Gynecological exams are an important part of women's health care. Annual
examinations detect health problems early on and allow for appropriate
treatment before they turn into serious issues.
Why Gynecological Exams are Important
Starting from age 21, women should receive regular gynecological exams
to check for cancer and STDs. As you age, more tests may be added to your
gynecological exam to maintain your overall health, including a Pap test,
Mammogram, chlamydia test, and STI testing. With regular testing, doctors
can work with patients to find possible problems early, which makes them
significantly easier to treat. Some problems may even be entirely prevented
if doctors identify warning signs soon enough.
The following are tests that may be included in your gynecological exam,
pending the doctor's suggestions:
Pap Tests - Your first Pap test is recommended to take place at age 21, with follow
ups every 3 years until age 30, at which point
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends having one every 5 years until age 65. These tests scan the
cervix for precancerous cells that could result in cervical cancer if
left untreated.
Mammogram - Regular mammogram screenings should start at age 40. Mammograms are X-rays
of the breast that check for warning signs of breast cancer, such as calcium
deposits. If you have a family history of breast cancer, be sure to talk
with your provider about your screening options.
Chlamydia Tests - Anyone who maintains an active sexual lifestyle should receive regular
Chlamydia testing. These tests sample body fluid which are examined for
chlamydia bacteria.
STD Tests - These tests check for a variety of sexually transmitted diseases and should
be part of your regular care after becoming sexually active. Every STI
test should include a check for HIV.
Comprehensive Services for All Stages of a Woman's Life
Early Adulthood:
Variety of birth control options
STD testing
Programs that offer free birth control and STD testing
Gardasil vaccination
21 years and older – pelvic/cervical cultures (pap smear) with HPV
testing as recommended by American Society for Colposcopy and Cervical
Pathology (ASCCP) guidelines
Family Planning:
Infertility testing and treatment
Prenatal care and testing – prenatal blood draws, ultrasounds, fetal
surveillance, genetic testing, cervical exams, everything up to delivery
Lactation Services:
Breastfeeding classes prior to delivery
Breastfeeding support group after delivery
Lactation consultations after delivery spend time with mom and baby to
discuss breastfeeding questions, concerns, and difficulties
Postmenopausal:
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
Discuss normal changes with postmenopausal women – low libido, pain
with intercourse, hot flashes and night sweats
