Your 2026 Well‑Woman Checklist: Screenings, Vaccines, And Self‑Care

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A fresh year is a perfect moment to check in with your health. A well‑woman visit keeps you on track with screenings, preventive vaccines, contraception planning, and everyday habits that support your mind and body. At OBGYN Specialists of Columbus, our team partners with you through every life stage, from your first period to menopause and beyond. Use this simple, age‑by‑age guide to plan your 2026 care, and learn how to prepare, what is covered, and how we help you schedule what you need in Columbus, GA.

Do you need to see a gynecologist every year?

Yes. You should plan a yearly well‑woman exam. Pap smears and HPV tests are not needed every year for most people, but the annual visit matters. It is your time to review your history, address symptoms, discuss mental health, check blood pressure and weight, update birth control, screen for STIs based on risk, and get help coordinating mammography and other tests. Think of it as your preventive care anchor.

What is included in a women’s wellness exam?

A typical visit includes:

 

  • Health and family history review, medications and supplements
  • Blood pressure, weight, and risk assessment for heart, bone, and metabolic health
  • Breast exam and mammogram coordination when appropriate
  • Pelvic exam when indicated
  • Cervical cancer screening, Pap smear and/or HPV testing based on age and prior results
  • STI testing by age and risk
  • Contraception review or preconception counseling
  • Menopause and hormone symptom discussion for midlife patients
  • Mental health check‑in, including mood, stress, and sleep
  • Lifestyle coaching, including exercise, nutrition, and pelvic floor basics

 

We personalize recommendations to your goals and medical history.

Your 2026 checklist by life stage

Use these general guidelines, then confirm timing and any special steps with your provider.

Teens and early 20s

  • Well‑woman visit: yearly, starting in the teens. Pelvic exams are not always needed.
  • Cervical screening: begin at age 21. Pap every 3 years if results are normal.
  • STI screening: annual chlamydia and gonorrhea testing if sexually active, plus HIV and syphilis based on risk.
  • Vaccines: complete HPV vaccine series if not finished, plus routine Tdap and flu; ask about COVID boosters if eligible.
  • Contraception: explore methods that fit your life, including pills, patch, ring, implant, or IUDs. Use condoms to reduce STI risk.
  • Mental health: normalize mood talks, stress management, sleep habits, and body image support.
  • Lifestyle: build a foundation with 150 minutes/week of movement, start light strength training 2 to 3 days/week, consistent sleep, and balanced nutrition.

 

Local note: We offer supportive, confidential care for young patients. If you need guidance choosing a method, book a birth control appointment in Columbus to review all options.

20s to 30s

  • Well‑woman visit: yearly.
  • Cervical screening:
    • Ages 21–29: Pap every 3 years if normal.
    • Ages 30–39: primary HPV testing every 5 years, co‑testing every 5 years, or Pap every 3 years, depending on your history and preference.
  • Breast health: clinical breast exam at your visit, mammogram typically begins at 40; earlier if you have high‑risk factors.
  • STI testing: continue risk‑based screening.
  • Blood pressure and cholesterol: check regularly; add diabetes screening if risk factors exist or during pregnancy.
  • Fertility and family planning: preconception visits are helpful, and prenatal vitamins are smart to start early. We also provide comprehensive Columbus prenatal care and support throughout pregnancy.
  • Mental health: check in on anxiety, depressive symptoms, and work‑life stress.
  • Lifestyle: keep up exercise and add progressive strength training, aim for 7–9 hours of sleep, limit alcohol, and prioritize stress skills like breathwork or short meditations.

40s

  • Well‑woman visit: yearly, with a focus on perimenopause symptoms, cycle changes, and midlife metabolism.
  • Cervical screening: continue as in your 30s; intervals depend on your last results and chosen method.
  • Mammograms: begin routine screening at 40 unless you and your provider choose an earlier start.
  • Cholesterol and diabetes screening: check at recommended intervals based on risk and prior results.
  • Bone health basics: optimize calcium, vitamin D, strength training, and impact moves, as tolerated.
  • Mental health: track mood shifts around perimenopause; ask for support early.
  • Lifestyle: build or maintain a strength program 2 to 3 days/week with weight‑bearing and resistance exercises to protect muscle and bone.

