Annual Gynecology Exams in Washington, DC

An essential part of staying healthy is to have regular gynecological exams beginning at age 21 or within three years of becoming sexually active.

Preventive care includes:

  • Health Discussions: Talk to our providers about age-appropriate health concerns, risk factors, and wellness goals.
  • Screenings and Exams: Receive a full range of screenings, including Pap smears and breast exams.
  • Immunizations: Stay up-to-date on vaccines like the flu shot or HPV vaccine.
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If you’re due for an annual gynecology exam, contact Capital Women’s Care DC today. Our gynecology clinic in Washington, DC provides comprehensive, expert gynecologic care in a warm and personalized environment. Call us at (202) 331-9293 to get started, or request an appointment through our secure online form.

What to Expect for Your Annual Gynecology Exams

In addition to checking your height, weight, and blood pressure, your doctor will ask you questions about your general health, menstrual period, and sexual activities. During your exam, your doctor will perform the following exams and tests. 

Breast Exam

During your breast exam, your doctor will check your breasts for signs of any potential problems, such as a lump. They will examine each breast by moving their fingers around your breast in a pattern. 

Pelvic Exam

During your pelvic exam, your doctor will examine your vagina, cervix, and reproductive organs. Once you place your feet against the footrests at the end of the examining table and slide forward, your doctor will then insert an instrument called a speculum into your vagina to spread the walls apart to examine the area gently. Your doctor then places one or two gloved, lubricated fingers into your vagina and the other hand presses on your abdomen from the outside to check the size, position, and shape of your internal pelvic organs. The pelvic exam may feel uncomfortable, but it should not hurt.

Pap Smear

A Pap smear checks for abnormal cells in the cervix that could lead to cancer. The doctor will insert a small spatula through the vagina into the cervix. Cells are collected from the cervix and sent to a laboratory to check for any abnormalities. The Pap smear is painless.

Well Woman Visits

These assessments should include screening, evaluation and counseling, and immunizations based on age and risk factors.

In Your 20s

  • Schedule your first Pap test if you haven’t already.
  • Discuss sexual health and screen for sexually transmitted infections if needed.

In Your 30s

  • Plan for pregnancy by consulting with your gynecologist.
  • Continue annual well-woman exams for preventive care.

In Your 40s

  • Decide when to start mammograms, especially if you have a family history of breast cancer.
  • Address perimenopause symptoms with tailored solutions.

In Your 50s

  • Screen for lung cancer if you’re a current or former smoker.
  • Schedule a colorectal cancer screening.

In Your 60s

  • Continue regular mammograms and start osteoporosis screenings.

In Your 70s and Beyond

  • Stay up to date on vaccinations, including flu, shingles, and pneumonia shots.
  • Discuss fall prevention and address vision or hearing concerns.

Schedule an Annual Exam

To schedule your annual gynecology exam in DC, contact Capital Women’s Care today by calling (202) 331-9293. You can alternatively request an appointment through our secure online form.