Understanding Your Well-Woman Exam

A well-woman exam is an annual check-up that’s a dedicated time for providers and patients to discuss your reproductive health goals and proactively identify and care for any women’s health concerns. This visit is recommended by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and is covered by most insurers as part of your preventive care.  

Does a well-woman exam include a full physical?

No. While your provider will ask you questions about your medical and family history, this visit may include a breast or pelvic exam, and it will focus on your reproductive health and get you caught up on age-appropriate screenings you may need.  

When should I schedule my exam?

We recommend that you schedule this visit at the beginning of the year. It’s important to start the year on the right foot with healthy habits.  

What happens during a well-woman exam?

A well-woman exam includes:  

• A complete personal and family medical history
• An assessment of your height, weight, blood pressure, and other vitals based on your health history
• A listing of all your current health providers
• Discussion for birth control options
• A breast exam
• A pelvic exam  
• A Pap smear
• A bone health screening (for patients 65 and older)
• Sexually transmitted infection screening
• Recommendations and referrals for any additional screenings you might need

What should I do after my well-woman exam?

Your provider will contact you if you need a follow-up appointment for any diagnostic tests. Please note that this follow-up appointment will not be covered as a preventive exam and will be billed as a standard office visit.  

Anything discussed that isn’t part of your well-woman exam will be subject to your copay, coinsurance, or deductible. These exceptions include disease management, medication management, or new acute medical concerns.

If you have any questions about well-woman visits, reach out to your women’s health care provider or OB-GYN if you don’t have one.

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