Well Woman Exam

A well-woman exam is a yearly health assessment performed by an obstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYN) or primary care provider. In adult women, the exam typically consists of vital signs like blood pressure and body mass index, an exam of the abdomen and lymph nodes, a clinical breast exam, a pelvic exam, contraception or pregnancy counseling and screening for infections as needed.

Women under the age of 21 usually do not receive pelvic examinations unless abnormal symptoms are present. These well-woman exams will usually focus on education and counseling.

Starting at age 21, most women will receive a pelvic exam as part of their well-woman visit. Pap smears, used to screen for cervical cancer, are usually recommended every 1 - 3 years. Clinical breast exams are recommended depending on the patient’s age, family history, and risk factors for breast cancer.