Your annual wellness visit, often called a well-woman exam, is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your health. These visits aren’t just about routine checkups; they’re about early detection, prevention, and giving you the chance to discuss women’s health concerns with a trusted provider.
By catching potential issues early, doctors can treat conditions when they’re most manageable. Think of your annual exam as a yearly investment in your long-term health and quality of life.
What to Expect at Your Annual Wellness Visit
During a comprehensive well-woman exam, your provider may recommend or perform several screenings and assessments:
1. Blood Pressure
A simple cuff test measures how hard your heart is working. Elevated blood pressure can signal risks for heart disease or stroke. If needed, your doctor will guide you on lifestyle changes or medication.
2. Blood Sugar
A quick finger-prick test can detect diabetes. Women with weight concerns or risk factors may need this screening annually or more often.
3. Body Weight & BMI
Your provider will measure your height and weight to calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI). This helps assess risks related to being underweight or overweight, including type 2 diabetes.
4. Bone Density Scan
Women over 65 (or younger women with risk factors) may need this X-ray to check for osteoporosis. It helps predict fracture risk and guides preventive care.
5. Breast Exam & Mammogram
Your provider will examine your breasts and encourage monthly self-checks. Mammograms are recommended yearly for women over 40 or those with risk factors, helping detect breast cancer early.
6. Cholesterol Screening
A blood test measures LDL (“bad”) cholesterol. Women with obesity, diabetes, or high blood pressure may need more frequent monitoring.
7. Depression & Mental Health Screening
Your emotional well-being matters. Providers may ask about symptoms of depression, anxiety, or panic disorders to ensure you get the support you need.
8. Menopause Care
Hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause can cause hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep issues. Your provider can recommend therapies, medications, or lifestyle adjustments to ease symptoms.
9. Pap Smear & HPV Screening
Starting at age 21, Pap smears check for cervical cancer. From age 30, combined Pap and HPV testing every five years is recommended. Your provider may adjust the schedule based on your health history.
10. Pelvic Exam
This exam checks for cervical abnormalities, STIs, and other concerns. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists recommends annual pelvic exams starting between the ages of 13 and 15.
Why These Visits Matter
Annual wellness visits are about more than tests — they’re about empowerment. They give you the chance to:
- Ask questions about your body and health.
- Catch conditions early, when treatment is most effective.
- Build a relationship with your provider based on trust and care.
The Takeaway
Your annual wellness exam is a cornerstone of preventive healthcare. From blood pressure checks to Pap smears, these screenings help you stay ahead of potential issues and maintain your best health. And if you have an Avon HMO health plan, you won’t even need to pay for most of these checks because they are covered.
If you haven’t scheduled your wellness visit yet, consider making it a priority this year — because prevention is always better than cure.
Also Read: Cervical Cancer Prevention: HPV Vaccination Centres in Lagos
