Well-Woman Exam

Regular well-woman exams help women maintain good reproductive and overall health. During this exam, Carlos Rodriguez Ortiz MD, PA, and his skilled team in Miami and Hialeah, Florida, or HCA Florida Kendall Regional Hospital can detect problems early, when they’re easiest to treat. You’ll also receive comprehensive care that helps you stay as healthy as possible. If you’re due for an annual well-woman exam, call the office nearest you or schedule an appointment online today.

What is a well-woman exam?

A well-woman exam is a yearly exam that puts your health needs at the top of the priority list. During this exam, Carlos Rodriguez Ortiz MD, PA, and his team evaluate your current health and well-being. The exam also includes preventive screenings that help maintain your health.   

Many women’s health problems, including breast cancer, cervical cancer, and many sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), don’t show symptoms or problems in their early stages. Well-woman exams are a time to screen for these potentially serious issues and to catch them when they’re most treatable. 

When should I have well-woman exams?

The first well-woman exam should occur between the ages of 13 and 15, and doesn’t usually involve a pelvic exam (unless there is an underlying condition). This visit also allows the patient to build a relationship with the team and discuss any health issues affecting them (such as puberty and menstruation). 

In addition, these visits address any symptoms, such as irregular bleeding, unusual vaginal discharge, and pelvic pain. 

What happens during a well-woman exam?

At the beginning of your well-woman exam, the team takes your vitals, like blood pressure and weight, and reviews your medical history. This is also the time to raise any concerns you have about symptoms you’re having or issues like birth control, menopause, or family planning. The team may ask questions related to your sexual habits and lifestyle.

They perform a pelvic exam and Pap smear (if you’re due) to check for cells that could suggest cervical cancer. During this exam, they also evaluate your uterus and other pelvic organs to check for fibroids or irregular tissue.

The team may perform a breast exam and make any recommendations for further testing, like a mammogram or ultrasound, to check for breast cancer or other abnormalities.

After your well-woman exam, they might also make recommendations about diet, exercise, lifestyle habits, supplements, and self-care to help improve your overall health and quality of life. 

To learn more about well-woman exams, call Carlos Rodriguez Ortiz MD, PA, or schedule an appointment online at the office nearest you today.