Annual gynecological exams are important for women who are sexually active or over the age of 18 because of diagnostic and preventative benefits.
It is best not to douche, use tampons, or have vaginal intercourse for 24 hours prior to your exam. Shower or bathe the day of your exam.
Please list all of the medications you are presently taking on your history form; this includes prescription medication as well as over-the-counter medications.
Please think of any questions you may have and feel free to discuss these questions with your nurse practitioner prior, during, or after your exam.
You will be asked to fill out a health history report before your exam that will include: Past and Present Medical History, Menstrual cycle History, Sexual History, Birth Control History, and Pregnancy History.
Routine lab work will be done. This includes recording your height, weight, and blood pressure. A urine test may also be done if there are symptoms of urinary tract infection or pregnancy symptoms (abdominal pain, missed or late menses, etc.). If you are sexually active, a test for Chlamydia and Gonorrhea will be done, unless declined. Lastly, a Pap Smear will be performed. This is a screening test for cervical cancer. It is not a final diagnoses – only a screening test.
Additional tests may be done if needed. You may elect to have a Sexually Transmitted Disease screening done that includes screening for Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, HIV, Herpes, Syphilis, and Trichomonas.
During your routine gynecological exam, your thyroid will be examined and your breasts will be examined for any lumps or other unusual findings. During the pelvic exam, you will lie on an exam table with your knees up and your feet in stirrups. First your vaginal area will be checked for signs of infection, growths, or sores. Next, a speculum is inserted to look at the inside of the vagina and the lower part of the uterus (the cervix). Cells are collected from the cervix for a Pap Smear. After the Pap Smear, your nurse practitioner will insert two fingers into your vagina while placing the other hand on your abdomen. This is done to examine your cervix, uterus, and ovaries. A rectal exam may be done if necessary, but usually is deferred.
Depending on the labs done, you may be scheduled for a follow-up appointment. You will receive a Know Now Hotline card from ProPath to get your Pap Smear results. If a birth control method is selected you will be provided a prescription with refills.