Visiting a women’s health care clinic for the first time can be daunting if you don’t know what to expect. Gynecological wellness exams focus exclusively on reproductive health to check for abnormalities that can become cancerous or cause other issues. Take a moment to learn what these exams entail so you’re prepared for your visit. 

What’s Included in a Women’s Health Care Exam?

1. Breast Exam

A breast exam is a brief part of your overall well-visit. You will undress from the waist up and will lie on the table with your arms above your head. Your gynecologist will manually palpate your breasts, checking for any abnormal lumps or discharge. They will also monitor any changes to the size, symmetry, or shape of the breasts, as well as skin changes such as rashes or dimpling. 

2. Pelvic Exam

This part of the checkup examines your vulva, vagina, uterus, cervix, and ovaries for abnormalities. You’ll undress and put on a hospital gown, then lie on your back with your feet in stirrups The doctor will look at your vulva, checking for signs of irritation, swelling, or redness. They’ll also palpate your abdomen and pelvis with one hand, and stick two gloved fingers into your vagina with the other, to check the size and shape of your uterus and ovaries. While a pelvic exam might be uncomfortable, it shouldn’t be painful. 

3. Pap Smear

A pap smear is often performed during your pelvic exam. Your gynecologist will insert a plastic or metal speculum into your vagina. You may feel some pressure when this occurs, but it shouldn’t cause any pain. This tool provides a view of the cervix so the women’s health care professional can take a sample of your cervical cells with a swab. The sample gets sent to a lab to check for cancerous cells and those that can become cancerous.

4. STD Screening

STD screenings come in numerous forms depending on what you’re being tested for. Infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, for example, involve urine tests, while HIV tests need either blood or cheek cell samples. HPV tests require cervical cell samples that can be taken during pap tests.

5. Mammogram Scheduling

If you’re over the age of 40, your doctor will recommend scheduling an appointment for a mammogram. Your gynecologist will discuss the exam with you once you’re dressed and schedule a date for your return visit. Mammograms are x-ray procedures that check for breast cancer.

If you’re looking for quality OB-GYN care in the Mountain Home, AR area, make an appointment with The Center For Women. Serving the Ozarks and Twin Lakes areas, the gynecology specialists at this premier women’s health care center offer nearly 20 years of experience and provide same-day or next-day appointments for emergency issues. Call (870) 425-7300 today to schedule your appointment or visit the women’s health care clinic online for more service information. For more wellness tips, like the center on Facebook.