Why Women Need Annual GYN Exams

A gynecologic exam, also known as an annual pelvic exam, is a physical exam of the female reproductive system. Gynecologists will visually inspect the vagina and vulva for signs of infection, cancer, or sexually transmitted disease. In addition, they will check the patient’s uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes for masses or growths.

Why do women need GYN exams?

At Upgrade PDX, we recommend that every woman undergo annual gynecologic exams. These exams are an important way for women to stay healthy and prevent any medical problems.

Gynecologic exams help women stay healthy

During gynecologic exams, our team will perform screenings for a variety of medical issues. Early detection is key to preventing serious illnesses and diseases. Gynecologic exams can identify the following:

• Breast cancer
• Cervical cancer
• Ovarian cancer
• Uterine fibroids
• Uterine polyps
• Urinary tract infections
• Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
• Contraception needs
• Any abnormal bleeding
• Pelvic pain
• Abnormal discharge
• Endometriosis
• Menopause symptoms

Annual gynecologic exams allow women to get screened for the above conditions based on their age, family history, and risk factors for the above conditions. During your exam, we will take the time to talk with you about your family history and medical history. This helps us to diagnose any potential conditions at the earliest possible stage. Gynecologic exams allow women to catch any conditions early when treatment can be most effective.

How often should women have gynecologic exams?

Women should have their annual gynecologic exams every year. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends women ages 21 to 35 have a well-woman exam every year, and women ages 18 to 21 have a well-woman exam every two to three years.

What are the benefits of gynecologic exams?

Gynecologic exams are imperative to women’s health. A gynecologic doctor can provide routine tests to check for anything from cancer to high blood pressure. Gynecologic visits can also help women manage various conditions, such as diabetes, herpes, hormonal disorders, and sexually transmitted diseases.

What happens during gynecologic exams?

During a gynecologic exam, your doctor will check your reproductive organs and glands for lumps, abnormal growths, or any changes. Your doctor may also perform a simple pelvic exam to check your reproductive organs for abnormalities and to examine your cervix and uterus.

Your doctor will also check your breasts for any changes, such as the size, shape, or symmetry. Your doctor may examine your breasts while you are sitting or lying down. Your doctor may perform a breast exam along with your pelvic exam.

Even if you’re healthy, your body is constantly changing. This can mean that your gynecologic exam will seem different from year to year. That’s why annual exams are important. Your doctor can make sure that your body is healthy and catch any health issues early.

Why Women Need Annual Gynecologic Exams

An annual gynecologic exam is an opportunity for a woman to talk to her doctor about gynecologic concerns such as breast health, birth control, pregnancy, and menopause, as well as general health concerns.

During the visit, a woman can expect a physical exam, a Pap smear, and a pelvic exam. These exams are important because they help detect and diagnose health issues.

Conclusion

Annual gynecologic exams are particularly important for women. Menstruation and menopause are two things that women go through, and it’s helpful to have a doctor examine them in order to prevent any issues.

Women should also see their doctor for annual exams even if they don’t think they still need to do so. It’s never a bad idea to have a doctor check things out, and these yearly visits are important.

To schedule your consultation with us for gynecologic exams, call us at (971) 299-8530 or visit Upgrade PDX at 1210 NW Johnson St., Portland, OR 97209.