Women's Health Services Specialist
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Wilmington Community Clinic
Primary Care Practice & Family Practice located in Wilmington, CA
Having an annual physical exam is important to optimal overall health. At Wilmington Community Clinic, our doctors offer well-woman exams for Wilmington and Los Angeles, California patients ensure that any issues are found early and they have access to contraception.
Women's Health Services Q&A
What happens during a well-woman exam?
An annual health exam done at the office by a gynecologist can commonly include a breast and pelvic exam and, in most situations, a pap smear. This is frequently called a well-woman exam.
During the exam patients can usually expect a(n):
- physical exam
- pap smear and/or pelvic exam
- breast exam
- update of medical history in addition to work and life activities
- review of medical history
- update of supplements and medications
- update to immunizations
- assessment of necessary screening tests, like a mammogram
What happens if a problem is discovered?
If a medical illness or condition is discovered during the well-woman exam, the gynecologist can recommend several different types of treatments. If the condition is more serious, treatment may need to start that same day or it could be an ongoing process. Some conditions will only be found during a pap smear. If the results do indicate a problem, the gynecologist will go over the results and any treatment which is needed with the patient to ensure the best course of action can be determined.
What is oral birth control?
Oral contraceptives, or birth control pills, are used to keep a pregnancy from occurring. The hormones progestin and estrogen are the main ingredients in the birth control pills. These hormones stop ovulation and change the lining of the uterus to which prevents pregnancy in addition to changing the mucus at the cervix in order to keep the sperm from entering. Birth control pills have also been used by gynecologists to assist women who are dealing with abnormal or pain menstrual cycles, known as premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and to help with hormone-related acne.
What is an IUD?
An intrauterine device (IUD) is a soft, plastic device created to stop pregnancy and is inserted into the uterus. In most cases, IUDs work by either administering a small amount of progestin levonorgestrel in the blood or it has a copper coil wrapped around the stem. Copper acts as a natural spermicide.