A well woman visit is a critical part of maintaining physical health for women’s bodies. These examinations are separate from everyday wellness visits as they specifically target women and needed preventative care. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services highlights a well woman visit as including the following:
- Services, like vaccines (shots), that improve your health by preventing diseases and other health problems
- Screening tests, which are medical tests to check for diseases early when they may be easier to treat
- Education and counseling to help you make informed health decisions
Goals of the Visit
These visits have three main goals including documenting your health history, getting a physical exam, and setting health goals. There are some preliminary questions that you can expect during this visist that include but are not limited to:
- Sexual history and habits
- Family health history
- Mental health inventory
- Eating and physical activity habits
- Use of mind-and-mood altering substances
- Use of any medicines, vitamins, minerals, or herbs
- Relationships
A physical exam looks a lot like an annual checkup including measuring height and weight, blood pressure, temperature, and BMI. But it also includes examinations that are specific to women particularly a breast exam, and a pelvic exam.
Preparing for a Well Woman Visit
- Know your family health history: The National Human Genome Research Institute created this tool to help you create a map of your family health history. It is critical to keep these records available for your provider to help determine if you are at risk for any conditions or diseases.
- Make a list of questions for your doctor: These questions could include birth control and its side effects, STI information and risk, pregnancy, menopause, mental health issues, and overall wellness.
- Ask about screenings: Your doctor may recommend various screening options based on your family health history and habits. This could include screenings for cancers, HPV, STIs, diabetes, osteoporosis, and mental health.
Ways to Stay Healthy All Year
There are several things you can do to stay healthier all year long. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends:
- Getting more physical activity
- Eating healthy
- Managing stress
- Quitting smoking
- Watching your weight
- Getting enough sleep
Well woman visits are critical to the overall health and well-being of women globally. These specific screenings and examinations help to determine specific risk factors and provide preventative care for women. Make sure to get an annual well woman visit alongside your regular care to ensure you are as healthy and happy as possible.