How to Get the Most Out of Your OBGYN Annual Exam

Your regular physical exam occurs just once a year, so it’s important to work closely with our providers to ensure you’re getting the most out of your annual exam. Of course, we’re available to discuss any concerns with you at any time throughout the year, but we’ve found the following principles are very useful in helping guide the conversation during our time together.

We call this effective communication coupled with compassionate care.

“This is a great time for us to get to know your health concerns and issues,” said Dr. Sonya Williams. “But most importantly, it establishes us as partners in your care. We want to assure you that we will always be there to supply the highest level of compassionate service for you.”

We’ll take a look at how to get the most out of your annual exam, the best ways to prepare, and some questions you should ask us.

What Happens During an Annual Exam?

This is your yearly physical where we assess all aspects of your gynecological health. This may include a Pap smear, breast cancer screening and pelvic exam. We may also discuss birth control and screening tests.

This is also a chance for us to discuss any other challenges you may be facing, whether that involves depression, difficulty sleeping, nutrition, or sexual problems.

How Do I Prepare for My Annual GYN Exam? 5 Simple Steps

Taking these simple steps can help you be more prepared and relaxed before your OBGYN annual exam:

1. Try not to schedule your exam for when you’re on your period

However, If you unexpectedly have your period the day of your annual exam, we want you to know that we can still generally examine someone when they are having a period. If it makes you more comfortable to wait and reschedule, we’ll be glad to accommodate you.

You should realize irregular periods may be an indicator of a health issue. If you find that your period is typically irregular, we encourage you to speak with us. While irregular periods are very common, they can also be caused by polyps or fibroids. We want to know the cause so we can help you.

2. Don’t douche before your exam.

If you have vaginal discharge, it’s important that we are able to evaluate it. Plus, douching can change the balance between the “good” and “bad” bacteria in the vagina, so we do not advise our patients to douche at any time, regardless of whether or not they have an exam scheduled.

3. Avoid vaginal intercourse for 24 hours before your exam

4. Feel free to ask about non-OBGYN issues

Having difficulty sleeping?

Are you feeling depressed a lot lately?

We want to know. Many of your bodily functions are interconnected. For example, the trouble that you are having with your bladder may be a clue as to what is going on with your vagina.

We consider it a privilege to care for you, and for that reason, we want to know about all your health issues. Even if these issues aren’t necessarily gynecological in nature, we still need to have the information to give us a more complete picture.

We can also refer you to specialists if you need them, particularly if it’s discovered that you have a chronic illness such as diabetes.

5. Ask us about screening tests

Yes, we conduct a lot of screening tests, and we’ll review some of them below:

What Tests Do Gynecologists Do?

Depending upon your individual situation, we may conduct a Pap smear to test for cervical cancer. We may also have blood work drawn to get a good overall picture of your health and help us screen for high cholesterol and diabetes. If needed or requested, we can also test you for any sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

In addition, if you’re having heavy bleeding from periods, we’ll explore this issue further to determine the exact nature and cause to create a plan to help you.

Ask us about when you should consider beginning regular screenings for conditions such as:

• Breast cancer
• Cervical cancer
• Colon cancer
• Uterine cancer
• Diabetes
• Osteoporosis

There may be other tests you need depending upon your individual health history. Speak to us so we can help guide you. 

What Questions Should I Ask My Gynecologist? 5 Questions You Should Ask at Your Next OBGYN Annual Exam

Remember that we are always here to answer any questions or concerns that you have. While we address concerns about any topic, we believe it’s important to ask your gynecologists the following questions:

1. What screenings should I have at my age?

Regular screenings for your general health can help ensure your sexual health.

We recommend a Pap smear, pelvic exam and clinical breast exam at your OBGYN annual exam. Pap smears are done every three to five years depending upon your age and the results of the last Pap smear.

However, your personal health history may require other screenings or more frequent screenings.

2. How often should I be tested for STIs?

There’s no blanket answer to this question; when you should get tested and how often depends upon a number of factors that we’ll be happy to discuss with you.

However, in general:

• Those ages 13 to 64 should have at least one test for HIV.
• Sexually active patients younger than 26 should have annual testing for gonorrhea and chlamydia.
• Any patient with multiple sex partners or a partner who has an STI should be tested every year.
• If you are pregnant, you should be tested for syphilis, HIV, and hepatitis B starting early in pregnancy.

3. How can I talk to my partner about STIs?

Communication with your partner is vital for your sexual health.

If you are not sure how to start the conversation, we can provide some insight and talking points to help you.

Often, the most fulfilling sexual relationships are the ones where there is open and honest communication.

Sexual health goes far beyond getting tested for infections. Sexual health is about experiencing intimacy that is both satisfying and free from issues such as painful intercourse.

Remember, we’re partners in your care. We are always here for you and welcome any questions you may have.

We encourage you to take advantage of our STI screening services and schedule your OBGYN annual exam so we can discuss the matters that are most important to you.

