Well Woman Exam Q&A

A well-woman exam is a routine checkup that helps you avoid health problems and live life to the fullest. Experienced primary care physician Chinwe Okafor, MD, offers comprehensive well-woman exams to her patients at Sugarland Primary Care Physicians in Sugarland, Texas. An annual well-woman exam could prevent life-changing medical conditions like cancer and help you manage common problems such as painful menstruation and menopause symptoms. To arrange your well-woman exam, call Sugarland Primary Care Physicians today or book an appointment online.

What is a well-woman exam?

A well-woman exam is an effective way of safeguarding your health by recognizing the early stages of disease. Dr. Okafor personalizes your well-woman exam to your specific needs, but the consultation is likely to include some or all of the following:

Pelvic exam

An internal pelvic exam allows Dr. Okafor to check your vulva, vagina, and cervix. She may do a Pap smear during the exam if you’re due for one. This cervical cancer screening test involves taking a sample of cells from your cervix for lab analysis.

The lab reports any cell changes or signs of human papillomavirus (HPV), the primary cause of cervical cancer. When you get the test results, Dr. Okafor can perform further tests to find out what’s causing the cell changes and treat you accordingly.

Breast exam

Dr. Okafor examines your breasts to check for lumps and other abnormalities.

Blood pressure measurement

High blood pressure (hypertension) can cause serious, potentially life-threatening problems like heart attacks and strokes. A routine blood pressure check can tell you instantly if you have hypertension.

Weight assessment

Maintaining a healthy weight can be a challenge, but the effects of having excess body weight can be life-threatening. Dr. Okafor weighs you and works out whether you need to lose or gain weight.

Family planning

Your well-woman exam is an excellent time to review your birth control options and benefit from the most suitable form of contraception. If you’re considering starting a family, Dr. Okafor can advise you on increasing your chances of conception.

STD (sexually transmitted disease) testing

Many STDs don’t have any apparent symptoms but can cause long-term health problems ranging from liver damage to infertility.

You can also discuss any sexual health, menstruation, or menopausal problems you experience.

When should I have a well-woman exam?

Dr. Okafor encourages adult women to visit Sugarland Primary Care Physicians yearly for a well-woman exam.

Adolescents should attend well-woman exams after they begin menstruating but don’t usually need a pelvic exam or Pap smear until they’re 18.

How do I prepare for a well-woman exam?

Avoid having sex or wearing tampons for two days before a well-woman exam, and make sure you don’t schedule your exam when you’re likely to be menstruating.

It’s also useful to list your prescription medications and any over-the-counter remedies or supplements you take.

To book your well-woman exam at Sugarland Primary Care Physicians, call or use the online booking form today.