Regular well-woman visits are important for maintaining overall health and early detection of potential issues, including gynecologic cancers. These appointments offer comprehensive care that goes beyond reproductive health, providing an opportunity to address lifestyle, preventive measures, and risk management. Well-woman visits can be appropriate for teen girls, adult women, and transgender or non-binary people who have a female reproductive system.
Despite busy schedules, skipping these appointments can lead to missed opportunities for early detection and intervention for gynecologic cancers, especially since many are initially asymptomatic and early treatment is critical for the best outcomes.
What does a well-woman visit consist of?
A well-woman visit is a routine check-up that includes a thorough evaluation of one’s health, screening for potential issues, and counseling on maintaining a healthy lifestyle. These visits are tailored to one’s age, health history, and risk factors, ensuring a personalized treatment approach. Well-woman exams can include breast and pelvic exams, screenings for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and discussions about contraception and sexual health.
Early detection of gynecologic cancers
Gynecologic cancers, which include cervical, ovarian, uterine, vaginal, and vulvar cancers, can pose significant health risks but are often more treatable when detected early.
According to the American Cancer Society, in 2024, over 116,000 women in the United States are expected to be diagnosed with gynecologic cancer, and more than 30,000 will die from these diseases. In the state of Texas in 2024, 7,800 women will be diagnosed with cervical, ovarian, or uterine (endometrial) cancer.
- Cervical Cancer: Approximately 13,820 new cases of cervical cancer will be diagnosed in the U.S., with over 4,300 deaths. Most frequently found in women between the ages of 35 and 44, cervical cancer is rarely found in women younger than 20. Routine Pap smears and HPV (human papillomavirus) tests during well-woman visits can detect precancerous changes in cervical cells, allowing for early treatment. HPV, the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States, is a virus that causes more than 90% of all cervical cancers, and risk can be significantly reduced with appropriate vaccinations.
- Ovarian Cancer: Ovarian cancer is difficult to detect early. This cancer mainly develops in older women, with about half of the women diagnosed aged 63 years or older. Regular pelvic exams and awareness of family history or high risk hereditary conditions such as a BRCA mutation can help identify women at higher risk, prompting more specific diagnostic tests like transvaginal ultrasounds (TVUS) or CA-125 blood tests.
- Uterine (Endometrial) Cancer: The most common gynecologic cancer in the U.S., with about 67,880 new cases estimated to be diagnosed in 2024, uterine (or endometrial) cancer primarily affects postmenopausal women. However, it can also occur in younger women, particularly those with risk factors such as obesity or a family history of the disease. Currently, there are no screening tests or exams to find endometrial cancer early in women who are at average risk and have no symptoms. Regular well-woman visits can help monitor symptoms such as abnormal bleeding and prompt timely intervention.
Screening and preventive care
Well-woman visits include important screenings based on age and risk factors. Regular check-ups during these formative years help to establish healthy habits and open lines of communication about sexual health.
For teenagers and young women, these appointments may include administration of the HPV vaccine, which is recommended to start at ages 11-12, but can be given up to age 26 (and in some cases, older).
For adult women, these visits become even more vital. Annual screenings ensure that any changes in health or risk factors are promptly addressed. For example, cervical cancer screenings should begin at age 25, and women aged 21-65 should have a Pap smear every three years, or a combined Pap smear and HPV test every five years if previous results have been normal.
Starting the school year healthy
For girls, tweens, teens, and young adults, scheduling an annual physical exam with a primary care provider before the school year begins is a proactive step toward maintaining health. These appointments can address issues related to puberty, menstrual health, and sexual education, providing a solid foundation for lifelong well-being. It is also an ideal opportunity for education and counseling. Physicians can provide guidance on diet, exercise, and other lifestyle factors that reduce the risk of gynecologic and other types of cancer.
Don't let a busy schedule or lack of symptoms be the reason to skip annual well-woman visits. From comprehensive health assessments and vital screenings to preventive care that prevents gynecologic cancer, regular well-woman visits should be a non-negotiable part of every woman’s healthcare routine.
This article appeared in the August issue of the Austin Medical Times and Houston Medical Times.