Women's Health

What should I expect during a well-woman exam?

Dr. Thomas provides detailed well woman consultations to check in with you and your health. Like most physical exams, she checks your weight, height, and blood pressure to start the appointment. Dr. Thomas ask you about your health and if you’ve noticed any changes or if you have any specific concerns. She listens to your heart and lungs and feels your abdomen to check for swelling or other abnormalities. She performs your pelvic exam and, if necessary, a Pap test.

Dr. Thomas provides cardiac risk assessments at your well-woman appointment. Heart disease is the number one cause of death for both women and men in America today.

In addition to these health screenings, your well-woman exam is an opportunity for you to talk to Dr. Thomas about your health and well-being. If you have any concerns, this appointment is an excellent opportunity to bring them up and get expert advice on how you can improve your health.

How often do I need a Pap test?

You may not need to have a Pap test every year. If you’re in good health and don’t have an increased risk of HPV, abnormal cells, or cervical cancer, you may be able to have a Pap smear every three years. Dr. Thomas will let you know how often you should be having this critical health screening so you can schedule your appointments accordingly. Even if you don’t need a Pap test, you should still have an annual well-woman visit.

What are some common women’s health issues?

In addition to general health issues like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes, women may develop a variety of women’s health issues, including:

• Urinary tract infections
  
• Kidney infections
  
• Osteoporosis
  
• Autoimmune disorders
  
• Rheumatoid arthritis
  
• Reproductive health issues like fibroids, ovarian cysts, endometriosis, and polycystic ovarian syndrome
  
• Menopause side effects
  

How are menopause symptoms managed?

Every woman experiences menopause differently as their bodies and hormones change. Common menopause symptoms include:

• Mood swings and irritability
  
• Hot flashes and night sweats
  
• Vaginal atrophy and dryness
  
• Loss of libido
  
• Weight gain
  

Dr. Thomas offers customized treatments to help manage your symptoms and protect your health and wellness during menopause. She prescribes medications to regulate your hormones. She also provides estrogen creams and suppositories for reversing the thinning and drying of your vagina that often accompanies the estrogen loss of menopause.

She also offers advice on changing your diet, exercise, and sleep habits to improve your mood and help you manage your weight.

If you’re looking for a compassionate women’s health provider, call or schedule an appointment online today.