The Importance of Yearly Exams

Find out why you should be visiting our office once a year for care.

We know that everyone leads busy lives, and it can be difficult to find time in your schedule to book your next annual exam. But OB/GYN exams are a vital part of keeping you and your body healthy. From the office of Women's Medical Center in Dothan, AL, find out why you should never skip out on your yearly gynecological exam.

During an annual exam, there are several things we will address, including a breast examination, a pelvic exam and possibly a Pap smear. These assessments are a great way to screen you for any health problems right away, so if your Dothan gynecologist does detect an issue, it can be treated immediately. Early detection is key to effectively treating serious conditions like breast, cervical and ovarian cancers. These visits are also a great time for us to sit down with you and discuss your health risks and lifestyle.

These examinations are important for women of all ages. Whether its questions regarding sexually transmitted infections or about menopause symptoms, we are here to address all of your individualized health needs.

The Pelvic Examination

This is an essential part of these annual comprehensive exams, particularly if you are experiencing any pelvic, urologic or genital problems. These exams should be performed once a year starting at 21 years old, but are rarely required during the first visit. A regular gynecological exam should start around the age of 15. This is an important time in any young woman’s life and it gives them the opportunity to talk to us about menstruation, birth control or other health concerns they may have.

Breast Examination

For patients between the ages of 35 to 40, a mammogram screening is highly recommended. We can also talk to you about how to properly perform self-breast exams. Particularly if you have a family history of breast cancer, it’s important that you get annual mammograms.

You can be proactive in your reproductive health by keeping up with these routine gynecological visits. If it’s time to schedule your next annual appointment, then it’s time you turn to an OB/GYN team you can trust. Call the Women’s Medical Center in Dothan, AL.