It is almost time for your annual women’s wellness visit. What questions should you ask your OBGYN provider this year to ensure that you are healthy? No matter what stage of life you are in, Women's Clinic of Lincoln, P.C. provides the answers their patients need to lead the best quality of life. Explore the most important questions to ask at your annual wellness exam in the guide below.

Annual Visits: Questions to Ask Your OBGYN Provider

What Screenings Do I Need This Year? 

Depending on your age, personal background, and family history, your women’s health provider may recommend a different schedule. Some women, especially those over the age of 40, need a breast cancer screening annually, while a cervical cancer screening is completed every three to five years for women ages 21 to 65. 

What Symptoms Should I Call You About? 

After the annual visit, many women are unclear on what type of gynecological and pregnancy symptoms are normal and what signals trouble. Since your body is unique, it is important to ask your provider what types of symptoms or illnesses you should look for. In general, your gynecologist may have you watch out for pelvic pain, bleeding between periods, vaginal dryness, or pain while having intercourse. If you experience any symptoms that are abnormal for you, these changes should be discussed, too.

Can You Remind Me How to Do a Self Exam? 

Examining yourself monthly for breast lumps at home is one of the best ways to catch breast cancer early. If you do not remember how to perform a self-exam, ask your OBGYN provider, who can review with you during your checkup. 

What Are My Birth Control Options? 

If you are on birth control or would like to start, there are a variety of reliable contraceptive options available on the market today. Talk to your women’s healthcare provider about what type of birth control is right for you, and let them know if you would like to consider switching methods. Since your provider will likely renew your prescription at this time, your annual exam is the ideal time to talk about making a switch. 

How Can I Best Plan for a Baby? 

If you are planning to start your family, talk to your women’s health provider at your annual visit or schedule a pre-conceptual counseling appointment. You can discuss your current health status and your most recent lab results. It is also a great time to begin a vitamin regimen and explore fertility options. 

To make an appointment with a trusted, compassionate OBGYN provider, call Women's Clinic of Lincoln, P.C. in Lincoln, NE, at (402) 434-3370. For their full list of women’s health services, visit their website.