Women Well Exam

A women’s wellness exam is an essential part of maintaining your overall health. At Southside OB/GYN, PC in Richmond Hill, Georgia, Francisco Dueno, MD, performs these annual checkups, focusing on preventive care, reproductive health, and early detection of potential concerns. From Pap smears and breast exams to STI screenings and contraception counseling, you can stay informed and proactive about your health at every stage of life. Book an appointment today by phone or online.

What is a women’s wellness exam?

A women’s wellness exam is a routine checkup designed to assess and maintain your reproductive and overall health. These exams help detect potential health concerns early and provide preventive care, screenings, and necessary referrals.

What can I expect at a women’s wellness exam?

During a women’s wellness exam at Southside OB/GYN, PC, Dr. Dueno conducts a thorough evaluation, which typically includes:

• Pap smears: to check for abnormal cervical cells that could indicate HPV infection or cervical cancer risk
• Breast exams (not cancer-related): to check for lumps, changes in breast tissue, or other abnormalities
• Counseling and referrals for BRCA testing: a discussion about genetic testing options for the BRCA gene mutation (if you have a family history of hereditary cancers)
• Gynecological ultrasound (vaginal): to assess reproductive organs, diagnose fibroids, ovarian cysts, or other gynecological concerns (performed if necessary)

Be sure to ask any questions you might have during your appointment.

What issues can a women’s wellness exam address?

Dr. Dueno can address and treat a wide range of issues that fall under the following categories: 

• Reproductive and gynecological health (irregular, heavy, or painful periods, pelvic pain, uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts, endometriosis, menopause)
• Sexual health and STI screening (chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV, genital warts, vulvovaginal disorders and infections)
• Cancer prevention and early detection (Pap smear, HPV test, clinical breast exam, counseling and referrals, ovarian cancer risk assessment)
• Contraception and pregnancy planning (birth control counseling and prescriptions, fertility concerns and testing, pregnancy testing, and early pregnancy care)

He also oversees your general health by evaluating you for urinary tract infections (UTIs), sexual dysfunction issues, and your overall well-being.

How often should I have a women’s wellness exam?

The frequency of women’s wellness exams depends on your age, medical history, and risk factors. In general:

Ages 21-29

Dr. Dueno may recommend a Pap smear every 3 years if results are normal, and STI screening should be done based on sexual activity and risk factors.

Ages 30-65

He may recommend a Pap smear and HPV test every 5 years if normal and recommend other screenings based on your health needs.

Postmenopause

If you’re over 65, you may stop Pap smears if you have a history of normal results, but other health screenings remain important.

It’s always best to discuss your personal health history with Dr. Dueno to determine the right exam schedule for you. Call or book an appointment online today.