Well Woman Exams and Gynecology Care in Phoenix
Every woman knows the importance of her annual exam, but taking care of ourselves often falls to the bottom of the to-do list. The physicians at Living Wellness Medical Center in Phoenix, AZ bring expertise in women’s medicine and an understanding of the anxiety that can come with gynecological visits, making this essential appointment comfortable, thorough, and insightful.
Request an AppointmentPreventative Medicine: Your Annual Well Woman Exam
Your well woman exam is one of the most important parts of preventative medicine. It gives your physician a complete picture of your reproductive, breast, and overall health and is a chance to discuss any concerns.
What Does a Well Woman Exam Include?
- Annual clinical breast exam: Although monthly self-breast exams are important, a clinical breast exam by a physician is recommended once a year. During your visit, you will learn how to perform your monthly self-exam and can ask about timing and technique.
- Pap smear: A sample of cells is taken to make sure the cells of the cervix are healthy.
- HPV test: The same sample is tested for high-risk strains of human papillomavirus (HPV), which are associated with cellular changes, cervical dysplasia, and cervical cancer. “HPV positive” does not mean there are cancer cells, but it does mean you have an abnormal Pap, and knowing your HPV status helps determine whether and how aggressively to treat it. Learn more about abnormal Pap smear and HPV treatment.
Additional Exams and Tests
Depending on your symptoms, age, and family history, your physician may also recommend:
- Urine test to check for blood, infection, protein, or sugar
- Abdominal exam of the intestines, liver, spleen, and digestive function
- Thyroid exam for enlargement or nodules
- Cardiovascular and respiratory exam
- Mammogram
- DEXA scan to check bone density for osteoporosis or osteopenia
Topics Discussed During Your Well Woman Exam
- Contraception options
- Fertility awareness and conception planning (see our fertility page)
- Natural hormone replacement options for peri- and postmenopausal women, including bioidentical hormones
- Other preventative health measures
How Often Should a Woman Get a Pap Smear?
Screening guidelines from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists provide a framework, but how often you need a Pap depends on your medical history, symptoms, and any known STD exposures. Be sure to discuss your personal screening schedule with your physician.
A More Comfortable Exam Experience
“Dr. Turner is insightful and compassionate. She heard my concerns and addressed each one with real solutions. During the wellness exam, she provided a soft fuzzy blanket, which was warm over the usual cloth gown, and also comforting. As a result, it’s the most relaxed I’ve ever felt during a wellness exam in the last 20 years. I recommend every woman to go see her for truly exceptional care.” ~RV
Our physicians also treat gynecological conditions such as irregular or painful periods, PCOS, endometriosis, fibroids, ovarian cysts, and recurrent yeast or bladder infections. Learn more on our women’s health page.
Well Woman Exam FAQs
What is included in a well woman exam?
A well woman exam typically includes a clinical breast exam, Pap smear, and HPV test, plus additional exams or tests based on your symptoms, age, and family history.
Do naturopathic doctors perform Pap smears?
Yes. Our licensed naturopathic physicians perform Pap smears and HPV testing as part of your annual well woman exam.
Does a positive HPV test mean I have cancer?
No. A positive HPV result does not mean cancer cells are present, but it does mean you have an abnormal Pap, and your physician will discuss follow-up and treatment options.
How often should I have a Pap smear?
It depends on your medical history, symptoms, and exposures. Your physician will recommend a screening schedule based on current guidelines and your individual risk.
Can I discuss contraception and hormones at my exam?
Yes. Contraception, fertility awareness, conception planning, and natural hormone replacement options are common topics during the visit.
Will my exam be comfortable?
Our physicians take time to address your concerns and make the exam as comfortable and relaxed as possible.
How do I schedule a well woman exam?
Call (480) 588-6856 to schedule your annual exam with a Living Wellness physician.
Schedule Your Comfortable, Comprehensive Annual Exam
Looking for an informative, unhurried annual GYN visit? Call Living Wellness Medical Center in Phoenix, AZ at (480) 588-6856 to schedule with a Living Wellness physician.
