We offer the range of gynecologic care from puberty through and beyond menopause. Our practice is focused on you the patient and we are dedicated to caring for you with the highest degree of compassion and professionalism.
Annual Wellness Visit
A key part of maintaining your wellness is your annual examination with us. We review your current gynecologic issues, your general health measures, and complete a well-woman examination. We review your Pap smear screening status and, if appropriate, your breast cancer, colon cancer, and bone density screenings. We will perform or order the necessary tests. We discuss steps you can take, including weight control and exercise, to best ensure and improve your health. Along with your internist, we will help you monitor cardiovascular risk factors such as diabetes and hypertension. We also can help with referral for smoking cessation, as smoking is one of the greatest potential harms to your long-term health.
Mammography
Mammography is a low dose X-Ray test that is used to screen for breast cancer. Although guidelines vary somewhat among the medical organizations who have addressed this topic, the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends mammograms every 1 to 2 years between the ages of 40 and 50 and annual mammograms after the age of 50. For women who may be at high risk for breast cancer, earlier screening and other testing may be recommended to increase the odds of detecting early breast cancer.
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Pap Smear
The Papanicolou Smear (or Pap Smear) is a test to detect abnormal cells in the cervix that could predispose to developing cervical cancer. The Pap smear usually is first done at age 21 and every two years thereafter. For women over 30 who have had 3 consecutive negative tests, the screening can be done every 3 years. There are some exceptions to this schedule and these we will discuss with you if appropriate. The test is painless and is the best means of assessing routine risk for abnormal cells that could indicate a risk of developing cervical cancer. An abnormal Pap smear indicates that additional testing is needed, This is discussed in the section on Abnormal Pap Smear.