing during your women’s wellness exam. Usually your visit will begin with our staff recording your height, weight, and vital signs. By tracking your vital statistics our staff and Dr. Porter can spot trends in your health over time.

Seeing Dr. Porter annually gives you an opportunity to develop trust and a strong relationship. When patients and doctors have a good rapport, it’s easier for your doctor to spot variations or notice unusual variations that could indicate a problem.

The next part of your exam is most likely going to be a discussion of your health over the previous year. Changes in your life or changes in your living situation could be important.

Depending on your age and lifestyle, your women’s health exam may include information about vaccines or sexually transmitted diseases. For example, when his patients are around the age of 14, Dr. Porter may suggest the HPV vaccine.

Your stage of life guides your exam

Once you’re sexually active, your women’s health exam includes information about birth control, safe sex, family planning, and STD testing. If you want to become pregnant, we can offer advice on improving fertility and answer your questions if you have any.

If you don’t want to become pregnant, we can help you make decisions regarding birth control. For some women, permanent birth control is the best option.

Eventually, you may have questions about perimenopause or desire to discuss any symptoms you’re experiencing.

Your overall health

You’re more than your reproductive system, of course, and your women’s health exam includes aspects of your general health.

For example, Dr. Porter can advise you when it’s time to have various health screenings, such as a mammogram or colon cancer screening.

If you have questions about anything that you may encounter during your women’s health exam, feel free to call, and we’ll do our best to answer them. If it’s time for your women’s health exam, don’t put it off any longer. Call and make an appointment today.