Did you know that approximately 3% of Americans have an overwhelming fear of going to the doctor? Although medical checkups can be anxiety-inducing, it’s essential that you do not overlook them.
This is especially true when it comes to primary care for women. interestingly, not everybody understands what to expect during a doctor’s appointment for women’s healthcare.
Let’s take a closer look at everything you need to know.
So, What Is a Well-Woman Visit?
As you might assume, a well-woman visit involves an evaluation of your overall health.
During this appointment, you can expect the healthcare provider to check for any signs of illnesses or conditions, as well as any potential risks and possible preventive measures.
This is a great time to ask questions about nutrition and exercise, mental health, sexual health, current medications, and lifestyle habits. Depending on your age, you may also need to undergo certain tests and screenings in order to check for any underlying health issues.
It’s important to note that well-woman visits are not just about physical exams. They can also help you build an open dialogue with your healthcare provider so that you feel comfortable discussing any sensitive topics or concerns.
How Often Should You Schedule One?
Most women schedule a wellness visit once per year. However, you may need to adjust this number depending on certain factors. For example, if you are at risk of certain medical conditions, you might need to visit your primary care provider twice per year.
As you age, you will also experience additional risk for medical complications. The good news is that regular checkups will help catch problems before they evolve into something more serious.
What Does This Visit Involve?
To begin with, your doctor will ask you specific questions about your lifestyle and medical history. They may also ask you about your sexual activity, including the number of sexual partners you have and whether or not you use contraception.
They will then question you about the quality of your relationships, any current medications you are taking, and whether or not you use drugs or alcohol. During this conversation is a great opportunity to voice any issues you might have.
It’s important to remember that you should not be afraid or ashamed. These professionals are here to help you with any issues you might be experiencing.
What Type of Tests Will You Have Access To?
Cholesterol screening and diabetes screening are common tests you can take. The same can be said about screening for thyroid disease. Of course, you can also test for the presence of sexually transmitted infections or diseases.
Put simply, you can run tests for most of the concerns that you might have. Keep in mind, though, that some doctors might not test you unless you have signs or symptoms. To clarify, someone who does not exhibit symptoms of an uncommon condition probably won’t need to have a test for it.
Where Can You Schedule a Wellness Visit?
A handful of medical professionals can perform an exam during a wellness visit. These include nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and primary care physicians.
Of course, the same can be said about an OB/GYN or gynecologist. You can get in touch with her primary care provider to learn more about how to schedule this type of visit.
Is It Possible to Schedule a Virtual Wellness Visit?
Yes, it absolutely is. Virtual wellness visits are great for those who do not need conventional care. To elaborate, you can use a virtual wellness visit to discuss mental health. The same can be said about asking for advice regarding your lifestyle.
In context, someone might schedule a virtual visit to obtain advice about sexual activity and contraception. The same could be said about those who need insight into the effects of drug or alcohol use.
Of course, you should always consult with your insurance company to see if this type of service is covered by your policy. The same can be said about finding out which type of doctor you need to speak with.
How Do You Find the Right Doctor for Your Needs?
Finding the right doctor for a wellness visit starts with referrals. Ask around to see if your friends, family, or coworkers have any recommendations. You can also check out online reviews and ratings.
It’s also important to consider factors like office location, office hours, and insurance policies. After all, you want to make sure that your primary care provider is easy to reach and convenient to access.
It’s also in your best interest to prioritize someone you are comfortable with. The better you can communicate with them, the more you can get out of your wellness visit.
Finally, it’s a good idea to meet with the doctor prior to making an appointment. This could be through virtual means or face-to-face consultation. During this meeting, you can ask about their experience in women’s health as well as their approach to preventive care.
By taking the time to research, you can make sure that you are getting the best care possible.
Never Overlook Primary Care for Women
A well-woman visit is an invaluable tool for staying healthy and active during every stage of life.
These visits are important for checking in on your physical health, mental health, lifestyle habits, and any potential risk factors for illnesses or conditions. So, never overlook the importance of this form of primary care for women.
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