Annual exams are for preventative care. Depending on a patient’s age, several different screenings can take place at an annual gynecological exam, including sexually transmitted infection testing, pelvic examination, Pap testing, and breast exam. Lab testing for diabetes screening, cholesterol levels, thyroid disease, and liver and kidney function screening may be recommended. Bone density screening tests called DEXA scans, tests for colon cancer screening and mammograms to screen for breast cancer can be ordered when appropriate. Healthy habits will be discussed, and healthy lifestyle suggestions made. Screening for other concerns such as intimate partner violence, depression, and smoking will take place.
At OB-GYN, P.C. we use Thin Prep Pap for our Pap smears. Thin Prep Pap is more accurate than a regular pap smear and it has the ability to test for HPV, in addition to cervical abnormalities, and it does so with only 1 culture, making it most convenient for patients.