Annual Gynecology Exams in Rockville and Silver Spring, MD
Comprehensive care for women in every phase of life
At Capital Women’s Care, we provide annual gynecology exams in Rockville and Silver Spring, MD to help women maintain their reproductive health. An annual exam, also known as a well-woman visit, is vital for early detection of gynecologic issues and overall preventive care.
Why Annual Exams Are Important for Your Health
Starting at age 21 or within three years of becoming sexually active, annual gynecology exams are essential for maintaining reproductive and overall health.
Annual exams are a proactive approach to women’s healthcare that helps detect and address health issues in their early stages, ensuring timely treatment and promoting overall well-being. It also provides an opportunity for patients to establish a trusted relationship with their healthcare provider, enabling them to receive personalized healthcare advice and support.
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.
The board-certified OBGYNs at Capital Women’s Care are dedicated to providing the highest quality gynecologic care to women throughout Silver Spring and Rockville. During your annual exam, our OBGYNs will be sure to address your health concerns and answer any questions you may have. To schedule your annual exam, call (301) 681-9101 to request an appointment at our OBGYN office in Silver Spring or Rockville.
What You Can Expect During Your Yearly Gynecology Exams
Beyond the routine assessments of your height, weight, and blood pressure, your gynecologist will discuss your overall well-being, menstrual cycle, and sexual activity. This will give you the opportunity to ask any questions you may have about symptoms you are experiencing or other health needs that may need to be addressed. During the examination, your gynecologist will perform the following assessments and diagnostic tests. In the event that your physician is male, rest assured that a female nurse will be present in the room throughout the examination, ensuring your utmost comfort and privacy.
Breast Exam
During your breast examination, your gynecologist will carefully assess your breasts for any possible issues, like lumps or abnormalities. This examination involves gentle movements of their fingers across your breasts in a specific pattern. Additionally, your gynecologist may provide guidance on how to perform monthly self-examinations, empowering you to monitor your breast health between visits. These proactive measures ensure early detection of any concerns and contribute to your overall well-being.
Pelvic Exam
During your pelvic exam, your gynecologist will examine your vagina, cervix and reproductive organs. Once you place your feet against footrests at the end of the examining table and slide forward, your gynecologist will then insert an instrument called a speculum into your vagina to gently spread the walls apart to examine the area. Your gynecologist then places one or two gloved, lubricated fingers into your vagina and the other hand presses on your abdomen from the outside to check the size, position, and shape of your internal pelvic organs. The pelvic exam may feel a bit uncomfortable, but should not hurt.
Pap Smear
A Pap smear is a crucial test that screens for any abnormal cells in the cervix that could potentially develop into cancer. During the procedure, your gynecologist will gently insert a small cotton-tipped swab through the vagina and into the cervix to collect cell samples. These samples will then be sent to a laboratory for examination, ensuring any potential abnormalities are identified. The Pap smear itself is a painless procedure, ensuring your comfort throughout. This simple test plays a vital role in early detection and prevention, safeguarding your cervical health.
Regular Well-Woman Visits
Caring for Your Health at Every Life Stage
Attending regular well-woman visits is vital for maintaining your overall health and well-being throughout every stage of life. These visits provide an opportunity to address any concerns, receive essential preventive care, and establish a strong foundation for a healthy future. Regardless of your age or medical background, well-woman visits offer a comprehensive approach to your unique needs. They focus on various aspects of your health, including reproductive health, family planning, and overall wellness. By establishing a trusting relationship with your healthcare provider, you can receive personalized guidance, screenings, and vaccinations tailored to your specific circumstances.
These visits empower you to take an active role in managing your health, promoting early detection of potential issues, and ensuring timely intervention when necessary. Remember, prioritizing your well-woman visits is an investment in your long-term health and a proactive step towards a vibrant and fulfilling life.
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.
Request an Annual Exam in Rockville and Silver Spring, MD
The board-certified OBGYNs at Capital Women’s Care have extensive experience proving routine gynecologic care. During your annual exam, your gynecologist will take the time to address any health concerns you may have. Call (301) 681-9101 to schedule an appointment at our OBGYN office in Silver Spring or Rockville today!