50s and beyond

  • Well‑woman visit: yearly. Discuss menopause, sexual wellness, vaginal dryness, bladder changes, and cardiovascular risk.
  • Cervical screening: many can stop at 65 if you have adequate prior negative results and no high‑risk factors. Ask your provider about your specific timeline.
  • Mammograms: continue annually or at the interval you and your clinician choose.
  • Colon cancer screening: start by 45 for most; continue per guidelines.
  • Bone health: ask about bone density testing, usually around menopause or age 65, earlier if high risk.
  • Hormone health: discuss options, including nonhormonal therapies and, when appropriate, individualized approaches. We offer bhrt for women in Columbus with careful lab‑guided plans for symptom relief.
  • Mental health and sleep: address mood, memory, and sleep changes; small adjustments can help.

What screenings do you need this year?

Use this quick scan as a starting point:

 

  • Pap/HPV: due based on your last result and age interval.
  • Mammogram: start at 40, earlier if high risk; continue annually or per shared decision.
  • Blood pressure: check yearly, more often if elevated.
  • Cholesterol: at least every 4 to 6 years in low‑risk adults, more often with risk factors.
  • Diabetes screening: interval varies by risk, pregnancy, or prior results.
  • STI screening: annually if under 25 and sexually active, or any age with risk.
  • Bone density: typically at 65 or earlier with risk factors or fracture history.
  • Colon cancer: begin at 45 for most, follow your chosen test’s interval.

 

We will confirm personal timing during your visit and coordinate outside tests.

Is a well‑woman exam covered by insurance?

Most plans cover an annual preventive visit with age‑appropriate screenings. Coverage varies by plan, so bring your insurance card and call your insurer to confirm details like mammogram frequency, lab copays, and out‑of‑pocket costs. Our team can provide CPT or diagnosis codes upon request to help you check benefits.

How to prepare for a well‑woman exam

  • Schedule when you are not on your period if you are due for a Pap. A light period is sometimes okay, ask our team if unsure.
  • Avoid intercourse, vaginal medications, or douching for 24 to 48 hours before a Pap.
  • List medications, supplements, allergies, and your last screening dates.
  • Write your questions: period changes, pain, discharge, birth control, fertility goals, libido, mood, sleep, bladder leaks, and pelvic floor concerns.
  • Note vaccine records, including HPV, Tdap, flu, and COVID.
  • Hydrate and arrive a few minutes early to complete forms.
  • Bring your insurance card and a photo ID.

Lifestyle wins that pay off all year

  • Sleep: 7 to 9 hours with a consistent wind‑down routine.
  • Movement: 150 minutes/week of moderate activity, plus strength training 2 to 3 days/week. Include weight‑bearing moves to support bones.
  • Nutrition: protein at each meal, colorful produce, fiber‑rich carbs, and healthy fats. Limit added sugar and excess alcohol.
  • Stress: short daily practices, such as mindful breathing, walks outside, or journaling.
  • Pelvic floor: practice gentle Kegels and ask if pelvic physical therapy is right for you.

Local scheduling and how we coordinate mammography

We make booking simple. At your visit we place or renew screening orders, help you select a convenient imaging center, and share any prep instructions. Results are routed back to us so we can review them with you and plan next steps. To schedule your well‑woman exam, call (706) 324‑0471 or request an appointment online. If you are new to the area or seeking a fresh start with a supportive team, schedule your well-woman exam in Columbus to get your 2026 plan in motion.

Summary: Make this your year of preventive care

Your annual visit is the easiest way to stay ahead of health changes. Come prepared with your questions, update your screenings, and leave with a clear plan for sleep, stress, exercise, and nutrition that fits your life stage. Our women‑focused team at OBGYN Specialists of Columbus is here to coordinate your Pap/HPV testing, mammography, STI screening, bone health, contraception, and menopause support. Call us today to book your 2026 checkup and take the next step toward lifelong wellness.

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Minimally Invasive Gynecology: Your Guide to Advanced Laparoscopic Options (No Robotics Booked at This Time)

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If you are exploring surgical options for fibroids, endometriosis, ovarian cysts, or abnormal uterine bleeding, you deserve a clear, calm roadmap. At OBGYN Specialists of Columbus, women treat women with a focus on dignity, comfort, and partnership. We specialize in minimally invasive gynecology using advanced laparoscopy to help you heal with smaller incisions, less pain, and faster recovery. Robotic surgery is not currently offered at our practice. We are not booking robotic procedures at this time, and we are proud to offer expert laparoscopic approaches that achieve similar goals when appropriate.

