Your yearly visit, for every stage of life.
A well woman exam is your once-a-year check on your whole health. It’s a time to catch problems early, stay up to date on screenings and talk openly about anything on your mind.
- How often Once a year
- Exam Breast and pelvic exam as needed
- Cervical screening Pap or HPV test, based on your age
- Lab panel Six blood tests for your overall health
What happens at your exam
Your visit is unhurried and private. We’ll explain each step before we begin, and you can ask questions or pause at any time.
Talk
We review your health history, medicines, periods and any concerns you want to discuss.
Check
Your blood pressure, weight and other vital signs.
Exam
A breast exam, and a pelvic exam with a Pap or HPV test when you’re due.
Labs
A blood draw for your well woman panel, if your provider orders it.
Topics we can talk about
- Periods
- Birth control
- Sexual health
- Pregnancy plans
- Menopause
- Mood and stress
- Vaccines
- Healthy weight
Six blood tests, one clear picture
Our well woman panel looks beyond the exam room at your thyroid, heart health, blood sugar, blood count, organ function and vitamin D. It takes one blood draw.
TSH and free T4
Thyroid
- Measures your thyroid hormone levels
- Can find an underactive or overactive thyroid
- Thyroid problems can affect energy, weight, mood, periods and fertility
Lipid panel
Cholesterol
- Measures total cholesterol, LDL, HDL and triglycerides
- Helps us understand your risk of heart disease and stroke
- High cholesterol usually has no symptoms, so testing is the only way to know
Hemoglobin A1C
Blood sugar
- Shows your average blood sugar over the past 2 to 3 months
- Screens for prediabetes and diabetes
- Finding high blood sugar early makes it easier to manage
CBC
Complete blood count
- Counts your red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets
- Checks for anemia, which is common with heavy periods
- Can show signs of infection and other conditions
CMP
Comprehensive metabolic panel
- Checks how your kidneys and liver are working
- Measures blood sugar, electrolytes and calcium
- Gives a broad picture of your overall health
Vitamin D
Bone health
- Measures the vitamin D level in your blood
- Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium and keep bones strong
- Low levels are common and easy to treat
Your provider will decide which tests are right for you, based on your age and health history, and will go over your results with you.
The right care at the right time
Recommended screenings change as you get older. Here is a general guide for women at average risk.
Ages 21 to 29
- Cervical screening A Pap test every 3 years
- STI screening Chlamydia and gonorrhea testing every year through age 24 if you are sexually active
- HPV vaccine Recommended through age 26 if you haven’t had it
Ages 30 to 65
- Cervical screening An HPV test every 5 years, or another schedule your provider recommends
- Blood pressure Checked at every visit
- Colon cancer screening Starts at age 45
Ages 40 and older
- Mammogram Starts at 40. Ask us how often is right for you
- Bone density Starts at 65, or earlier if you have risk factors
- After menopause Yearly visits still matter, even when Pap tests stop
Your provider may suggest a different schedule based on your health and family history.
A few simple steps before your visit
A little preparation helps you get the most out of your time with us.
- Note your last period Write down the first day of your last period. If you’re due for a Pap test, try to schedule when you’re not on your period.
- Bring your medicines A list of everything you take, including vitamins and supplements.
- Know your family history Especially breast, ovarian and colon cancer, heart disease and diabetes.
- Before a Pap test For 2 days before, avoid sex, douching and vaginal creams or medicines.
- Ask about fasting We’ll let you know if you should skip eating before your blood draw.
- Bring your questions No topic is off-limits, from periods and birth control to sex, mood and menopause.
Frequently asked questions
Don’t see your question here? Call us at 770-451-3100 and we’ll be glad to help.
Is a well woman exam the same as a Pap test?
No. A Pap test is one part of a well woman exam, and most women don’t need one every year. Your yearly visit also covers your overall health, breast health, screenings, birth control and any concerns you have.
Do I need a pelvic exam every year?
Not always. Your provider will recommend a pelvic exam based on your age, symptoms and health history.
Do I need to fast for my blood work?
Some tests can be more accurate after fasting. We’ll tell you ahead of time if you should skip eating before your blood draw.
Can I come in if I’m on my period?
Yes, for most of the visit. If you’re due for a Pap test, it’s best to schedule when you’re not on your period. Call us and we’ll help you choose a day.
Is the visit covered by insurance?
Most insurance plans cover a yearly well woman visit as preventive care. Coverage for lab tests can vary by plan, so check with your insurance company if you have questions.
Do I still need a yearly exam after menopause?
Yes. Even when Pap tests stop, a yearly visit is a chance to check your breast and bone health, talk about menopause symptoms and stay up to date on screenings.
Time for your well woman exam?
Call us to schedule your yearly visit. We’re here Monday through Friday, 8am to 4pm.
We accept most health insurance plans in Georgia
Visit Us
Contact & Location
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Phone
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Fax
770-451-3343
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Email
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Hours
Mon – Fri, 8am – 4pmClosed for lunch 12:30 – 1:30