An annual exam is a once-a-year visit to your gynecologist for a general health check, including a breast exam and pap smear. An annual exam visit does not include discussion of new problems or detailed review of chronic conditions. Annual exams are also called routine check-up, yearly exam, annual pap, and preventive visit.

What should I expect during my annual exam?

• General physical exam (including breast exam)
• Pelvic exam (pap smear if indicated)
• Review of vital signs including blood pressure check and weight
• Update of life and work situation
• Update of family health history (any new serious illnesses in your family?)
• Review of your health history
• Update of current medications, herbs, and supplements (bring list)
• Need for medication refills
• Evaluation of need for health screening tests based on age and personal and family history (such as mammogram, test for sexually transmitted diseases, and colon cancer screening)
• Update and recommendations on immunizations

What happens if you have a new health problem when you come for your annual exam?

You and Dr. Imtiaz will need to decide whether to use the time that day to address your problem, in which case your annual exam visit can be rescheduled. Or you may choose to go ahead with your annual exam, and to defer the health concern to another visit. Scheduled appointment times do not allow for both.

Do I need a routine exam every year?

To make a long story short - YES!  You may not need a pap smear every year, however, a general health check-up, including a manual pelvic exam and breast exam are recommended for all women.  These exams and review of your vital signs is important in finding disease early.  Preventative care means early diagnosis and treatment.  This is important for your health and well-being.

Please schedule a separate appointment if you have health concerns other than your routine physical exam. Examples are:

• A list of concerns or questions.
  
• New health care concerns or problems found at the time of your annual exam.
  
• Ongoing health problems that need more attention.