Annual Gynecologic Exam

Experts recommend that you visit your ob-gyn at least once a year for a well-woman visit. The purpose of this checkup is to help you stay healthy and prevent health problems at all stages of life. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends:

• A woman’s first reproductive health visit should take place between ages 13 and 15 (this first visit is often simply a discussion between patient and doctor)
• Pap tests should begin at age 21 (regardless of sexual activity)
• Annual testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea is recommended for sexually active adolescents and young women up to age 25.

 Well-woman visits are an important part of your health care, even if you do not need a pelvic exam.  An annual gyn exam can include:  a breast exam to check for lumps, skin changes, or nipple discharge. A pelvic exam to check your vulva, vagina, cervix, uterus, rectum, and pelvis, including your ovaries, for masses, growths or other abnormalities and a pap test to screen for cervical cancer.  The timing for pelvic exams is typically based on your medical history or if you are experiencing problems or symptoms. Some healthcare providers may recommend annual visits. Others may recommend an exam every three years until you are 65 years old.