At NewYork-Presbyterian, we know that every phase of an individual's life requires unique health management. Our multidisciplinary women’s health teams can help you stay on top of your healthcare needs through preventative appointments and coordinated follow-ups. From adolescence through the childbearing years, menopause, and well after, we offer comprehensive care for every aspect of a patient's health.
What is Well-Woman Care?
What is Well-Woman Care?Well-woman care is a holistic approach to health, encompassing several aspects of healthcare. It is an ongoing preventative method that consists of annual appointments, during which a patient and their clinician will talk about general, sexual, and reproductive health. During a well-woman check-up, you may discuss any health issues you’re currently having along with any concerns regarding your future health.
What to Expect During a Well-Woman Visit
What to ExpectDuring a well-woman exam, you will have a conversation with your health care practitioner to assess your health and address any concerns you may have. Your health provider will likely evaluate several body areas, depending on your specific situation. What happens at a well-woman exam is primarily up to the patient and differs from an annual physical exam in that there is an additional focus on concerns unique to women, such as pregnancy and menopause.
What Questions Will my Doctor Ask me During a Well-Woman Visit?
QuestionsDepending on how long you have been seeing your provider, they will likely ask you questions about your health, sexual activity, and reproductive aims, if any. If you are a new patient, your doctor will need to establish a complete picture of your health history and understand your goals and concerns surrounding several aspects of your health. Some questions your provider may ask include:
- Are you pregnant?
- Are you trying to become pregnant?
- Are you sexually active?
- Do you use birth control?
- Would you like to be tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?
- Have you gone through menopause?
It’s important that your exam includes a two-sided conversation and that you also ask your doctor any questions you have. If you’re over 40, your doctor will likely provide recommendations about when to begin mammogram screenings and colon cancer screenings. This is also a good time to discuss the changes you can expect to come with perimenopause and menopause.
Well-Woman Exams, Screenings, and Testing
TestingPart of your exam will entail physician examinations so your doctor can check for signs of various issues and diagnose any potential problems early. Early detection is a key factor in successfully treating many conditions that can affect your general, sexual and reproductive health. Some well-woman exams your doctor may perform include:
- Physical exam
- Breast exam
- Pelvic exam
- Pap smear test
If your doctor has identified specific issues, they may order more extensive tests, including an ultrasound, breast cyst aspiration, or breast biopsy. How long a well-woman exam takes depends on your health concerns and which tests your doctor feels are necessary. You may also be referred o other specialists for specific evaluation.
Well-Woman Care at NewYork-Presbyterian
Get CareAt NewYork-Presbyterian, our team of women’s health experts is committed to helping you achieve long-lasting good health. With a full range of specialties spanning every aspect of women’s health, our experts can deliver compassionate, individualized care to women of all ages.