Parenting

How To Get The Most Out Of Your Annual Exam

How To Get The Most Out Of Your Annual Exam

by Alison Bucalo
Updated: 
Originally Published: 

Your annual gynecological exam is important for your health. Here’s how to get the most out of your yearly check-up. SUBSCRIBE to Scary Mommy: https://www.youtube.com/ScaryMommyTV​ Madge the Vag sits the down with Dr. Elizabeth Poynor to find out what you need to know about your annual because it’s important to go every year because it allows your gynecologist to evaluate health habits and ongoing signs and symptoms. There will be a weigh-in to make sure you’re of a healthy weight. Questions about your sexual activity will come up to determine how much you and your gynecologist should discuss STDs and birth control options. Don’t be shy. You’re in a no judgement zone. You should also expect to get a pap smear which evaluate precancerous changes. After you reach 30 years of age, you will likely get an HPV test because chances are higher you have been exposed. Pap smears do not test for STDs. To prepare, refrain from intercourse 24 hours before your exam and preferably go in when you don’t have your period (unless it’s urgent). Dr. Poyner explains that this is to help get the clearest results on your pap smear. And remember to prepare questions ahead of time. Write them down so you don’t forget, but feel free to call back if you do forget something. Communication is key. Happy Annual! Stay Connected with Scary Mommy Site: https://www.scarymommy.com​ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thescarymommy/​ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarymommy/​ Twitter: https://twitter.com/scarymommy​ Giphy: https://giphy.com/scarymommy​ More about Madge the Vag: Madge the Vag is a quirky mom on a mission to spread (literally) the word on everything vagina. She may have a 1950s wardrobe, but approaches women’s vaginal health in a refreshing way that is very today. Madge highlights a taboo topic or challenging issue many women face but may be afraid to talk about. She interviews experts on a range of topics like public hair, yeast infections and sex. About Scary Mommy: Scary Mommy is the #1 media brand creating fun, honest and unfiltered content for moms. We tell engaging stories that connect with millions of women united by motherhood.

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