Annual Gynecology Exam in Atlanta, GA

Atlanta Women’s Obstetrics & Gynecology has been providing the highest quality of care to women in Atlanta, GA for over 35 years. Our board-certified OBGYNs are highly experienced in performing routine and annual well-woman exams. Call (404) 352-3616 to schedule an appointment in Atlanta, GA today!

How should I prepare for my exam?

The most important thing to do before your gynecological exam is prepare. Women should be prepared to discuss their family medical history and be ready for questions about their menstrual cycle. Some of the most commonly asked questions your provider may ask include:

• When was your last period?
• How long does your period typically last?
• What age did you start your period?
• Are you sexually active?

Be sure to think about any questions or concerns you may have. Before your appointment, refrain from sexual intercourse for 24 hours, and avoid using a tampon right before your exam.

What should I expect for my annual exam?

The pelvic exam only lasts a few minutes and the exam itself doesn’t hurt. Most physicians will explain the process before beginning the exam, asking questions throughout the process is encouraged. The pelvic exam consists of the following steps:

• Your gynecologist will typically begin the annual exam with a breast exam to check for lumps that may be a sign of cancer.
• Then you obgyn will check the external genital area for irritations, cysts or other problems.
• Next, the physician will insert a speculum, which is an instrument that is used to examine the cervix and vaginal walls. During this time, the doctor will also conduct a pap test to check for cancerous and pre-cancerous cells.
• The last step in the physical exam is for the physician to do a pelvic exam by checking the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries by inserting gloved fingers into the vagina and pressing on the abdomen.

Not only does the annual exam ensure that you maintain good gynecological health, but it is also an opportunity for you to catch health problems in the early stages.

Health Assessment

We’ll begin by checking your height, weight, and blood pressure. Your doctor will ask about your general health, menstrual cycle, and sexual activity to ensure a comprehensive understanding of your needs.

Breast Exam

Your provider will examine your breasts for any signs of concern, such as lumps, and teach you how to perform self-exams at home.

Pelvic Exam

During the pelvic exam, we’ll evaluate your vagina, cervix, and reproductive organs. A speculum is used to gently open the vaginal walls for examination. This process might feel slightly uncomfortable but shouldn’t be painful.

Pap Smear

A Pap smear screens for abnormal cervical cells that could indicate cancer. It’s a quick, painless test where a small swab collects cervical cells for laboratory analysis.

Personalized Care for Women in Every Life Stage

Our gynecology services cater to women of all ages in [City], from their first Pap smear to post-menopausal care. Here’s what you should know for each decade:

In Your 20s

• Schedule your first Pap test if you haven’t already.
• Discuss sexual health and screen for sexually transmitted infections if needed.

In Your 30s

• Plan for pregnancy by consulting with your gynecologist.
• Continue annual well-woman exams for preventive care.

In Your 40s

• Decide when to start mammograms, especially if you have a family history of breast cancer.
• Address perimenopause symptoms with tailored solutions.

In Your 50s

• Screen for lung cancer if you’re a current or former smoker.
• Schedule a colorectal cancer screening.

In Your 60s

• Continue regular mammograms and start osteoporosis screenings.

In Your 70s and Beyond

• Stay up to date on vaccinations, including flu, shingles, and pneumonia shots.
• Discuss fall prevention and address vision or hearing concerns.

What else is covered?

Feel free to bring up any questions or concerns you have with your gynecologist, including:

• Sexual Health
• Contraception
• STD Testing
• Heavy Menstrual Periods
• Menopause management
• Pre-Conception Counseling