What minimally invasive gynecologic surgery means

Minimally invasive gynecology uses small incisions, a camera, and slim instruments to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and pelvic tissues. Compared with traditional open surgery, you can expect:

 

  • Smaller incisions, usually a few quarter inch sites
  • Less pain and less need for narcotics
  • Lower risk of wound complications
  • Shorter hospital time with many procedures done same day
  • Quicker return to normal activity

 

Common laparoscopic procedures at our practice include:

 

  • Laparoscopic hysterectomy for benign conditions such as fibroids, adenomyosis, or persistent abnormal bleeding
  • Laparoscopic treatment of endometriosis with excision or ablation
  • Laparoscopic myomectomy for select fibroids when fertility preservation is a goal
  • Laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy and treatment of ovarian torsion when appropriate
  • Laparoscopic evaluation of pelvic pain when imaging is inconclusive

 

For some patients, in office procedures can reduce downtime even further. Examples include endometrial biopsy for diagnosis and, for select candidates who have completed childbearing, endometrial ablation to manage heavy bleeding.

Laparoscopy vs open surgery

There are times when an open incision is the safer choice, for example with very large fibroids, complex anatomy, or if cancer is suspected. Many benign gynecologic problems are well suited to laparoscopy. We will explain the reasoning behind any recommendation and make a plan that aligns with your goals and medical history.

How laparoscopic hysterectomy works

Here is a simple view of the process:

 

  • Anesthesia: You receive general anesthesia so you sleep comfortably throughout the surgery.
  • Small incisions: We place a camera through a tiny incision near the belly button and add small side incisions for instruments.
  • Precise treatment: The uterus is detached safely using energy devices to seal blood vessels. The cervix may remain based on your plan and medical indications.
  • Tissue removal: Tissue is removed carefully through the vagina or via small incisions, using techniques that prioritize safety and pathology evaluation as indicated.
  • Closure: Incisions are closed with absorbable sutures or skin glue.

 

Most patients go home the same day. Many are up and walking within hours, eating a light meal that evening, and sleeping in their own bed.

What to expect before surgery

You will have a preoperative visit to review your history, medications, allergies, imaging, and lab work. We will talk through:

 

  • Candidacy and goals, including fertility considerations
  • Benefits and risks of laparoscopy vs open surgery
  • Anesthesia plan and pain control options
  • Activity restrictions and support at home
  • How to prepare the day before surgery

 

You will receive clear instructions about fasting, which medications to take or hold, and who to call with last minute questions. Our team is here to make you feel heard and prepared.

Recovery in real life

Everyone heals at their own pace. Here are typical milestones after uncomplicated laparoscopic procedures:

 

  • Same day: Walking, using the restroom, sipping fluids, and managing pain with a combination of over the counter medication and, if needed, a small supply of prescription medication.
  • Days 1 to 3: Light activity around the house, showering, short walks, and gentle stretching. Expect some bloating from gas used during laparoscopy; walking helps.
  • Days 4 to 7: Many patients feel ready for desk work or remote work with breaks to move and hydrate. Avoid heavy lifting.
  • Weeks 2 to 4: Gradual return to normal routines. Most incisions look well healed. You can increase walking and light exercise as advised.
  • Weeks 4 to 6: Follow up visit to check healing and talk about a full return to exercise and intimacy when appropriate for your specific surgery.

 

If you ever experience heavy bleeding, fever at or above 100.4 F, worsening pain, vomiting, chest pain, shortness of breath, or calf swelling, call us promptly.

Your FAQs, answered with your options in mind

  • What are minimally invasive gynecological surgeries? These are procedures done through small incisions using a camera and fine instruments to treat conditions such as fibroids, endometriosis, ovarian cysts, and abnormal bleeding. They usually result in less pain, fewer complications, and a quicker recovery compared to open surgery.

