Annual Gynecology Exam in East Syracuse, NY

What to Expect For Your First Annual Gynecological Exam

In order to maintain a healthy reproductive system and sexual health, it is recommended for females to visit their gynecologist for an exam on an annual basis. There are a few things to keep in mind before having your first annual exam.  The OBGYNs at CNY Women’s Healthcare are dedicated to providing high-quality, personalized care to women throughout Syracuse. Call (315) 446-4400 to schedule an appointment at our OBGYN office in East Syracuse today!

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Why Annual Gynecology Exams Matter

Starting at age 21 or within three years of becoming sexually active, annual gynecology exams are essential for maintaining reproductive and overall health. These preventive visits include:

• 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.

How should I prepare for my exam?

The most important thing to do before your first gynecological exam is research. Women should be prepared to discuss their family medical history and be ready for questions about their menstrual cycle. Some of the most commonly asked questions your provider may ask include:

• When was your last period?
• How long does your period typically last?
• What age did you start your period?
• Are you sexually active?

What should I expect for my annual exam?

The pelvic exam only lasts a few minutes and the exam itself doesn’t hurt. Most physicians will explain the process before beginning the exam, asking questions throughout the process is encouraged. The pelvic exam consists of the following steps:

• Your gynecologist will typically begin the annual exam with a breast exam to check for lumps that may be a sign of cancer and require further breast cancer screening.
• Your physician will then check the external genital area for irritations, cysts or other problems.
• Next, the physician will insert a speculum, which is an instrument that is used to examine the cervix and vaginal walls. During this time, the gynecologist will also conduct a pap smear to check for cancerous and pre-cancerous cells.
• The last step in the physical exam is for the physician to check the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries by inserting gloved fingers into the vagina and pressing on the abdomen.

Not only does the annual exam ensure that you maintain good gynecological health, but it is also an opportunity for you to catch health problems in the early stages.

Personalized Care for Women in Every Life Stage

Our gynecology services cater to women of all ages in [City], from their first Pap smear to post-menopausal care. Here’s what you should know for each decade:

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.