Why Annual Well-Woman Exams Matter for Breast Health
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, making it an important time to focus on breast health and the role that regular preventive care can play in early detection. While mammograms and knowing what is normal for your breasts are important parts of breast health, your annual well-woman exam is another valuable opportunity to assess your overall health and discuss any breast concerns with your provider.
Many women think of their annual gynecological visit as primarily an opportunity for a Pap smear or routine checkup. In reality, your well-woman exam is designed to look at your health more broadly, including your breast health.
What to Expect During a Clinical Breast Exam
Depending on your age, health history and individual risk factors, your annual gynecological exam may include a clinical breast exam. During this part of your visit, your provider will examine your breast tissue and may check for changes or areas that need further evaluation.
Your appointment is also an opportunity to talk openly about anything you have noticed or any questions you may have, including breast pain, a new lump or change, nipple discharge, changes in the appearance of your breasts, or concerns about your family history of breast cancer.
Your provider can also review your personal and family medical history and other risk factors to help determine whether you may benefit from additional breast screening or a more personalized approach to breast health.
When Additional Breast Screening May Be Recommended
Your annual well-woman exam can also be an important starting point for determining when additional breast screening is appropriate. Based on your age, health history and individual risk factors, your provider may recommend routine mammography or additional imaging.
For women at average risk, routine mammography generally begins around age 40, although the recommended screening schedule can vary. Women with a higher-than-average risk, including those with certain genetic mutations, a strong family history of breast cancer or a history of radiation to the chest at a young age, may need to begin screening earlier or have additional screening.
If you are unsure when you should begin mammograms or whether your family history puts you at increased risk, your annual visit is a great time to talk with your provider.
Make Breast Health Part of Your Annual Routine
Your annual well-woman exam is about more than addressing problems when they arise. It is an opportunity to establish healthy habits, stay up to date on recommended screenings and have meaningful conversations with your provider about your health at every stage of life.
Breast health is an important part of comprehensive women’s health care, and your annual visit provides a regular opportunity to assess your health, discuss concerns and determine what preventive care is right for you.
Whether you are due for your annual gynecological exam or have questions about your breast health, the team at Covington Women’s Health Specialists is here to help. Schedule your annual well-woman exam today by calling 770-385-8954 or booking your appointment online.
