You’ve probably heard that healthy women no longer need annual Pap tests, or smear, but what about that yearly visit to the ob-gyn? While new guidelines suggest that not all women will need a Pap smear, it’s still very important for women to schedule their routine, annual pelvic exam. Keep in mind that a pelvic exam is so much more than just a Pap smear with regard to a woman’s health.

Annual visits go far beyond the Pap test. We shall check your blood pressure and weight, screen for sexually transmitted infections, counsel on healthy living, address reproductive and gynecological issues, check your uterus and ovaries, as well as perform a breast exam. It’s also an opportunity for you to ask questions about sexual activity and other issues.

Yearly Wellness Exams are recommended for every woman, regardless of age. Your individual insurance policy may dictate certain requirements and exclusions – please check with your insurance provider to determine what your individual policy covers.

Under 21: No Pap test necessary, regardless of sexual activity.

Age 21-29: Pap test every three years.

Age 30-65: Pap test every three years, or a Pap test every five years if it is combined with the HPV test for the human papilloma virus, which causes cervical cancer. Women who have received the HPV vaccine still need regular cervical screening.

Over 65: No test if there has been adequate prior normal screening.