Well-Woman Exam Specialist

What is a well woman exam?

For most women, well women exams are the primary type of gynecologic visits with Dr. Papapetrou. These appointments are the foundation of preventive women’s health, and they offer a chance to get the screenings and medical advice you need at each stage of life. 

Women have a unique set of health needs, and far too many women place those needs at the bottom of a long list of other obligations. While commitments at work, at school, at home, and within the community are important, scheduling your annual well woman exam is not something that should be overlooked.

Aphaea Women’s Health offers concierge medicine, an approach that ensures patients have direct access to their providers. Gynecology memberships are available to help you control costs, and house calls are also an option. 

What happens during a well woman exam?

Your visit begins with a quick assessment of your vital signs and height/weight. You’ll have time to talk with Dr. Papapetrou about any symptoms you’ve noticed since your last visit or any areas of concern you have.

A pelvic exam is part of the process. Dr. Papapetrou uses a medical device called a speculum to access your vagina and visually check your vaginal and cervical tissues for abnormalities. A Pap smear test may be performed during your pelvic exam. This simple test involves collecting a small number of cervical cells for microscopic assessment, and it screens for cervical cancer. 

Dr. Papapetrou also performs a thorough breast exam to look for tissue abnormalities. She can show you techniques for performing your own self-exams at home. 

Your well woman exam is the setting for you to get any information needed to improve your reproductive health and wellness. Take advantage of this opportunity to take care of yourself and learn how to give your body what it needs to feel and function its best. 

What topics can be covered during a well woman exam?

There is no topic that is off limits during a well woman exam. Finding a gynecologist you can get to know and trust is critical to getting the care you need. Dr. Papapetrou prefers the concierge method of practice because it enables her to spend more time face-to-face with patients to get to know them and learn more about their specific needs and goals.

Your areas of concern will shift and change over time. You may focus on heavy menstrual bleeding; birth control; and how to prevent, detect, and treat sexually transmitted diseases during early adulthood.

As you move closer to motherhood, your needs may shift to fertility planning, pregnancy care, and what to expect during postpartum care. If you notice symptoms, you’ll likely ask about screening for endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and other conditions. 

Finally, as you enter and move through menopause, your concerns may center on symptoms and changes that occur as you move beyond your reproductive years. All of these topics and many more are suitable for discussion during your well woman exams. 

Book your next visit today online or by phone. House calls are also available, so ask for more information if needed.