4 Questions to Ask Your OB/GYN at Your Annual Well-Woman Visit

It’s that time of year again when we prepare for our annual well-woman visit. That being said, use this time as the chance to collect your important questions answered. Sometimes deciding what to ask is the most challenging part. With so many things to worry about daily, don’t make your annual well-woman visit one of them. Having a list already prepared can take some stress away before you even set foot in the office. 

Essential Questions To Ask On Your Annual Well-Woman Visit 

We have got you covered if ease of mind is what you’re looking for in the new year. Here are our five questions to ask your OB/GYN this year. 

1. At what age should I be scheduling pap smears and mammograms? 

Pap Smears

Dr. Margot Watson of Johns Hopkins Medicine suggests the initial age for receiving a pap smear is when the patient is 21 years of age. Between 21 and 29, a routine pap smear could only need to be repeated every three years. Once the patient is 30 years of age, a test for human papillomavirus should be done with the pap smear. Most women do not need pap smears past the age of 65 unless used to test for cancerous cells. 

Mammograms 

The age recommendation for an initial mammogram by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) is between 40 and 49 years of age. This could also be influenced by your family’s history of breast cancer. Take the time to go over your family health history with one of our Kernodle OB/GYN healthcare providers to ensure we are meeting your specific needs. 

2. What preventive measures should I incorporate into my daily life? 

Annual Wellness Exam

One of the essential steps towards preventative health is coming in for your annual well-woman visit exam. This can prevent illness and offer early detection for illnesses to treat. We then can provide other resources depending on your specific situation. 

Maintain A Healthy Diet

Ensuring you maintain a diet including lots of fiber and water to decrease constipation can even lead to less period pain. You may not realize that your weight can highly influence your menstrual cycle. With drastic weight changes, women may start to see uninvited changes in their cycle or lose it together. 

Breast Self-Examination

You know your body better than anyone. By participating in breast self-examinations, you can detect changes in your body daily. Breastcancer.org details a five-step process to do your breast self-exam at home. Here, they explain that while no single test can report all breast cancers early, this self-exam paired with the screenings we provide is the best step towards early detection. 

3. Is my cycle normal? 

The Mayo Clinic lays out clear indications on what classifies a “normal cycle.” Over time, your cycle tends to shorten and become more consistent on a regular schedule. The meaning of normal is entirely dependent on the person. If your cycle has been constant in timing, length, and flow, a sudden change in those characteristics could indicate a different cause. Worried about new changes you’ve noticed in your cycle? Discuss it with your doctor at your next well-woman visit at Kernodle OB/GYN this year. 

4. How could the health history of my family affect me?

Understanding your family’s health history is very important for your health. The United Physician Group acknowledges that you and your doctor already know what areas may be of more significant concern for your well-being by knowing your family’s health history. As discussed prior regarding mammograms, a history of breast cancer in your family would lead your doctor to recommend being screened earlier to possibly provide early detection. Taking the time to go over your family history with your doctor at your annual well-woman visit is a great way to stay on top of your health in the new year. 

Deciding what to ask your doctor at an annual well-woman visit can be daunting. We have come up with four questions that can be a great starting point for a visit for your peace of mind. You may even get answers to questions you never thought to ask through these. Looking to schedule your visit today? Learn more about Kernodle OB/GYN at https://www.kernodle.com/obstetrics-and-gynecology/ or give us a call at (336) 538-2367.