Your annual well-woman visit (opens in new tab) is one of the most important things to do each year. The goal of these visits is preventative care - they help you set a health baseline and identify any problems as early as possible.
We put together some questions you may want to ask your doctor during your next visit.
Should I be concerned about ?
If you see something, say something. If you have a lump, bump, rash, pain, or see anything else out of the ordinary, tell your doctor. It doesn’t matter how small it is, you should always speak up if you’ve noticed something’s different. Yes, discovering these things can be anxiety-inducing, but telling your doctor is the smartest thing you can do in this situation, because on the off chance “it” happens to be a sign of a more complex condition, catching it early makes treatment easier.
How often do I need to get a Pap test?
Pap tests check for abnormal cells on your cervix, which can signal a risk of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) or cervical cancer. Depending on your age, you may only need a Pap test every few years, but your doctor may want you to get tested more frequently if you have risk factors like a family history of cancer, or if you previously had abnormal Pap results.
What’s the best kind of birth control for me?
Birth control is not one-size-fits-all, so what you use will depend on your individual needs. Your doctor may have a suggestion for a specific type of birth control that can work best for you.