Annual Exams

Take charge of your health through an annual exam. These exams are vital for identifying, treating, or preventing health issues before they arise. Early detection of a problem means it is more likely to be treatable and less likely to pose a significant risk to your health.

As you age, your health needs evolve. Regular visits with your OB-GYN doctor allow for timely discussions about your health and any concerns that may require attention. Routine check-ups help monitor changes, ensuring you receive the most appropriate care for each stage of life.

Our Sylacauga Obstetrics & Gynecology offers comprehensive annual exams that prioritize your well-being. These annual well-woman exams include screenings for cervical cancer, breast exams, and assessments of reproductive health. We also provide personalized advice on family planning, menopause management, and other essential aspects of women’s health.

Remember, staying proactive with regularly scheduled annual exams maintains your health and addresses any issues early. Schedule your annual OB-GYN appointment today to put you on the right path.

What to Expect During Your Annual Exam

Depending on your age, your doctor will ask you certain questions about your lifestyle and any health issues you may face.

Generally, these questions include:

Contraception: “Are you currently using any form of contraception, and if so, how satisfied are you with your current method?” “Have you experienced any side effects or concerns related to your contraception method?”
Sexual Problems or Concerns: “Have you experienced any changes in your sexual desire or function?” “Are there any concerns or difficulties in your sexual relationship that you would like to discuss?”
Physical Activity: “How often do you engage in physical activity or exercise, and what activities do you enjoy?” “Have you experienced any physical symptoms related to your physical activity or exercise routine?”
Nutrition: “Can you describe your typical daily diet and eating habits?” “Do you have any specific questions or concerns about your nutritional intake or dietary choices?”
Family History of Diseases: “Are there any significant medical conditions or diseases that run in your family?” “Have any close relatives experienced specific health issues that you think may impact your own health?”
Family Relationships: “Do you feel supported by your family members regarding your overall health and well-being?” “Are there any family dynamics or relationships that may affect your emotional or physical health?”
Lifestyle & Stress: “How would you describe your current stress level and how it may impact your daily life?” “Are there any lifestyle factors or stressors that may affect your health or well-being?”
Issues With Sleep: “How would you rate the quality of your sleep, and are you experiencing any difficulty falling or staying asleep?” “Are you concerned about your sleep patterns or overall restfulness?”
Women’s Health Concerns: “Are there any specific women’s health issues or symptoms you want to address or have questions about?” “Have you noticed any changes in your menstrual cycle or other gynecological concerns you would like to discuss?”

Your doctor may also suggest screening for certain conditions as you age. A general list of these tests include:

Clinical Breast Exam: A physical exam of the breasts to assess for lumps or other abnormalities that may indicate breast cancer. This exam is recommended yearly for women 21 years and older.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) Testing: Testing for sexually transmitted infections, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HIV. The frequency may vary based on a woman’s sexual history and risk factors.
Cervical Cancer Screening: Searching for abnormal cells on the cervix that may lead to cervical cancer. Cervical cancer screening is recommended every three years for women aged 21 to 29 and every five years for women aged 30 to 65 who have had a normal Pap test result in the past and have a negative HPV test.
Colorectal Cancer Screening: Various tests to detect signs of colon or rectal cancer, such as a colonoscopy, stool tests, or CT colonography. Screening for colorectal cancer is recommended in adults aged 50 to 75 years.
Diabetes Testing: Testing blood sugar levels to assess for diabetes or prediabetes. Depending on a person’s risk factors, diabetes testing may be recommended every three years, starting at age 45 or earlier.
Hepatitis C Testing: A blood test checking for the presence of the Hepatitis C virus, which can lead to liver damage if left untreated. Hepatitis C testing is recommended for individuals at high risk of infection, including those born between 1945-1965, those who inject drugs, and those with a history of blood transfusions.
Mammography: TA type of X-ray used to detect breast cancer in women who have no signs or symptoms of the disease. Mammograms are typically recommended every one to two years for women aged 50 to 74.
Thyroid-stimulating Hormone Screening: A blood test checking for an underactive or overactive thyroid, which can cause a variety of symptoms and health problems. Thyroid screening may be recommended based on a person’s medical history or symptoms.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccines: A series of shots to protect against certain strains of the HPV, which can lead to cervical cancer and other cancers. The HPV vaccine is recommended for males and females starting at age 11 or 12.
Bone Density Screening: A special type of X-ray to assess for bone loss and risk of osteoporosis. Bone density screening is recommended for women over age 65 or younger women at higher risk of osteoporosis due to medical conditions or medications.
Pap Smear: A pap test involves taking cells from the cervix or vagina to look for signs of cancer.
Pelvic Exam: A physical examination of a woman’s pelvic organs. During this exam, we look for ovarian cysts, sexually transmitted infections, growths of the uterus or early-stage cancer, and any other issues that may affect the organs in your pelvic area.
Pregnancy Test: Pregnancy testing may be performed using urine or blood tests to detect the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) hormone.
Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) Screenings: Depending on a woman’s sexual history and symptoms, testing for STIs and STDs such as HIV, hepatitis B, syphilis, and other infections may be conducted.

Your doctor will determine, based on your lifestyle and family history, what tests are necessary during your annual gynecological exam.

Schedule Your Annual OB-GYN Exam or Gynecologic Visit at Sylacauga OB-GYN

Choosing Sylacauga OB-GYN for your annual genital exam means you’re receiving high-quality, effective women’s healthcare centered around you. Our staff will discuss your health concerns, goals, and future services in a comfortable, encouraging environment.

To schedule your annual exam, give us a call or email us at [email protected].