5 Important Questions to Ask at Your Next Well Woman Exam

Well woman exams offer reassurance that you’re in good health. At Her Down There, we specialize in women’s health. We offer a safe place for you to talk frankly with a trusted medical professional and get the answers you need about your reproductive health, birth control and family planning, your sex life, and any anxieties or fears you have about your mental or physical health. 

Following are some of the important questions you can ask your expert family nurse practitioner at Her Down There during your well woman exam. It’s a good idea to write down your questions before your appointment so that you can be sure we cover all of your needs. 

How often should I get screening exams like a mammogram and Pap smear? 

Your board certified family nurse practitioner explains how often you should get screening tests based on your age, your health, and your family history. Breast cancer has been increasing in women under the age of 50 in recent years, and mammography is an effective screening tool. 

The US Preventive Services Task Force now recommends biennial mammography screening for all women aged 40-74. The American Cancer Society recommends that women aged 45-54 have mammograms yearly and women 40-44 begin breast cancer screening if they wish to. 

If your mother or a close relative has had breast cancer, you can start screening five years before the age they were at their first diagnosis. If there’s a genetic mutation, screening may start as early as age 25. 

How frequently you receive a Pap smear depends on your age and risk factors. Pap smears detect precancerous cells and cervical cancer. 

Women of average risk should get a Pap smear every three years, or every five years when combined with a test for HPV (human papillomavirus). If you have risk factors such as a compromised immune system or are a smoker, you should be screened more frequently. 

You can see how important it is to have a well woman exam every year. Your doctor keeps track of your screening exams and lets you know when it’s time for another one. 

Should I get screened for sexually transmitted infections (STIs)? 

If you’re sexually active, especially with more than one partner, you should get screened for common STIs. Some STIs — such as some forms of HPV, the human papillomavirus — don’t cause symptoms right away but can be dangerous to your health if left untreated. In addition, chlamydia and gonorrhea may not present symptoms at first. But both can lead to infertility and problems with pregnancy. 

How can I protect myself against STIs?

Your expert provider explains the best ways to protect yourself against STIs. If you feel you might have contracted one, make an appointment right away so that you can get the right treatment to clear it up quickly. 

What are effective birth control options? 

As a woman, you want to be able to make the choice as to when to have children. Your nurse practitioner answers all of your questions about birth control. Would you remember to take a pill every day? If you’re forgetful, you may want a birth control patch, a vaginal ring, or an IUD instead. Several great options are available for you. 

Is there anything I can do to prevent illness and disease? 

You want to stay healthy. If your family has a history of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or another serious health condition, your expert provider talks with you about risk factors and what you can do to lower them. We review what you’re doing to maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating a well-balanced diet, getting enough exercise, developing a circle of supportive friends and family, and lowering your stress level. We offer recommendations based on what you tell us, as well as your family history. 

Call Her Down There or book an appointment online today for your well woman exam. Having an annual exam gives you reassurance and confidence in your health. We have offices in Arlington and Houston, Texas, and offer telemedicine services through our Arlington office.