ANNUAL EXAMS
Ages 13-18

Ages 13-18 ACOG recommends girls ages 13-18 have their first adolescent reproductive healthcare visit. A physical exam with a pap smear may not be necessary unless there are concerns about appropriate development or they have already become sexually active.

Ages 19-39

Annual well woman visit consist of general exam (height, weight, body mass index, and blood pressure), a breast exam to check for abnormalities, and a pelvic exam/pap smear. Pap smears allow your doctor to detect and monitor growth of any abnormal cells on the cervix which may become cancerous if left untreated. Additional blood, urine and STD screenings may also be ordered to provide a more complete picture of your overall health. Cholesterol should be checked at least every 5 years. A Baseline Mammogram at age 35 is recommended unless individual history or exam warrants an earlier mammogram.

Ages 40-64

Annual well woman visit with general exam, breast exam, pelvic exam and pap smear. A screening fecal occult blood test obtained by rectal exam is recommended. At age 50 a colonoscopy is recommended by a specialist. Mammograms are recommended yearly. Lab work should be checked annually unless done at their primary doctor. A Bone Density test is recommended at menopause and afterwards every other year.

Age 65 and older

Annual well woman visit with general exam, breast exam and pelvic exam. Medicare will cover a pap smear every other year unless there is a history of abnormal pap smears and then it may be covered more often. Mammogram is still recommended yearly. A bone density test every other year. Annual lab work.



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