Annual Gynecology Exams in Rockville and Germantown, MD
An important part of staying healthy is to have regular gynecological exams beginning at age 21, or within three years of becoming sexually active.
Preventive care includes:
- Health Discussions: Talk to our providers about age-appropriate health concerns, risk factors, and wellness goals.
- Screenings and Exams: Receive a full range of screenings, including Pap smears and breast exams.
- Immunizations: Stay up-to-date on vaccines like the flu shot or HPV vaccine.
What to Expect for Your Annual Gynecology Exams
In addition to checking your height, weight, and blood pressure, your doctor will ask you questions about your general health, menstrual period and sexual activities. During your exam, your doctor will perform the following exams and tests. If the doctor is male, a female nurse remains in the room during your exam.
Breast Exam
During your breast exam, your doctor will check your breasts for signs of any potential problems, such as a lump. He or she will examine each breast by moving his or her fingers around your breast in a pattern. You may also be shown how to perform monthly self-examinations.
Pelvic Exam
Pap Smear
A Pap smear checks for abnormal cells in the cervix that could lead to cancer. The doctor will insert a small cotton-tipped swab through the vagina into the cervix. Cells are removed from the cervix and sent to a laboratory to be checked for any abnormalities. The Pap smear is painless.
Well Woman Visits
These assessments should include screening, evaluation and counseling, and immunizations based on age and risk factors.
In Your 20s
- Schedule your first Pap test if you haven’t already.
- Discuss sexual health and screen for sexually transmitted infections if needed.
In Your 30s
- Plan for pregnancy by consulting with your gynecologist.
- Continue annual well-woman exams for preventive care.
In Your 40s
- Decide when to start mammograms, especially if you have a family history of breast cancer.
- Address perimenopause symptoms with tailored solutions.
In Your 50s
- Screen for lung cancer if you’re a current or former smoker.
- Schedule a colorectal cancer screening.
In Your 60s
- Continue regular mammograms and start osteoporosis screenings.
In Your 70s and Beyond
- Stay up to date on vaccinations, including flu, shingles, and pneumonia shots.
- Discuss fall prevention and address vision or hearing concerns.