 

  • Which is safer, laparoscopic or robotic surgery? Safety depends more on the surgeon’s expertise, your anatomy, and the complexity of your condition. Robotic surgery is not currently offered at OBGYN Specialists of Columbus. Our experienced surgeons focus on advanced laparoscopy that delivers excellent outcomes for appropriate candidates.

 

  • How long is the hospital stay for a robotic hysterectomy? While many robotic procedures are outpatient in some systems, we are not booking robotic procedures at this time. With laparoscopic hysterectomy at our practice, most patients go home the same day after a period of monitoring.

 

  • Are you put to sleep for a robotic hysterectomy? In general, robotic hysterectomy uses general anesthesia. Since we do not offer robotics, here is what to expect with our laparoscopic approach, you receive general anesthesia, and our team monitors you closely for comfort and safety from start to finish.

 

  • Can you go home the same day as a robotic procedure? In many programs, yes. At our practice, we offer advanced laparoscopic procedures with the goal of same day discharge when it is safe, so you can recover in your own home with clear instructions and follow up support.

Who is a good candidate for laparoscopy

You may be a candidate if you have:

 

  • Symptomatic fibroids or abnormal uterine bleeding
  • Suspected or confirmed endometriosis
  • Ovarian cysts that are persistent, large, or causing pain
  • Pelvic pain that needs a diagnostic evaluation

 

We also consider your health history, prior surgeries, body mass index, imaging findings, and your personal preferences. Our recommendations are individualized in partnership with you because lifelong wellness is a journey and your comfort matters.

How we care for you, from consult to recovery

From your first visit to your final follow up, we focus on education, consent, and respect. You will always know why a recommendation is being made and how it aligns with your goals. When an in office procedure can safely meet your needs, we will discuss that option to minimize downtime and anesthesia exposure. When surgery is the right path, our advanced laparoscopic techniques prioritize safety and recovery.

 

If you are ready to talk through options for minimally invasive gynecology in Columbus, our team would be honored to help you plan next steps. You can learn more about minimally invasive gynecology in Columbus at our website, then call (706) 324-0471 to schedule a consultation with our compassionate providers.

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Pap Smear vs. Annual Well-Woman Exam: What’s the Difference?

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You are not alone if you have wondered whether you still need a yearly gynecological visit when your Pap smear interval is every three or five years. The short answer is yes. A Pap smear is one important screening test, while an annual well-woman exam is a comprehensive visit that looks at your whole health, coordinates age-appropriate screenings, and gives you space to ask questions and plan ahead. Understanding the difference helps you stay on top of preventive care without unnecessary tests.

Pap Smear and HPV Testing vs. the Annual Visit

A Pap smear checks cells from your cervix for precancerous changes, and HPV testing looks for high-risk human papillomavirus types that can lead to cervical cancer. These are screening tests performed during some—not all—annual visits.

Your well-woman exam is the yearly check-in that includes your medical history, risk review, physical exam, counseling, and care coordination. Think of the Pap or HPV test as a tool within the bigger appointment, not a replacement for it.

What a Yearly Gynecological Exam Includes

Your annual well-woman exam is personalized, but it typically includes:

History & Risk Review

  • Menstrual patterns

  • Sexual health

  • Contraception needs

  • Pregnancy plans

  • Menopause symptoms

  • Family history of cancers

  • Medications and allergies

  • Mental health

Vital Signs & General Health Screening

  • Blood pressure

  • Height and weight

  • Discussion of cholesterol or diabetes screening based on age and risk

Breast Health

  • Clinical breast exam

  • Mammogram coordination when appropriate

  • Self-awareness guidance

Pelvic Exam (When Indicated)

  • External and internal exam

  • Assessment of vulva, vagina, cervix, uterus, and ovaries

  • Pap smear or HPV testing depending on age and history

STI Screening (When Appropriate)

Chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV, trichomonas, and hepatitis testing based on age, risk, and personal preference.

Counseling & Planning

  • Birth control options

  • Fertility planning

  • Perimenopause/menopause support

  • Lifestyle guidance (sleep, nutrition, exercise, bone health)

Care Coordination

  • Mammograms

  • Colon screenings

  • Bone density testing

  • Referrals to primary care or specialists

At OBGYN Specialists of Columbus, this visit is also your time to share concerns—from painful periods to pelvic floor symptoms—so we can tailor next steps.

