We used to say that all women should have yearly physical exams. We now know that some women may not need exams except every three years, while other women need to be seen more often. The health care needs of women vary from person to person, age to age, and situation to situation. There are many parts of a woman's body and life that should be evaluated regularly. These include:
* a review of the family and personal history, to determine the risk for chronic diseases,
* a fitness check, to include a discussion of hygiene, diet, and exercise,
* a sexual evaluation, which, depending on the age of the woman, will check growth and development, risk behaviors, birth control options, and disease prevention,
* a social and mental assessment for stress management, family relationships, and personal growth issues,
* a risk check for such things as seat belt and helmet use, sun exposure, housing safety, smoking, drug and alcohol use,
* vaccination for such things as tetanus and hepatitis, tests such as blood, urine, Pap, and X-ray testing, and
* a physical exam.

The physical exam includes height, weight, and blood pressure. Depending on age, growth and sexual changes will be checked and discussed. Women of all ages will have their skin and body surfaces looked at and felt for color changes, lumps and bumps. The head is examined for eye, ear, nose and mouth problems. A chest examination is given to check the heart and lungs. A complete breast exam is also given. The abdomen houses the liver, spleen, and intestines. It is pushed on to check for any unusual increases in size of these organs. The pelvic exam is done to check for infections, cancers and other problems specific to this area. A rectal exam may be done depending on your age and history

On the review of these findings and your history, a number of blood or urine tests may be done to check levels of chemicals, sugar, and fats in the body. The heart or lungs may need special testing. Drugs may be needed to treat or prevent certain diseases. X-rays or special tests of the intestine or breasts may be needed, especially for those women over age 50. How often these are repeated will depend on the women's age, health, family history, and risk factors.

Ask your healthcare provider how often you should be seen. Be sure to keep your scheduled appointments.

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