Ask the Doctor: Do I Need An Annual Exam?

With some recent changes to mammogram and Pap smear guidelines as well as women’s differing needs across their lifespan, some women wonder if they really need to see their doctor every year. Dr. Deb Krahl, an OB-GYN at Clinic Sofia, a women’s clinic known for providing full-circle healthcare in a welcoming, supportive environment, notes that the short answer is “yes” and provides some more information on the importance of annual exams.

No matter what your age, it is important to see your doctor each year. While the focus of annual exams does change over time, this visit provides an opportunity for preventative screenings such as breast exams and mammograms, screenings for colon cancer and ovarian cysts, and cholesterol and blood pressure checks – as well as a chance to talk to your doctor regarding any questions about your body, health, sexual health, aging, menopause and more.

Key topics can evolve from breast exams to contraception and post-natal care to menopause symptoms. Sometimes the conversations you have are more meaningful and important than any texts or exams.

How to Get the Most out of Your Annual Visit

Particularly if this is the one time you see your doctor each year, you should make the most of it. A little preparation ahead of time can reduce any anxiety you have over annual visits, while ensuring that you ask your most pressing questions and that your doctor and/or nurse can attend to them.

You can bring a list of any questions that have cropped up since your last appointment, and if you have any significant concerns, mention them right away, so you and your doctor have ample time to address the topic. Be prepared to take notes so that you can refer back after the visit.

No matter what you are worried or thinking about, we have heard it before – you never need to be concerned or embarrassed about sharing health or personal issues. That’s what we’re here for. We encourage our patients to be open and honest about their sexual history, diet, exercise, smoking, alcohol and drug use. We are here to help, not judge. If you are hoping to become pregnant in the near future, we can discuss any lifestyle modifications, questions, concerns and hopes.

It’s always a good idea to ask your doctor about the best way to follow up with further questions in the future. Take advantage of this time to support your overall health and wellness throughout the year.

About Dr. Deb Krahl:

Dr. Krahl has been an OBGYN for the past 20 years—consistently ranking in the top 95 percent nationally in patient satisfaction scores. She sees patients at Clinic Sofia OBGYN, known for offering personalized and comprehensive healthcare for women in welcoming setting. Clinic Sofia has offices in Edina and Maple Grove.