Annual Gynecology Exams in Boston
An important part of staying healthy is to have regular gynecological exams beginning at age 18, or within three years of becoming sexually active.
Preventive care includes:
- Discussion of health topics based on your age and risk factors
- Exams and screening tests
- Immunizations
The highly-trained OB/GYNs at Brigham-Faulkner OB/GYN are dedicated to providing the highest quality gynecologic care. They will take the time to address all of your health concerns and answer any questions you may have. Call (617) 983-7003 to schedule an appointment at our OB/GYN office in Boston, MA today!
What to expect for your annual exams
In addition to checking your height, weight and blood pressure, your doctor will ask you questions about your general health, menstrual period and sexual activities.
During your exam, your doctor will perform the following exams and tests. If the doctor is male, a female nurse remains in the room during your exam.
Breast Exam – During your breast exam, your doctor will check your breasts for signs of any potential problems, such as a lump. He or she will examine each breast by moving his or her fingers around your breast in a pattern. You may also be shown how to perform monthly self-examinations.
Pelvic Exam – During your pelvic exam, your doctor will examine your vagina, cervix and reproductive organs. Once you place your feet against footrests at the end of the examining table and slide forward, your doctor will then insert an instrument called a speculum into your vagina to gently spread the walls apart to examine the area. Your doctor then places one or two gloved, lubricated fingers into your vagina and the other hand presses on your abdomen from the outside to check the size, position, and shape of your internal pelvic organs. The pelvic exam may feel a bit uncomfortable, but should not hurt.
Pap Test – A Pap test checks for abnormal cells in the cervix that could lead to cancer. The doctor will insert a small cotton-tipped swab through the vagina into the cervix. Cells are removed from the cervix and sent to a laboratory to be checked for any abnormalities. The Pap test is painless.
These assessments should include screening, evaluation and counseling, and immunizations based on age and risk factors.
Access recommendations on screening, laboratory testing, evaluation & counseling, or immunizations for a specific age range below:
View all recommendations (ages 13 years-65 and older)
About Immunizations
For more information about immunizations, please visit www.cdc.gov/vaccines and www.immunizationforwomen.org
Taking Charge of Your Healthy Lifestyle
- Be involved in your health care.
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
- Be open with your doctor about your sexual history or any symptoms you may have.
- See your doctor on a regular basis or as soon as a problem develops.
Request an Annual Exam
To set up a well-woman examination at our OBGYN office in Boston, call (617) 983-7003. For more information on annual gynecologic exams, visit our health library.