Is a Well-Woman Exam the Same as an Annual Physical?

No. They complement each other but cover different areas:

Well-Woman Exam

Focuses on reproductive and sexual health, gynecologic screening, and related counseling.

Annual Physical with Primary Care

Addresses whole-body wellness, vaccinations, chronic health issues, and non-gynecologic concerns (thyroid, asthma, cholesterol, etc.).

Many women benefit from both, and we partner with your primary care to keep your care coordinated.

How Often Should You Get a Pap Smear?

Screening intervals depend on age, test type, and history. General guidelines for people with a cervix at average risk:

Under 21

  • No routine Pap screening.

Age 21–29

  • Pap smear every 3 years.

Age 30–65

One of three options:

  • Primary HPV test every 5 years, or

  • Co-testing (Pap + HPV) every 5 years, or

  • Pap smear alone every 3 years

Over 65

You may discontinue screening if you have:

  • Adequate recent negative tests

  • No history of high-grade changes or cervical cancer

You may need different timing if you are immunocompromised, have HIV, had prior precancer, or were exposed to DES in utero.

Is a Pap Smear Considered Preventive and Covered?

Most health plans classify Pap smears and HPV tests as preventive services, meaning they are typically covered at no cost when done at guideline-recommended intervals.

Coverage varies, and some services at the same visit may be billed separately. Bring your insurance card and we will help you understand your plan.

What to Avoid Before a Pap Smear

For 24–48 hours before your test, try to avoid:

  • Vaginal intercourse or ejaculation

  • Douching or vaginal rinses

  • Vaginal medications, creams, lubricants, or spermicides (unless instructed)

  • Tampon use on the day of the test

  • Scheduling during a heavy menstrual flow

If you have active infections, heavy bleeding, or recent procedures, let your clinician know so we can time the test appropriately.

What Happens at the Annual Visit by Age

Your yearly exam evolves with you:

Teens & Young Adults

  • Cycle education

  • HPV vaccination

  • Period pain evaluation

  • STI screening

  • Pelvic exams only when symptoms require it

20s & 30s

  • Contraception

  • Preconception counseling

  • Cervical screening

  • Mental health and blood pressure check-ins

40s

  • Perimenopause support

  • Mammography coordination

  • Diabetes and cholesterol screening

50s & Beyond

  • Menopause care

  • Bone health

  • Cancer screening

  • Pelvic floor and urinary health

If you’re pregnant or planning pregnancy, visit our page on columbus obstetric services to learn more about prenatal care.

Preparing for Your Appointment

Bring:

  • Medication and supplement list

  • First day of your last menstrual period

  • Records of prior abnormal Pap tests or colposcopy

  • Vaccination history

  • Written questions

  • Comfortable clothing

If pelvic exams cause anxiety, tell us—your comfort and consent guide the visit.

How to Schedule in Columbus

OBGYN Specialists of Columbus
📍 1604 12th St., Columbus, GA 31906

To schedule:

📞 (706) 324-0471 (Monday–Friday, 8:00 am–5:00 pm)
🌐 Request an appointment online

If you need a Columbus Pap smear appointment, help coordinating mammography, or STI/diabetes screening, our team will guide you through every step.

Learn more about our clinicians by visiting dr rees columbus ga, or use our direct link to schedule your well-woman exam Columbus.

Key Takeaways

  • A Pap smear and HPV test are screening tools—your annual well-woman exam is a full preventive visit.

  • Most people need Pap or HPV screening every 3–5 years between ages 21 and 65.

  • Many plans cover Pap/HPV testing as preventive care.

  • Avoid sex, vaginal products, douching, and tampons for 24–48 hours before a Pap.

  • Keep your yearly exam even if your Pap isn’t due—this visit covers breast health, blood pressure, contraception, fertility, menopause care, and more.

If you are due for a checkup, we’re here to support you with compassionate, comprehensive care.

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National Bladder Health Awareness Month

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Not only is the month of November the time to welcome cooler temperatures, pumpkin spice lattes, and Thanksgiving it is also National Bladder Health Awareness Month. It is time to speak out about bladder health conditions and incontinence. At OBGYN Specialists of Columbus, we are experts in bladder health and pelvic support problems. Here are a few things you should know about bladder health.

