Annual Gynecological Exam

Maggi Bridwell
Center for Women's Health

The annual gynecological exam includes a routine breast and pelvic exam, chlamydia and gonorrhea testing. A Pap test may also be recommended depending on your age and sexual history. We recommend women start yearly Pap testing at age 21. All women of any age who are sexually active need a check up and screening for STI's at minimum once a year.

If you have never had a pelvic exam, you should view an online Women's Health Education Session. During the video, A SHARE (Sexual Health And Reproductive Education) peer educator will explain the pelvic exam, provide an overview of available birth control methods, answer your questions, and provide you with other educational resources.

A few things to keep in mind about your appointment

Ask questions! You may be nervous, so write down your questions ahead of time and bring them with you.

If interested in birth control, consider what method you would like to use. To help make this decision, view the online SHARE Women's Health Education session prior to your appointment.
Know the date of the first day of your last menstrual period. You should not be menstruating on the day of the exam.
Avoid sexual intercourse, tampons, douching, and vaginal medications for at least 2 days prior to your visit.
Read this: Explaining the Pap & Pelvic Exam

For appointments, Click on MyUHC or please call (301) 314-8190.
select appointments may be made via the web at www.myuhc.umd.edu