Eight important questions to ask your OBGYN at your next well-woman exam

Today’s modern women are juggling the responsibilities of their careers, families, romantic relationships and daily living. With these competing priorities, it can be easy to overlook your own wellbeing. In our San Antonio OBGYN office, our doctors want to encourage our patients to prioritize their health, which includes a regular well-woman exam. During your visit with us, there are many important questions for your OBGYN that you can get answered.

Are annual exams important?

Navigating your gynecological and sexual health may be overwhelming, but your well-woman exam allows you to connect with your doctor about any changes. It also gives you the opportunity to bring up any important questions for your OBGYN. Our doctors foster an open, supportive environment, so that patients of all ages feel comfortable talking about any subject with their providers.

What questions should I ask during my well-woman visit?

As our valued patient, we want you to feel empowered so that you can make the most of your well-woman exam and doctor/patient relationship. If you aren’t certain how to ask the important questions for your OBGYN, we can offer helpful topics to get the conversation going. Consider the following questions as a starting point for your discussion.

1. What screening tests do you currently recommend?
   The correct answer depends on the patient’s current age. After age 21, you should have yearly pelvic exams. Once you turn 40, you need to schedule annual screening mammograms, and patients older than 45 should plan for regular colonoscopies. Bone density scans are recommended for women age 65 and up.
2. Are my menstrual periods normal?
   No two women have the exact same cycles, but your physician should be able to give you an idea about whether or not your periods are following typical patterns based on their regularity, duration and symptoms.
3. Which birth control options should I use?
   This question allows you to determine the best choice based on your values, family planning goals and health history.
4. What should I consider related to fertility and pregnancy?
   If you are thinking about trying to conceive, ask your doctor about preconception health steps and fertility planning basics, so that you are prepared.
5. How can I improve my sexual health?
   Our physicians can serve as trusted resources for issues related to libido changes, painful intercourse and concerns about sexually transmitted infections, or STIs.
6. Can you help me manage perimenopause and menopause?
   Mood swings, hot flashes and other symptoms can disrupt your daily life, so ask your provider about how to deal with the transition.
7. Is it normal to have urine leakage when I cough or laugh?
   While many women deal with urine leakage in these settings, it can negatively impact your life. Your doctor may suggest pelvic floor therapy.
8. What preventative steps should I take to maintain my health?
   In your daily life, a balanced diet, consistent exercise and stress management can support your overall health. Of course, a regular well-woman visit is a key component.

Come ready with questions for your OBGYN at your well-woman exam

Don’t put off your well-woman exam. These appointments allow you to build a solid relationship with your OBGYN, so that you feel confident sharing personal details, asking uncomfortable questions and receiving expert medical guidance through all of life’s stages. Contact our San Antonio OBGYN office to schedule your next visit.