Incontinence Shouldn’t be a Taboo Subject

According to the National Association of Continence, over 25 million Americans live with incontinence each day. For many women, it’s a condition that all too often gets swept under the rug. Oftentimes incontinence is left out of pertinent doctor/patient discussions due to embarrassment. Let’s get real! Incontinence is not something most people want to talk about around the dinner table. Most women wait at least 7 years before even speaking with a doctor about incontinence.

At OBGYN Specialists of Columbus, you don’t need to be embarrassed or ashamed of your bladder condition. Dr. Rees and her team are ready to provide you with exceptional care and solutions to relieve bladder issues.

What You Can Do to Maintain Bladder Health

Here are several tips you can do daily to keep your bladder healthy. These are just suggestions and if you experience any severe issues with your bladder please contact your physician immediately.

  • Drink plenty of water. Try to drink eight cups of water each day (advised for overall health, not just bladder health).
  • Limit the amount of caffeine and alcohol you drink, these can irritate your bladder.
  • Stay away from foods that bother the bladder. Some foods can worsen incontinence. Skip foods like chocolate (also a source of caffeine), as well as spicy or acidic foods like tomatoes and citrus fruits.
  • Take your time to empty your bladder completely when you urinate. If you rush and do not empty your bladder fully, over time you could get a bladder infection.
  • Keep your pelvic floor muscles strong with pelvic floor muscle training.
  • Maintain routine visits to your gynecologist and notify your physician if you feel you have bladder issues or are experiencing overactive bladder or incontinence issues.

Additional Bladder Treatment Options

At OBGYN Specialists of Columbus, Georgia we offer a broad range of treatment options based on the best available clinical data. This may include non-surgical and surgical options such as:

  • Lifestyle changes including elimination of bladder irritants (e.g. Caffeine, Nicotine)
  • Structured pelvic floor muscle rehabilitation (e.g. Kegel exercise)
  • Structured timed daytime voids
  • Pelvic floor physiotherapy (e.g. Biofeedback and/or Functional electrical stimulation-Apex M Pelvic Floor Trainer)
  • Radiofrequency energy treatment (Votiva or ThermiVA)
  • Votiva is an exciting new FDA approved treatment which uses radiofrequency energy to gently and uniformly heat the treated tissue. This results in improvements in blood circulation and tightening of the pelvic floor muscles. Votiva treatment can be used as an adjunct to Kegel exercises (tightening of the muscles of the pelvic floor to increase muscle tone).
  • Percutaneous Tibial Nerve stimulation (Urgent PC)
  • Percutaneous Tibial Nerve Stimulation uses an acupuncture type needle placed near the ankle to send mild stimulation up the tibial nerve in the leg. This gentle stimulation also referred to as neuromodulation, affects the nerves responsible for bladder control
  • Urethral bulking injections
  • Surgical treatment for stress incontinence with Intrinsic sphincter deficiency

Contact our office today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Ruthann Rees.

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5 Tips on How To Perform Self-Breast Exams

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All too often women put their health and needs last in order to take care of others. By routinely performing self-breast exams monthly you can not only know your body better, but you may be the first to notice any changes to your breasts.

Here are five tips on how to perform self-breast exams at home.

How to Perform Breast Exams at Home

  • Mark Your Calendar – According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, performing a monthly self-breast exam can help you to be familiar with how your breasts look and feel so you can alert your healthcare professional if there are any changes. As a reminder, mark your calendar the same day each month. This way you will have a mental note that will help keep your routine.
  • How to Get Started – There are three main positions most women use to perform the self-breast exam: in the shower, in front of a mirror or laying on back. You may find one way more convenient than the others and do what feels the most comfortable to you.
  • Performing the Exam – You will want to begin the exam by using the pads of your fingers, move around your entire breast in a circular pattern moving from the outside to the center, checking the entire breast and armpit area. Don’t forget to examine both breasts each month feeling for any lumps, thickening, or hardened knots.
  • If You Notice Change – If while performing your self-breast exam you notice any sort of changes in your breast tissue or are alarmed by differences in color, texture, or find a lump, contact your gynecologist to schedule an appointment. Even though breast tissue may change over time, knowing your “norm” is important to proper self-examination and relaying any concerns you may have to your primary care doctor and gynecologist.
  • Schedule Routine Mammograms and Well-Woman Appointments – We cannot stress enough how important maintaining your routine well-woman appointments can be. In 2018, over 250,00 new diagnoses of breast cancer occurred. Being proactive with your health and keeping open communication with your gynecologist is crucial if you have any questions or concerns about your breast health. 

