Annual Gynecological Exams in Omaha, NE
An important part of staying healthy is to have regular gynecological exams beginning at age 18, or within three years of becoming sexually active.
Preventive care includes:
- Health Discussions: Talk to our providers about age-appropriate health concerns, risk factors, and wellness goals.
- Screenings and Exams: Receive a full range of screenings, including Pap smears and breast exams.
- Immunizations: Stay up-to-date on vaccines like the flu shot or HPV vaccine.
Our board certified gynecologists provide expert care to women of all ages in Omaha, Nebraska. Learn more about annual gynecology exams and call our office to schedule your appointment today.
How Should I Prepare for My Exam?
The most important thing to do before your gynecological exam is research. Women should be prepared to discuss their family medical history and be ready for questions about their menstrual cycle. Some of the most commonly asked questions your provider may ask include:
- When was your last period?
- How long does your period typically last?
- What age did you start your period?
- Are you sexually active?
What to Expect at Your Annual Gynecology Exam
In addition to checking your height, weight, and blood pressure, your doctor will ask you questions about your general health, menstrual period and sexual activities. During your exam, your doctor will perform the following exams and tests. If the doctor is male, a female nurse remains in the room during your exam.
During your breast exam, your doctor will check your breasts for signs of any potential problems, such as a lump. He or she will examine each breast by moving his or her fingers around your breast in a pattern. You may also be shown how to perform monthly self-examinations.
Pelvic Exam
During your pelvic exam, your doctor will examine your vagina, cervix and reproductive organs. Once you place your feet against footrests at the end of the examining table and slide forward, your doctor will then insert an instrument called a speculum into your vagina to gently spread the walls apart to examine the area. Your doctor then places one or two gloved, lubricated fingers into your vagina and the other hand presses on your abdomen from the outside to check the size, position, and shape of your internal pelvic organs. The pelvic exam may feel a bit uncomfortable, but should not hurt.
A Pap smear checks for abnormal cells in the cervix that could lead to cancer. The doctor will insert a small cotton-tipped swab through the vagina into the cervix. Cells are removed from the cervix and sent to a laboratory to be checked for any abnormalities. The Pap smear is painless.
Well Woman Visits at All Ages
These assessments should include screening, evaluation and counseling, and immunizations based on age and risk factors.
At 20 Years old
- Schedule your first Pap test if you haven’t already.
- Discuss sexual health and screen for sexually transmitted infections if needed.
At 30 Years old
- Plan for pregnancy by consulting with your gynecologist.
- Continue annual well-woman exams for preventive care.
At 40 Years old
- Decide when to start mammograms, especially if you have a family history of breast cancer.
- Address perimenopause symptoms with tailored solutions.
At 50 Years old
- Screen for lung cancer if you’re a current or former smoker.
- Schedule a colorectal cancer screening.
At 60 Years old
- Continue regular mammograms and start osteoporosis screenings.
At 70 Years old
- Stay up to date on vaccinations, including flu, shingles, and pneumonia shots.
- Discuss fall prevention and address vision or hearing concerns.
At 80 Years old
- Discuss with your doctor ways to prevent falls, and if you have any problems with your vision or hearing.
To schedule your appointment please call our office at (402) 697-7200. Please download our PAP and HPV Handout before your visit.
