Well Woman Annual Exam

At Progressive Women’s Care, we provide excellent medical care that is comprehensive, compassionate, and advanced for women of all phases in a collaborative, patient-centered setting.

Taking care of your health is essential, and a well woman exam is one of the most effective ways to stay on top of your overall well-being. This annual exam is designed to assess and monitor your reproductive health, helping to identify any potential issues before they become significant concerns. Whether you’re new to the process or a seasoned pro, understanding what to expect can make your well woman exam in TX a smoother, more comfortable experience.

What Is a Well Woman Annual Exam?

A well woman exam is a comprehensive annual health assessment focused on all aspects of a woman’s reproductive health. It is personalized to your individual needs, taking into account your medical history, current health status, and any concerns you may have.

During this exam, trusted healthcare providers like Progressive Women’s Care, led by Dr. Ann Marie Bertles, will perform a series of evaluations, screenings, and tests designed to monitor your health and catch any issues early. The annual gynecological exam is vital to preventive healthcare, allowing you to discuss your health openly and receive personalized advice.

Components of a Well Woman Exam

Your well woman check-up in Katy at Progressive Women’s Care will typically include several key components essential for a thorough health assessment.

Medical history review

We will start by discussing your medical history, including any recent changes, family history, and medications you are currently taking. This information helps assess your risk factors and determine the most appropriate screenings and tests for you.

Physical examination

A general physical exam is conducted to check your overall health. This might include measuring your blood pressure, weight, and body mass index (BMI). These basic checks provide a snapshot of your overall health.

Pelvic exam

The pelvic exam is an important part of the comprehensive well woman exam at our Katy practice. It involves examining the reproductive organs, including the vulva, vagina, cervix, uterus, and ovaries, to ensure everything is functioning as it should. This exam can also help identify any abnormalities that might need further investigation.

Breast exam

A clinical breast exam is performed to check for lumps or other changes in your breast tissue. Early detection of breast cancer significantly increases treatment options and effectiveness, making this exam a critical part of your visit.

Screenings and tests

Depending on your age, medical history, and risk factors, we may recommend additional screenings such as a Pap smear, HPV test, or mammogram. These tests are essential for detecting conditions like cervical or breast cancer at an early stage.

Health discussions

The exam also includes a conversation about any health concerns you may have, such as menstrual irregularities, sexual health, contraception, or menopause. Dr. Bertles and the team are there to address your concerns and provide expert guidance.

What Should I Expect During a WWE?

There are many reasons a pregnancy can be considered high risk, both maternal and fetal. Maternal indications are frequently related to age or health complications. There is increased risk after the age of 35 in general, however, we take care of numerous women into their 40s that have no complications.

For women over 35, the most common fetal risk is chromosomal abnormalities. This can be tested after 10 weeks. Both pre-existing and health problems that develop during pregnancy can affect both maternal and fetal health. Most commonly, this includes gestational diabetes and high blood pressure. Both these conditions are manageable with successful outcomes.

Why Do I Need A Pap Smear?

Pap smears are performed primarily for the early detection of cervical cancer. It is always the best outcome when we can diagnose something early. Prevention is key.

Similarly to abnormal spots on your skin, if we find abnormal cells on your cervix, we would fully evaluate and discuss treatment recommendations. At 40 years of age, we recommend starting mammograms. It can start earlier depending on family history concerns or if there are any palpable abnormalities.

Preparing for Your Well Woman Exam

Preparation is key to getting the most out of your well woman exam in TX. Before your appointment, take time to note any symptoms, changes, or concerns you want to discuss with us. Being prepared allows you to make the most of your time with Dr. Bertles, ensuring that all your questions are answered and your health needs are fully addressed.

Schedule Your Well Woman Exam Today

Your health is invaluable, and regular well woman exams are essential to maintaining it. If you’re due for your annual gynecological exam, now is the time to schedule your appointment. We cater to patients in Katy, Cypress, Houston, and Fulshear, TX, by providing personalized, compassionate care. Contact us today to book your well woman exam.