Wellness Women's Exams Specialist

Why take time for a women’s wellness exam?

An annual wellness exam focuses on your health — now and in the future. It's your chance to talk with Dr. Harrison about your overall health, not just gynecologic-related issues. Your visit includes education and counseling to help you make informed health decisions. You may wish to discuss:

• Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
• Your weight and health goals
• Hormonal changes
• Issues with your menstrual cycle
• Family planning
• Infertility
• Concerns about sex, such as pain during sex
• Mental health and depression

During your visit, Dr. Harrison recommends immunizations to protect against the flu. If you're the right age, Dr. Harrison recommends the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to lower your risk of cervical cancer. 

What tests happen at a women’s wellness exam?

Health screenings are part of your women's wellness exam. These screenings detect cancer, health problems, and infections early when treatment is most effective. 

Your exact screenings may vary. Dr. Harrison recommends the appropriate screenings based on your medical history, age, and other factors. Standard tests include:

• Pap smear
• Breast exam
• Pelvic exam
• Diabetes test
• Blood pressure test
• STD tests
• Bone density test

Dr. Harrison also may recommend a mammogram or colorectal cancer screening depending on your age and risk factors.

What is a Pap smear?

A Pap smear is a routine test performed during a women’s wellness exam to detect early signs of cervical cancer. The test is quick. Dr. Harrison collects a sample of cervical cells for testing as you recline on an exam table.

Dr. Harrison usually recommends a Pap smear at least every three years if you’re between the ages of 21 and 65. The test looks for signs of HPV at the same time. However, she discusses the appropriate schedule for you based on your risk factors.

What if my Pap smear is abnormal?

Abnormal results don't necessarily suggest you have cancer. Results sometimes show the presence of "atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance" (ASCUS). In some cases, these are noncancerous cells. In other cases, the cells may be precancerous (or possibly cancerous). 

Dr. Harrison explains your results at a follow-up appointment. She discusses the next steps and may recommend a repeat Pap smear, or an additional test called a colposcopy. 

Make your health a priority by scheduling your women's wellness exam today with Sovereign Women's Healthcare. Call today or schedule your appointment online.