Munster, Lowell & Hobart OB-GYN - Annual Exam

Whether you’re a sexually active woman or not, an annual gynecology examination is something you should get done every year if you are 16 years of age or older.

A yearly test would consist of a consultation with your gynecologist who will check your medical and sexual history and address your fears or doubts regarding pain or discomfort in the genital or reproductive area, your menstrual cycle, followed by a breast and pelvic examination and any lab work that your physician feels is necessary.

An annual exam will make you aware of the risks of sexually transmitted diseases, recurrent infections or cancer and check for early warning signs of any illness.

Munster, Lowell & Hobart OB/GYN Explains the Consultation Process

The greatest single reason for the deterioration of women’s health, Northwest Indiana gynecologist, Dr. Yessenow, believes, is not getting the annual tests done according to the recommended guidelines.

Self medicating due to fear of embarrassment is another grave concern. So what’s the solution? Always make a list of questions and doubts regarding your health that you want answered. When you go in for your annual exam, make it a practice to carry your medical reports, if any.

This will help your physician understand and tackle your case efficiently and look after your well-being as best he can. If you are uncomfortable opening up to a male OB/GYN, you can always speak with his nurse or ask for a female doctor.

Are you ignorant and afraid of the examination procedures? Feel free to clarify it all with the specialized physicians at GAMA, including what is the best wardrobe to wear specifically when going for a test. A Q & A session will be followed by a blood pressure check and measurement of your weight.

Munster, Lowell & Hobart OB/GYN Explains the Procedure

You will be taken to an examination room, where the doctor or the nurse will instruct you to either partially undress or to remove your undergarment, depending upon if he or she feels it necessary to either examine your breasts or genitals or both.

Don’t be embarrassed about undressing. This is vital for the doctor to examine properly the parts of your body. Wear comfortable clothes. Next, the doctor will help you lie down on a table with stirrups attached at its end where you will place your feet. This position will allow the physician to examine your vagina and reproductive organs.

First the external or the outer parts of your vagina will be examined for any soreness, spotting or growth. Then the doctor would insert a speculum inside the vagina to check if everything is normal internally. There might be a mild feeling of discomfort when the speculum is inserted. But it will soon pass.

The doctor will also place a finger or two inside the vagina and place the other hand on your abdomen. This will help him examine your ovaries and uterus. Do not refrain from expressing your fears or concerns. Have your doctor address them during the course of your examination.

Your OB/GYN physician Dr. Yessenow will also conduct a breast exam. He will examine your breasts externally by palpitating various points to ascertain if there are any lumps or dimpling.

Munster, Lowell & Hobart OB/GYN Explains the Test Results

After the thorough check-up and based on the information you provide, Dr. Yessenow will tell you the results, answer your queries and advise you accordingly. If your results are atypical, Dr. Yessenow may advise you to get further check-ups or further testing to determine the problem and then recommend a course of treatment.

Learn more about our gynecology and obstetric services and read up on our specialized staff. Or give our office a call today and schedule a consultation.