Feeling anxious about your annual exam? Here’s why it’s worth going

Are you feeling uneasy about your annual exam or unsure how often you should be seeing a healthcare provider? You might even be wondering if it’s possible to skip pelvic exams altogether. Understanding what to expect and how to prepare can help ease any anxiety. Even if everything seems fine, it’s still important to check in with a provider every year about your sexual and reproductive health. Depending on where you live and what your insurance covers, this might be a gynecologist, nurse midwife, nurse practitioner, or your regular primary care provider.

Here are some of the most common questions I hear about annual visits and the answers I give:

Why am I here if everything seems fine?
An annual checkup is a great opportunity to ask any questions you may have, get sexual health screenings like Pap smears or STI tests, and check in on your general health, such as having your blood pressure taken. These preventive visits are also a good time to establish a relationship with a provider you trust. They can help identify potential issues early and address them before they become bigger problems. The best part? Under the Affordable Care Act, most preventive services, like Pap smears, STI tests, and birth control, are often covered at no cost to you.

If I don’t need a Pap smear every year, why do I still need to see my provider?
Pap smears help detect cervical cancer and precancerous cells. Anyone over 21 should get a Pap smear to check for abnormal cervical cells, which can lead to cancer if left untreated. If your results are normal, you generally don’t need another Pap smear every year. Instead, you can follow up every three years until you’re 30, and every three to five years after that, depending on whether HPV testing is also done. Even if you’re up to date on your Pap smears, an annual visit is still a great chance to discuss other aspects of your sexual and reproductive health, like birth control options, emergency contraception, or screening for conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes.

Do I need more frequent screenings if cancer runs in my family?
It depends on the type of cancer and your family history, but it’s always a good idea to talk to your provider about it. Cervical cancer is often caused by an HPV infection, so having a family history of cervical cancer doesn’t necessarily mean you need more frequent Pap smears. However, the HPV vaccine is a great way to reduce the risk of cervical cancer and is available for everyone up to age 45. For cancers like breast, ovarian, and prostate, which may have genetic links, you might want to consider genetic screenings. A well visit is a good time to discuss your family history and whether these screenings are right for you.

Do I still need an annual exam if I’m not at risk for pregnancy?
Even if you’re not at risk for pregnancy right now, it’s still important to have a regular check-in with your provider. You can discuss future pregnancy plans, STI prevention, and any menstrual issues you might be having. Many people who aren’t at risk for pregnancy still use birth control for other reasons, like managing heavy periods or improving acne. And everyone with a cervix should continue getting Pap smears, regardless of their pregnancy risk.

I want to get pregnant soon and will stop my birth control. Should I still have my annual exam?
This is actually the perfect time to see your provider! You can talk about how to optimize your health before trying to get pregnant, including starting folic acid to prevent certain birth defects. Your provider might suggest blood tests, review your medications to make sure they’re safe during pregnancy, and offer tips for being as healthy as possible before conception. It’s also a great opportunity to ask about prenatal care.

I hate pelvic exams. Will I have to get one?
If you’re not due for a Pap smear, you may not need a pelvic exam at all. In fact, your entire well visit could be a simple conversation with your provider. If a pelvic exam is recommended, it’s still your choice whether to have one. Feel free to discuss any concerns beforehand so you know exactly what to expect. If you have a history of trauma or other specific worries, let your provider know. You can request to bring a friend for support, play music during the exam, or have each step explained to you. And remember, you can stop the exam at any point if it becomes uncomfortable.

Bottom line: Most insurance plans cover the cost of an annual health exam, and this visit can help you stay on top of your health. Whether you need a Pap smear, want to discuss birth control, have questions about your family health history, or simply need to talk, reach out to your provider and schedule your well visit today!