Going to a womens clinic can help you handle potential health issues and track your reproductive health. If you’re experiencing symptoms such as pelvic pain, abnormal uterine bleeding, or fibroids, a health check can identify the cause and provide treatment. Here’s what to expect during your visit:
Physical Exam
When you go to a womens clinic, the doctor will first conduct a physical exam to gauge your overall well-being. They might check how much you weigh, your blood pressure, and your heartbeat to catch any signs of illnesses. The physician may ask about the date of your last period, spotting, and whether your cycle is regular or irregular. They can also ask about birth control, your sexual history, and whether you bleed or feel pain during and after sex. Mention any unusual symptoms like pelvic discomfort, digestive issues, or painful bowel movements because they may indicate gynecologic conditions.
Breast Exam
A clinic appointment can include a breast exam to detect any unusual symptoms. Your doctor will visually analyze your breasts for any changes in skin texture, color, size, or shape. They’ll then ask you to lie down or stand up and use their fingers to feel for lumps or masses in your breast tissue and underarms. This exam may reveal benign breast conditions or cancer.
If your close relatives battled breast cancer, the physician may suggest more screenings such as an ultrasound or mammogram. They’ll also check the nipples for any inversion or discharge, as they might be signs of underlying conditions.
Pap Test
The doctor may do a pap test to screen your cervix. You’ll lie back on a table, bending your legs and resting your feet on footrests. The doctor then uses a speculum to open the vaginal area and access the cervical tissue. Using a small spatula and a soft brush, the doctor gently scrapes the cervix’s surface to take cell samples, places them in a special fluid, and sends them to a lab for analysis.
In the lab, a specialist studies your cervix cells under a microscope for any abnormal growth. If you have abnormal uterine bleeding or menstrual cramps, which may suggest endometriosis or polyps, a Pap test can help rule out cervical cancer.
Pelvic Exam
Some clinics will examine your pelvis, including your uterine wall, ovaries, and birth canal. The exam can help uncover conditions like ovarian cysts, endometriosis, infections, and fibroids. The gynecologist first checks for redness, swelling, sores, or unusual discharge around the vulva. Since the doctor can’t directly see your uterus and ovaries, they’ll examine your stomach and pelvis. While wearing gloves, they’ll insert one or two fingers into the vagina while applying pressure to your stomach. They’ll check the uterus and ovaries for tenderness or unusual growths and recommend treatment.
Visit a Womens Clinic Today
Going to a womens clinic can help you stay proactive about your reproductive health. Clinics may offer access to specialists like gynecologists and physical therapists and diagnostic tools like ultrasounds and biopsies for personalized care. Book an appointment with a physician today to take control of your health.
