Well Woman Exams
Her Health offers gynecological exams in all stages of a women’s life. We provide a personalized approach for each individual regardless of their level of sexual activity or physical mobility. We take the time to ensure that the patient is completely comfortable throughout the appointment and are able to accommodate their needs.
Why do you need a Well Woman Exam?
At Her Health, we prioritize the importance of annual gynecologic (GYN) wellness exams as a cornerstone of women's preventive healthcare. Karen Norwood, FNP-BC is dedicated to women's reproductive health, offering comprehensive screenings and educational support. Beyond the routine Pap smear, the advantages of an annual visit to Her Health are vast.
What to expect during a Well Woman Exam at Her Health
Your visit to Her Health for a wellness gynecologic (GYN) exam involves a thorough assessment to ensure your overall well-being. Karen Norwood, FNP-BC, and our specialized healthcare team prioritize your reproductive health, providing comprehensive screenings and informative guidance. Beyond the routine Pap smear, your annual visit to Her Health encompasses several key elements.
At the beginning of the exam, Karen Norwood, FNP-BC, will collect a detailed medical history, including your family history. Vital signs such as blood pressure, heart rate, height, and weight will be measured. You'll be asked about your periods, pregnancy history, sexual activity, contraception needs, GYN problems history, GYN surgeries history, and any current symptoms you may be experiencing.
The exam further includes listening to your heart and lungs, assessing the thyroid gland, and feeling your abdomen. A breast and pelvic exam will also be conducted. The pelvic exam involves three parts: an external examination of the vulva, an internal examination of the vagina and cervix with a speculum, and an examination of the uterus and ovaries with a gloved hand. During the speculum exam, cells may be gently brushed from the cervix for a Pap smear, which is sent to the laboratory for examination. If the pelvic exam is uncomfortable, let Karen Norwood, FNP-BC, know, and strategies like relaxation, repositioning, or using a smaller speculum can be employed to enhance your comfort.
Towards the end of the exam, you and Karen Norwood, FNP-BC, will discuss strategies to enhance your health, including lifestyle changes, screening tests, or vaccinations tailored to your age and other risk factors. Your well-being is our priority at Her Health, and we're here to support you in every aspect of your reproductive health journey.
At the beginning of the exam, Karen Norwood, FNP-BC, will collect a detailed medical history, including your family history. Vital signs such as blood pressure, heart rate, height, and weight will be measured. You'll be asked about your periods, pregnancy history, sexual activity, contraception needs, GYN problems history, GYN surgeries history, and any current symptoms you may be experiencing.
The exam further includes listening to your heart and lungs, assessing the thyroid gland, and feeling your abdomen. A breast and pelvic exam will also be conducted. The pelvic exam involves three parts: an external examination of the vulva, an internal examination of the vagina and cervix with a speculum, and an examination of the uterus and ovaries with a gloved hand. During the speculum exam, cells may be gently brushed from the cervix for a Pap smear, which is sent to the laboratory for examination. If the pelvic exam is uncomfortable, let Karen Norwood, FNP-BC, know, and strategies like relaxation, repositioning, or using a smaller speculum can be employed to enhance your comfort.
Towards the end of the exam, you and Karen Norwood, FNP-BC, will discuss strategies to enhance your health, including lifestyle changes, screening tests, or vaccinations tailored to your age and other risk factors. Your well-being is our priority at Her Health, and we're here to support you in every aspect of your reproductive health journey.
Preparing for Your Well Woman Exam at Her Health
To ensure a smooth experience, especially when a Pap smear is scheduled, consider timing your annual exam when you are not menstruating. It's advisable to abstain from vaginal activities like douching, intercourse, or the use of vaginal creams or medications for 48 hours prior to the test.
For a comprehensive understanding of your health, bring along a current list of medications and allergies, names of other providers involved in your care, and details of any medical issues you may have, including a history of surgeries and hospitalizations.
If you are dealing with abnormal bleeding or pelvic pain, maintaining a log of when these symptoms occur can provide valuable insights for your provider at Her Health. Your proactive approach to preparation contributes to a thorough and effective wellness GYN exam tailored to your individual needs.
For a comprehensive understanding of your health, bring along a current list of medications and allergies, names of other providers involved in your care, and details of any medical issues you may have, including a history of surgeries and hospitalizations.
If you are dealing with abnormal bleeding or pelvic pain, maintaining a log of when these symptoms occur can provide valuable insights for your provider at Her Health. Your proactive approach to preparation contributes to a thorough and effective wellness GYN exam tailored to your individual needs.
