3 Questions to Ask the Doc at Your Next Pelvic Exam

It is no secret that preventative health care — such as regular checkups, cancer screenings and routine medical tests — can help adults live healthier lives. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control estimates that each year, 100,000 lives could be saved if every adult participated in regular wellness screenings and check-ups.

For women, a yearly physical often includes a pelvic exam and a Pap smear. While every woman should check with her physician to understand what tests she may need as a part of her physical exam, following are three questions women should ask their general practitioner or gynecologist at the next exam.

• WHICH CANCER SCREENINGS SHOULD I GET & HOW OFTEN?

Be sure that your physician has information on your family’s health history. Studies have shown that those with a family history of cancer may be at a higher risk of developing the disease, and providing this information to your physician will help him or her tailor a wellness plan to meet your individual needs. If you do not have your family’s health history, let this be the year that you obtain this vital information. Provide this information to your physician so he or she can access it easily in your medical record.

2. IS BIRTH CONTROL RIGHT FOR ME? WHAT KINDS OF BIRTH CONTROL ARE AVAILABLE?

There is no one form of birth control that is right for every woman, and your physician will help you decide which form you should use. Some factors to consider when selecting a birth control method are:

• Whether or not you want children some day
• Effectiveness of the birth control method
• Side effects
• Protection against sexually transmitted infections
• Ease of application

Most important, be honest with your physician about your sexual history and current sexual activity. Unprotected intercourse can place you at risk for sexually transmitted infections (STI) such as herpes or HIV.  If you have had unprotected sex, or if you are not in a monogamous relationship, you should speak with your doctor about STI testing.

3. WHAT CAN I DO TO IMPROVE MY HEALTH?

Your physician will be able to help you assess the overall picture of your health. By evaluating risk factors, your family history, and the results of any routine bloodwork, your doctor can provide a plan to help you implement changes now that can make a dramatic difference in your future well-being.

To find more information about what preventative care you may need, visit the Centers for Disease Control and complete the short form at http://www.cdc.gov/prevention/index.html. Take a copy of this list to your physician and review it together.