What Happens During a Well Woman Exam?
A well-woman exam is an annual physical that specifically reviews the health issues experienced by women in addition to general checkup review for all adults. During a well-woman exam, the doctor will ask questions about your health and wellbeing monitor your vital signs such as blood pressure, weight, heart rate, and respiratory activity. Additionally, this is an opportunity to have a pelvic exam, pap smear, and breast exam. Your annual well-woman visit also provides you with an opportunity to discuss any changes in your health and wellbeing with your trusted doctor and to ask any questions you might have. Women’s bodies go through many changes and it is normal to have questions about those changes such as how to deal with the symptoms of menopause like vaginal dryness.
Why Does a Woman Need an Annual Checkup?
An annual well-woman visit is an opportunity to check in with your health, talk to a medical professional about any concerns, and develop a relationship with your healthcare provider, and make sure you are up to date on any preventive health screenings. Regular exams and screenings can enable a doctor to make early diagnoses of any conditions or illnesses that allow for quick and efficient treatment. While in most cases there are no serious medical conditions, a positive relationship with a medical provider can provide peace of mind and create an additional layer of support for the woman and her health.
What Causes Vaginal Dryness?
A common complaint among older women is vaginal dryness. Vaginal dryness is a common side effect of the hormonal changes of menopause. The doctors at Legacy OB/GYN can provide advice and treatment for vaginal dryness and other symptoms associated with menopause. Some women may benefit from simply adding a water-based lubricant to their sex lives. However, other women may benefit more from bio-identical hormone therapy to replace the hormones lost during menopause. Bio-identical hormone therapy can stimulate the body into producing natural moisture and lubrication in the vaginal cavity which can preserve the patient’s sex life and her emotional and physical wellbeing.