 

Schedule Your Next Well-Woman Appointment

Don’t put yourself and your health on the back burner. Schedule your next well-woman appointment today! At OBGYN Specialists of Columbus, we provide total women’s healthcare and care deeply about the health and wellness of all women. If you have any questions or concerns about breast health or self-breast exams please don’t hesitate to contact our office.

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Uterine Fibroids

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Do you have heavy menstrual bleeding or painful menstrual periods? This quick Q&A will give you a brief overview of Uterine Fibroids and will answer some of the most common questions asked here in the office.

What are Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine Fibroids, also known as “leiomyomas”, are benign growths of smooth muscle and connective tissue from the wall of the uterus. They may grow within the wall of the uterus, project into the interior cavity, or project towards the outer surface of the uterus.

  • According to the U.S. National Institutes of Health, 25-80% of women suffer from uterine fibroids.
  • No two patients with uterine fibroids are alike: Uterine fibroids may have varying sizes, number, location, and symptoms.

Are Fibroids Cancerous?

New research suggests that it is more common than previously thought for a uterine fibroid to undergo malignant or cancerous changes. Patients with the rapid growth of uterine fibroids or fibroid growth during menopause require prompt evaluation.

Who is at Risk for Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine Fibroids are the most common tumor of the uterus in women of childbearing age. The highest prevalence is in women of color. Research suggests that obesity, a family history of uterine fibroids, early onset of menstruation, or late onset menopause may contribute to an increased risk of developing fibroids.

Factors that may lower the risk of developing fibroids are pregnancy and long-term use or oral or injectable contraceptive.

What Causes Uterine Fibroids?

The exact causes are unknown. Evidence suggests that multiple factors play a role in the growth of fibroids such as genetics, estrogen and progesterone,  growth hormones, and stress. Fibroids may stabilize or shrink in women after menopause.

What are the Symptoms?

Most fibroids do not cause symptoms and do not require treatment other than regular observation by your healthcare provider. Common symptoms of fibroids are:

  • Heavy menstrual bleeding
  • Painful menstrual periods
  • Bleeding between periods
  • Pelvic pressure (a feeling of “fullness” in lower abdomen)
  • Painful sexual intercourse
  • Low back pain
  • Difficulty becoming pregnant or difficulty maintaining a pregnancy
  • Frequent urination, constipation, or difficult bowel movements may also occur

What Tests are Completed to Diagnose Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine Fibroids may be discovered during a routine gynecologic examination or during prenatal care. Oftentimes an ultrasound is ordered to verify the size and number of fibroids.

How are Uterine Fibroids treated?

For Uterine Fibroids that are not causing symptoms, the best therapy may be watchful waiting. Your healthcare provider may schedule routine gynecologic exams and periodic ultrasounds to check for growth of fibroids.

Currently, the only cure uterine fibroids is a hysterectomy (surgical removal of the uterus).

  • Hysterectomy: Surgical removal of the uterus. The only definitive diagnosis, however, does not preserve fertility.
  • Myomectomy: Surgical removal of fibroids while leaving the uterus in place. This preserves fertility; however, although the fibroids do not regrow after the surgery, new fibroids may develop.
  • Uterine Artery Embolization:  Performed by an interventional radiologist. Tiny particles about the size of grains of sand are injected into the blood vessels that lead to the uterus. Particles then cut off the blood flow to the fibroid causing it to shrink.
  • Medication Therapy: Your healthcare provider may recommend oral contraceptives or other hormonal birth control methods in order to reduce heavy bleeding and painful periods. Medication therapy is symptomatic care and does not remove or reduce the size of uterine fibroids.

Your healthcare provider will consider several factors such as age, general health, the severity of symptoms, location/size of fibroids, and whether you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant to determine your individualized treatment approach.

Contact us to schedule a visit.

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What is Endometriosis?

