Annual Exam/Preventive Care

There are several steps that women should take to be prepared to a gynecological exam:

• Take an appointment between menstrual periods. Menstrual blood can interfere with the exam as well as lab tests.

• No vaginal intercourse or vaginal interference (usage of vaginal products or douche) should be done 24 hours prior to visit.  Sex may irritate the vaginal tissue and increase the chance of incorrect Pap test results.

• Prepare a list of questions  for your gynecologist prior to the appointment. Your gynecologist needs to know about any discharge, irregular vaginal bleeding, odor  or pain.

• The gynecologist needs also the information about your last menstrual period (dates, heaviness, duration).
  

• General Health

• Pap tests

• Birth control

• STD testing

• Menopause