A well-woman exam is a specific type of checkup that is intended just for women. When you visit an OB/GYN for this exam, they will check different parts of your body to make sure everything is okay.
A well-woman exam helps your OB/GYN catch any health issues you might not know about and that makes it easier to treat potential issues before they become a bigger problem. For example, if your OB/GYN finds something questionable during the exam, they might prescribe you a certain medicine or advice on what to do.
Are you one of the many women in the US who is overdue for your well-woman exam? Wondering why it’s important to schedule these regular exams in the first place? This OB/GYN specialist in Munster, Indiana is going to explain below.
Here’s why you need to get a regular well-woman exam
During a well-woman exam, your OB/GYN will pay close attention to different parts of your body to ensure your body is functioning as it should. This comprehensive preventive health checkup includes several critical tests and assessments, including:
- A Pap smear (also called a Pap test) checks for abnormalities in cells and mucus from your cervix and the area around it. These abnormalities could turn into cervical cancer if not found early. Early detection gives you a greater chance at a cure and help you avoid complications.
- A pelvic exam checks for tender areas or unusual growths in your uterus and ovaries. This exam helps your OB/GYN detect treatable reproductive health problems like infections or cancer.
- During a breast exam, your OB/GYN specialist in Munster, Indiana will look at your breasts for any lumps or abnormalities, as well as any skin changes, including rashes, dimpling, or redness. This helps your OB/GYN catch any signs of disease or health issues.
- STD testing checks for sexually transmitted diseases like Chlamydia, Hepatitis B, Gonorrhoea, and Syphilis. This testing is often the only way to know if you have an STD and need treatment.
- High blood pressure (also called hypertension) can lead to heart disease, stroke, and other health problems, which is why your OB/GYN will make sure yours is normal with a blood pressure test. This test helps the OB/GYN recommend treatment and lifestyle changes to control your high blood pressure and lower your risk for heart disease.
- A body mass index (BMI) assessment tells your OB/GYN the ratio of your height to your weight so they can estimate your total body fat. This test is essential, because many diseases can follow excess body fat—such as heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, liver disease, asthma, and certain cancers.
In addition to these preventive health tests, a well-woman exam gives you the chance to talk to your OB/GYN specialist in Munster, Indiana. You can ask questions, raise your health concerns, and learn more about your body and overall health. Your OB/GYN will be there to offer advice to help you maintain or improve your health.
Looking for an Affordable OB/GYN Specialist in Munster, Indiana?
We know life gets busy. You might have work, family, or other things that take much of your time — but that doesn’t mean you have to put your health to the side. So, if you haven’t had your well-woman exam in over a year, now is the time to make the appointment.
Are you ready to schedule your well-woman exam? So, if you’re looking for an affordable OB/GYN specialist in Munster, Indiana, look no further than our team at 219 Health Network. Contact us today at 833-219-0001 to get started.