At Excelsior Healthcare, our primary care physicians work with you on a large swathe of health conditions and examinations related to women’s health, including:
- Breast Cancer Screening
- Breast Exam
- Pap Smear
- Annual Gynecological Exam
- Mammography Referrals
- HPV Testing
- Pelvic Pain
- Annual Wellness Exam
- Bone Density Testing
- Contraception Counseling (Birth Control)
- Fibroids
- Genital Herpes
- Hormonal Imbalance
- Menopausal Symptoms
- Menstrual Disorders
- Perimenopause
- Preconception Counseling
- Pregnancy Tests
- Premenstrual Syndrome
- Sexual Health and Function Counseling
- STD Testing
- UTIs, Yeast Infections, and Bacterial Vaginosis
- General Women’s Health Screenings
A large part of our women-specific care focus on breast cancer screenings, Pap smears, and annual GYN exams.
Breast Cancer Screening
As we age, it is important to be as proactive as possible about our health and take preventative measures to nip any potential health risk factors at the bud. For women, one such measure is having regular breast cancer screenings. While the possibility of a cancer diagnosis can often by fear and anxiety inducing, early breast cancer detection can make a significant difference in the outcome of treatment.
While there are many potential methods for detecting breast cancer, mammography is one of the most widely used and trusted. However, it’s important to note that no screening test is perfect, and mammograms can sometimes produce false-positive results or miss early signs of cancer. Additionally, in some cases, mammograms may detect cancers that are low-risk and may not have caused harm if left untreated. Despite these limitations, regular screenings can be an important tool in reducing the risk of death from breast cancer by identifying it in its early stages when it is most treatable.
Your Excelsior Healthcare primary care doctor works with you to determine the best screening schedule for your individual needs, taking into account factors such as your age, family history, and previous health conditions.
At what age should you begin getting mammograms?
Some doctors recommend starting as early as age 40, while others suggest waiting until age 50 or later. Ultimately, the decision on when to start getting mammograms should be based on your individual risk factors and in consultation with your doctor – factors such as family history, personal medical history, and individual risk factors all play a role in determining the best time to begin getting mammograms.
If you’re unsure about when you should start getting screened, it’s always a good idea to talk to your primary care physician. They can help you understand your unique risks and recommend the appropriate course of action.
Getting a mammogram is relatively quick and easy. A technologist will position your breast between two plastic plates and compress and spread out the breast tissue to allow for a clear image. This compression may cause momentary discomfort, but it should not be painful. Images will be taken and evaluated by a radiologist to check for any signs of breast cancer.
Annual GYN Exam
A gynecological exam is a crucial part of a woman’s overall health and well-being. During this exam, your doctor will perform pelvic exam, Pap smear, and breast exam. Your GYN exam exam should be done annually, ideally at the same time as your routine physical exam.
At Excelsior Healthcare, your GYN exam starts with a conversation with your primary care doctor about your medical history, including any current symptoms or medical issues you may have. We may also ask about your menstrual cycle, sexual activity, and any medications you may be taking.
Next, your provider will perform a physical examination, which includes a breast exam and a pelvic exam. During the breast exam, your doctor will check for any lumps or abnormalities in the breast tissue. The pelvic exam includes a visual and manual examination of the vagina, cervix, uterus, and vulva. This may also include a Pap smear. Additional tests or screenings may be performed as needed, IE a pelvic ultrasound or STD testing.
Pap Smear
A Pap test, also known as a cervical cancer screening or a Pap smear, is an essential part of maintaining your reproductive health. A Pap smear test consists of a small sample of cells being taken from the cervix using a scraper, spatula, or brush. These cells are then analyzed by a pathologist to check for any abnormal changes that may indicate cervical cancer.
This test is typically done during a pelvic exam and/or during the course of a GYN exam, and it is recommended that women start getting regular Pap tests at the age of 21 or within 3 years of becoming sexually active, whichever comes first. These tests are usually done every three years, but your doctor may recommend more frequent testing if you have certain risk factors. Overall, the test is relatively quick and painless and is a pivotal tool in the early detection and prevention of cervical cancer.
Women’s Health Care for Patients in Atlanta, Alpharetta, Duluth, and Norcross, GA
Our conveniently located Atlanta area clinics offer easy appointment scheduling for all your healthcare needs, where our team of experienced primary care physicians are ready to provide you with the best care possible. Click here to set an appointment with an Excelsior Healthcare PCP for a women’s health consultation, call us at 770-246-6100, or email us at contact@excelsiorhealthcare.com. We look forward to taking care of you!
