You may have heard of a “well-woman exam” and wondered what it really includes. For many women, preventive care meant a yearly pelvic exam or Pap smear, or nothing at all if those weren’t needed. Today, a well-woman exam focuses on your whole health, including physical, emotional, and lifestyle needs.
At BBC Health in Lewisville, we partner with you to understand your health goals, provide appropriate screening, and create a plan that fits your life. Whether this is your first exam or it has been a while, our goal is for you to feel informed, supported, and empowered.
Who Is a Well-Woman Exam For?
Well-woman exams are recommended for women 18 years and older, regardless of sexual activity, and before, during, or after menopause. Even if you feel well, regular preventive visits help identify potential concerns early and provide time for education and shared decision-making.
What Should I Expect During My Well-Woman Visit?
Each well-woman visit is personalized to your age, health history, and concerns. We review your medical history and medications, check vital signs, and recommend exams or screening tests only when appropriate. Below are some of the key areas we focus on during your visit.
- Breast Cancer Screening: Breast health is discussed, including education on breast awareness and ordering mammograms when appropriate. National guidelines recommend screening every two years for women ages 40 to 74, with earlier or more frequent screening based on personal or family history (USPSTF guidelines).
- Cervical Cancer Screening: Pap smears are an important part of cervical cancer screening for women ages 21 to 65, even if you are not sexually active. A Pap smear is not needed every year. Screening intervals typically range from every 3 to 5 years, depending on age, results, and history. We review your screening history and personalize recommendations.
- Osteoporosis Screening: Bone health is also addressed. As estrogen levels decline with age, bone turnover increases and bones may weaken. National guidelines recommend DEXA screening for women age 65 and older and for postmenopausal women under 65 with risk factors. Early recognition allows for earlier treatment and fewer complications.
- Mental Health Screening: Routine screening for anxiety and depression, with time to discuss mood, stress, sleep, and emotional well-being.
- STI Testing: STI testing is available for anyone with concerns about exposure, symptoms, or increased risk. Testing may include urine samples, blood work, and/or vaginal swabs. All testing is optional, confidential, and discussed openly.
- Reproductive and Hormonal Health: We review menstrual history and concerns, provide contraceptive counseling, discuss pregnancy planning or preconception care, and address perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopausal symptoms. Our goal is to support hormone health and overall well-being.
What If I Have More Specific Health Concerns?
A well-woman exam is the perfect time to discuss issues that affect daily life, including weight changes, fatigue, mood or sleep concerns, nutrition and exercise habits, sexual health, and prescriptions. We can order additional tests and develop a plan to support your health goals.
How Can BBC Health Help Me?
Our approach is whole-person and collaborative. We focus on preventive care, evidence-based screening, shared decision-making, lifestyle counseling, and mental health support. Our goal is ongoing guidance, not a one-time visit. Your concerns matter, and no question is too small to discuss.
Schedule a Well-Woman Exam with BBC Health Today!
If it has been a while since your last exam or you are scheduling your first, BBC Health is here to help. We offer comprehensive well-woman exams in both English and Spanish. Preventive care is one of the most important investments you can make in your long-term health.
