Ask These Questions at Your Next Well-Woman Exam

If you’re a woman, there’s one thing you should absolutely do every year: get a well-woman exam. These exams are a lot like annual physicals, except they’re tailored to women and the unique health conditions they face, like cervical cancer. 

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommend that women schedule this appointment on a yearly basis. 

Fortunately, checking this annual to-do off your list doesn’t have to be hard. Dr. Bharat Gandhi and our team at Medinet Family Care Clinic offer well-woman visits right here at our office in Houston, Texas. We even offer walk-in appointments to make it easier to get the care you need. 

This appointment isn’t just a time for our team to screen you for potential health issues, either. It’s also your opportunity to ask questions and gather information. We’ve teed up some questions you may want to ask to help make your next well-woman exam more informative.

Are there any immunizations I can get?

You probably schedule your well-woman exam to reduce your chances of getting sick or having a health problem escalate. Immunizations can go a long way here, preventing common illnesses like the flu and serious conditions like cancer-causing human papillomavirus (HPV). 

Based on your age, lifestyle, and other factors unique to you, we can recommend specific immunizations and administer them at our office. 

How often do I need a Pap test?

Good news: Most women don’t need an annual Pap anymore. Instead, the right schedule depends on your age, history of abnormal cell growth, family health history, and more. 

We can help you find that schedule to maintain vigilance for cervical cancer while minimizing the frequency of your Pap tests. Most women can go three years or longer between tests. 

Should I get screened for an STD?

We provide a safe, comfortable space to learn if you’re at risk for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Don’t hesitate to talk with our team about which tests might be right for you. Generally, if you have more than one sexual partner or haven’t been tested in a while, it’s a good idea. 

How can I move toward my wellness goals?

At your well-woman exam, you get dedicated time with a medical expert. This time is your opportunity to ask any questions about symptoms you’re experiencing or changes you’re considering. 

Tell us about your wellness goals, and we can work with you to develop a plan that moves you closer to them.

Your well-woman exam needn’t be just a box you tick off. To leave your next appointment feeling informed, make a list of questions you want to ask. Then call our office, book an appointment online, or simply walk into Medinet Family Care Clinic for your annual exam.