With an annual well woman exam, a physician—typically a gynecologist or obstetrician—conducts various tests and evaluations to assess a woman’s health, vitality, and quality of life with a particular focus on the health issues that uniquely or disproportionately affect women. Some of these issues include cervical cancer, infertility, gestational diabetes and other pregnancy complications, endometriosis, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and others. As such, an annual well woman exam could include any of the following: ● Bi-manual exam (measure uterus size and check for abnormalities in the pelvic area) ● Breast exam (examine any changes in shape or skin texture, as well as for nipple discharge or lumps) ● Contraceptive counseling (Birth control, intrauterine devices, surgical options, etc.) ● External genital exam (visual examination of the vulva and labia to check for cysts, irritation, redness, swelling, or any indication of sexually transmitted disease or infection) ● Pap smear (examine the cervix for cancerous or precancerous cells) ● Human papillomavirus (HPV) test ● Medical history review ● Physical screening (height, weight, blood pressure, heart rate, etc.) ● Physical exam (abdomen, joints, eyes, ears, etc.) ● Speculum exam (cervix and vaginal walls are examined for irritation, atypical discharge, and signs of sexually transmitted disease or infection) ● Urine sample (test for kidney health, urinary tract infections, etc.) Depending on the age of the patient, a mammogram or bone density test may also be recommended.