“Your sexual health is extremely important, and it’s about more than avoiding STIs [sexually transmitted infections]. We always want our patients to have a safe and fulfilling sexual life. Often, this means getting tested, having open communication with your partner, and seeing us if you have concerns about or symptoms of an STI,” said Carey Jefferson, CNM. “Without treatment for STIs, there is an increased chance of developing pelvic inflammatory disease, which can lead to pain, infertility, and a greater risk of having an ectopic pregnancy.”

4. What are the best birth control options for me?

There are several different options available, whether you’re considering temporary or permanent birth control.

Schedule an appointment with us and we’ll be glad to help.

Remember that birth control alone will not protect you from STIs .

5. Recently, sex has felt different for me. Why is this happening?

It’s not unusual to experience changes toward sex.

This could be due to everything from low libido to vaginal dryness, which can make sex uncomfortable. The important thing is to speak to us and maintain open communication with your partner so we can help.

We also would like patients to be completely honest and provide details about their:

• Sexual history
• Condom use
• Current symptoms
• Possibility of pregnancy
• Sexual practices

We can discuss these at your OBGYN annual exam.

Always Write Down Any Additional Questions You Want to Ask Us

We want you to ask questions.

By doing so, you help us craft the best health care plan to suit your individual needs.

First and foremost, we want to encourage our patients to be completely honest with us about all aspects of their sexuality, including how many partners they have had.

If we do not have all the information we need, then we’re not able to tailor the most effective health care plan for you.

Never be embarrassed to ask us anything. We have worked with patients of all ages, from all walks of life, and our only concern is for your health and well-being.

We are dedicated to the highest standards of patient privacy and your medical history will always be kept confidential.

Consider These Additional Topics for Discussion at Your Next Checkup

Below are some additional topics that you should consider discussing with us:

• Preconception planning
• Vaginal itching and irritation
• Breast self-exams
• Sex—particularly if intercourse is painful
• Family history of cancer
• Current medications
• Any herbal or natural supplements you’re taking
• Questions about anatomy or physical changes regarding your genitals
• Irregular, painful or heavy periods
• Any previous tests that had abnormal results
• Birth control

Discover a Better Way Toward a Healthier Life with Chapel Hill OBGYN

Your yearly physical is an important appointment you shouldn’t overlook. This enables us to not only conduct routine cancer screenings, but it allows time for us to discuss your health care needs and goals.

Schedule an appointment with us today —many times we can fit you in within two weeks after your call. See why we’re the trusted OBGYNs in the Chapel Hill, Durham and the Triangle areas.

OBGYN Exam Anxiety? Try These Effective Solutions

We don’t want you to be nervous. 

We realize that your annual exam isn’t a lot of fun—but it’s a vital part of your overall wellness. It’s a time we can address any of your concerns. This is a time to screen for cancer so it can be treated at its earliest stages–when it is more beatable. We applaud you for taking this positive step toward better health. 

We also understand that many have OBGYN exam anxiety. OBGYN exam anxiety is not unusual—in fact, it’s one of the most common anxiety-provoking medical appointments.  

Don’t let your anxiety keep you from an exam that is vital to your health. To help put you at ease, we’ve compiled a list of solutions that will provide some relief during your next scheduled appointment.

4  Effective Solutions for OBGYN Exam Anxiety

First, talk to us. If you’re nervous or anxious, we want to know. We are members of your healthcare team, and we consider ourselves partners in your care. Know that we will do anything we can to help you be more comfortable. 

1. Try to Relax 

How Do I Relax During a Gyno Exam? 

It can be challenging to try to relax during an exam, but we’ve found the following tips useful:

• Take deep, relaxing breaths
• Listen to relaxing music
• Use guided visualization to imagine a relaxing scene
• Bring a stress ball to squeeze 

If you’re unsure where to start, just talk to us and we’ll help you develop some useful techniques. 

2, Know What to Expect

Whether you’re coming in for a regular Pap smear, or you have to have a minor procedure like a hysteroscopy it helps to know what to expect. We believe that education is vital to helping you understand and take control of your health. It also gives you a chance to ask us any questions—and we’ll always take time to answer them.

3. Let Us Know If You Are Uncomfortable

All you have to do is let us know, and we can make adjustments and even create a plan to help you be more at ease. You will never be judged for speaking up—in fact, if you are nervous, we encourage you to tell us.  

4. Bring a Friend or Family Member With You

Sometimes, it helps to have a support system in place during your exam. If you would prefer to have someone with you, we’ll be glad to do anything we can to accommodate you. 

Can I Talk to My OBGYN About Anxiety?

Absolutely! We want you to let us know if you are nervous in any way, especially if you have OBGYN exam anxiety. Our goal is to help you live the healthiest life possible, and if you are anxious, we don’t want that to stand in the way of getting cancer screenings or exams  that could save your life. 

Together, we can create a plan to help put your mind at ease. We understand that exams are not pleasant, but we pledge to make them as comfortable as possible. 

At Chapel Hill OBGYN, There’s No Need to Have OBGYN Exam Anxiety

For decades, we’ve dedicated ourselves to providing the highest level of care—and that means providing support and education to our patients. If you have OBGYN exam anxiety, you’re not alone. Talk to us and we can help.

