The Importance of Annual Gynecological Exams and Your Sexual Health
Just as you have routine wellness screenings to keep tabs on the health of the rest of your body, an annual gynecological exam is just as important. At Coyle Institute, we recommend annual pelvic exams. We are well-experienced with the importance of these evaluations and how they support timely diagnosis and treatment for some of the most common urogynecological conditions. We strive to make sure every patient understands their options when it comes to reproductive and sexual health treatments.
Comprehensive Annual Exams: What to Expect at Coyle Institute
An annual exam at Coyle Institute is a comprehensive urogynecological evaluation and consultation to support reproductive and sexual health and wellness. While every patient’s visit may be unique depending on their specific medical needs and history, certain elements are optional parts of the annual exam.
Call 850-637-8258 to schedule your annual gynecological exam.
Pap Smears: Screening for Early Detection of Cervical Cancer
The Pap smear (pap test) is a routine screening performed during a pelvic exam to screen you for cervical cancer. Roughly 13,000 new cases of cervical cancer are diagnosed annually, and the condition can be life-threatening. However, cervical cancer is treatable when detected early enough. The Pap smear involves using a swab to collect cervical cells for signs of abnormality that can be used to make an early diagnosis of cervical cancer.
Breast Exams: A Simple Step toward Early Detection of Breast Cancer
A breast exam can help reveal abnormalities in breast tissue that need to be further evaluated. Breast cancer is the most prevalent type of cancer in the country, and 99 percent of those diagnosed are women. Like cervical cancer, breast cancer is treatable. Therefore, an annual breast exam during your yearly visit to the gynecologist is a simple step to take toward early detection.
Prevention Guidance: A Holistic Approach to Women's Reproductive Health
During your visit, you will get the opportunity to learn about preventing common conditions that affect the reproductive system and sexual organs. We may discuss things like maintaining a healthy lifestyle or eating certain nutrients to lower your risks of certain conditions or how to prevent common issues or protect yourself from specific risks that you could be most vulnerable to.
STD Screening: Keeping Tabs on Your Sexual Health
Screening for sexually transmitted disease (STD) is important for individuals who are sexually active, have multiple sexual partners, or simply want to keep tabs on their sexual health. STDs don't always show symptoms, and those that are left untreated can lead to long-term issues with sterility or even lifelong pelvic pain. Therefore, adequate screening is important to catch these diseases and intervene with the appropriate level of treatment.
Sexual Function and Concerns: Addressing the Importance of Sexual Wellness
If you have concerns about sexual function, the annual gynecological exam is the perfect time to bring them up. As many as 40 percent of women struggle with sexual function issues like vaginal dryness, anorgasmia, pain during sex or lack of libido. Discussing your concerns can mean insight into the issue and potential treatments that could help like the O-shot or hormone therapy.
Contraceptive Options: Finding the Best Fit for Your Medical Status and Lifestyle
If you are looking for contraception options, we help you find what option will work best for you. From discussing the best intrauterine devices (IUDs) to exploring which oral birth control methods are most suitable, we will work together to pin down the best solution for your medical status and lifestyle.
Screening for Reproductive Cancers: Detecting the Signs of Uterine, Vaginal and Vulvar Cancers
During your annual gynecological exam, we will also be screening for signs of uterine, vaginal and vulvar cancers. As with cervical cancer, symptoms may not always be apparent early on, but an evaluation by a trained professional may mean characteristics of these cancers are spotted early. For example, discoloration of the vulva may be a telltale indicator of vulvar cancer, but this is not a symptom a lot of individuals notice on their own.
Examining for Bladder Prolapse or Urinary Incontinence: Exploring Treatment Options
Bladder prolapse is a condition that causes the bladder to droop from its normal position, which can cause it to push against the vaginal walls. A prolapsed bladder, as well as other conditions, can lead to issues with urinary incontinence. During your exam, the doctor will be looking for abnormalities that could generate issues with urinary incontinence, and treatment options can be explored.
Vital Sign Checking: Evaluating Your Body's Current State for Comprehensive Health Assessment
One of the first things we will do during your annual visit is to check your vital signs. We take your blood pressure, check your heart and respiration rate and your body temperature. These vital measurements are important to get a broad understanding of your body’s current state, which can influence or even be caused by urogynecological health.
Prioritizing Your Wellness: Make Annual Gynecologic Exams Part of Your Routine Plan
At Coyle Institute, we take care of our patients through the combination of patient education, preventative care, and minimally invasive treatments. We take a comprehensive approach to routine exams so you know every option available to help you live a more satisfying life. Are you due for an annual gynecological exam? Reach out to schedule your appointment with Dr. Coyle at Coyle Institute by calling 850-637-8258.