Annual Exam
About Annual Exams
As an essential part to your general and sexual health, an annual exam is recommended every year to test for any abnormalities and review your overall reproductive health, including birth control options. At Women’s Health at Valley View, our team of board-certified OB/GYNs and our team of Certified Nurse Midwives are well equipped to provide thorough annual exams for patients in Glenwood Springs, Basalt, Eagle and Silt, CO. With several offered tests, we are able to detect any issues before they progress and provide you with necessary referrals or treatment options. We also work to build an open and honest relationship with our patients so that they feel comfortable when visiting our practice for an exam. Contact one of our locations in Glenwood Springs, Basalt, Eagle or Silt, CO today to schedule your comprehensive well-woman exam.
Your Appointment
Depending on your age and any existing concerns, your annual exam may consist of several different examinations and diagnostic tests. Prior to the exam, we will take your height, weight, blood pressure, temperature, and pulse. You will then share information with a member of our staff regarding any problems you are experiencing, how you are currently feeling, and the date of your last menstrual cycle. One of our experienced OB/GYNs or Certified Nurse Midwives will then perform several examinations, including the following:
Pelvic Exam
During a pelvic exam, both the external and internal area of the pelvic area will be inspected. As you lie on the examination table, your provider may manually feel with two gloved fingers the ovaries, uterus, and cervix while simultaneously pushing on the abdomen in order to detect any abnormalities. Additionally, they will insert a speculum in order to obtain a better view of both the vaginal walls and the cervix. In a pelvic exam, your provider will be looking for any signs of infection, as well as moles, sores, discharge, discoloration, or other irregularities.
Pap Test
If needed, a Pap test is provided in order to test for human papillomavirus (HPV), precancerous, and cancer cells. During the test, a speculum is inserted into the vaginal opening and a brushing technique is used to collect cells from the cervix. These cells are then sent to a laboratory for testing.
Breast Exam
For a breast examination, your OB/GYN or Certified Nurse Midwife will manually feel each breast and underarm area. They are looking for any lumps or other abnormalities. Based on your age and family history, your provider may recommend a mammogram or further testing to ensure your breast health.
Additional Testing
Based on your age or symptoms, we may request additional testing outside of the regular annual visit or send you to a specialist with a referral. Additional follow-up tests could include (but are not limited to):
- Sexually transmitted disease testing
- Ultrasounds or sonograms
- Updates on immunizations
- Colonoscopy, Mammogram, or Bone Density Scan
What to Expect
During any part of your exam, if abnormalities are found, we may recommend additional testing, provide referrals, or suggest treatment options. For certain tests, samples may be sent to a lab for evaluation and we will contact you once we receive your results. Feel free to schedule a consultation if you have any questions or concerns prior to or after your annual exam.
Exceptional Gynecology Care
It is important to be proactive with your health, especially when given the ability to detect issues before they develop any further. During a well-woman exam, our experienced team of board-certified OB/GYNs and our team of Certified Nurse Midwives will perform a series of tests to evaluate any irregularities that may need additional treatments. Contact one of our locations in Glenwood Springs, Basalt, Eagle or Silt, CO to learn more and to schedule your annual well-woman exam.