A well-woman exam is a yearly visit with an OB-GYN to ensure gynecological health. While the overall goal of this annual appointment is preventive care, there are other reasons why it is important.
“Many women have questions about their bodies, fertility, sexuality, or other concerns we can help address,” explained Comfort N. Ughanze, MD, OB-GYN with UT Physicians. “It’s important to establish care with an OB-GYN to make sure a patient is getting appropriate screenings and taking the necessary preventive measures.”
For teenagers, a physical exam is not always needed. Their visit can be used to establish a comfortable relationship with their doctor, learn more about their bodies, and receive a vaccination against HPV.
With adult women, a doctor will examine their breasts, pelvic region, and perform a Pap smear to screen for infections or indications of cervical cancer. A mammogram may also be ordered.
“Beyond the exam, an OB-GYN can also help with family planning, whether that is with contraception or optimizing a woman’s body to prepare for pregnancy. We also evaluate for infertility,” shared Ughanze, assistant professor in the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston.
A doctor can help during the transition from the beginning stages of menopause and past it for older adults. Women may also be screened for colon cancer and osteoporosis, depending on their age.
At UT Physicians Women’s Centers, doctors and medical staff not only care for women’s physical health but also their mental well-being.
“At UT Physicians, we screen all new patients for depression and anxiety. If there is evidence of either one, we help to address the issue and refer them to a specialist for a tailored treatment plan if necessary,” said Ughanze.
To schedule an appointment with one of our women’s health experts, visit this page or call this phone number: 832-325-7131.
