What is the fuss behind annual exams? We are living longer, we have better healthcare, then why choose annual gynecological exam? Today as medical technology soars to new heights each minute, women’s health is a raging topic worldwide. Seriously, we are talking big debates about gynecologic problems. One should know that medical advancement might save you from trouble but it can also prevent lethal disorders. And this is why you need an annual gynecological exam at Poplar Avenue Clinic today. As it is much more than a regular visit to an Ob/GYN, it caters to the entire purpose of your overall health.
In this article, we share the significant reasons why an annual gynecological exam is required:
1. Cancer Screening
According to Cervical Cancer Statistics by CDC, Each year in the United States, about 13,000 new cases of cervical cancer are diagnosed and about 4,000 women die of this cancer. You are at significant risk of developing cancer; as you read. Keeping up with an annual gynecological exam, helps you remain in the loop with routine cancer screenings. This will eventually help you detect cancer in the earliest stages. These stages are the ones when it is the most treatable with considerably low risks of harming your health.
An annual exam assesses your age and lifestyle-related risk factors. This leads to cancer screenings including breast cancer, skin cancer, cervical cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, and colon cancer. When you are recommended cancer screenings regularly, you get continually updated on your overall health.
2. Vaccination Updates
It is now quite evident to the world; loud and clear, that vaccines are not limited to children. Adults need to stay updated with vaccinations to prevent life-threatening diseases. Each time you go for an annual gynecological exam, your gynecologist will review the vaccination history. They will update you on different risk factors that could hamper your health. They will further suggest immunizations and vaccinations, including:
- COVID-19: We may be reeling from coronavirus, but it is still quite prevalent. So whether it is a booster shot (Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson) or a new one, your doctor will recommend you to further protect you from coronavirus and other variants. Your PCP will answer all queries and questions related to vaccines for covid-19.
- Flu vaccine: It is going to that time of the year when cold and flu risks will be at an all-time high. Flu shots are suggested for people with low immunity. They are mostly administered before you develop the risks.
- Pneumonia vaccine: Your PCP may suggest this vaccine if you have been a smoker for a prolonged period or if asthma runs in the family. This vaccine will further protect you from lung infections.
- Tdap vaccine: Tdap stands for tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis. It is a combination vaccine for whooping cough. It is particularly recommended for pregnant women to protect their newborns.
- HPV vaccine: Annual exams are recommended for girls as young as 12. While they might be too young for certain treatments and screenings, they are eligible for vaccinations including HPV. Cancers caused by human papillomavirus can be curbed through the HPV vaccine. CDC recommends HPV vaccination for people up to age 26.
- Hepatitis B vaccine: Any alarming health condition that affects your immunity like diabetes or other health disorder hepatitis B vaccine is recommended. It is also administered if you work in the healthcare industry.
- Shingles vaccine: For adults aged 50 and over, the shingles vaccine is recommended.
3. Overall Health Assessment
At an annual gynecological exam, your health is evaluated by considering many factors like lifestyle, age, and medical and family history. Your doctor will recommend several tests and screenings during annual exams. This includes:
- Cholesterol Screening: every aspect of health matters and cholesterol is an indication of cardiovascular issues and other health concerns. Bad cholesterol or LDL when measured at less than 130 mg/dL is normal. While good cholesterol or HDL when measured at more than 60 mg/dL is considered normal. All in all, when the overall cholesterol reading is below 200 mg/dL; it is normal.
- Blood pressure screening: Your blood pressure is examined in this process. 120/80 reading is regarded as normal.
- Osteoporosis screening: This is recommended for women above the age of 65. The DEXA scan is used to diagnose osteoporosis.
- Body Mass Index: BMI is a calculation to assess whether or not you are at the right weight or not. A healthy BMI range is 18.6 to 24.9.
4. Medical Records
An annual gynecological exam is crucial to keep up with your medical records with each day passing. This exam is the perfect way to stay updated on your health and medical records.
- Allergies- this exam is the right way to know all about the dangerous reactions the environment can trigger. There could be food or medical allergies as well that could evolve later in life. This can be detected through/during an annual exam as well.
- Social history: You will be asked about your lifestyle habits including alcohol, smoking, and sexual activity. There are many other personal questions that your provider may ask you throughout the exam.
- Mental health. In a bid to know about your mental health, you will be asked about questions and situations related to depression and anxiety. This will help you in sharing your concerns and getting the right guidance. You will be referred to a licensed counselor if your PCP detects some serious concerns.
- Family history: When you share the medical history of your family, your doctor can diagnose your situation well and recommend you the right treatments or screenings.
Schedule your Annual Gynecological Exam at Poplar Avenue Clinic
When you get an annual exam you establish a good relationship with your primary care provider. This will further help them get to know you better and recommend a better diagnosis. The whole purpose of an annual exam is to improve overall wellness and health while protecting you against illnesses and diseases. Schedule Women’s Annual Exams in Memphis, TN with the team of board-certified OB/GYNs at Poplar Avenue Clinic.