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Do you have heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding with severe cramping? This Q&A will give you a brief overview of endometriosis and will answer some of the most common questions we are asked here in the office. Let’s get started!

What is Endometriosis?

The uterus is lined by the endometrium with the top layer consisting of endometrial mucosa, which forms a membrane and secretes protective fluid, in endometriosis, endometrial mucosa is abnormally implanted in locations other than the uterus such as the ovaries.

Can I get Pregnant if I Have Endometriosis?

Approximately 30-40% of women with endometriosis will be subfertile, which does not mean they will never become pregnant, but that they might require the assistance of fertility methods to increase their chances conception.

What is this Caused by?

Some risk factors may include a mother or another family member with endometriosis, early age of menstruation onset, short time period between menstrual cycles, long duration of menstrual flow, heavy bleeding between menstrual cycles, delayed childbearing, defects in the uterus or fallopian tubes, and iron deficiency.

What Symptoms are Typically Seen with this Condition?

Painful and heavy menstrual cycle, pelvic/abdominal/back pain, pain with sexual intercourse, pain with bowel movements, bloating, nausea, vomiting, pains with urination, pains during exercise.

How is Endometriosis Diagnosed?

Initially, labs and ultrasounds may be ordered to determine cause of symptoms. A trial of combination oral contraceptive pills [OCPs] may be attempted. The definitive diagnosis is made by laparoscopy, which is an invasive procedure done at the hospital, but not always needed in every patient with endometriosis.

What are the Current Treatment Options Available?

Hormonal therapy with combination OCPs, progesterone agrats, or gonadotropin releasing hormone [GnRH] analogues may be first attempted. Orilissa is a medication used for pain during and in between menstrual cycles. Surgery might be indicated in some patients with endometriosis who are refractory to medical treatment. Some options include endometrial abortion, presacral neurectomy, uterine nerve ablation, or hysterectomy.

More questions? Contact us at 706-324-0471 or admin@obgynsoc.com to schedule a visit.

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obgyn specialist near seale

The Importance of Regular OBGYN Appointments

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All too often women put their health and personal needs on the back burner for others. While your family and loved ones are important, the value of regular obstetrics and gynecology appointments is extremely real. A visit to the gynecologist is more than just a yearly pap smear — so much more! While a pap smear may be included in your “well woman check-up” appointment, your visit is not limited to just that screening.

An appointment with your OBGYN is a “check-in” with your body. Here at OBGYN Specialists of Columbus, Dr. Rees is a doctor that has years of experience helping women stay healthy and prevent potential risks. What aspects of your health can be examined at your OBGYN Specialists of Columbus appointment?

Here are just some of the services provided in our local office, but not limited to:

  • Fitness and Nutrition
  • Breast Health Exam
  • Contraception Counseling
  • Infertility Evaluation
  • STD Testing and Prevention
  • Peri- or Menopausal Issues/Concerns
  • Pap Smear, Mammogram, and Additional Screening Tests
  • After Hours Care
  • Lab Services
  • Non-Invasive Laparoscopic Surgeries
  • Pre and Postnatal care
  • And more!

So Much More Than A Pap Smear

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, all women should receive a “well woman check-up” at least once a year. Additionally, claiming that one day a year could add years to your life in the future. In recent years, the general rule of having a pap smear every year has been shifted to every three years (as long as normal results are present). This, however, does not mean women should stop seeing their gynecologist for routine check-ups and other specific female healthcare needs. Many women view their yearly exam as apart of their “self-care” routine, which is important to maintain your overall health. Furthermore, most prominent insurance companies include an annual “well woman” checkup in their plans, so take advantage and schedule your appointment.

Countless mothers will tell you, a trusted and caring obstetrician is worth their weight in gold. Our highly trained staff will support you throughout every step of your pregnancy. At OBGYN Specialists, we provide you with the knowledgeable care of pre/postnatal in a comfortable female-centered environment.

Local Women’s Healthcare You Can Trust

Located in the heart of Midtown Columbus, Georgia, and convenient to surrounding areas, OBGYN Specialists can assist with your complete women’s healthcare. When you visit the OBGYN Specialists of Columbus, you are not only treated by a knowledgeable all-female staff and doctor but you’ll feel confident and comfortable in the professional care you experience.

Contact us to schedule your next appointment today!

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