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If you’re a woman between the ages of 18 and 44, scheduling your annual check-up should be on the top of your to-do list, said Prowers Medical Center Family Nurse Practitioner Kelli Bitner. Why?
“It’s important for female patients to have an annual wellness exam to identify health issues that may not have surfaced yet,” she said, “rather than waiting to seek medical care after a problem has already progressed.”
A well-woman visit is a general physical exam with a few essential extras. It also includes a breast and pelvic exam and a one-on-one conversation with your medical provider about all aspects of your health. At Prowers Medical Center, patients can see an OB/GYN or their family-care provider for their well-woman check-up.
Here are the key reasons to get your well-woman exam scheduled:
Basic health problems can be caught early.
At your well-woman exam, your provider will look closely at basic health indicators such as blood pressure, cholesterol and weight. They’ll check your eyes and teeth. They’ll also scan your body for abnormal lumps, moles and more. If you’ve been having any unusual or irritating symptoms, you’ll get a chance to discuss them.
You and your provider will get to know each other.
Forming and maintaining a positive relationship with your primary-care provider will help you stay on top of your health and prevent problems from forming. And if health issues do arise, your provider will be your point person, helping you navigate any specialized care you may need.
You’ll stay more in control of your reproductive health.
Your well-woman exam helps you stay in the driver’s seat when it comes to your reproductive health. Preventing or catching sexually transmitted infections early is one example. Another is birthcontrol planning and management. Your provider will also screen you for breast and cervical cancers.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in American women. But here’s the good news: early detection is simple and saves lives.
• Women at average risk of breast cancer—> annual mammogram starting at age 40.
• Women at higher risk of breast cancer —>annual mammogram starting at age 30.
To schedule your mammogram at Prowers Medical Center Imaging, call 719-336-6762.
To schedule your mammogram at Prowers Medical Center Imaging, call 719-336-6762.
“Annual exams are where a large majority of breast, cervical and other cancers are identified through primary preventive screenings,” Bitner said. “These cancers often have a silent presentation and may be brewing without the patient’s knowledge. Early detection is the key.”
You’ll stay current on screenings and vaccinations.
Your well-woman exam is a time for your provider to get you caught up on any health screenings recommended for your age and unique risk factors. If you need a mammogram or Pap smear, it will be taken care of. Blood tests for diabetes may be recommended. And any vaccinations you might need—such as your annual flu shot—will be offered as well. With one appointment, you can complete many preventive tasks or at least get them scheduled.
Your overall wellness will be in focus.
Providers also use well-woman exams to assess your overall wellness. The importance of physical activity will be emphasized. Emotional health and relationship safety will also be discussed. Any issue affecting your well-being in any way is important to talk about.
“Our goal is to educate you about your body and health, customizing your care plan so you know what to watch for and what you may need to keep under surveillance more frequently than the average person,” Bitner said.
“Annual well-woman exams are an excellent way to take charge of your health,” Bitner concluded. “Providers may be able to identify a problem early in its course and pursue further evaluation. Annual exams also provide an opportunity for general education about healthy lifestyle practices, which can reduce risks of chronic conditions.”
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