Well Woman Exam

Regular women’s health screenings are essential to protect your health and detect concerns as early as possible. John Armstrong Jr., MD, MS, ensures you receive comprehensive and personalized care. He offers onsite ultrasounds to screen for breast and ovarian cancer, allowing him to interpret test results during your appointment rather than sending them to another facility for review. Call John T. Armstrong Jr. MD Inc. in Napa, California, to schedule an appointment or use the online booking tool today. The practice also offers telehealth options.

What is a well-woman exam?

A well-woman exam is a comprehensive screening that assesses your reproductive and gynecological health. Any person who identifies as a woman or has a vulva, uterus, and breasts should undergo regular exams. 

While the main purpose of these exams is early disease detection, a women’s health screening also serves as an opportunity to connect with Dr. Armstrong, voice your concerns, and ask questions about your health.

Do I need to prepare for a well-woman exam?

While you don’t need to prepare for a well-woman exam, taking a few steps to ensure a productive and efficient visit can be helpful. These include:

• Gather any necessary documentation
• Send over your medical history
• Note any surgeries, pregnancies, illnesses, or injuries
• Track your menstrual cycle
• List any irregularities or symptoms you experience
• Avoid using vaginal creams, if possible

Create a list of questions or concerns you have to ensure you address all your health care needs during the exam.

What does a well-woman exam include?

The three most important parts of a well-woman exam are:

Breast exam

A breast exam is a visual and hands-on evaluation that checks for lumps, texture and size changes, and other abnormalities. 

With an in-office ultrasound, your gynecologist can perform a breast ultrasound to investigate new changes or symptoms. They can interpret the results during a single appointment rather than sending them out for a report.

Pelvic exam

This exam is a comprehensive screening that checks your vulva, vagina, cervix, fallopian tubes, ovaries, uterus, and rectum for signs of infection, abnormal growths, swelling, and other potential concerns. Your gynecologist can also perform a transvaginal ultrasound to screen for ovarian cancer and interpret the results during your appointment.

Pap smear

A pelvic exam usually involves a Pap smear. This test involves collecting cells from your cervix to screen for cervical cancer.

I’m getting a well-woman exam. What can I expect?

What happens during a well-woman exam depends on your age, health, and specific needs. After reviewing your medical history and making any necessary updates, your gynecologist asks questions about your diet, lifestyle, and sexual health. They may also ask whether you use birth control. 

Your gynecologist may perform a breast and pelvic exam, depending on your age. Your needs can change as you get older. 

Call John T. Armstrong Jr. MD Inc. today or schedule a well-woman exam online to learn more.