By Dr. Laurel Walton, DO, OB/GYN, FACOOG
Let’s face it: no one gets excited about their yearly gynecological exam. As a doctor, I understand the hesitation. Many women feel embarrassed, anxious, or even unsure why these exams are necessary, especially if they feel perfectly healthy. But trust me, these yearly checkups are one of the most effective ways to care for yourself—and I’m here to explain why.
What Happens During a Yearly Exam
First, let’s clear up a common misconception. A yearly exam isn’t just about your reproductive organs—it’s about your whole body. When you come to see me, I’m not just checking your pelvis; I’m assessing your overall health. I listen to your heart and lungs, check for any concerning symptoms, and, of course, perform a thorough pelvic exam.
The pelvic portion includes examining the external genitalia, taking a look at the cervix, and feeling for any abnormalities in the uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries. These steps are vital. While Pap smears (which test for cervical cancer) are only recommended every three to five years for most women, the pelvic exam is an annual must. It helps me catch issues like uterine growths or other abnormalities before they cause symptoms.
I always say: you wouldn’t skip a heart checkup just because you feel fine, so why skip a pelvic exam?
Understanding the Fear and Avoidance
I know many women put off these exams, and I get it. For years, there’s been a stigma around gynecological care. Maybe it’s embarrassment about being examined in such a personal area, or maybe it’s the fear of what I might find. Sometimes, even doctors are hesitant to bring it up, and that can lead to misunderstandings about how important these exams really are.
But here’s the thing: when we skip these visits, we’re missing opportunities to catch problems early. For example, a growing uterus might not cause any pain or bleeding until it’s advanced, but I can often detect changes during a routine exam.
Do You Really Need Exams Later in Life?
Yes, you do. I often hear women ask, “Do I still need a yearly pelvic exam after menopause?” My answer: absolutely. After 50, your risk for uterine cancer increases, with the highest risk occurring between 54 and 57 years old. By continuing annual exams, I can spot potential issues early, before they become more difficult to treat.
That said, care should always be individualized. If you’re 80 or 90 and living in a nursing home, for example, your needs may differ. But many of my older patients still want reassurance that everything is working as it should—and I’m happy to provide that peace of mind.
How to Prepare for Your Visit
I know it can be nerve-wracking to come in for your exam, but I want you to feel comfortable and empowered. One tip I always share is to write down your questions and concerns ahead of time. No question is too small or silly—this is your time to ask about anything on your mind, whether it’s irregular bleeding, pain during intercourse, or anything else.
For younger women, I often stress the importance of starting pelvic exams when you become sexually active, or by age 21 if you’re not. Pap smears, which screen for cervical cancer, start at 21, but pelvic exams are about more than just cancer prevention. They’re a chance to check for any issues, even in younger patients.
Caring for Women Through All Ages
My goal is to make you feel comfortable, heard, and informed. I want every patient to leave their appointment feeling confident that they’re doing everything they can to stay healthy.
If you’ve been putting off your yearly exam, let’s change that. Call 574-223-2020 to schedule your visit with me or one of my colleagues at Woodlawn Health. Together, we’ll ensure you’re on the path to a long, healthy life.