See why we’ve been recognized as the top OBGYNS in Chapel Hill, Durham, and the Triangle area. Contact us to schedule an appointment.

What Can an Ultrasound Detect? These 9 Conditions

Sometimes during an annual exam we may discover something that warrants an ultrasound. This will help us make an accurate and timely diagnosis. 

You often hear of ultrasounds in the context of a mother getting the first look at the baby. But that’s not all they can be used for. This powerful diagnostic tool revolutionized the field of healthcare by providing a safe and non-invasive method of visualizing internal organs and structures. But what can an ultrasound detect? 

In gynecology, ultrasounds play a vital role in diagnosing various conditions, allowing us providers to detect and evaluate abnormalities. 

We’ll take a close look at 9 gynecological conditions that can be discovered with an ultrasound. 

What Can An Ultrasound Detect? 9 Conditions

Ultrasound imaging, also known as sonography, utilizes high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of the body’s internal structures. It is a versatile diagnostic tool that produces detailed images without the use of radiation, making it safe for patients of all ages. 

1. Ectopic Pregnancy

Ultrasound can detect the presence of an ectopic pregnancy, where the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, typically in the fallopian tubes.

• Fallopian tubes can’t support a pregnancy
• During an ectopic pregnancy, the fallopian tubes may rupture
• If the fallopian tubes rupture, this can have serious consequences. 
• Prompt medical attention is crucial if an ectopic pregnancy is suspected.

2. Ovarian Cysts

Ultrasound is commonly used to evaluate ovarian cysts, fluid-filled sacs that can develop on the ovaries.

Ultrasounds can help determine:

• The size of the cyst
• The composition of the cyst
• The characteristics of the cyst

These are all vital elements that can be detected in an ultrasound.

3. Uterine Fibroids

Ultrasound aids in the diagnosis of uterine fibroids, noncancerous growths that develop in the uterus. An ultrasound helps us evaluate:

• The size of the fibroids
• The number of fibroids present
• The location of the fibroids

Want to learn more about uterine fibroids? Check out our previous article, “4 Innovative Treatments for Fibroids.”

4. Endometriosis

Ultrasounds can detect signs of endometriosis, a condition where the tissue that lines the uterus grows outside of it. Signs of endometriosis include:

• Pain
• Inflammation 

5. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Ultrasounds are commonly used to diagnose PCOS by visualizing the ovaries and identifying the presence of multiple small cysts. PCOS can result in a range of symptoms, including:

• Infertility
• Weight gain
• Acne
• Excessive hair growth
• Mood changes

6. Endometrial Polyps

These polyps are typically noncancerous and vary in size, ranging from a few millimeters to several centimeters. The exact cause of endometrial polyps is not fully understood, but they are believed to result from an overgrowth of the endometrial tissue. Several factors can contribute to their development, including:

•  Tamoxifen use 
• Estrogen dominance 
• Obesity

7. Adenomyosis

You may not have heard of this condition, but it’s an important condition that an ultrasound can detect. Ultrasounds can help diagnose adenomyosis, a condition where the tissue that lines the uterus grows into the muscular wall, causing symptoms such as:

• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Prolonged periods
• Severe cramps
• Bloating
• Pelvic pain
• Pain or discomfort during intercourse

8. Ovarian Tumors 

Ultrasound aids in the detection and evaluation of ovarian tumors, including both benign and malignant growths. The symptoms largely depend upon the size of the tumor, but in general, they include:

• Abdominal or pelvic pain
• Bloating or swelling
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Frequent urination
• Loss of appetite 
• Unexplained weight loss or gain
• Abnormal menstrual cycles

9. Pelvic Congestion Syndrome

Ultrasound can help diagnose pelvic congestion syndrome, a condition characterized by chronic pelvic pain due to enlarged or varicose veins in the pelvis.

Women who have had multiple pregnancies, hormonal imbalances, or a history of blood clots are more prone to developing PCS. The primary symptom of PCS is a dull, aching pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis that may worsen after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Can an Ultrasound Detect? We Have the Information You Need at Chapel Hill OBGYN

We’ve outlined just 9 of the conditions that an ultrasound can detect. As the leading OBGYNs in Chapel Hill and Durham, we have a strong tradition of providing the best in compassionate and comprehensive medical care for patients of all stages of life. 

If you have any of the symptoms listed above for any of these conditions, an ultrasound can help us diagnose and treat your condition. Don’t hesitate to contact us and begin your journey to wellness.

See Why We Have Consistently Been Named the Best OBGYN in Orange and Durham Counties

For three consecutive years, we’ve been named the “best of” in the Reader’s Choice Awards from INDY magazine. For us, this is much more than an accolade or an award to frame and place on the wall. It recognizes a dedication to treating you as an individual, providing a compassionate, comprehensive plan tailored to your needs. It means being a partner in your care throughout your journey—from your first baby through menopause.

If you’re past due for your annual exam, or if you’re having any of the symptoms listed above, we urge you to schedule an appointment today. We’d love to be your medical home.