Well Woman Exam Specialist
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Carlos Cardenas, MD
Gynecologist & Hormone Replacement Therapy Specialist located in San Antonio, TX
If you want to feel more confident about your health while preventing serious illnesses, a well-woman exam should be your next step. In his San Antonio, Texas, office, board-certified OB/GYN Carlos Cardenas, MD, offers comprehensive well-woman exams to help you feel and be your best. Dr. Cardenas customizes your exam for you based on your health, age, and individual needs. Call the office or schedule an appointment online.
Well Woman Exam Q&A
What is a well-woman exam?
A well-woman exam is a general checkup, and you usually have this exam when you’re healthy rather than when you’re having issues. Your exam commonly includes:
- Height and weight measurement
- Medical history review
- Lifestyle discussion
- Pelvic exam
- Clinical breast exam
- Screenings and tests as needed
- Vaccinations as needed
Dr. Cardenas asks many questions about your health, habits, and feelings during your well-woman exam.
Don’t be afraid to speak frankly and ask questions. Dr. Cardenas focuses not only on your physical health but also on your mental wellness, emotional wellbeing, sexual health, and other aspects of your whole-body wellness.
If you’re having any new health challenges, for example, pelvic floor problems, menopause symptoms, urinary incontinence, weight management issues, or heavy bleeding, this is an excellent time to speak to Dr. Cardenas about those concerns.
Your doctor can explain the treatment options, such as hormone replacement therapy, lifestyle changes, and minimally invasive surgery.
What general health screenings do I need in a well-woman exam?
Dr. Cardenas tailors your exam and testing for your maximum benefit. For comprehensive testing, he offers the RM-3A analysis during well-woman exams. This diagnostic test identifies diseases like diabetes and heart disease, which often don't cause symptoms in their early stages.
The RM-3A screening can also predict problems, which means you may be able to reverse certain health issues.
When do I need cancer screenings in a well-woman exam?
Dr. Cardenas observes the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) guidelines for cervical cancer screening. In most cases, you’ll need a Pap test and human papillomavirus (HPV) cotesting every five years.
You may be able to discontinue cervical cancer screening at age 65 after two negative screenings over the last 10 years.
For breast cancer, Dr. Cardenas recommends annual mammograms starting at the age of 40. If you have risk factors for breast cancer, such as a family history of the disease, you may need to begin screening at 35 or earlier.
How often do I need a well-woman exam?
Dr. Cardenas recommends well-woman exams once a year for most women. With a once-a-year well-woman exam, Dr. Cardenas can assess your overall health and address any issues or problems with preventive measures.
Well-woman exams with Carlos Cardenas, MD, are an opportunity for compassionate care customized to your needs. Call the office or book your appointment online.
